Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Australian Shepherds With Salmon & Sweet Potato

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 Aussie looking a bit sluggish, or are you worried about their joints as they get older? Feeding them the right stuff can make a huge difference in their energy and comfort. We’ve got a homemade dog food that’s perfect for your active companion.

Recipe Overview

This homemade salmon and sweet potato recipe is designed to support your Australian Shepherd’s active lifestyle and joint health. It’s packed with nutrients to keep them moving and feeling their best.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Serving Size: Varies by dog weight (see guidelines)

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless salmon fillet (approx. $15.00)
• 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (approx. $2.00)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice (approx. $0.50)
• 1/2 cup cooked green beans, chopped (approx. $1.00)
• 1/4 cup blueberries (approx. $1.50)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approx. $0.25)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (approx. $0.10)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric (approx. $0.10)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon canine joint supplement (e.g., glucosamine, chondroitin) (approx. $1.00)
• Estimated Total Cost: $21.45 (for approximately 5-7 days of food for a medium-sized dog)

Substitutions: If salmon is not available or your dog has a preference, lean turkey or chicken breast can be used.

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with half of the olive oil, and toss with rosemary and turmeric.
• Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
• While the sweet potatoes roast, gently steam or bake the salmon until fully cooked and flakes easily.
• Once cooked, flake the salmon into a large bowl, removing any bones or skin.
• Add the roasted sweet potatoes, cooked brown rice, and chopped green beans to the bowl with the salmon.
• If using, stir in the canine joint supplement.
• Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the mixture.
• Stir everything together until well combined.
• Allow to cool completely before serving.

Feeding Guidelines

• For adult dogs, a general starting point is 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day, divided into two meals.
• A 50lb dog might eat approximately 1 to 1.5 lbs of food per day.
• Puppies need more calories and nutrients; consult your vet for specific amounts.
• Senior dogs may need fewer calories but can benefit from increased joint support; adjust as needed.
• Highly active dogs will require more food than less active ones.
• Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust portions accordingly.
• It’s best to talk to your veterinarian to get the exact portion size for your individual dog.

Nutritional Benefits

• Salmon: Excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for healthy skin, a shiny coat, and reducing inflammation, especially beneficial for joints.
• Sweet Potatoes: Provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and are rich in Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. They also offer fiber for healthy digestion.
• Brown Rice: A good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, offering energy and aiding in digestive regularity.
• Green Beans: Low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals like Vitamin K and C. They add beneficial fiber to the diet.
• Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants that help combat cellular damage and support overall health.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be very helpful for dogs with joint pain.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats and can help with nutrient absorption.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• To freeze, portion the food into individual servings in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed. Avoid serving it hot.
• You can mix this homemade food with your dog’s regular kibble to introduce new flavors and textures.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe balanced for all nutrients?

While this recipe is packed with good things, homemade diets can sometimes lack certain essential micronutrients over time. It’s always a good idea to discuss this recipe with your veterinarian and consider adding a high-quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure complete nutritional balance, especially if it’s the sole diet.

My dog is a picky eater. How can I encourage them to try it?

Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade food with their current kibble. Gradually increase the ratio of homemade food over a week. You can also try warming the food slightly, as this often enhances its aroma and appeal.

Can I add other dog-safe vegetables?

Yes, you can! Carrots, pumpkin, and peas are great options. Just make sure they are cooked and chopped into small, digestible pieces. Avoid onions, garlic, and grapes, as these are toxic to dogs.

My dog has allergies. What can I substitute?

This recipe is quite adaptable. If your dog has a fish allergy, you can swap salmon for lean turkey or chicken. For a grain-free option, you could replace brown rice with cooked quinoa or limit the carbohydrate portion and increase the protein. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.

Wrapping Up

Give your Aussie the gift of good health and happy joints with this delicious, homemade meal. Try it today and watch them thrive! Pin this recipe for later and follow us for more pet care tips!