Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Itchy Skin Using Pork & Apple

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.

That​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ evening ordeal has almost become a silent sorrow of sorts: you sitting on the couch, your dog squeezed against your leg, both of you anticipating the dreadful scratching that will start as soon as the house becomes quiet.

You have gone through the shiny bags that promise “skin support,” the vet bills that end with a shrug and another steroid shot. But every morning there is still the proof. New pink streaks on the rug, another raw patch behind the ear.

What if the solution wasn’t in a factory-sealed bag, but in the gentle simmer of a pot you stir yourself, using ingredients chosen not for marketing claims, but for the specific dog who trusts you to figure this ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌out?

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe focuses on pork and apple, ingredients known for being gentle on sensitive systems and great for skin health.
• It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook.
• This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings for a medium-sized dog.
• It’s packed with quality protein, healthy fats, and beneficial fiber, perfect for pups with sensitive skin.

Ingredients List

• Ground Pork (lean, 85-90%): 1 lb (about $5.00)
• Apples (organic, peeled, cored, and diced): 2 medium (about $2.00)
• Sweet Potatoes (peeled and diced): 2 medium (about $2.50)
• Spinach (fresh, chopped): 1 cup (about $1.50)
• Rolled Oats (uncooked): 1/2 cup (about $0.75)
• Water: 1 cup (negligible cost)
• Fish Oil (Omega-3 supplement, pure salmon or sardine oil): 1 teaspoon (about $0.50 per serving, if bought in bulk)
• Nutritional Yeast (for B vitamins): 1 tablespoon (about $0.25 per serving, if bought in bulk)
• Total Estimated Cost: $12.50

Substitutions: You can swap ground pork for ground turkey or lean beef. Pears can be used instead of apples. But here’s the problem: always introduce new ingredients slowly to check for reactions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Start by dicing your sweet potatoes into small, half-inch pieces.
• Get a large pot or Dutch oven and add the diced sweet potatoes and 1 cup of water.
• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let the sweet potatoes simmer for 10-12 minutes until they are fork-tender.
• While the sweet potatoes are cooking, brown the ground pork in a separate skillet over medium heat.
• Make sure to break up the pork into small crumbles.
• Cook until it’s no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
• Once the sweet potatoes are tender, drain any remaining water from the pot.
• Add the cooked ground pork, diced apples, fresh spinach, and rolled oats to the pot with the sweet potatoes.
• Stir everything really well to combine.
• Cover the pot and let it cook on low heat for another 5-7 minutes.
• The spinach should wilt, and the oats should soften, absorbing some moisture.
• Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely before serving.
• Once cool, stir in the fish oil and nutritional yeast.
• And that’s why it matters: adding these supplements after cooking helps preserve their beneficial properties.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion sizes depend a lot on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level.
• A general starting point for adult dogs is about 1/2 cup for every 10-15 lbs of body weight per day, split into two meals.
• For smaller dogs (under 20 lbs), about 1/2 to 1 cup daily.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs) might need 1 to 2.5 cups daily.
• Larger dogs (50-100 lbs) could eat 2.5 to 5 cups daily.
• Puppies and very active dogs might need more calories, so adjust accordingly.
• Older or less active dogs might need less to prevent weight gain.
• If your dog is pregnant or nursing, they will need significantly more food.
• Always talk to your vet to get personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or is in a different life stage.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Ground Pork: This is a great source of high-quality protein, which helps with muscle maintenance and repair. It also contains essential amino acids vital for overall health.
• Apples: Full of vitamins A and C, and a good source of fiber. The fiber helps digestion and can even act as a natural breath freshener. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system.
• Sweet Potatoes: Packed with dietary fiber, beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A), and Vitamins C and B6. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that supports skin and eye health.
• Spinach: Provides iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamins K, A, and C. These nutrients are important for bone health, vision, and immune function.
• Rolled Oats: A fantastic source of soluble fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and soothe the digestive tract. They are also gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Fish Oil: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA. These are crucial for reducing inflammation, improving skin and coat health, and supporting joint and brain function. This is key for itchy skin relief.
• Nutritional Yeast: A powerhouse of B vitamins, especially B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins play a big role in energy metabolism and support skin and nerve health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual portions and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• You can serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed.
• Some dogs prefer it warm, as the aroma can be more enticing.
• If you’re transitioning your dog to this new food, mix it gradually with their current kibble over 7-10 days to avoid upsetting their stomach.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add a canine vitamin supplement to this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. While this recipe is nutritionally sound, a broad-spectrum canine vitamin and mineral supplement can ensure complete and balanced nutrition, especially if it’s your dog’s primary diet. Talk to your vet for recommendations.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

Puppies have different nutritional needs, especially for calcium and phosphorus for bone development. This recipe can be part of a puppy’s diet, but it shouldn’t be their sole food source without consulting a vet or canine nutritionist to ensure it meets all their specific growth requirements.

My dog has other allergies. How can I adjust this recipe?

If your dog is allergic to pork, you can substitute it with turkey or lamb. If apples are an issue, pears or blueberries might work. Sweet potatoes are generally well-tolerated, but you could try pumpkin (plain, canned) or butternut squash. Always introduce new ingredients slowly.

How long will it take to see improvements in my dog’s itchy skin?

Results vary, but many owners notice improvements in their dog’s skin and coat within a few weeks to a couple of months of consistent feeding. Be patient and monitor your dog for changes.

Wrapping Up

Making this homemade dog food is a simple, loving step to help your itchy pup feel better. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and packed with goodness.

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