Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Canned Salmon & Peas

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 thought about what is really inside the food of your dog? There are lots of commercial brands that are loaded with fillers and components that even you cannot pronounce.

The consequence? Various types of digestive issues and even allergies in your dog.

The good news is, you can easily make nutritious and tasty meals for them from your own kitchen, and it is not expensive at all.

Recipe Overview

• This cheap homemade dog food recipe uses canned salmon and peas.
• It’s a complete meal packed with Omega-3s, protein, and essential nutrients.
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 6-8 cups (enough for a medium dog for 3-4 days)

Ingredients List

• Canned Salmon (in water, boneless, skinless): 2 cans (14.75 oz each) – Estimated cost: $6.00 ($3.00 per can)
• Frozen Peas: 2 cups – Estimated cost: $2.50
• Brown Rice: 2 cups (uncooked) – Estimated cost: $1.50
• Carrots: 2 large, shredded – Estimated cost: $1.00
• Spinach: 1 cup (fresh) – Estimated cost: $1.00
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – Estimated cost: $0.50
• Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: 4 cups – Estimated cost: $1.00
• Optional: Canine multivitamin supplement (consult your vet) – Estimated cost: Varies

Total estimated cost: $13.50

Substitutions: You can swap canned salmon for canned mackerel or sardines (in water). Peas can be replaced with green beans. Brown rice can be swapped for quinoa or oats.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the rice: In a large pot, combine the brown rice and 4 cups of water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
• Prepare the vegetables: While the rice cooks, shred the carrots and chop the spinach.
• Drain the salmon: Open the canned salmon and drain any excess water. Flake the salmon with a fork.
• Combine ingredients: Once the rice is cooked, add the flaked salmon, shredded carrots, chopped spinach, and frozen peas to the pot.
• Mix well: Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the peas are heated through.
• Add oil: Drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and mix one last time.
• Cool: Let the food cool completely before serving to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• Giant breeds (over 90 lbs): 4.5 cups or more per day, divided into two meals.
• Puppies, pregnant, or nursing dogs: These dogs have higher caloric needs. You might need to increase portions and add a vet-approved puppy supplement. Always check with your vet.
• Active dogs: Dogs with high activity levels may need slightly larger portions to fuel their energy.
• Weight management: If your dog needs to lose weight, reduce portion sizes slightly. For weight gain, increase portions.
• Consult your vet: Every dog is different. It’s always best to talk to your veterinarian to get personalized feeding recommendations based on your dog’s specific health, age, breed, and activity level. They might suggest a canine multivitamin to ensure complete nutrition.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Canned Salmon: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). Omega-3s support skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and are great for brain and heart function.
• Brown Rice: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber, which aids healthy digestion.
• Peas: Packed with vitamins K, C, and B vitamins. They also offer a good amount of fiber and are rich in antioxidants.
• Carrots: A great source of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function. They also add fiber.
• Spinach: Loaded with vitamins K, A, and C, and minerals like iron. It contributes to bone health and acts as an antioxidant.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It supports healthy skin, coat, and can aid in nutrient absorption.
• Overall: This recipe offers a balanced profile of protein (around 20% of calories), healthy fats (around 8-10% of calories), and complex carbohydrates (around 40-50% of calories), along with essential vitamins and minerals from the varied ingredients.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled food in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the food into individual servings or freezer-safe bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Thawing and Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve it cold, at room temperature, or gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Make sure it’s not too hot before serving.
• Serving Suggestions: You can serve this homemade meal on its own, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you absolutely can. If using fresh salmon, cook and debone it thoroughly before mixing. Just make sure there are no bones left.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Puppies have different nutritional needs. While the ingredients are safe, puppies require more specific calcium-to-phosphorus ratios and higher caloric intake. Talk to your vet about adding a puppy-specific supplement or adjusting the recipe for their growth phase.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, will this work?

Many dogs with sensitive stomachs do well on whole, simple ingredients like these. The brown rice and salmon are generally easy to digest. Introduce it slowly, perhaps by mixing small amounts with their current food, to see how they react.

How do I know if my dog is getting enough nutrients?

It’s a good idea to chat with your vet. They can help you assess if your homemade diet is meeting all your dog’s needs. Sometimes, adding a veterinary-approved canine multivitamin can help ensure complete nutrition, especially for long-term feeding.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. This cheap homemade dog food recipe using canned salmon and peas is a simple way to give your dog a nutritious, delicious meal that shows them just how much you care.

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