Homemade Raw Dog Food Salmon and Broccoli Blend

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.

Do you fear the odd bits in store dog food? Do you want to feed your dog with food that feeds them well?

A lot of dog folks face these fears.

They wade through tons of store food that miss key things our pet pals need to do well.

But what if you could make a fresh, full meal at home?

It’s full of right-from-nature stuff.

This recipe is gonna change your dog’s food for the best!

Recipe Overview

This homemade raw dog food recipe, featuring a delightful Salmon and Broccoli Blend, is designed to support your dog’s optimal health from the inside out. It’s a powerhouse of Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, perfect for boosting coat shine, joint health, and overall immunity.

Forget the cooking; this blend requires zero heat, preserving all the raw nutrients. Prep time is a quick 20 minutes, yielding approximately 7 days’ worth of food for a medium-sized dog (adjusting based on portion size).

Ingredients List

Crafting this nutrient-dense meal starts with selecting high-quality, dog-safe ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create a batch for your canine companion:

• 2 lbs Wild-Caught Salmon Fillets (Boneless, Skinless): $24.00 – $30.00 (rich in Omega-3s, protein)
• 1 lb Fresh Broccoli Florets: $3.00 – $4.00 (packed with vitamins K & C, fiber)
• 1 cup Organic Carrots (Peeled & Chopped): $0.75 – $1.00 (source of Vitamin A for vision)
• 1 cup Fresh Spinach: $3.00 – $4.00 (high in iron and vitamins)
• 1/2 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: $3.00 – $4.00 (supports urinary tract health)
• 2 tbsp Organic Chia Seeds: $0.50 – $1.00 (fiber, additional Omega-3s, gelling agent)
• 1 tsp Organic Turmeric Powder: $0.25 – $0.50 (anti-inflammatory properties)
• 1 tbsp Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (with the mother): $0.25 – $0.50 (aids digestion, pH balance)
• Optional: 1 tbsp High-Quality Fish Oil (e.g., Krill or Sardine Oil): $1.00 – $2.00 (extra Omega-3 boost)

Total Estimated Cost: $35.75 – $47.00

Suitable Substitutions: For the salmon, you can use wild-caught sardines or mackerel for similar benefits. If broccoli isn’t available, green beans or cauliflower can be good alternatives. Sweet potatoes or pumpkin can substitute carrots.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready to whip up a gourmet, wholesome meal for your furry best friend. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch:

1. Thoroughly wash all fresh vegetables and fruits. Pat the salmon fillets dry.
2. Roughly chop the salmon fillets into smaller, manageable pieces to prepare for blending.
3. Place the chopped salmon into a sturdy food processor or high-speed blender. Pulse until it reaches a coarse, ground consistency.
4. Add the broccoli florets, chopped carrots, spinach, and cranberries to the food processor with the salmon. Process until all vegetables are finely minced and well-incorporated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the chia seeds, turmeric powder, and apple cider vinegar. If using, add the optional fish oil now.
6. Using your hands or a large spoon, thoroughly mix all ingredients together until evenly combined. You want a consistent texture throughout.
7. Portion the mixture into daily serving sizes using airtight containers, silicone molds, or freezer-safe bags. This makes meal prep easier later.
8. Immediately refrigerate any portions you plan to use within 3-4 days. Freeze the rest for longer storage.

Practical Tip: Ensure all ingredients are very cold before processing to maintain food safety. Always clean your work surfaces and utensils thoroughly before and after handling raw ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.

Feeding Guidelines

Determining the right portion size is crucial for your dog’s health. As a general guideline, adult dogs typically thrive on 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily.

For example, a 50 lb active adult dog would eat approximately 1.0 – 1.5 lbs of this food per day. Puppies, highly active dogs, or pregnant/lactating dogs may require 4-6% of their body weight, while senior dogs or less active dogs might need closer to 1.5-2%.

Always consider your dog’s specific breed, activity level, metabolism, and life stage when determining precise portions. We strongly encourage consulting with a holistic veterinarian or a certified canine nutritionist for personalized feeding advice tailored to your dog’s unique needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This Salmon and Broccoli Blend isn’t just tasty; it’s a nutritional powerhouse for your dog. Each ingredient plays a vital role in supporting their well-being.

Salmon is the star, offering an abundance of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that are crucial for promoting a healthy, shiny coat, reducing inflammation, and supporting joint mobility and brain function. Broccoli contributes essential vitamins like K and C, along with fiber, which aids digestion and provides powerful antioxidants that combat cellular damage.

Carrots add Vitamin A for excellent vision and immune support, while spinach provides iron and a spectrum of vitamins and minerals. Cranberries are fantastic for urinary tract health, and chia seeds offer additional fiber and Omega-3s. Finally, turmeric delivers potent anti-inflammatory benefits, and apple cider vinegar supports healthy digestion and detoxification.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage is key to keeping this raw blend fresh and safe for your dog. In the refrigerator, this homemade dog food will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in airtight containers.

For longer storage, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion it into individual servings before freezing, making it easy to thaw only what you need. To thaw, simply transfer a portion from the freezer to the refrigerator 12-24 hours before feeding.

Serve the food at room temperature or slightly chilled; never cook or microwave it, as this destroys the beneficial raw enzymes and nutrients. You can serve it as a complete meal or mix a portion with your dog’s regular kibble to gradually transition them or add a fresh boost.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How do I safely handle raw dog food?

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw ingredients. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and vegetables, and sanitize all surfaces that come into contact with the food.

Is this recipe nutritionally complete and balanced for long-term feeding?

While this recipe is incredibly nutrient-dense, it’s designed as a part of a varied raw diet or a supplemental meal. For a long-term, complete, and balanced raw diet, it’s essential to include a wider range of protein sources, organs, and a precise calcium-phosphorus ratio, often requiring bone meal or whole raw bones. Always consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure your dog’s diet meets all AAFCO guidelines for their life stage.

My dog has a sensitive stomach; how should I introduce this food?

Introduce new foods slowly to avoid digestive upset. Start by mixing a small spoonful of the Salmon and Broccoli Blend with your dog’s current food, gradually increasing the amount over 7-10 days. Monitor your dog for any changes in stool or behavior.

Can I cook this recipe for my dog?

No, this recipe is specifically formulated as a raw diet to preserve all the natural enzymes and nutrients that are destroyed by heat. Cooking the salmon can also make the small bones (if any were missed during filleting) brittle and dangerous. If you’re not comfortable feeding raw, please consult a vet for cooked meal alternatives.

What if my dog doesn’t like broccoli?

Many dogs love broccoli, but if yours is particular, you can reduce the amount or substitute it with other dog-safe vegetables like finely grated zucchini, green beans, or even some leafy greens like kale (in moderation). Ensure any substitution is introduced slowly.

Wrapping Up

Feeling inspired to elevate your dog’s mealtime and boost their vitality? This homemade raw dog food with Salmon and Broccoli Blend is a fantastic step towards a healthier, happier life for your furry family member.

Pin this incredible recipe to your Homemade Raw Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more amazing pet-friendly tips!