Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Malteses With Salmon & Sweet Potato for Silky Coats

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 Maltese itching nonstop lately? Maybe their coat isn’t as shiny and soft as it used to be. You want to give them the best, but honestly, sorting through all those store-bought foods with ingredients you can’t even pronounce is stressful. You end up wondering what you’re really feeding them.

Here’s a homemade dog food recipe that actually helps from the inside out. It gives your Maltese the good stuff they need for healthy skin and that signature silky coat. Plus, it’s made with simple, real ingredients you know and trust.

Recipe Overview

This Homemade Salmon and Sweet Potato Dog Food recipe is specifically crafted to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat for your Maltese. It’s packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and essential vitamins.

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 4 cups (adjust based on dog size)

Ingredients List

• 1 pound boneless, skinless salmon fillet ($6.00)
• 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed ($2.00)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice ($0.50)
• 1/2 cup cooked peas ($0.25)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley ($0.30)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil ($0.15)
• 1 teaspoon salmon oil supplement ($0.50)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon canine multivitamin and mineral supplement (check product for cost, ~$0.20)
• Estimated total cost: $9.90 (for approx. 4 cups)

Substitutions: If salmon is unavailable or your dog has sensitivities, you can substitute with cooked boneless, skinless chicken or turkey breast. For the brown rice, cooked quinoa is a good alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the cubed sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, toss with olive oil, and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
• While the sweet potatoes are roasting, steam or bake the salmon until it flakes easily with a fork.
• Once cooked, remove any bones or skin from the salmon.
• In a large bowl, flake the cooked salmon into small pieces.
• Mash the roasted sweet potatoes with a fork until mostly smooth.
• Add the mashed sweet potatoes, cooked brown rice, and cooked peas to the bowl with the salmon.
• Stir in the salmon oil supplement and the optional canine multivitamin.
• Add the chopped fresh parsley and mix everything together until well combined.
• Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Feeding Guidelines

• For a typical Maltese (around 5-7 pounds), start with approximately 1/4 to 1/2 cup of food per day, split into two meals.
• This is a general guideline. Adjust portions based on your dog’s individual metabolism, activity level, and age.
• Puppies will need more food per pound of body weight than adult dogs.
• Senior dogs or less active dogs may require slightly less.
• If your dog is overweight or underweight, consult your veterinarian for precise portion recommendations.
• Always provide access to fresh water.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Salmon: Excellent source of high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) which are crucial for healthy skin, a shiny coat, and reducing inflammation.
• Sweet Potatoes: Provide complex carbohydrates for energy, and are a good source of fiber, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
• Brown Rice: Offers easily digestible complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and dietary fiber to support digestion.
• Peas: Contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and add a little extra protein.
• Parsley: Acts as a natural breath freshener and contains vitamins A, C, and K.
• Olive Oil and Salmon Oil: Further boost Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, essential for skin and coat health, and overall well-being.
• Canine Multivitamin (Optional): Helps to ensure a complete and balanced profile of all essential vitamins and minerals, especially if daily intake of certain nutrients varies.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Store this 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 and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• When serving frozen food, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or gently warm it in the microwave (ensure it’s not too hot) or on the stovetop.
• This food can be served warm or at room temperature.
• You can mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to introduce them to homemade food or to make kibble more appealing.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting (FAQ)

Are all these ingredients safe for my Maltese?

Yes, all the listed ingredients are considered dog-safe and are commonly recommended for homemade diets, especially for promoting coat health. Always ensure the salmon is cooked thoroughly and free of bones. Avoid adding any spices or seasonings that are not dog-appropriate.

How do I know if my dog likes it?

Most dogs find the smell and taste of salmon and sweet potato very appealing. Offer a small amount at first. If your dog eats it enthusiastically, it’s a good sign. If they are hesitant, try mixing a small portion with their current food to ease them into it.

My Maltese has allergies. Can I adjust this recipe?

This recipe is fairly adaptable. If your Maltese has a specific allergy, like to fish, you can substitute the salmon with a different protein like cooked chicken or turkey. Always introduce new proteins slowly and monitor for any reactions.

Do I really need a supplement?

While this recipe provides many nutrients, it can be challenging to achieve a perfect balance of all vitamins and minerals without professional veterinary nutritionist guidance. A good quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement is often recommended for homemade diets to ensure completeness, especially for long-term feeding. It is always best to consult your veterinarian about specific supplement needs.

Wrapping Up

Give your Maltese the gift of vibrant health and a stunning coat with this simple, nutritious salmon and sweet potato meal. Your furry friend will thank you!