Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Boxers With Salmon & Sweet Potato for Skin & Coat

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 Boxer always scratching or leaving fur everywhere? And let’s be honest, do you ever wonder what’s actually in that store-bought dog food?

You want your pup to feel good and look even better, right?

Healthy skin, a shiny coat, the whole package.

Good news! We’ve got a homemade dog food recipe that’s super easy to whip up and your dog’s going to love it.

Recipe Overview

This homemade salmon and sweet potato recipe is designed to boost your Boxer’s skin and coat health, while providing balanced nutrition. It’s great for digestion too.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 30-40 minutes
• Serving size: Varies by dog (see Feeding Guidelines)
• Yields: Approximately 6-8 cups

Ingredients List

• 1 pound skinless, boneless salmon fillet: $8.00
• 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken: $4.00
• 1 large sweet potato (about 1 pound), peeled and cubed: $1.00
• 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa: $0.50
• 1/2 cup cooked peas (frozen is fine): $0.40
• 1/4 cup chopped spinach: $0.30
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: $0.20
• 1 teaspoon salmon oil or fish oil supplement (for Omega-3s): $0.50
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon canine multivitamin powder (ensure it contains calcium and phosphorus in the correct ratio): $0.50

Estimated Total Cost: $15.40

Substitutions: You can swap turkey or chicken for other lean poultry like duck or rabbit if your dog tolerates it. If your dog has a sweet potato sensitivity, you can try cooked butternut squash.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the cubed sweet potato on a baking sheet. Drizzle with half of the olive oil and toss to coat. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. While the sweet potato bakes, cook the salmon. You can pan-sear it in a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through and flakes easily. Alternatively, bake it alongside the sweet potato for about 12-15 minutes.
4. Once cooked, flake the salmon into a large mixing bowl, removing any small bones or skin fragments.
5. Cook the ground turkey or chicken in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat.
6. Add the cooked ground meat to the bowl with the flaked salmon.
7. Add the baked sweet potato, cooked brown rice or quinoa, cooked peas, and chopped spinach to the bowl.
8. Drizzle with the salmon oil supplement.
9. If using, add the canine multivitamin powder.
10. Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Ensure the sweet potato is soft enough to mash slightly if needed.

Feeding Guidelines

The amount to feed your Boxer depends on their weight, age, activity level, and metabolism. Here are some general guidelines:

• For a small Boxer (under 50 lbs): Start with about 1 to 1.5 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• For a medium to large Boxer (50-70 lbs): Start with about 1.5 to 2 cups per day, divided into two meals.
• For very active Boxers or those needing to gain weight: You might need to increase portions by 10-20%.
• For less active Boxers or those needing to lose weight: You might need to decrease portions by 10-20%.
• Puppies: Need more food than adults. Consult your vet for specific puppy portioning.
• Senior Dogs: May need smaller, more frequent meals or adjusted nutrient levels.

Always monitor your dog’s weight and body condition. Adjust food intake as needed. It’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before making significant diet changes, especially if your dog has any health issues.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This recipe is packed with goodness for your Boxer.

• Salmon: A fantastic source of high-quality protein and essential Omega-3 fatty acids. These help reduce inflammation, supporting healthier skin and a shinier coat.
• Sweet Potato: Provides complex carbohydrates for energy, plus fiber for good digestion. It’s also rich in Vitamin A, important for skin health and vision.
• Ground Turkey/Chicken: Offers lean protein, crucial for muscle maintenance and overall health.
• Brown Rice/Quinoa: Complex carbs offer sustained energy and soluble fiber.
• Peas and Spinach: Add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Spinach is a good source of iron and Vitamin K.
• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Salmon Oil: A concentrated source of EPA and DHA, potent Omega-3s that are excellent for skin and coat.
• Canine Multivitamin (if used): Helps ensure a complete and balanced nutritional profile, particularly for essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Storage: Store the cooked dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, portion the food into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. You can serve the food slightly warmed, at room temperature, or even cold if your dog prefers. Microwaving for a few seconds until just warm is an option, but be sure to stir and check for hot spots.
• Serving Ideas: You can serve this homemade food on its own, or mix it with a small amount of their regular kibble to make it more appealing or stretch it further.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

What if my Boxer is allergic to chicken or salmon?

If your Boxer has allergies, you can adapt this recipe. For a fish allergy, replace salmon with cooked turkey or lean ground beef. For a poultry allergy, use lean ground beef or lamb instead of turkey or chicken. Always introduce new proteins one at a time and monitor for any reactions.

How do I know if this food is right for my dog?

Observe your dog. Look for improvements in their skin condition, reduced itching, less shedding, and more energy. If you see any digestive upset like loose stools or vomiting, it might not be the right fit, and you should consult your vet.

Can I make a large batch and freeze it?

Yes, absolutely. This recipe freezes well. Make a bigger batch when you have time, portion it out into individual serving sizes, and store it in the freezer. This saves time during the week.

Is this recipe complete and balanced on its own?

This recipe provides a good base of nutrients, but depending on your dog’s specific needs, a canine multivitamin with appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels might be necessary for long-term feeding as a sole diet. Always consult your veterinarian.

Wrapping Up

This homemade salmon and sweet potato meal is a fantastic way to nourish your Boxer from the inside out. Try it and see their coat shine!