Homemade Dog Food Recipe for French Bulldogs Hypoallergenic Duck & Sweet Potato

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.

Is​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your Frenchie scratching excessively? Does their belly become upset after every meal? You are not alone.

The problem of finding food that makes these sensitive dogs happy and healthy is a common one among dog parents.

However, what if making a tasty and healthy meal was at your fingertips at home? This homemade dog food recipe is the perfect answer, providing a kind, hypoallergenic way that your dog will ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌love.

This hypoallergenic duck and sweet potato recipe is designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs and promote healthy skin for French Bulldogs. It’s also a great way to ensure your dog is getting fresh, wholesome ingredients.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog weight (see guidelines below)

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless duck breast (approx. $4.00)
• 1 large sweet potato (about 10 ounces, approx. $1.00)
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (approx. $0.50)
• 1/4 cup pureed pumpkin (canned, plain, approx. $0.30)
• 1 tablespoon salmon oil (approx. $0.70)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground flaxseed (approx. $0.10)
• Optional: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley (for freshness, approx. $0.05)

Estimated Total Cost: $6.65

Substitutions: If duck is unavailable, turkey breast is a good alternative. Instead of quinoa, brown rice works well.

Instructions

• 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• 2. Wash and peel the sweet potato. Cut it into small, 1-inch cubes.
• 3. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a tiny bit of water, cover loosely with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until fork-tender.
• 4. While the sweet potato bakes, dice the duck breast into small, bite-sized pieces.
• 5. Heat a little water or a small amount of dog-safe oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
• 6. Add the diced duck to the pan and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• 7. Once the duck is cooked, remove it from the heat.
• 8. In a large bowl, combine the cooked duck, the baked sweet potato cubes, the cooked quinoa, and the pureed pumpkin.
• 9. Add the salmon oil and ground flaxseed to the bowl.
• 10. If using, stir in the finely chopped parsley.
• 11. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined.
• 12. Mash or lightly process the mixture if your dog prefers a finer texture.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 15 lbs): Approximately 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (15-30 lbs): Approximately 1 to 2 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large dogs (30-50 lbs): Approximately 2 to 3 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• For puppies, senior dogs, pregnant or nursing dogs, or dogs with specific health conditions, consult your veterinarian for precise portioning.
• Dogs with higher activity levels may require slightly more food.
• If your dog is overweight, consult your vet and consider slightly smaller portions or a less calorie-dense protein.

Nutritional Benefit

• Duck: A lean protein source that’s often well-tolerated by dogs with sensitivities. It provides essential amino acids for muscle health.
• Sweet Potato: An excellent source of complex carbohydrates for energy, plus dietary fiber that aids digestion. It’s also rich in Vitamin A for vision and immune support.
• Quinoa: A complete protein source and good for fiber.
• Pumpkin: Known for its high fiber content, which helps regulate digestion and can be beneficial for both constipation and diarrhea.
• Salmon Oil: Packed with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, crucial for healthy skin and a shiny coat, and can help reduce inflammation.
• Flaxseed: Another good source of Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.

Storage and Serving

• Store the homemade dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, portion the food into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze. It can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• You can serve the food slightly warmed, at room temperature, or even mixed with a small amount of your dog’s regular kibble to encourage them to eat it.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe balanced enough for my dog?

While this recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients, homemade diets can sometimes lack complete nutritional balance on their own. It’s always best to discuss your homemade food plans with your veterinarian. They can help you determine if a canine vitamin and mineral supplement is needed to ensure all nutrient requirements are met for your dog’s specific needs.

My dog is a picky eater, will they like this?

Many dogs find the combination of duck, sweet potato, and pumpkin very appealing due to the natural sweetness and savory flavors. You can try warming it slightly or mixing it with a small amount of their current food to introduce it. If your dog has severe pickiness, consult your vet for strategies.

Can I add other dog-safe vegetables?

Yes, you can add small amounts of other dog-safe vegetables like cooked carrots or green beans. Ensure they are finely chopped or pureed if your dog has chewing difficulties. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time to monitor for any adverse reactions.

Wrapping Up

Give your Frenchie the gift of great health with this simple, nutritious homemade meal.

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