Step-by-Step Guide To Making Chicken Pumpkin Soup for your Dog
Who doesn’t love a good, easy, homemade chicken soup? The answer is not your dog, because your dog will LOVE this delicious homemade soup made with chicken, pumpkin and carrots. This recipe is perfect for a treat, as a food topper or when your dog isn’t feeling fantastic. Homemade chicken pumpkin soup is a nutritious and delicious option.
While this recipe isn’t just for when your pup isn’t feeling well (it’s great as a food topper or special meal too), it could help if your pup has digestive issues or diarrhea. Many vets will recommend plain chicken, rice or pumpkin in those cases. Please make sure you consult your veterinarian as needed and follow their advice. Please also note that this is not a balanced dog food recipe, and we do not recommend feeding it as a regular, daily meal.
We had a disastrous night a couple of weeks ago with our poor girl, Sienna. If you have been following our site, you may know that Sienna has a number of health concerns. However, she tends to have a fairly iron stomach. Whenever Sienna is in pain, she hides it very well. We always joke that the day Sienna won’t eat is the day we know something is really wrong.
Unfortunately, that day came. It started the evening before. Sienna had a few small bouts of diarrhea in the evening and was a bit more lethargic than normal. She came to bed with me around midnight and would lie down for a few minutes, then switch places. This happened about 5 times, which is very unlike her. As I was almost falling asleep, I started to hear the unmistakable sounds of a dog being sick. We awoke in the morning to a very, ummm, messy house and a dog who did not want to eat breakfast. It continued throughout the day and we booked a vet appointment for the next day.
By then she had started to feel a little bit better, but the vet still recommended keeping her on a bland diet of rice, chicken and pumpkin for the next few days. It took a few more days for her digestion to return to normal, but I am sure she did not mind her homemade chicken soup in the meantime!
Recipe Disclaimer: The recipes available at All For the Love of Dogs are developed from personal experiences in making them and feeding to their dogs. Your dogs may have allergies or other conditions that may make these recipes unsuitable for your dog and/or their lifestyle. Please consult with your veterinarian. Use your own judgement when making and feeding these recipes to your dog. All For the Love of Dogs is not liable for any allergic reactions, upset stomachs or any other consequences of experimenting with the recipes on this site.
Why Choose Homemade Chicken Pumpkin Soup?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s discuss why this dish is a great addition to your dog’s diet. Chicken is a high-quality source of protein, essential for muscle development and overall health. Pumpkin, on the other hand, is rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health and regular bowel movements. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that supports your dog’s well-being. Moreover, by making this soup at home, you can control the ingredients, avoiding any unnecessary additives or preservatives.
It should be noted that this is not a nutritionally balanced meal. We do not recommend feeding it to your dog as a regular, daily meal. Instead, it could be used as a food topper, a special treat, or may be suitable when your pup isn’t feeling the greatest.
Ingredients and Equipment You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients:
- Chicken: Use chicken breast, thighs, or a whole chicken, depending on what you have on hand. Chicken provides essential amino acids and is easily digestible. Tip: if you make your own bone broth, freeze the bones for future use! See our article on how to make homemade bone broth for more information.
- Pumpkin: Fresh pumpkin is ideal, but canned pumpkin (without additives) works just as well. Pumpkin is packed with fiber and beta-carotene.
- Bone Broth or Water: Bone broth adds extra nutrients and flavor, but plain water is also a suitable base. If you’re using store-bough broth, be careful of ingredients like onion and salt.
- Optional Add-Ins: Carrots, green beans, or sweet potatoes can add extra vitamins and minerals. You can also include dog-safe herbs like parsley or turmeric for added health benefits.
Equipment:
- Large pot or slow cooker
- Knife and cutting board
- Optional: Blender or immersion blender (if your dog prefers a smoother consistency)
- Storage containers for leftovers
Preparing the Ingredients
Prepping the Chicken
Start by cleaning the chicken thoroughly. If you’re using a whole chicken, remove any giblets and excess fat. Cut the chicken into manageable pieces, especially if you’re cooking in a pot. For chicken breasts or thighs, simply trim any excess fat.
Prepping the Pumpkin
If you’re using fresh pumpkin, peel it and remove the seeds. Cut the pumpkin into small cubes for even cooking. If you opt for canned pumpkin, make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree without any added sugars or spices, not pumpkin pie filling. If you can’t find pumpkin, you can substitute it with squash. Many supermarkets sell frozen squash that is already cut into appropriately sized cubes!
Optional Vegetables and Add-Ins
Wash and chop any additional vegetables you’re adding to the soup. These should be cut into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and are easy for your dog to eat. If using herbs like parsley or turmeric, measure out the desired amount.
If the vet has recommended rice, or if your dog prefers the texture, you can add a bit of rice, quinoa or another grain during the last stage of cooking.
Cooking Dog-Friendly Chicken Soup
Stovetop Method
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large pot and cover with bone broth (see our bone broth recipe here!) or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (about 20-30 minutes). Remove the chicken, shred it or cube it, and set it aside. Ensure all bones, skin and fat are removed.
- Cook the Pumpkin: Add the pumpkin cubes and any additional vegetables to the same pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes. If you’re using canned pumpkin, skip this step and add the pumpkin puree in the combine step.
- Combine: Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup cool before serving.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. This step is optional and depends on your dog’s preference.
Slow Cooker Method
- Combine Ingredients: Place the chicken, pumpkin, and any additional vegetables in the slow cooker. Add enough bone broth or water to cover the ingredients.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or until everything is tender. Shred or cube the chicken, removing all bones, skin and fat and stir it back into the soup.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the soup to cool before serving it to your dog.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. This step is optional and depends on your dog’s preference.
Serving and Storing the Soup
Serving the Soup
Serve the chicken pumpkin soup as a standalone special occasion meal or as a topper for your dog’s regular kibble. Adjust the portion size based on your dog’s size and dietary needs. Start with a small amount, especially if this is a new food for your dog, and gradually increase as needed.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the soup, ensuring it’s warm but not hot.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Pumpkin Soup for Dogs
Benefits of Chicken
PetMD states that chicken is a lean protein that supports muscle development and provides essential amino acids. It’s also a good source of vitamins and minerals such as B6 and phosphorus, which are important for energy metabolism and bone health.
If your dog has sensitivities to chicken, it could be substituted with turkey or another lean protein.
Benefits of Pumpkin
According to PetMD, Pumpkin is high in fiber, which aids in digestion and can help prevent constipation. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which support immune function and skin health. The beta-carotene in pumpkin is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Pumpkin could be substituted with squash if needed.
Check out some of our other pumpkin treats including Beef Pumpkin Gummies for dogs and Wholesome Homemade Pumpkin Oatmeal Baked Dog Treats.
Tips and Variations
Adjusting the Recipe for Different Dog Sizes
For small dogs, consider blending the soup to create a smoother texture that’s easier to eat. For larger dogs, you can leave the chicken in larger chunks. Adjust the portion size according to your dog’s size and appetite.
Variations for Picky Eaters
If your dog is a picky eater, try adding a small amount of cooked rice or quinoa to the soup for added texture. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to see what your dog prefers.
Dog-Friendly Chicken Pumpkin Soup
Equipment
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Soup pot or slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1 wholechicken, or 6 chicken breast/legs/thighs (or a combination)
- 2 carrots
- 1 small pumpkin or 1 can of pumpkin puree
- Optional: other vegetables
- Optional: rice, quinoa or another grain
- Optional: dog-safe herbs
Instructions
StoveTop Method
- Wash the chicken and if whole, cut it into manageable pieces
- Add the chicken to a large pot and cover with water or broth
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until chicken is cooked (about 20-30 minutes)
- Wash the carrots. Peel them if you prefer (not necessary, carrot skin has a lot of vitamins)
- Cut the carrots into small cubes. For smaller dogs or dogs who don’t like chunky food, the carrots can be grated
- Wash and peel the pumpkin. Remove the seeds and guts. Cut it into small cubes
- Wash and cut any other vegetables being added
- Once chicken is cooked, remove from pot and set aside
- Skim any excess fat leftover from the chicken cooking from the pot
- Add the cubed vegetables to the pot and simmer until tender (about 15-20 minutes)
- Once chicken is cool enough to handle, remove skin, bones and fat. Shred it with your hands or two forks, or chop it into small cubes. Ensure to remove all bones
- Once vegetables are cooked, return the chopped or shredded chicken to the pot
- Add any herbs, if you are using
- Add any rice or grains, if you are using
- Simmer for 15-20, or as directed on the grain package
- Remove from heat and allow to cool before serving to your dog
Slow Cooker Method
- Wash the chicken and if whole, cut it into bite sized pieces. Remove bones, skin and fat.
- Wash the carrots. Peel them if you prefer (not necessary, carrot skin has a lot of vitamins)
- Cut the carrots into small cubes. For smaller dogs or dogs who don’t like chunky food, the carrots can be grated
- Wash and peel the pumpkin. Cut it into small cubes
- Wash and cut any other vegetables being added
- Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cover with water.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Add any rice or grains, if you are using (continue to cook for suggested time on package)
- Add any herbs, if you are using
- Allow the soup to cool before serving to your dog
Notes
Serving
Serve the chicken pumpkin soup as a standalone special occasion meal or as a topper for your dog’s regular kibble. Adjust the portion size based on your dog’s size and dietary needs. Start with a small amount, especially if this is a new food for your dog, and gradually increase as needed.Storage
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat the soup, ensuring it’s warm but not hot. Alternatively, frozen soup can be thawed overnight in the fridge and served cold.Conclusion
Making homemade chicken pumpkin soup for your dog is a rewarding way to ensure they receive a nutritious, delicious meal. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a healthy dish that supports your dog’s overall well-being. Whether served as a main meal or a topper for their kibble, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to store leftovers properly and feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your dog’s taste. Happy cooking!
