When Ethan’s scratching ramped up last spring, I tracked everything—treats, pollen days, even laundry soap. Our vet suggested a limited-ingredient reset with omega-3-rich protein and simple carbs. One protein, one carb, and skin-soothing fats. Here’s the gentle base recipe we used to calm the itch without overwhelming his system.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Why It Helps (Skin) |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon (boneless, skinless) | 1 cup, cooked & flaked | High in omega-3s to support skin barrier & reduce inflammation |
| Sweet potato | 1 cup, mashed | Gentle carb + vitamin A for skin repair |
| Green beans | 1/2 cup, steamed & chopped | Low-cal fiber + micronutrients, adds texture without triggers |
| Olive oil | 1 tsp | Skin-friendly fats to help dryness |
| Parsley (optional) | 1 tbsp, chopped | Freshness + antioxidants; optional for highly sensitive pups |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the salmon thoroughly (poach or bake). Cool slightly and flake into small pieces, checking carefully for bones. Tip: Poaching keeps the texture soft and the smell mild.
Step 2: Steam sweet potato until mashable and green beans until tender. Mash the sweet potato to a smooth consistency; finely chop the beans to reduce rough fibers.
Step 3: In a clean bowl, combine salmon, sweet potato, and green beans. Drizzle olive oil and fold gently until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Serve slightly warm (never hot). Keep variables steady for 7–10 days to fairly judge skin and coat changes.
Why These Ingredients Help Skin
Omega-3s from salmon are the headline—EPA/DHA help modulate inflammation and support a resilient skin barrier. Sweet potato provides gentle energy plus vitamin A, important for epithelial repair. A small amount of olive oil adds skin-friendly fats if your dog tends toward dryness. We keep the list short so you can track responses cleanly. For broader allergy strategy, see our Allergies hub and limited-variable planning in Limited Ingredient Dog Food.
If tummy upset rides along with skin issues, align this recipe with our sensitive-stomach notes: best dry picks, best wet picks, and transition the change slowly using our Food Transition Guide.
Nutritional Breakdown (Approx.)
| Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates |
|---|---|---|
| 35–40% | 20–25% | 35–40% |
Values vary by salmon cut and prep. This recipe is intended as a short-term reset or rotational option. For long-term homemade feeding, work with your vet to ensure complete & balanced micronutrients.
Serving Sizes
Feed ~2–3% of body weight per day, split into two meals (e.g., 20 lb dog ≈ 0.4–0.6 lb / 180–270 g per day). Adjust for age, activity, and body condition. Track itch frequency, hot spots, coat sheen, and stool quality weekly.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate portions up to 3 days in airtight containers. Freeze up to 3 weeks; thaw in the fridge overnight. Tip: Freeze in daily portions so texture stays consistent and prep stays easy.
My Dog’s Reaction
Within a week, Ethan’s “mid-evening scratch session” went quiet. He ate calmly, napped deeper, and his coat picked up a soft gloss again. We kept the routine steady for a full two weeks before trying any add-ons.
FAQ
Short term, yes—if portions and calcium balance are appropriate. Puppies have higher nutrient demands; discuss extended homemade feeding with your vet.
Many dogs show calmer itch and better coat sheen in 1–3 weeks if ingredients stay consistent. If redness or infections persist, see your vet.
Yes—if fish is a suspected trigger or unavailable. Swap to lean turkey or chicken and add a vet-approved omega-3 source. Always change one variable at a time.
For short-term resets, this simple profile is often enough. For long-term feeding, your vet may recommend balanced micronutrients and extra omega-3 support.
Which Dogs Can Eat This?
✅ Good fit: mild to moderate skin allergies, seasonal itch, dull coat needing omega-3 support.
❌ Avoid or get vet guidance first: known fish allergy, chronic infections, kidney disease, or dogs on prescription diets.
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Wrapping It Up
Skin allergies feel personal when it’s your dog. Keeping ingredients simple and skin-supportive helped Ethan settle and shine again. If you try this, tell me how your pup does—what changed, what stayed the same, and what you’d tweak next time.
Print what you want
- – Saucepan
- Steamer or pot with basket
- – Mixing bowl
- – Measuring cups
- 1 lb turkey lean ground, cooked
- 1 cup sweet potato boiled & mashed
- 1/2 cup zucchini steamed, chopped
- 1/2 cup oats well-cooked, soft
- 1 tbsp coconut oil added after cooling
- Cook the turkey thoroughly until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
- Boil and mash sweet potato until smooth.
- Steam zucchini lightly and chop into small pieces.
- Cook oats until soft and mix with turkey and vegetables.
- Let cool, drizzle coconut oil, and serve in measured portions.
• Always consult your vet before switching diets.
