Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Beagles With Salmon & Quinoa for Joint Support

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.

Ever stare at a bag of dog food and think, “What even is half this stuff?”

Yeah, me too. You just wanna give your beagle the good stuff, not a pile of mystery mush packed with who-knows-what.

Honestly, the pet food aisle is like rolling dice with your dog’s health.

But hey, what if making something real and healthy at home wasn’t such a pain? Here’s a homemade dog food recipe your beagle will actually go nuts for.

Recipe Overview

This homemade salmon and quinoa dog food recipe is designed to support joint health and provide balanced nutrition for your beagle. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, with easily digestible carbohydrates. It takes about 45 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time, yielding approximately 10 cups of food.

• Prep time: 45 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog weight

Ingredients List

• 1 pound boneless, skinless salmon fillets ($5.00)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa ($1.50)
• 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed (no skin) ($0.75)
• 1/2 cup cooked green beans, chopped ($0.50)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil ($0.20)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary ($0.10)
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon salmon oil supplement ($0.30)

Total estimated cost: $8.35

Substitutions: You can substitute cod or trout for salmon. Brown rice can be used instead of quinoa. Pumpkin can be used in place of sweet potato.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Cook the salmon. You can bake, poach, or steam it until it flakes easily with a fork.
• Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Let it cool slightly.
• Cook the sweet potato until tender. Mash it well.
• Steam or boil the green beans until tender-crisp. Chop them into small pieces.
• Once all ingredients are cooked and slightly cooled, flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces, removing any bones.
• In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, cooked quinoa, mashed sweet potato, and chopped green beans.
• Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture.
• Sprinkle the dried rosemary evenly.
• If using, add the salmon oil supplement.
• Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined.

Feeding Guidelines

• For a small beagle (under 20 lbs), start with about 1 to 1.5 cups per day, split into two meals.
• For a medium beagle (20-30 lbs), offer around 1.5 to 2 cups per day.
• For larger or more active beagles (over 30 lbs), consult your vet. They might need 2 to 3 cups daily.
• Puppies will need more frequent, smaller meals, and senior dogs may need slightly less, depending on their activity level.
• Always adjust portions based on your dog’s individual metabolism, activity level, and body condition.
• It’s best to talk to your veterinarian to determine the exact portion size and nutritional needs for your specific dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle maintenance. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for reducing inflammation and supporting joint health, as well as promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Quinoa provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is a complete protein, offering all essential amino acids. It also contributes dietary fiber to aid digestion.
• Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. They also offer fiber and other antioxidants.
• Green beans add volume, fiber for digestive regularity, and contain vitamins K and C.
• Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that can contribute to overall health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store the homemade dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, portion the food into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• You can serve the food slightly warmed, at room temperature, or mixed with a small amount of their usual kibble to introduce new textures and flavors.
• Avoid microwaving to prevent hot spots that could burn your dog’s mouth.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

While canned salmon can be used in a pinch, opt for fresh or frozen when possible. If using canned, choose varieties packed in water with no added salt or other seasonings, and drain it well.

My dog is a picky eater. Will they like this?

Many dogs enjoy the taste of salmon and sweet potato. You can try mixing a small amount into their current food to acclimate them. Adding a touch of dog-safe broth can also increase palatability.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

This recipe can be a good addition for puppies, but their nutritional needs are higher. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian about supplementing this recipe or using a diet specifically formulated for growing puppies to ensure they get all the necessary nutrients for proper development.

How much should I feed my beagle each day?

Feeding amounts vary greatly. As a general guideline, a 20-pound beagle might eat around 1.5 cups of this homemade food per day, split into two meals. Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust as needed, or follow your vet’s advice.

Wrapping Up

Feeding your beagle homemade meals like this salmon and quinoa dish offers peace of mind and great nutrition. Try it for a happy, healthy pup! Pin this recipe for later and follow us for more pet tips!