Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Itchy Skin Using Cod & Brown Rice

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.

Does​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ your dog always scratch even after bathing? Perhaps you have already tried various foods and special shampoos, but the stubborn itch remains.

It is hard to see your dog in such a situation and you probably feel powerless against their suffering. How about if I told you that there is a simple and natural way to calm their ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌skin?

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses cod and brown rice to help soothe itchy skin.
• It is packed with Omega-3s, essential fatty acids, and fiber.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Serving Size: Makes about 6-8 cups (enough for a medium dog for 3-4 days)

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs Cod Fillets, fresh or frozen (thawed): Approx. $10-$15. Cod is a lean protein source rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for skin health.
• 2 cups Brown Rice, uncooked: Approx. $1.50-$2. Brown rice is a complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy and fiber.
• 4 cups Water (for cooking rice)
• 1 cup Green Beans, fresh or frozen (chopped): Approx. $1.50-$2. Low in calories, high in fiber and vitamins A, C, and K.
• 1 cup Carrots, fresh (peeled and chopped): Approx. $0.75-$1. Packed with beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant.
• 1 tbsp Coconut Oil, virgin: Approx. $0.50. Adds healthy fats and can help with skin moisture.
• 1/2 cup Spinach, fresh: Approx. $0.75. Provides iron and vitamins.
• 1/4 tsp Sea Salt (optional, for flavor, but use sparingly if your dog has health issues): Approx. $0.05.
• Optional: A high-quality canine multi-vitamin supplement is recommended to ensure complete nutritional balance. Approx. $0.50-$1 per serving.

Total Estimated Cost: $17.50 – $23.30

Substitutions:

• Fish: Haddock or salmon are good alternatives to cod, offering similar benefits.
• Carbohydrates: Quinoa or cooked sweet potato can replace brown rice if your dog has specific sensitivities.
• Vegetables: Peas or zucchini can be swapped for green beans or carrots.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by cooking the brown rice. Rinse the 2 cups of brown rice under cold water.
• Put the rinsed rice into a medium pot with 4 cups of water.
• Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes.
• You’ll know it’s done when the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Set it aside.
• While the rice cooks, prepare your vegetables. Chop the green beans and carrots into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped carrots and green beans to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
• Now, add the cod fillets to the skillet with the vegetables. You can break the fillets into smaller pieces if you like.
• Cook the cod for about 5-8 minutes, turning it gently, until it’s flaky and cooked through.
• In the last minute of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts.
• Once everything is cooked, combine the cooked brown rice, cod, and vegetables in a large bowl.
• Mix it all together thoroughly.
• If you’re using sea salt, sprinkle it in now and mix again.
• Let the mixture cool completely before serving it to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Always talk to your vet before making big changes to your dog’s diet, especially for dogs with health issues. They can give you personalized advice.
• For adult dogs, a general guide is:
• Small dogs (up to 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day.
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4.5 cups per day.
• Very Large dogs (90+ lbs): 5+ cups per day.
• Remember that active dogs, puppies, and pregnant or nursing dogs will need more food.
• Senior dogs might need slightly less or food tailored to their specific needs.
• Puppies need more frequent meals and higher calorie intake for growth, so divide their daily portion into 3-4 smaller meals.
• Dogs with specific conditions like overweight or underweight may require calorie adjustments. Your vet can help with this.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Cod: This fish is a great source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair and overall health. It’s also packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, which are known to reduce inflammation, supporting healthy skin and a shiny coat. This is key for itchy skin relief.
• Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that gives your dog sustained energy. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps things moving smoothly.
• Green Beans: Low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K. These are great for adding bulk without extra weight and boosting the immune system.
• Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. Carrots also provide antioxidants.
• Spinach: A fantastic source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K. It helps support bone health and energy levels.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can provide a quick energy source. It’s also known for its potential benefits to skin health, helping to moisturize from the inside out.
• This recipe provides a good balance of protein (for tissue repair), healthy fats (for skin, coat, and energy), and complex carbohydrates (for sustained energy and fiber).
• The Omega-3s from cod specifically target inflammation, which is often a root cause of itchy skin in dogs.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once the food has cooled completely, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Frozen portions can last for up to 2-3 months.
• When you’re ready to serve a frozen portion, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
• You can serve the food at room temperature, or if your dog prefers, warm it slightly in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Make sure it’s not too hot before giving it to your dog.
• This recipe can be served on its own or mixed with your dog’s regular kibble to slowly transition them or to add extra flavor and nutrients.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I feed this recipe to puppies?

Puppies have higher nutritional demands for growth. While the ingredients are safe, this recipe might not be nutritionally complete for a growing puppy without veterinary guidance and specific supplements. It’s best for adult dogs. Always consult your vet.

My dog has a fish allergy. What can I use instead of cod?

If your dog is allergic to fish, you could try using lean ground turkey or chicken as the protein source. Ensure these are cooked thoroughly. You would still want to discuss this with your vet to make sure the diet remains balanced.

How can I make sure this is a complete diet for my dog?

Homemade diets can sometimes lack certain essential nutrients. It’s highly recommended to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure this recipe meets all your dog’s specific dietary needs. Adding a vet-approved canine multi-vitamin supplement is a good step towards completeness.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, many other dog-safe vegetables can be added, such as pumpkin, sweet potato, or zucchini. Always research to ensure any new vegetable is safe for dogs and introduce them slowly to check for sensitivities.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog homemade food made with love can truly make a difference, especially for those with itchy skin. This cod and brown rice recipe is simple, healthy, and a great step towards a happier, less scratchy pup.

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