Homemade Dog Cookies With Salmon & Dill

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.

Let’s be honest, those bags of kibble from the store? Who even knows what’s inside half the time. Weird fillers, preservatives, you name it.

No wonder your dog’s coat looks a little flat, or their stomach acts up, or they just seem kind of blah.

But here’s the good news: giving your dog real, nourishing treats isn’t some complicated project.

It’s easy, and it does wonders for their health and mood. That’s exactly what we’re diving into today – homemade dog cookies!

Recipe Overview

These homemade dog cookies use high-quality salmon, oats, and fresh dill, making them ideal for dogs needing extra skin and coat support or those sensitive to traditional wheat treats. The recipe is simple, uses minimal ingredients, and focuses on Omega-3 fatty acids for joint and brain health.

• Purpose: High-value, nutritious dog treats supporting skin, coat, and joint health.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Serving Size: About 30 cookies (depending on cutter size)
• Benefits: Rich in Omega-3s, protein, and dietary fiber; wheat and grain-free options available.

Ingredients List

We focus on fresh, natural ingredients here. Always make sure you buy human-grade fish and produce for your dog.

• 1 cup (approx. 4 oz) Cooked, flaked Salmon (Skinless, boneless): $3.50. Substitutions: Canned salmon (drained), cooked cod, or lean ground turkey.
• 1 1/2 cups Rolled Oats (uncooked, quick or old-fashioned): $0.45. Substitutions: Quinoa flour or brown rice flour for a true grain-free option.
• 1 large Egg: $0.20.
• 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Broth: $0.15.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Dill (finely chopped): $0.50. Substitutions: Dried parsley or a small amount of dried rosemary (use 1/2 tsp dried herbs instead of 1 tbsp fresh).
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Coconut Oil: $0.10.
• (Optional) 1 teaspoon Nutritional Yeast: $0.10. Adds B vitamins and a cheesy flavor dogs love.

Total Estimated Cost: $5.00

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these cookies is straightforward. Just remember to let the dough rest briefly so the oats can absorb the moisture properly.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• In a large bowl, flake the cooked salmon using a fork. Make sure there are no small bones left behind.
• Add the egg, broth, olive oil, and fresh dill to the bowl. Stir everything together until it is well combined.
• Gradually mix in the rolled oats and the optional nutritional yeast.
• Mix until a firm, slightly sticky dough forms.
• Let the dough sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid, which makes the dough easier to handle.
• Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper. Roll the dough out to about a 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (or the rim of a glass) to cut shapes. Reroll any scraps and cut again.
• Place the cutouts onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The cookies should be firm to the touch and slightly golden brown around the edges.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. This is important for texture.

Feeding Guidelines

These cookies are treats, not a meal replacement. Treats should generally make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

• Small Dogs (under 15 lbs): 1 to 2 cookies per day. For example, a Chihuahua only needs one.
• Medium Dogs (15–40 lbs): 2 to 3 cookies per day. A Beagle or Spaniel fits this group.
• Large Dogs (over 40 lbs): 3 to 5 cookies per day. This applies to Labradors or German Shepherds.
• Active Dogs: Highly active or working dogs can sometimes handle one or two more treats, but watch their weight.
• Seniors and Overweight Dogs: Reduce the quantity and focus on high-quality treats like these to maximize nutritional return without adding many extra calories.
• Puppies: These are safe for puppies once they are fully weaned, but break them into smaller pieces for easy chewing.
• Consult your vet if you are unsure about the right calorie count for your dog’s specific needs or if they have existing health issues.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

The ingredients chosen here do more than just taste good; they offer significant health advantages.

• Salmon: Excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These reduce inflammation, support cognitive function, and give the coat a beautiful shine.
• Oats: Provide soluble fiber, which aids digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar. They are also gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Eggs: A complete protein source. They contain all essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and maintenance.
• Olive Oil: Supplies healthy monounsaturated fats and acts as an antioxidant.
• Dill: While mostly for flavor, dill contains small amounts of Vitamin A and C and acts as a mild digestive aid.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage ensures the cookies stay fresh and safe for your pet.

• Refrigeration: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen cookies overnight in the fridge or leave them out on the counter for about an hour.
• Serving Temperature: Serve these cookies at room temperature. You can slightly warm them in the microwave for a few seconds if you want to increase the aroma and appeal.
• Mixing: These treats are great as high-value rewards during training or crumbled over your dog’s kibble to encourage picky eaters.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use raw salmon in the recipe?

No, you should never use raw salmon. Raw salmon carries the risk of parasites (like the Nanophyetus salmincola fluke), which can cause Salmon Poisoning Disease, often fatal if untreated. Always cook fish thoroughly first.

Are oats safe for dogs with allergies?

Oats are naturally gluten-free and often tolerated well by dogs with wheat or grain sensitivities. If your dog has severe allergies, use a flour alternative like quinoa flour or brown rice flour instead of the oats.

Do I need to add a vitamin supplement?

These cookies are treats, not a balanced meal. Since they are a supplement to a complete commercial diet, you generally do not need to add extra vitamins. If you start feeding homemade food as a complete meal, then yes, a veterinary-approved canine vitamin and mineral blend is essential.

Wrapping Up

Making these homemade salmon and dill cookies is a simple way to boost your dog’s health with fresh ingredients and beneficial Omega-3s. It feels good knowing exactly what your best friend is eating.

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