Homemade Dog Treats Recipe With Salmon & Carrots

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.

Tired of guessing what’s really in your dog’s store-bought food? We all worry about preservatives and fillers hidden in those bags. But here’s the thing, cooking for your pet can feel overwhelming and complicated, so many people just stick with kibble.

Stop stressing about ingredient lists—I have a simple, quick recipe that gives your dog high-quality protein and necessary vitamins without the fuss.

Recipe Overview

This homemade salmon and carrot dog food recipe is simple, fast, and packed with Omega-3s, which are essential for a healthy coat and joints. It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive skin or picky eaters who need a boost of flavor. The recipe takes about 40 minutes from start to finish, and it makes enough for a few days, depending on your dog’s size.

• Purpose: Complete, balanced meal rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes.
• Cook Time: 25 minutes.
• Serving Size: Makes approximately 6 cups of food (suitable for a medium-sized dog for 3-4 days).

Ingredients List

Using human-grade ingredients means better quality control, and you know exactly what your dog is eating. Here is the list, including the costs and some easy swaps you can make.

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Salmon Fillets: $15.00. This provides high-quality protein and critical Omega-3s. Substitution: Cooked chicken or lean ground turkey.
• 1.5 cups Brown Rice (uncooked): $1.50. A great complex carbohydrate source for sustained energy. Substitution: Quinoa or cooked sweet potato.
• 2 cups Carrots (chopped finely): $0.80. Adds fiber, Vitamin A, and a nice crunchy texture.
• 1 cup Green Beans (trimmed and chopped): $1.20. Low-calorie, high-fiber filler.
• 1/4 cup Coconut Oil (refined): $1.00. Aids digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• 1/2 cup Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: $0.25. Needed for cooking the rice and moisture.
• 1 tsp Calcium Carbonate Supplement (powdered): $0.50. Essential for balancing the high phosphorus in the meat/rice, consult your vet first. Substitution: A complete canine multi-vitamin/mineral mix.

Total Estimated Cost: $20.25

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking this recipe is easy, and it uses basic kitchen methods. Here is how to do it in just a few steps.

• Start by cooking the brown rice: Combine the 1.5 cups of rice and 3 cups of water (or broth) in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed.
• While the rice cooks, prepare the salmon: Heat the coconut oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the salmon fillets to the skillet. Cook them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they flake easily with a fork.
• Remove the salmon from the pan and set it aside to cool slightly. Leave the coconut oil and any remaining juices in the skillet.
• Add the chopped carrots and green beans to the same skillet. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are slightly softened but still retain some crunch. This keeps the nutrients intact.
• Once the salmon is cool enough, flake it into small pieces using a fork. Make sure you check for and remove any small bones, even if you bought fillets.
• In a very large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, the flaked salmon, the sautéed vegetables, and the remaining coconut oil from the skillet.
• Add the calcium carbonate supplement or canine vitamin powder now. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Cool the mixture completely before serving or storing it.

Feeding Guidelines

The right portion depends heavily on your dog’s specific needs. Do not just rely on general guidelines; always check with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist for the exact caloric intake required for your dog.

• Small Dogs (10–20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day. For example, a low-activity senior Beagle might need less than a highly active Jack Russell.
• Medium Dogs (25–50 lbs): Feed about 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 cups per day. This is a good starting point for a moderately active Border Collie.
• Large Dogs (60–90 lbs): Feed about 3 to 4 cups per day. This might increase if the dog is very active, like a working Labrador.
• Puppies and Pregnant/Nursing Dogs: These life stages require higher fat and calcium content. This recipe needs specific modifications and supplementation for puppies and nursing dogs, so please consult a professional before feeding.
• For Weight Management: If your dog is overweight, use less rice and increase the amount of low-calorie vegetables like green beans.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient in this recipe works to support your dog’s health, from the skin to the gut.

• Salmon: This is an excellent source of high-quality protein and the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These fats are essential for reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and maintaining a shiny coat.
• Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that provides steady energy. It also offers essential B vitamins (like Thiamine and Niacin), which help convert food into energy.
• Carrots: Packed with Beta-Carotene, which converts into Vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for good vision and immune system support.
• Green Beans: These are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Fiber supports bowel regularity and helps your dog feel full.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which some studies suggest can boost brain health in senior dogs. It also helps the body absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A and K.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is important since this food contains no synthetic preservatives. You need to keep it fresh and safe.

• Refrigeration: The homemade food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. You can serve the food cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed (not hot) to enhance the aroma and appeal for picky eaters.
• Mixing: Many owners mix this homemade food with their dog’s regular kibble. Start with a 50/50 mix to transition slowly and prevent stomach upset.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe safe for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have specific, critical nutritional needs, especially for calcium and phosphorus ratios, required for bone development. This recipe needs precise mineral supplementation to be safe for a growing puppy. Always speak to your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist first.

Do I really need the calcium supplement?

Yes, absolutely. Feeding high protein and phosphorus (like meat and rice) without adding calcium will cause a serious mineral imbalance in your dog’s diet over time. This can lead to severe bone problems. The calcium carbonate helps balance this ratio.

Can I use canned salmon?

You can use canned salmon, but make sure it is packed in water, not oil, and check the label carefully to ensure there is absolutely no salt or sodium added. Rinse it well before use to remove any excess sodium.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog nutritious, homemade meals like this is a great way to improve their health and bond with them. This salmon and carrot recipe is simple to make and your dog will love the taste. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!