I originally started adding a homemade vegetable mix to my dogs’ meals to help one of my dogs lose weight. Since then, it’s become a staple in their diet — not just for weight management, but for fiber, antioxidants, gut health, and added nutrients.
Although dogs are carnivores, they can still benefit from small amounts of vegetation in their diet — especially when prepared correctly. Pureeing, blanching, or freezing vegetables helps break down the cell walls, making those nutrients more bioavailable for dogs.
Why Add Vegetables to a Dog’s Diet?
Many people assume dogs can’t digest veggies — but that’s a myth. Dogs produce small amounts of amylase, an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates, and with proper preparation, they can benefit greatly from fresh produce.
Here are a few reasons I always keep a veggie mix in my freezer:
Nutrient-rich: Vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Improved digestion: Fiber helps regulate digestion and promotes healthy stools.
Low-calorie nutrition: Great for dogs who need to lose or maintain weight.
Anti-inflammatory: Leafy greens can help reduce inflammation and support joint and immune health.
Gut support: Veggies feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced microbiome.
DIY Veggie Mix Recipe
Cost: ~$50
Prep/Mix Time: 45–60 minutes
Makes: Twelve 32-ounce jars
Each batch looks a little different, but this is one of my favorite blends:
3 bunches collard greens
1 bunch kale
2 zucchinis
2 yellow squash
1 bag carrots
1 small red cabbage
1 produce bag filled with okra
4 baby bok choy
1 bulb garlic
10 oz shiitake mushrooms (sautéed before mixing)
32 oz turmeric bone broth
Wild stinging nettles & dandelions (harvested and dried before use)
You don’t have to follow this exact recipe — any safe, dog-friendly vegetables work.
Tools I Use
Knife (I use a meat cleaver)
Cutting board
2-3 large mixing bowls (8–20 qt)
NutriBullet or food processor
Mixing spoon
Wide-mouth glass jars
Prep time is about an hour. After mixing, I freeze everything in jars and don’t seal them until fully frozen to prevent cracking.
How to Make It
Chop and puree all vegetables.
Sauté mushrooms in MCT oil or water before adding to the mix.
Pour in the turmeric bone broth.
Mix thoroughly, then transfer to jars and freeze.
FAQ: Common Questions About My Veggie Mix
Why do you add veggies to your dogs’ meals?
For fiber, antioxidants, and to feed the gut microbiome.
Is this a base mix?
No. This doesn’t balance a raw diet — it’s just a nutrient-rich add-on.
Do you cook the veggies first?
I puree raw vegetables and sauté only the mushrooms.
Does it have to be organic?
Not necessarily, but I prefer organic or locally grown veggies to reduce toxins and boost nutrient density.
Can I change the ingredients?
Absolutely — choose safe vegetables your dog enjoys.
How much do you add?
Usually 1–2 spoonfuls per meal, depending on the dog’s needs.
Can kibble-fed dogs have this?
Yes! It’s a great way to add fresh food and fiber to any diet.
Is this like Green JuJu?
Not quite. My mix is strictly vegetables, while Green JuJu only uses organic ingredients, and their mixes include other functional ingredients I’ve never considered.
Green JuJu also works with regenerative farms.
Just Greens: Organic celery, organic zucchini, organic kale, organic dandelion greens, organic parsley, bison bone broth, organic coconut oil, organic lemon, organic turmeric, and organic ginger
Bailey’s Blend: Organic cucumber, organic green cabbage, organic broccoli, organic turkey bone broth, organic cilantro, organic chard, organic coconut oil, organic blueberries, organic turmeric, organic lemon
Golden Blend: Organic butternut squash, organic celery, duck bone broth, organic cauliflower, organic golden beets, organic coconut oil, organic apple cider vinegar, organic ginger, and organic turmeric
Vitality Blend: Organic Purple Cabbage, Organic Purple Carrots, Organic Chard, Organic Fennel, Organic Parsnip, Organic Raspberries, Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Apple Cider Vinegar, Organic Ginger, Organic Turmeric, Venison Bone Broth
Can I Add Fruit?
Sometimes I toss in apples or blueberries — both are packed with antioxidants and beneficial fiber.
Apples: Rich in vitamin C and pectin, which supports heart and digestive health. (Leave the skin on!)
Berries: High in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Great for immune support — just monitor stools to ensure digestion.
My Thoughts on Feeding Vegetables to Dogs
Adding vegetables to your dog’s meals is a simple, affordable way to support long-term health. Whether your dog eats raw, cooked, or kibble, this veggie mix adds variety, nutrients, and flavor — and your dog’s gut (and poop schedule) will thank you.