Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Dachshunds With Salmon & Veggie Mix 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.

Your​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ dachshund is probably groaning while going up and down the stairs. Their joints must be creaking due to the long spine, however, the joint support mentioned vaguely on the kibble bag doesn’t seem to be of any help.

Along with the joint support, you have looked through countless labels and are still in doubt if fillers are making the pain worse.

Recovery is actually waiting for you at home: a simple and targeted homemade dog food recipe with ingredients that are rich in glucosamine to provide a comfortable cushion for those legs that are working hard.

Let’s make this today!

Recipe Overview

This recipe is crafted to support your Dachshund’s joint health and provide a delicious, nutrient-rich meal. It’s designed for easy preparation and uses wholesome ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties and essential vitamins and minerals.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 4 cups (adjust based on dog’s needs)

Ingredients List

• 1 lb Salmon Fillets (skinless, boneless) – Approximately $8.00
• 1 cup Quinoa (cooked) – Approximately $1.50
• 1 cup Sweet Potato (peeled, diced) – Approximately $1.00
• 1/2 cup Green Beans (trimmed, chopped) – Approximately $0.75
• 1/4 cup Carrots (peeled, diced) – Approximately $0.50
• 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil – Approximately $0.50
• 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder (for dogs) – Approximately $0.75
• 1/2 teaspoon Ginger Powder (for dogs) – Approximately $0.50
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Salmon Oil (for extra Omega-3s) – Approximately $1.00

Estimated Total Ingredient Cost: $14.50 (Note: Costs are estimates and can vary by location and season.)

Substitutions: Turkey or cod can be used instead of salmon. Brown rice or barley can replace quinoa. Broccoli florets can be used instead of green beans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the diced sweet potato and carrots on a baking sheet. Toss with 1/2 tablespoon of coconut oil and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
• While the vegetables roast, cook the quinoa according to package directions.
• Steam the chopped green beans until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
• Place the salmon fillets in a small, oven-safe dish. Drizzle with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of coconut oil.
• Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and steamed green beans.
• Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl with the vegetables and quinoa.
• Sprinkle the turmeric and ginger powder (and salmon oil, if using) over the mixture.
• Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

Feeding Guidelines

Portion sizes vary greatly depending on your dog’s age, activity level, and metabolism. As a general guideline:

• For Dachshunds weighing 10-15 lbs: Start with about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of food per meal, twice a day.
• For Dachshunds weighing 16-20 lbs: Start with about 3/4 to 1 cup of food per meal, twice a day.
• Puppies: Need more frequent meals (3-4 times a day) and a higher proportion of protein. Consult your vet for specific puppy ratios.
• Senior Dogs: May require slightly smaller portions if less active, or increased nutrient density.
• Active Dogs: May need up to 25% more food.
• Overweight Dogs: May benefit from reduced portion sizes and a focus on lean protein and fiber.

Monitor & Adjust
Track weight/body condition; tweak portions as needed.

Vet Consultation Essential
Consult before diet changes, especially with health issues/sensitivities. They’ll calculate exact calories for your dog.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Salmon: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are excellent for reducing inflammation and supporting joint health, skin, and coat. It’s also a high-quality protein source.
• Quinoa: A complete protein source containing all nine essential amino acids. It provides complex carbohydrates for energy and is a good source of fiber for digestion.
• Sweet Potato: Packed with vitamins A and C, and a good source of fiber. Vitamin A is crucial for vision and immune function.
• Green Beans: Offer fiber for digestive health and are a good source of vitamins K and C.
• Carrots: High in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for good vision and a healthy immune system.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which can provide a quick energy source and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Turmeric: Known for its potent anti-inflammatory compound, curcumin, which can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness.
• Ginger: Can aid digestion and also possesses anti-inflammatory properties.

This blend provides balanced macronutrients and essential micronutrients to support your Dachshund’s overall well-being, with a particular focus on joint comfort.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: Store this homemade dog food in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, divide the food into portion-sized containers or freezer 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 (lukewarm, never hot) or at room temperature.
• Serving: You can serve this meal on its own, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to add extra flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe complete and balanced for all life stages?

This recipe is designed to be nutrient-dense and supportive. However, for puppies or dogs with specific health needs, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure it meets all essential dietary requirements, potentially recommending a balanced canine vitamin and mineral supplement.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, you can. Other dog-safe vegetables like peas, spinach (in moderation), or zucchini are good options. Always ensure vegetables are cooked until tender and avoid any known toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, or avocado.

My dog has a sensitive stomach, will this work?

The ingredients in this recipe are generally easy to digest. Salmon is often well-tolerated, and the fiber from the vegetables and quinoa can aid digestion. However, if your dog has severe sensitivities, introduce this food slowly and monitor their reaction closely.

How much should I feed my Dachshund?

Feeding guidelines are provided, but every dog is different. Start with the suggested amounts and adjust based on your dog’s weight, energy levels, and body condition. Your vet is the best resource for determining exact portion sizes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for easy serving throughout the week.

Wrapping Up

Give your Dachshund the gift of healthy, delicious food. This salmon and veggie mix is packed with goodness to support their joints and overall vitality.

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