Homemade Dog Food Recipe for German Shepherds Salmon & Sweet Potato for Skin & Coat

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.

Has‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ your German Shepherd been itching more than normal? Has the fur on their body become dull and less shiny?

It is hard to see our four-legged companions in distress and not being their best, and the fact is that most commercial dog foods are not adequate for their particular requirements.

However, what if you could feed them with a homemade dog food recipe that works from the inside ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌out?

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Recipe Overview

This homemade salmon and sweet potato dog food recipe is designed to be a delicious, nutrient-packed meal for your German Shepherd, focusing on improving skin and coat health. It’s also great for sensitive tummies.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Serving size: Varies by dog weight and age (see feeding guidelines)

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Ingredients

1 pound skinless, boneless salmon fillet (approx. $8.00)
1 medium sweet potato (about 10 oz), peeled and cubed (approx. $0.75)
1 cup cooked quinoa (approx. $0.50)
1/2 cup cooked green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen, approx. $0.40)
1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. $0.10)
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth (approx. $0.15)
Optional: 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed for added omega-3s (approx. $0.05)
Optional: A high-quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement (cost varies, consult vet)

Estimated Total Cost (excluding supplement): $10.00

Substitutions: Turkey or cod can be used instead of salmon. Brown rice or white rice can replace quinoa. Peas can be used instead of green beans.

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Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the cubed sweet potato on a baking sheet and toss with 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potato bakes, place the salmon fillet in an oven-safe dish. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Once both are cooked, let them cool slightly.
5. In a large bowl, flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces.
6. Add the roasted sweet potato cubes, cooked quinoa, and chopped green beans to the bowl.
7. Drizzle with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and the broth.
8. If using, stir in the ground flaxseed.
9. Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined.
10. Mash slightly with a fork if your dog prefers a softer texture.

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Feeding Guidelines

For adult German Shepherds, start with approximately 1.5 to 2 cups of food per 50 lbs of body weight per day, divided into two meals.
A 50 lb dog might eat about 1.5 cups per meal.
A 75 lb dog might eat about 2.25 cups per meal.
Puppies and very active dogs will need more. Older dogs or those less active might need slightly less.
Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions as needed.
It’s crucial to consult your veterinarian to determine the perfect portion size and nutritional balance for your individual dog, especially if they have any health conditions or are in a specific life stage (puppy, senior, pregnant, nursing).

Nutritional Benefits

Salmon is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for healthy skin and a shiny coat. They also help reduce inflammation.
Sweet potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for energy, as well as fiber for good digestion and important vitamins like A and C.
Quinoa offers complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids, and is a good source of fiber and minerals.
Green beans are low in calories and a good source of fiber, vitamins K and C, and antioxidants.
Flaxseed is another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.
For a fully balanced diet, especially long-term, discuss a canine multivitamin and mineral supplement with your vet.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I feed this to my puppy?

Yes, but portion sizes will be significantly smaller, and it’s essential to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients for growth. Always consult your vet before feeding homemade food to puppies.

My dog has allergies, is this safe?

This recipe uses common, generally well-tolerated ingredients. However, if your dog has specific allergies (e.g., to fish or sweet potato), you’ll need to make substitutions and consult your vet. Always introduce new foods slowly.

How long does this food last?

When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this homemade dog food should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Portion the food into airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I mix this with kibble?

Yes, you can mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to make mealtime more appealing or to gradually transition them to a homemade diet. Start with a small amount of homemade food and gradually increase it.

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