Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
Have you ever wondered why your dog is always scratching itself? Pity, isn’t it, when they keep licking and biting?
That stubborn itch is not just irritating; scratching can lead to pain, skin damage, and sometimes, bacterial infections.
How about the solution to their suffering has been with you in the kitchen the whole time? I will tell you a way that is not only easy but also tasty to give them relief.
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Recipe Overview
- This homemade dog food recipe is designed specifically to soothe itchy skin.
- It uses salmon and sweet potato, packed with anti-inflammatory omega-3s and skin-supporting nutrients.
- Prep time: 15 minutes.
- Cook time: 30 minutes.
- Serving size: Makes about 6-8 cups of food, enough for a medium dog for 3-4 days.
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Ingredients List
- 1.5 lbs fresh salmon fillet, skinless and boneless (approx. $15.00)
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (approx. $3.00)
- 1 cup green beans, fresh or frozen (approx. $2.00)
- 1 cup spinach, fresh (approx. $1.50)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats, uncooked (approx. $0.50)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (approx. $0.75)
- 1/4 cup bone broth, low sodium (approx. $1.00)
- 1 teaspoon dried kelp powder (optional, for added minerals) (approx. $0.20)
Total estimated cost: $23.95
Substitutions: You can use cod or mackerel instead of salmon. For sweet potato, pumpkin or butternut squash work well. If green beans aren’t available, peas or broccoli florets are good too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Then, spread the diced sweet potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil.
- Roast the sweet potatoes for 20-25 minutes until they’re tender.
- While the sweet potatoes roast, place the salmon fillets on a separate baking sheet.
- Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flakes easily.
- After that, let the salmon cool slightly. Break it into small, flakey pieces, making sure there are no bones.
- In a large pot, combine the green beans and spinach with the bone broth.
- Bring it to a simmer, then add the rolled oats. Stir well.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats are soft and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Now, gently mash the roasted sweet potatoes in a large bowl.
- Add the flaked salmon, the oat and vegetable mixture, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the bowl.
- If using, stir in the kelp powder.
- Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s all combined.
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Feeding Guidelines
- Always talk to your vet first about your dog’s specific dietary needs.
- Generally, feed approximately 1/2 to 1 cup of this food per 20 pounds of body weight daily.
- For puppies, they usually need more calories. You might feed them 2-3 times this amount, split into smaller meals.
- Active dogs might need slightly more food to maintain their energy levels.
- Older dogs or less active dogs may need less to prevent weight gain.
- Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portion sizes as needed.
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Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids. These really help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and coat, easing that itchy feeling.
- Sweet potatoes give complex carbohydrates for steady energy. They also pack in vitamins A and C, which are great for immune health and skin repair.
- Green beans provide fiber and essential vitamins like K and C. The fiber aids digestion, which can also impact skin health.
- Spinach is full of vitamins K, A, and C, plus iron and antioxidants. These nutrients help with cell repair and overall wellness.
- Rolled oats are a gentle, digestible carb source. They contain soluble fiber that can soothe the digestive tract, often linked to skin health.
- Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These can help boost immunity and provide a good energy source, plus they’re good for skin health.
- Kelp powder adds a natural boost of iodine and other trace minerals. These are crucial for thyroid function and overall metabolic health.
Storage and Serving Tips
- This homemade dog food will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, divide the food into daily portions and freeze them. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm in the microwave.
- Always serve the food at room temperature or slightly warm, never hot.
- You can serve this as a complete meal. Or, you can mix it with a smaller amount of your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or to add variety.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Can I feed this recipe to my puppy?
Yes, puppies can eat this. Just remember they need more calories and protein for growth, so adjust portion sizes and consider a canine supplement if this is their main food.
What if my dog doesn’t like salmon?
If salmon isn’t a hit, you can try other fatty fish like mackerel or even cooked, lean ground turkey. The key is finding a protein source they enjoy that also offers good fats.
How do I know if the recipe is working for my dog’s itchy skin?
Look for less scratching, licking, and chewing. You should also see improved coat shininess and fewer red or irritated patches on their skin. It might take a few weeks to see noticeable changes.
Is a canine supplement really necessary?
For a homemade diet to be nutritionally complete long-term, a balanced canine vitamin and mineral supplement is highly recommended. It helps fill any gaps to make sure your dog gets everything they need.
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Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Giving your dog this homemade meal is a real step toward easing their itchy skin. It’s packed with goodness and made with your love. Seeing them happier and more comfortable is truly priceless.
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