How to Make Gravy for Dogs: Healthy, Easy Recipes and Tips
Flavor-packed toppers make every kibble bowl more enticing and nutritious for picky pets.
Adding gravy to your dog’s food can transform even the pickiest eater’s mealtime, tempting dogs with extra flavor and aroma while offering an opportunity to hydrate kibble and enhance nutrition. This comprehensive guide covers homemade and quick-fix gravy recipes, the benefits of dog-safe gravies, practical do’s and don’ts, nutrition insights, and frequently asked questions for safe, delicious meal toppers your dog will love.
Why Make Gravy for Your Dog?
Gravy isn’t just a tasty treat for humans—it can be a nutritious, hydrating, and highly motivating topper for dogs. The right dog-friendly gravy can:
- Enhance meal appeal for picky eaters or dogs with reduced appetite
- Add moisture to dry kibble, promoting better hydration
- Deliver extra nutrition when made with wholesome, dog-safe ingredients
- Help mask medications or supplements in food
- Offer comfort for senior dogs or those with dental issues
However, not all gravies are created equal. Human gravies are usually too salty and fatty for dogs, and may contain toxic ingredients like onions and garlic. It’s essential to make or select dog-safe gravy every time.
Quick and Easy Gravy Options for Dogs
Short on time? You may already have the makings of a delicious meal topper in your kitchen. Here are four speedy ways to create dog-friendly gravy in minutes:
1. Just Add Water or Broth
Pour hot (not boiling) water or sodium-free broth over your dog’s kibble, let it cool, then feed. The steam releases aromatic scents, softening dry food and increasing palatability.
2. Wet Food Shortcut
Stir 1–2 spoonfuls of wet dog food with warm water, microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften and mix, and spoon over kibble. Dogs love the richer flavor and aroma.
3. Pantry Staples as Gravy Toppers
- Low-fat plain yogurt or unsalted cottage cheese
- No-sodium broth, bone broth, or stock
- Plain, dog-safe baby foods (check for no onion/garlic/Xylitol)
- Unsweetened applesauce (no Xylitol or added sugar)
- Cooked eggs (scrambled or poached, unseasoned)
Add a spoonful as a flavor booster and source of extra nutrients.
4. Simple Purees from Leftovers
Blend any combination of the following with a splash of water or broth for a homemade puree gravy:
- Cooked, deboned meats (chicken, beef, pork, fish)
- Plain, cooked vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, broccoli, cauliflower)
- Plain potato, sweet potato, or rice
- Canned tuna or salmon in water (low sodium)
Avoid anything oily, spicy, or seasoned. Never use onions, garlic, or grapes/raisins, which are toxic for dogs.
Homemade Dog Gravy Recipes: Step-by-Step
Homemade gravy lets you control every ingredient, catering to your dog’s needs and avoiding harmful additives.
Basic Chicken Gravy for Dogs
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| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Low-sodium chicken broth (or homemade, unsalted) | 2 cups |
| Cornstarch (or all-purpose flour) | 2 Tbsp |
| Water (cold) | 1/2 cup |
| Cooked, shredded chicken (optional) | 1/2 cup |
- Heat broth over medium heat.
- Mix cornstarch and water in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry slowly into the simmering broth, whisking to avoid lumps.
- Add shredded chicken for protein boost.
- Cook 2–3 minutes until thickened. Cool before serving.
Beef and Veggie Gravy
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth (or homemade, unsalted)
- 2 Tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup cooked carrots or other dog-safe veggie, mashed
- Heat broth in saucepan over medium.
- Mix cornstarch and water; whisk into broth as it simmers.
- Stir in mashed veggies; cook until thickened. Let cool before use.
Chunky Protein and Veggie Dog Gravy
- Melt a little oil (e.g., olive or coconut) in pan over medium heat.
- Cook ground chicken, turkey, or beef until browned and cooked through, breaking up with spoon.
- Add sodium-free stock or broth and a mix of bite-sized veggies like peas, diced carrot, or green beans.
- Simmer covered for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat. For chunky gravy, scoop out some meat and veggies and set aside.
- Create a cornstarch slurry (blend with cold water) and stir in, simmer 2–3 min to thicken.
- Blend the mixture (excluding the reserved meat/veg) until smooth if a puree is preferred.
- Stir the chunky bits back in and cool before serving.
Dog Gravy Preparation and Serving Tips
- Let gravy cool to room temperature before serving to avoid burning your dog’s mouth.
- Start small—a spoonful or two over food is often enough to entice even picky eaters.
- Adjust for size: Small dogs need far less than larger dogs. Generally, 1/4 cup per meal is the maximum for bigger dogs, much less for small breeds.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze in ice cube trays for portioned use.
- Always use unsalted or low-sodium broth. Salt is hazardous for dogs.
- Avoid thickening agents with additives. Only cornstarch or plain flour are recommended.
- Monitor for allergies: Introduce gravies and toppers one ingredient at a time if you’re unsure of sensitivities.
Benefits of Gravy for Dogs
- Flavor enhancement: Entices fussy eaters and increases meal excitement.
- Hydration boost: Adds important moisture to kibble, helping to prevent dehydration.
- Nutrition: Easy way to add extra protein, vitamins, and minerals using veggies and meats.
- Medication masking: Hide pills or supplements in gravy for easy administration.
- Digestibility: Soften dry food for senior pets or those with dental issues to make chewing easier.
What Ingredients Should You Avoid?
- Onions and garlic (fresh, powdered, or cooked) – Toxic to dogs even in small amounts.
- Salt – Excess sodium can cause poisoning or dehydration.
- Artificial flavors/sweeteners – Never use gravies containing xylitol, which is deadly for dogs.
- Heavy fats/oils – Too much grease can cause pancreatitis or upset stomach.
- Human sauces – Most ready-made gravies, sauces, or packets contain unsafe levels of salt, fat, and spices.
Dog Gravy FAQs
Can I give my dog regular (human) gravy?
No. Human gravies are typically much too salty and oily, and may include onions, garlic, and spices that are toxic to dogs. Always make gravy specifically for dogs, or use a recommended dog food topper.
Is there a low-fat gravy option?
Yes, simply use water or sodium-free broth as the base and avoid adding fats. You can even just blend cooked vegetables with broth for a super lean gravy.
How long can I store homemade dog gravy?
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pour into ice cube trays and freeze—thaw each portion before use.
My dog has allergies—can I still make gravy?
Yes! Make single-ingredient purees from safe foods for your dog (such as pure carrot, sweet potato, or a specific protein) and introduce new foods slowly, one at a time, to monitor for reactions.
How much gravy should I add to my dog’s meal?
Start with 1–2 spoonfuls; generally, 1/4 cup per meal for large dogs is ample. Adjust for your dog’s size, diet, and calorie needs—overuse can contribute to weight gain.
Can I use flour instead of cornstarch to thicken?
Yes, plain all-purpose flour can substitute for cornstarch. Avoid seasoned or self-rising flour blends.
Are store-bought dog gravies safe?
Some pet stores offer dog-safe gravies, but always check labels for unnecessary salt, sugar, or additives. Homemade gravies ensure maximum safety and nutrition.
Sample Dog Gravy Feeding Table
| Dog Size | Gravy Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small (Under 20 lbs) | 1–2 Tbsp | Monitor calorie intake |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | 2–4 Tbsp | Adjust as needed |
| Large (Over 50 lbs) | 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp) | Split into meals if desired |
Dog-Friendly Gravy Ideas: Ingredients At-A-Glance
| Safe Ingredients | Ingredients to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Chicken, turkey, beef, fish (plain, cooked, boneless) | Onions, garlic (any form) |
| Carrots, peas, green beans, sweet potato, pumpkin | Chives, leeks, scallions |
| Low-sodium or homemade unsalted broth | Salt, bouillon cubes, stock cubes |
| Plain yogurt, cottage cheese (low fat) | Gravy mixes, human sauces |
Final Tips for Exciting, Safe Dog Mealtimes
- Rotate proteins and veggies for variety and balanced nutrition.
- Store in portioned containers or ice cube trays for grab-and-go use.
- Review your dog’s unique health needs with your veterinarian before major diet changes, especially for dogs on prescription or specialized diets.
- Never use hot, spicy, sugary, or creamy sauces made for people.
- If using a new food as a topper, try a small amount first and watch for any upset stomach or allergic signs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I add gravy to my dog’s food every day?
A: In moderation, yes. If using healthy, low-fat, low-sodium gravies with nutrient-dense ingredients, daily use is safe for most dogs. Adjust portions and monitor calories for weight control.
Q: What if my dog has kidney or heart issues?
A: Dogs with chronic illness may need special dietary restrictions. Always use unsalted, low-phosphorus bases and consult your vet for approved ingredients and serving sizes.
Q: How do I encourage a picky eater with dog gravy?
A: Use strong-scented, protein-rich toppers (like cooked meats or eggs) and add a little warm water to release tempting aromas, but avoid overwhelming the meal with new flavors all at once.
Q: What’s the healthiest base for dog gravy?
A: Plain, unsalted homemade broth (from chicken, beef, turkey, or fish) is best, or use water with blended safe veggies for extra nutrients and flavor.
Summary: Elevate Every Bowl with Safe, Homemade Dog Gravy
With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can turn ordinary dog meals into irresistible feasts. Dog-safe gravy is not only delicious but also provides hydration, relieves monotony, and supports your dog’s nutrition—delivering joy and wellness in every bite!
References
- https://spoiledhounds.com/homemade-dog-gravy/
- https://www.houndsy.com/blogs/pupdiet/how-to-make-a-delicious-dog-gravy-recipe-elevate-your-pets-mealtime
- https://www.rover.com/blog/how-to-make-gravy-for-dogs/
- https://www.masterclass.com/articles/can-dogs-eat-gravy
- https://www.rover.com/blog/category/dog/dog-diet/page/13/
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