Homemade Dog Food Recipe for Yorkshire Terriers 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 Yorkie’s coat looking a bit dull? Are you concerned about what’s actually in their food bowl?

Many store-bought dog foods can cause dry skin and a dull coat, making you feel powerless.

But what if you could easily prepare a tasty and healthy meal at home that focuses on achieving that shiny coat? This simple salmon and sweet potato dog food recipe is your solution, meant to provide nourishment from the inside out.

Recipe Overview

This homemade salmon and sweet potato dog food recipe is designed to boost coat health and provide balanced nutrition for your Yorkshire Terrier. It’s easy to make, taking approximately 20 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cook time, yielding about 4 cups of food, suitable for roughly 2-4 days of feeding depending on your dog’s size.

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

Ingredients

• 1 pound salmon fillet (skinless, boneless) – Estimated cost: $8.00 (e.g., Costco frozen wild-caught salmon)
• 1 large sweet potato (about 1 pound) – Estimated cost: $1.50 (e.g., from your local grocery store)
• 1/2 cup cooked quinoa (uncooked quinoa is about 1/4 cup) – Estimated cost: $0.50 (e.g., bulk bin quinoa)
• 1/4 cup cooked brown rice (uncooked brown rice is about 1/8 cup) – Estimated cost: $0.25 (e.g., bulk bin brown rice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Estimated cost: $0.20 (e.g., generic brand olive oil)
• 1 teaspoon salmon oil or fish oil supplement (dog-specific) – Estimated cost: $1.00 (e.g., Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet)
• Optional: 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach or kale – Estimated cost: $0.25 (e.g., organic spinach)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon canine multivitamin/mineral supplement – Estimated cost: $0.50 (consult your vet for a recommended brand)
• Substitution suggestion: Turkey or lean chicken can be used instead of salmon, but salmon is particularly beneficial for coat health due to its omega-3 fatty acids.

Total Estimated Cost: $12.20

Instructions

• 1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• 2. Wash and peel the sweet potato. Cut it into 1-inch cubes.
• 3. Toss the sweet potato cubes with the olive oil on a baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer.
• 4. Roast the sweet potatoes for about 20-25 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly browned.
• 5. While the sweet potatoes are roasting, place the salmon fillet on a separate piece of foil or parchment paper.
• 6. Bake the salmon for about 15-20 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary based on thickness.
• 7. Cook the quinoa and brown rice according to package directions if not already cooked. Ensure they are plain with no added salt or seasonings.
• 8. Once the salmon and sweet potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly.
• 9. In a large bowl, gently flake the cooked salmon into bite-sized pieces, removing any tiny bones you might find.
• 10. Mash the roasted sweet potato cubes with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
• 11. Add the cooked quinoa, cooked brown rice, and optional spinach or kale to the bowl with the salmon and sweet potato.
• 12. Stir in the salmon oil or fish oil supplement and the optional canine multivitamin/mineral supplement.
• 13. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

Feeding Guidelines

• For a Yorkshire Terrier weighing 5-10 pounds, start with approximately 1/2 cup to 3/4 cup of food per day, divided into two meals.
• Smaller Yorkies or those with lower activity levels may need closer to the 1/2 cup mark.
• Larger Yorkies or those with high activity levels might require more, closer to the 3/4 cup or even a full cup.
• For puppies, feeding frequency and portion sizes will be higher and more frequent; consult your veterinarian for specific puppy recommendations.
• Senior dogs may have different caloric needs; adjust portions based on their metabolism and weight.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs have significantly increased nutritional requirements and should be fed a diet specifically formulated for them, often including a commercial high-quality puppy food or a specially balanced homemade diet under veterinary guidance.
• If your dog is overweight, reduce portions slightly and focus on lean protein and fiber. If underweight, increase portions gradually or consult your vet about calorie-dense additions.
• Always provide fresh, clean water alongside their food.
• It is highly recommended to consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal feeding amount for your individual dog based on their specific health, age, and activity level.

Nutritional Benefits

• Salmon: Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy, shiny coat and reducing skin dryness and irritation. It’s also a high-quality protein source.
• Sweet Potato: Provides complex carbohydrates for energy and is an excellent source of fiber, aiding in healthy digestion. It’s also packed with beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, important for vision and immune function.
• Quinoa: A complete protein source containing all nine essential amino acids. It also offers fiber and minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
• Brown Rice: A good source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber, helping to regulate digestion and provide sustained energy.
• Olive Oil: A source of monounsaturated fats that can help improve skin and coat health.
• Salmon Oil/Fish Oil: Directly provides concentrated omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which are potent anti-inflammatories and vital for skin and coat health.
• Spinach/Kale: Offer vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals, plus antioxidants that support overall health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• This homemade food can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual portion sizes and freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2-3 months.
• To serve, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator.
• You can serve the food warmed slightly (ensure it’s not hot) or at room temperature.
• Some dogs enjoy a mix of this homemade food with their regular kibble. This can be a good way to introduce new foods or to make kibble more appealing.

FAQ

How do I know if this recipe is right for my Yorkie?

This recipe is designed to be generally healthy and specifically targets coat health with its salmon content. However, every dog is unique. Watch your dog for any signs of digestive upset (vomiting, diarrhea) or allergic reactions. If you notice anything unusual, stop feeding and consult your veterinarian. It’s always best to introduce new foods gradually.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other dog-safe vegetables like carrots, green beans, or peas. Make sure they are cooked and finely chopped or pureed to ensure they are easily digestible. Avoid onions, garlic, and anything from the allium family, as they are toxic to dogs.

My dog is a picky eater. How can I encourage them to eat this?

Try mixing a small amount of the homemade food with their current kibble. Gradually increase the ratio of homemade food to kibble over a week. You can also try warming the food slightly, as this can enhance its aroma and appeal to picky eaters. Ensure it’s only lukewarm, never hot.

What if I don’t have salmon oil?

While salmon oil is highly recommended for its omega-3 benefits, you can substitute it with another dog-specific fish oil supplement. If you can’t find fish oil, you can slightly increase the amount of olive oil, but it won’t provide the same potent omega-3 benefits. Always use a supplement formulated for dogs.

Wrapping Up

Give your Yorkie the gift of a healthy, radiant coat with this simple, nutritious homemade recipe!