Homemade Dog Treats Recipe With Salmon & Rice Flour

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.

Sick of flipping over every bag of dog treats just to find a bunch of weird additives and junk your pup doesn’t need? You’re not alone.

So many store-bought snacks are packed with fillers that can mess with your dog’s stomach or leave their coat looking blah. We all want to spoil our dogs with good stuff, but wow, it’s tough to find treats that are actually simple and healthy.

That’s why this easy dog treat recipe, just salmon and rice flour, comes in handy. Real ingredients, no nonsense. Treat time just got a whole lot better.

Recipe Overview

This simple baked treat recipe uses high-quality salmon and rice flour, making it great for dogs with common grain sensitivities. It’s packed with healthy fats and lean protein for skin and coat health. The minimal ingredients mean less fuss and better nutrition.

• Purpose: High-value, grain-friendly snack for all dogs.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: Approximately 30-40 medium-sized treats

Ingredients List

We are focusing on simple, whole ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. The total cost for this batch is very low compared to premium store-bought options.

• 1 cup Cooked Salmon Fillet, flaked (about $4.50)
• 1 1/2 cups Brown Rice Flour (about $1.20) – Substitution: White rice flour or chickpea flour for different textures.
• 1/2 cup Finely Chopped Fresh Parsley (about $0.30)
• 2 large Eggs, lightly beaten (about $0.40)
• 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (about $0.10) – Substitution: Coconut oil.
• 1/4 cup Water (Free)

Total Estimated Cost: $6.50

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking these treats is straightforward. Just make sure the salmon is fully cooked before you start mixing things.

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the flaked cooked salmon and the finely chopped parsley. Use a fork to break the salmon into small, consistent pieces.
• Step 3: Add the rice flour to the salmon mixture. Stir everything well until the flour is evenly distributed.
• Step 4: Pour in the beaten eggs, olive oil, and water. Mix the ingredients until they form a soft, workable dough. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon more water at a time until it comes together.
• Step 5: Lightly dust your counter with a little extra rice flour. Roll the dough out to about a quarter-inch thickness.
• Step 6: Use a small cookie cutter (like a bone or circle shape) to cut out the treats. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Step 7: Bake for 25 minutes. The treats should be firm to the touch and slightly golden brown on the edges.
• Step 8: Turn off the oven, but leave the treats inside for 10 minutes more to cool and firm up. This makes them nice and crunchy.

Feeding Guidelines

Treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. These are high-value treats, so manage portion sizes carefully, especially for smaller or less active dogs.

• Small Dogs (Under 15 lbs): Offer 1 to 2 small treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (15-40 lbs): Offer 2 to 4 treats per day.
• Large Dogs (Over 40 lbs): Offer 4 to 6 treats per day.
• Puppies: Since this recipe is rich in protein and fats, offer treats sparingly, maybe 1 or 2 small pieces, and only after 12 weeks of age.
• Active vs. Sedentary: Highly active dogs can handle a few more treats, but always adjust the amount based on their weight and fitness level.
• Consult a Vet: Always check with your veterinarian before introducing any new major recipe into your dog’s diet, especially if they have underlying health conditions like kidney disease.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe provides much more than just a tasty crunch. Every ingredient serves a purpose to boost your dog’s overall health.

• Salmon: Excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. These support brain health, reduce inflammation, and lead to a shiny, healthy coat. It is also a high-quality, easily digestible protein source.
• Brown Rice Flour: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It is generally easier for dogs with sensitive stomachs to digest than wheat.
• Eggs: A perfect source of complete protein. Eggs provide essential amino acids, choline for liver function, and various vitamins.
• Parsley: Acts as a natural breath freshener. It also contains vitamins K and C, and antioxidants that support immune health.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is important to keep these treats fresh and safe for your dog. They are preservative-free, so they won’t last as long as store-bought treats.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, flash-freeze the treats on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
• Thawing and Reheating: Thaw frozen treats overnight in the refrigerator. You can serve them cold or warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes to restore some crispness.
• Serving Suggestions: These are great training rewards because they are high-value. You can also crumble one over dry kibble to encourage picky eaters.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Yes, you can, but make sure it is canned in water with no added salt or oils. Drain and rinse it well before mixing it into the dough. The texture might be slightly softer than using a freshly cooked fillet.

Do I need to add a vitamin and mineral supplement?

For treats, no, a supplement is not required. If you were feeding this recipe as a complete meal daily, you would absolutely need a veterinary-approved canine supplement to ensure full nutritional balance (calcium and phosphorus are critical). Since this is just a snack, you don’t need to worry about it.

Why did my treats turn out soft instead of crunchy?

This usually means they weren’t fully dehydrated during the baking process. Next time, try baking them for 5-10 minutes longer. Leaving them to cool completely in the switched-off oven also helps draw out the remaining moisture.

Wrapping Up

Making homemade treats is a simple way to show your dog love and ensure they get the best ingredients. They will love the salmon flavor, and you will love seeing their healthy, happy reactions. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!