Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Itchy Skin Using Bison & Millet

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.

It​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ is not only upsetting that your dog keeps scratching, but it also feels like a daily reminder that something in their diet does not seem to be right.

This behavior is one of the signs of a dog that has food sensitivities.

However, what if the solution to the problem was not at the vet’s office, but at home?

The change may be as simple as changing their dry food for a home-made meal that is compatible with their ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌body.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Formulated to help alleviate itchy skin and food sensitivities.
• Benefits: Hypoallergenic, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, supports skin and coat health.
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 8-10 servings (for a medium dog)

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground bison (lean): Approx. $9.00 – $12.00 (excellent novel protein, rich in iron)
• 1 cup millet (uncooked): Approx. $2.00 – $3.00 (gluten-free, good source of magnesium and phosphorus)
• 3 cups water (for cooking millet)
• 1 large sweet potato (peeled and diced): Approx. $1.00 – $2.00 (rich in Vitamin A and fiber)
• 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen): Approx. $1.50 – $2.50 (good source of vitamins K, C, and manganese)
• 1/2 cup organic spinach (chopped): Approx. $1.00 – $1.50 (packed with vitamins K, A, and iron)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (cold-pressed): Approx. $0.50 (source of healthy fats)
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil (cold-pressed): Approx. $0.75 (high in Omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for skin health)
• 1/4 teaspoon iodized salt (optional, for mineral balance): Approx. $0.01
• 1 canine multi-vitamin supplement (e.g., Zesty Paws, NaturVet): Approx. $0.50 per serving (ensures complete nutrient profile)

Total Estimated Cost: $18.26 – $23.76

Substitutions:

• Bison: Ground venison or lamb can be used as alternative novel proteins.
• Millet: Quinoa or gluten-free oats are good alternatives if millet is unavailable.
• Sweet Potato: Butternut squash can be used instead.
• Green Beans: Peas or broccoli florets (steamed) are suitable replacements.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by cooking the millet. Rinse 1 cup of millet under cold water.
• Combine the rinsed millet with 3 cups of water in a medium saucepan.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the millet is fluffy.
• While the millet cooks, brown the ground bison in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Break up the bison with a spoon as it cooks.
• Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
• Add the diced sweet potato to the skillet with the bison.
• Pour in about 1/4 cup of water, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Now, add the green beans and chopped spinach to the skillet.
• Cook for another 3-5 minutes, just until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Remove the skillet from the heat.
• Once the millet is cooked, combine it with the bison and vegetable mixture in a large bowl.
• Stir in the olive oil, flaxseed oil, and iodized salt (if using).
• Allow the mixture to cool completely before serving.
• Before serving each meal, mix in the appropriate dose of your chosen canine multi-vitamin supplement.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion sizes vary greatly depending on your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
• A general starting point for adult dogs:
• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4 cups per day
• Giant breeds (over 90 lbs): 4+ cups per day
• Puppies, pregnant, or nursing dogs have higher caloric and nutritional needs. Consult your vet for precise amounts.
• Active dogs will need more food than less active ones.
• Always introduce new foods gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.
• It’s a good idea to chat with your veterinarian. They can give you personalized feeding advice based on your dog’s specific health needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Bison: This is a novel protein, which means fewer dogs have been exposed to it, making it ideal for managing food allergies and itchy skin. It’s also lean and packed with iron and B vitamins.
• Millet: A gluten-free grain that’s easy to digest. It provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is rich in magnesium and phosphorus, important for bone health.
• Sweet Potato: An excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, crucial for skin health and vision. It also provides dietary fiber for good digestion.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and high in vitamins K, C, and manganese. They add fiber and help your dog feel full without extra calories.
• Spinach: Loaded with vitamins K, A, and iron. These nutrients support overall health, including immune function and blood clotting.
• Olive Oil: Provides monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health and can contribute to a shiny coat.
• Flaxseed Oil: A powerhouse of Omega-3 fatty acids, especially alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These fats are anti-inflammatory and vital for healthy skin, reducing itchiness and improving coat quality.
• Canine Multi-Vitamin: Ensures all essential vitamins and minerals (like Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc, B-complex vitamins) are present in adequate amounts, making the diet nutritionally complete.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade dog food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warm.
• Always ensure the food is cooled to a safe temperature before serving.
• You can serve this food warm, at room temperature, or even mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble during the transition period.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I feed this to my puppy?

Puppies have specific nutritional needs for growth. While the ingredients are safe, it’s best to consult your vet to ensure this recipe, with a proper supplement, meets all their developmental requirements. They might need different proportions of certain nutrients.

What if my dog doesn’t like bison?

If your dog isn’t keen on bison, you can try other novel proteins like ground venison or lamb. Introduce any new protein gradually to see how your dog reacts.

How do I know if this recipe is working for my dog’s itchy skin?

You should start to see a reduction in scratching, less redness, and an overall improvement in their coat within a few weeks. Consistency is key. Keep track of their symptoms before and after starting the diet.

Do I really need the canine multi-vitamin?

Yes, for homemade diets, a veterinarian-approved canine multi-vitamin is crucial. It ensures your dog gets all the necessary vitamins and minerals that might be lacking or not balanced in home-cooked meals alone. This prevents nutritional deficiencies over time.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog homemade food formulated for their specific needs can truly transform their health and happiness. This bison and millet recipe is a simple way to soothe itchy skin and show your furry friend some extra love.

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