Homemade Raw Dog Food Fish and Coconut Medley

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

For lots of us dog owners, the daily dilemma of what to feed our dogs is a constant source of worry. Ok maybe too strong a word but you get it.

Commercial dog foods are often laden with fillers, artificial ingredients, and mystery meats, and can leave us questioning if we’re truly providing the best for them.

In reality, a poor diet is frequently the cause of a number of common dog illnesses, ranging from itchy skin and dull coats to low energy and digestive problems.

But what if I told you that there was a way to feed your dog healthy, fresh foods that would give them more energy and vitality?

The answer is this recipe for homemade raw dog food called Fish and Coconut Medley.

Recipe Overview

This homemade raw dog food Fish and Coconut Medley is a nutrient-dense powerhouse designed to support your dog’s overall well-being, particularly benefiting coat health, digestion, and energy levels.

It’s ideal for active dogs, those needing a boost in omega-3s, or pups with sensitivities to common protein sources like chicken or beef.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (raw recipe)
• Serving Size: Approximately 7-10 days for a medium-sized dog (30-50 lbs), depending on activity level.

Ingredients List

Crafting this nourishing meal for your canine companion involves a careful selection of high-quality, raw ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need, along with estimated costs and smart substitutions:

• **2 lbs Wild-Caught Salmon Fillets (skin on, boneless):** ~$20.00 – ~$28.00 (rich in Omega-3s for skin, coat, and joint health).
• **1 lb Ground Turkey (lean, 93% or higher):** ~$5.00 – ~$8.00 (adds variety in protein and essential amino acids).
  • *Substitution:* Ground chicken, ground beef (grass-fed), or lamb.
• **1 cup Organic Unsweetened Shredded Coconut:** ~$4.00 – ~$6.00 (provides healthy fats, fiber, and lauric acid for immune support).
  • *Substitution:* Coconut flakes (ensure unsweetened).
• **1/2 cup Organic Coconut Oil (virgin, unrefined):** ~$8.00 – ~$12.00 (medium-chain triglycerides for energy, brain health, and coat luster).
  • *Substitution:* None recommended for this recipe’s benefits.
• **1/4 cup Organic Chia Seeds:** ~$3.00 – ~$5.00 (excellent source of Omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants).
  • *Substitution:* Ground flax seeds (use 1/2 cup, soak briefly).
• **1 large Carrot (organic):** ~$0.50 – ~$1.00 (fiber, beta-carotene for eye health).
• **1 cup Spinach (organic, fresh):** ~$2.00 – ~$3.00 (vitamins K, A, C, and iron).
• **1/2 cup Blueberries (organic, fresh or frozen):** ~$3.00 – ~$5.00 (antioxidants, vitamins C and K).
• **2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (raw, unfiltered with “the mother”):** ~$1.00 (supports digestion, skin health).
• **1 tbsp Kelp Powder (food-grade, for pets):** ~$2.00 (provides essential minerals, iodine for thyroid health).

Total Estimated Cost: ~$48.50 – ~$71.00

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing this raw dog food is straightforward and requires minimal fuss, ensuring your dog gets maximum freshness. Remember to use clean tools and surfaces throughout.

1. Prepare the Fish and Meat: First, unwrap your salmon fillets and ground turkey. Using a sharp knife, roughly chop the salmon into 1-inch pieces.
2. Combine Proteins: Place the chopped salmon and ground turkey into a large, sturdy mixing bowl.
3. Process Vegetables and Fruits: Next, wash and peel the carrot. Roughly chop the carrot, spinach, and blueberries.
4. Add to Mixer: Place the chopped vegetables and blueberries into a food processor or a powerful blender. Pulse until finely minced but not puréed, maintaining some texture for your dog.
5. Incorporate into Bowl: Add the minced vegetable and fruit mixture to the bowl with the salmon and turkey.
6. Add Dry Ingredients: Sprinkle in the unsweetened shredded coconut, chia seeds, and kelp powder over the mixture.
7. Pour in Liquids: Drizzle the organic coconut oil and apple cider vinegar over all the ingredients in the bowl.
8. Thoroughly Mix: Using gloved hands (recommended for raw meat handling), thoroughly mix all ingredients together until evenly distributed. Ensure the fish and ground meat are completely combined with the other components.
9. Portion and Store: Divide the mixture into meal-sized portions suitable for your dog using airtight containers or freezer bags.

Feeding Guidelines

Determining the right portion size for your dog is crucial for their health and maintaining an ideal weight.

These are general guidelines, and a veterinarian consultation is always recommended.

As a general rule, feed approximately 2-3% of your dog’s ideal body weight daily. For example, a 50 lb dog would eat 1-1.5 lbs of food per day.

Adjust portions based on your dog’s unique needs:

• Small Breeds (under 20 lbs): Start with 1/4 – 1/2 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium Breeds (20-50 lbs): Begin with 1/2 – 1 cup per day, split into two meals.
• Large Breeds (50-90 lbs): Aim for 1-2 cups per day, divided into two or three meals.
• Puppies & Pregnant/Lactating Dogs: These groups have higher caloric and nutritional needs. Puppies may need 4-6% of their body weight daily, and pregnant/lactating dogs will require increased amounts.
• Highly Active Dogs: Working dogs or those with intense daily exercise may need up to 3-4% of their body weight to maintain energy levels.
• Less Active/Senior Dogs: Reduce portions slightly to prevent weight gain, potentially 1.5-2% of body weight.

Always observe your dog’s weight and energy levels and adjust accordingly. Consulting your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially when transitioning to a raw diet, is highly encouraged.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Each ingredient in this Fish and Coconut Medley is carefully chosen to provide a powerhouse of nutrition for your dog’s optimal health. This recipe goes beyond basic sustenance to deliver targeted wellness benefits.

The wild-caught salmon is an incredible source of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), crucial for brain development, joint health, and a remarkably shiny coat. Ground turkey offers lean protein and essential amino acids for muscle maintenance without excessive fat.

Coconut oil and shredded coconut contribute healthy medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which provide a readily available energy source and support cognitive function. The lauric acid in coconut is also known for its immune-boosting properties. Chia seeds amplify the Omega-3 content while adding beneficial fiber for digestive regularity.

The blend of carrots, spinach, and blueberries provides a wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Carrots offer beta-carotene for eye health, spinach is rich in iron and Vitamin K, and blueberries are potent with antioxidants, combating cellular damage. Apple cider vinegar supports gut health and digestion, while kelp powder ensures your dog receives vital trace minerals, including iodine for healthy thyroid function.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the freshness and safety of your homemade raw dog food. Follow these guidelines to ensure your dog enjoys every meal safely.

This raw dog food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, portion out the mixture into individual meal sizes or daily amounts in freezer-safe bags or containers.

The food will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, transfer the frozen portion to the refrigerator 12-24 hours beforehand to thaw, or use a cold water bath for faster thawing. Never thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

Serve the food at room temperature or slightly chilled. Some dogs prefer it slightly warmed, which can be achieved by adding a splash of warm water (not hot) to the bowl just before serving. You can serve this meal on its own or mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble during the transition period to a raw diet.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How do I safely transition my dog to a raw food diet?

Transition slowly over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Start by replacing 25% of their old food with the new raw food for a few days, then 50% for a few more days, and so on, until they are fully on the raw diet.

Is this recipe complete and balanced for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is rich in nutrients, a truly balanced raw diet for long-term feeding requires precise ratios of muscle meat, organ meat, bone, and specific supplements. This recipe is an excellent, nutrient-dense addition or rotation option, but for exclusive feeding, consult a canine nutritionist or veterinarian to ensure all needs are met.

Can I cook this recipe instead of serving it raw?

No, this recipe is specifically designed to be served raw. Cooking the ingredients, especially the bones (if any were included, though this recipe is boneless) or certain meats, can alter nutrient profiles and even create unsafe components. The benefits of a raw diet, such as intact enzymes and nutrients, are lost with cooking.

What if my dog doesn’t like the texture of raw food?

Some dogs, especially those used to kibble, might be hesitant. Try warming it slightly (not cooking), or initially mixing it with a small amount of their favorite wet food or bone broth. You can also vary the texture of the minced vegetables by making them finer.

Are there any risks associated with feeding raw fish?

Feeding raw fish requires careful sourcing. Always use wild-caught, previously frozen (to kill parasites) salmon or other fish known to be safe. Avoid freshwater fish like carp or trout, which can carry parasites harmful to dogs even after freezing. The salmon in this recipe is safe when sourced correctly.

Wrapping Up

Ready to see your dog thrive on a fresh, vibrant diet? This homemade raw dog food Fish and Coconut Medley is a fantastic step towards their optimal health.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Raw Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!