Homemade Dog Treat Recipe for Allergies Using Salmon & Flaxseed

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 dog scratching, itchy, or having tummy issues? It is hard to see them suffer from allergies.

Sometimes we find that store bought remedies make things worse, as they are filled with fillers which in turn irritate sensitive systems.

But what if you could prepare something delicious and healthy at home which also helps? Let’s find out how.

Recipe Overview

• Purpose: Delicious, hypoallergenic dog treats for pups with sensitive stomachs or skin allergies.
• Benefits: Packed with Omega-3s, protein, and fiber to support skin, coat, and digestion.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Serving size: About 30-40 small treats

Ingredients List

• 1 can (6 oz) boneless, skinless salmon in water, drained (about $3.50)
• 1 large egg (about $0.30)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (about $0.50)
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed (about $1.00)
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free oat flour (about $2.00)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (about $0.75)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (about $0.20)

Total estimated cost: $8.25

Suitable substitutions: You can use canned sardines in water (drained) instead of salmon for a similar Omega-3 boost. If your dog doesn’t have an oat allergy, you can use regular whole wheat flour instead of gluten-free oat flour.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, mash the drained salmon with a fork until it’s finely broken apart.
• Add the egg, applesauce, ground flaxseed, and olive oil to the salmon. Mix everything well until it’s combined.
• Gradually add the oat flour, mixing until a firm dough forms. If it’s too sticky, add a little more oat flour, a tablespoon at a time.
• Stir in the fresh parsley.
• Lightly flour your work surface with extra oat flour. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
• Use a small cookie cutter (or a knife to cut squares) to shape the treats.
• Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the treats are firm and golden brown.
• Let them cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 treats per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 treats per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 4-6 treats per day.
• These are treats, not a meal replacement. Keep them as part of a balanced diet.
• For puppies, seniors, or dogs with specific health conditions, chat with your vet about appropriate serving sizes. They know your dog best.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Salmon: A fantastic source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA). These are amazing for reducing inflammation, supporting healthy skin and a shiny coat, and boosting brain function.
• Flaxseed: Another excellent source of Omega-3s and fiber. It helps with digestion and keeps your dog feeling full and satisfied.
• Oat Flour: A gluten-free carbohydrate source that’s easy to digest. It provides sustained energy and some dietary fiber.
• Egg: Offers complete protein and essential amino acids, along with vitamins like B12 and D.
• Applesauce: A good source of vitamins A and C, plus fiber. Make sure it’s unsweetened to avoid extra sugar.
• Parsley: Acts as a natural breath freshener and provides vitamins K, C, and A, as well as iron.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For longer storage, freeze the treats in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or microwave for a few seconds to defrost.
• Serve them at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• You can give them as a standalone reward or break them into smaller pieces to use as training treats.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Are these treats suitable for puppies?

Yes, in moderation. Puppies have specific nutritional needs, so offer these as occasional treats and ensure their main diet is complete and balanced.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s cooked and deboned before adding it to the recipe. Roughly 4-5 ounces of cooked fresh salmon would be equivalent.

My dog is allergic to eggs. What can I use instead?

You can try a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) as an egg substitute. It might slightly change the texture.

How can I make these treats crunchy?

After baking, turn off the oven and leave the treats inside for an extra 30-60 minutes as the oven cools. This will help dry them out and make them crispier.

Wrapping Up

Making homemade treats for your allergic dog is simple and so rewarding. You know exactly what’s going into their body, avoiding those sneaky triggers. These salmon and flaxseed treats are not just tasty; they’re packed with good stuff to help your dog feel their best.

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