Why I Made This Recipe
When my dog Dori started dealing with constant itching and red spots on her belly, I knew it was time to take food allergies seriously. After talking with our vet, I learned that many dogs react badly to common proteins like chicken or beef, and some struggle with grains as well. That’s when I decided to start cooking homemade dog food for allergies.
At PawPrintedPet, I love creating simple, vet approved recipes that make our pups feel better. This salmon and sweet potato recipe quickly became one of my favorites because it’s gentle, nutritious, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients (Makes about 4–5 meals)
- 1 pound fresh salmon (boneless, skin removed if possible)
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree (no added sugar or spices)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the sweet potato
Peel and dice the sweet potato into small chunks. Place them in a pot of water and boil until tender—this usually takes about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the salmon
In a non-stick pan, cook the salmon on medium heat until it flakes easily with a fork. Make sure to remove all bones—this step is very important for your dog’s safety.
Step 3: Lightly cook the spinach
Add the chopped spinach to a skillet with just a splash of water. Cook for 2–3 minutes until it’s wilted but still bright green.
Step 4: Mix everything together
In a large bowl, combine the salmon, sweet potato, spinach, and pumpkin puree. Stir gently until well mixed.
Step 5: Add healthy fats
Drizzle in the olive oil and stir again. Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog.
Pro tip: You can portion this into meal-sized containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe avoids common allergens like chicken, beef, wheat, and corn. Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce skin inflammation and support a shiny coat. Sweet potatoes provide gentle fiber and energy, while pumpkin soothes sensitive stomachs. Spinach adds extra vitamins and antioxidants.
It’s a grain-free, hypoallergenic dog food recipe that works well for pups with itchy skin or sensitive digestion.
This Recipe Is Suitable For
- ✔️ Adult dogs with skin allergies or food sensitivities
- ✔️ Dogs allergic to chicken, beef, or grains
- ✔️ Dogs with mild digestive issues like loose stools
- ✔️ Pet parents looking for vet approved homemade dog food for allergies
Not suitable for:
- ❌ Dogs allergic to fish
- ❌ Very young puppies under 3 months (they need specialized puppy diets)
- ❌ Dogs with kidney disease (consult your vet before feeding fish-based diets)
FAQ
Q1: Can I replace salmon with another protein?
Yes. If your dog is allergic to fish, you can substitute with turkey or lamb, as long as your vet approves.
Q2: How often can I feed this recipe?
This can be fed daily, but I recommend rotating with other homemade dog food recipes to keep nutrition balanced.
Q3: Do I need supplements with this recipe?
Most likely, yes. While this is a healthy base meal, vets often recommend adding a canine multivitamin or calcium supplement to cover all essential nutrients.
Q4: Can I freeze this food?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q5: How do I know if my dog’s allergies are improving?
You should see less scratching, healthier skin, and firmer stools within 3–4 weeks. Always monitor closely and consult your vet if symptoms continue.
Final Thoughts
Making dog food for allergies at home gave me peace of mind. I know exactly what goes into Dori’s bowl, and I’ve seen a big improvement in her skin and energy levels.
If your dog struggles with allergies, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s simple, nourishing, and made with love.
Thank you for reading and supporting PawPrintedPet. I’d love for you to share this recipe with other pet parents or leave a comment with your own allergy-friendly meal ideas. Together, we can make our dogs’ lives healthier and happier.
