7 Belly-Warming Comfort Food Recipes for Dogs We’re Making This Winter

By: Ashley DavidsonUpdated:

hot chocolate comfort food
Photo: iStock.com/istetiana

7 Belly-Warming Comfort Food Recipes for Dogs We’re Making This Winter

Comfort food dishes for dogs are not only warm, inviting and tasty (like those for humans), but they also feature ingredients that are good for them—like carrots and sweet potatoes. Plus, some pup-friendly comfort food recipes are so simple to make, they require just one ingredient.

From hamburger casserole to silky-smooth bone broth to a pet-safe play on hot chocolate, here are some of our favorite comfort food recipes for dogs, starting with the easiest.

Remember, pet parents looking to incorporate new foods in their dog’s diet should consult with their veterinarian beforehand.

Steamed Smashed Carrots

mashed carrots in glass jar
Photo: iStock.com/Lena_Zajchikova

Packed with vitamin A and soluble and insoluble fibers—which help support vision, heart health and digestion, respectively—this simple carrot recipe makes a delicious and nutritious dog treat or food topper.

Place a handful of sliced carrots in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover, and in eight to 10 minutes mash 'em up. Done and done!

Get the recipe.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

mashed sweet potatoes in white bowl
Photo: iStock.com/DronG

Fiber-rich and high in beta-carotene, sweet potatoes support good digestion and boost your pup’s immune system. They also make for a tasty winter treat.

Simply boil the sweet potatoes, mash them, and serve!  If you want some for yourself, add butter, brown sugar and salt to taste.

Get the recipe.

Hamburger Bake Casserole

ground beef in pan wooden spoon
Photo: iStock.com/LightFieldStudios

Yep, your dog can have their own casserole, too.

This six-ingredient casserole is layered with unseasoned, cooked hamburger (a healthy source of protein) and veggies, including cucumbers (a hydrating low-calorie treat).

Once assembled, just pop the dish in the oven, cool off, and serve—don’t let them eat the whole thing in one sitting.

Get the recipe.

"Hot Chocolate"

hot chocolate in white cup
Photo: iStock.com/istetiana

Kevyn Matthews, The Dog Chef, created a safe hot chocolate alternative for dogs with just four ingredients that you can whip up in minutes.

While chocolate is toxic to dogs, carob powder is a safe alternative for your pup—and makes a tasty “hot chocolate” dogs (and you!) are sure to love.

Get the recipe.

Comforting Chicken and Rice

shredded chicken in bowl
Photo: iStock.com/VeselovaElena

Sure, pet parents may serve their pup chicken and rice when they have an upset stomach. But this easy-to-make dish is worth serving as a warm, comforting treat, too.

Make the rice according to the package instructions, boil the plain chicken until it’s cooked through, and—to amp up the flavor—why not also add a splash of homemade bone broth?

Get the recipe.

Veggie-Studded Beef Stew

Image
Photo: Chewy Studios

This dog-friendly Instant Pot stew is jam-packed with extra-lean, protein-rich beef and a variety of nutritious veggies, including golden potatoes, carrots, celery and peas.

This set-it-and-forget-it recipe only takes 30 minutes to make. But the best part? You can also pour yourself a bowl of this stew—just add seasoning.

Get the recipe.

Chicken Bone Broth

bone broth in white bowl with napkin
Photo: Lynn Karlin

Nutrient-rich, immune system-boosting, hydrating bone broth is a lovely, belly-warming treat for dogs. And it's not as difficult to make as you might think (really!).

Cook bone-in chicken with some carrots, celery and thyme; and after letting it cool, scoop off the fat that formed on top, and serve. Your pup won’t resist lapping up the warm treat.

Get the recipe.

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By: Ashley DavidsonUpdated:

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