Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
You are halfway through your own meal, made with real chicken, a spoon of rice, a few carrots that you would gladly eat by yourself. That’s when your dog sits at your feet, eyes saying, “Save me some of that.”
The contrast hurts: your plate is colorful, pronounceable, fresh; his bowl has the same brown nuggets that you have been giving since he was a puppy, their ingredient list is a chemistry-laden shrug.
You do not need a more expensive bag or a vet’s degree to make it right.
Tonight you can remove the mystery by trying out this homemade dog food recipe.
Medical Questions? Talk to a Veterinarian 24/7.
Connect one-on-one with a licensed vet who will answer your questions in minutes.
*Article may contain affiliate links to retailers like Amazon and Chewy. Learn more on our disclosure page.
Recipe Overview
- This homemade dog food recipe features cod and probiotic cheese curds.
- It’s designed to support a healthy gut and boost overall wellness.
- Prep time is about 15 minutes.
- Cook time is around 25 minutes.
- This recipe yields about 6-8 servings for a medium-sized dog.
[lasso ref=”fave” id=”19043″]
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) Fresh Cod Fillet, skinless and boneless – $9.99
- 1 cup Cooked Brown Rice – $0.50
- 1/2 cup Plain, Low-Fat Probiotic Cheese Curds – $3.00 (Ensure no added salt or flavors)
- 1 cup Steamed Green Beans, chopped – $1.50
- 1/2 cup Steamed Carrots, diced – $0.75
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil – $0.20
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley (optional, for fresh breath) – $0.10
- 1/4 tsp Kelp Powder (natural source of iodine and trace minerals) – $0.25
Total estimated cost: $16.29
Substitutions: You can swap cod for other white fish like haddock or pollock. If your dog can’t have dairy, skip the cheese curds and consider adding a small amount of dog-specific probiotic supplement after cooking. Brown rice can be replaced with quinoa or sweet potato for variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, cook the brown rice according to package directions.
- While the rice cooks, steam the green beans and carrots until tender-crisp.
- After that, gently flake the cooked cod into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Next, in a large bowl, combine the flaked cod, cooked brown rice, steamed green beans, and carrots.
- Then, add the plain probiotic cheese curds, olive oil, dried parsley, and kelp powder to the mixture.
- Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Serve after it cools completely.
Look, prepping and cooking for your dog is great, but sometimes you might be too tired or maybe a tad lazy, or maybe you just want to give yourself a well deserved break.
In such times, you want something reliable and nutritious for your dog, and that’s where Ollie comes in. It’s my favorite dog food subscription ever.
Fresh human grade dog food sent to your doorstep, and there’s no lock in.
Give it a shot, will ya?
Feeding Guidelines
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Give 1.5 to 2.5 cups daily.
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): Offer 3 to 4 cups or more, depending on their size.
- Active dogs might need slightly more food.
- Older or less active dogs might need a bit less.
- Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs have higher nutritional needs; talk to your vet for specific portioning and to ensure a complete diet.
- Always check with your veterinarian to get personalized feeding advice for your dog’s specific needs and health conditions.
[lasso ref=”the-forever-dog-life-120-recipes-longevity-tips-and-new-science-for-better-bowls-and-healthier-homes” id=”18607″]
Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Cod: This is a lean protein source, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which support brain health, joint mobility, and a shiny coat. It’s also easy to digest.
- Probiotic Cheese Curds: These introduce beneficial bacteria to your dog’s gut, supporting a strong immune system and healthy digestion.
- Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy. It’s also a good source of fiber, helping with digestive regularity.
- Green Beans: Low in calories and high in vitamins K and C, and manganese. They add fiber without too many carbs.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, essential for good vision and immune function.
- Olive Oil: A healthy fat that contributes to skin and coat health and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Kelp Powder: Supplies natural iodine for thyroid function and a range of trace minerals.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw frozen food in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
- You can serve the food at room temperature or slightly warmed.
- Some dogs enjoy it mixed with their regular kibble to transition them or add variety.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I make this recipe in larger batches?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. Just make sure you have enough storage space.
What if my dog is allergic to fish?
If your dog is allergic to fish, you can substitute the cod with lean cooked ground turkey or chicken. Always introduce new proteins slowly.
Do I need to add a supplement?
While this recipe is balanced for a single meal, for a complete and balanced daily diet, especially if feeding homemade food long-term, consult your vet about a canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure all nutritional needs are met.
How do I know if the cheese curds are safe for my dog?
Always choose plain, low-fat cheese curds with no added salt, spices, or artificial ingredients. If your dog has lactose intolerance, it’s best to avoid dairy and discuss alternatives with your vet.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Giving your dog homemade food with natural probiotics is a great way to boost their health and show them some extra love. This cod and cheese curd recipe is simple, nutritious, and tastes amazing to them.
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
