13 Salmon and Quinoa Dog Food Recipes for Shiny Coats

This is the foundational recipe that started it all. It’s simple, balanced, and provides a fantastic baseline for your dog’s nutritional needs. It’s easy to make and a guaranteed tail-wagger.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (be sure to rinse thoroughly before cooking)
• 6 oz cooked salmon fillet, deboned and flaked
• 1/2 cup steamed carrots, diced
• 1/2 cup steamed green beans, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or fish oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa according to package directions and let it cool.
2. Bake or poach the salmon until it’s cooked through. Remove any skin and bones, then flake it with a fork.
3. Steam the carrots and green beans until tender-crisp.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, flaked salmon, carrots, and green beans.
5. Drizzle with olive oil or fish oil and mix gently to combine. Serve once cooled to room temperature.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

Perfect for any healthy adult dog, this recipe is the ideal starting point for pet parents new to homemade dog food.

Want to sneak some more vitamins and antioxidants into your pup’s diet? This recipe is loaded with dog-safe vegetables that provide a boost of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for overall health.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/4 cup steamed sweet potato, mashed
• 1/4 cup steamed peas
• 1/4 cup finely chopped spinach
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the quinoa and salmon as described in the classic recipe.
2. Steam the sweet potato until very soft, then mash it. Steam the peas.
3. Wilt the spinach in a pan with a tiny bit of water for 30 seconds.
4. Combine all ingredients in a bowl: quinoa, salmon, mashed sweet potato, peas, and spinach.
5. Mix in the coconut oil for extra skin-soothing benefits. Serve cool.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for dogs who need more fiber in their diet or for owners who want to maximize the nutritional value of each meal.

Older dogs have different needs. This recipe is softer in texture, making it easier to chew, and includes ingredients known to support joint health and cognitive function in our golden-oldie companions.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet potatoes, boiled until very soft
• 1/4 cup blueberries (a great antioxidant)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or bone broth
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa and salmon.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes until they are fork-tender.
3. In a bowl, gently mash the sweet potatoes with the flaked salmon.
4. Stir in the cooked quinoa, blueberries, and turmeric powder.
5. Add the broth to create a soft, stew-like consistency. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

The perfect meal for senior dogs, offering joint support, easy digestion, and a delicious taste they’ll love.

Growing puppies need specific nutrients for healthy development. This recipe is formulated with extra calcium and is mashed to a texture that’s perfect for tiny mouths and developing teeth.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, finely flaked
• 1/2 cup full-fat plain cottage cheese or yogurt (for calcium)
• 1/4 cup finely grated carrots
• 1 hard-boiled egg, mashed

Instructions:

1. Cook quinoa and salmon. Ensure the salmon is flaked into very small pieces.
2. Hard-boil an egg, peel it, and mash it thoroughly.
3. In a bowl, combine the quinoa, salmon, mashed egg, cottage cheese/yogurt, and grated carrots.
4. Mix until it forms a uniform, soft mash. Serve in smaller, more frequent portions suitable for a puppy.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic, nutrient-dense meal to support the rapid growth and high energy levels of a young puppy. Always consult your vet for puppy nutrition plans.

For active dogs, or those suffering from allergies or arthritis, inflammation can be a major issue. This recipe incorporates natural anti-inflammatory ingredients to help soothe their system from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/2 cup chopped kale, lightly steamed
• 1/4 cup blueberries
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, freshly grated

Instructions:

1. Prepare the quinoa and salmon.
2. Lightly steam the kale until it’s bright green and slightly tender.
3. In a bowl, combine the quinoa, salmon, kale, and blueberries.
4. Sprinkle the ground flaxseed and grated ginger over the top.
5. Mix well and serve.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

Ideal for athletic dogs, senior dogs with arthritis, or any pup that could benefit from a natural anti-inflammatory boost in their diet.

Portion control is key for dogs needing to shed a few pounds. Baking the ingredients into a loaf makes it easy to slice and serve consistent portions. This recipe is higher in fiber to help your dog feel full and satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 lb ground salmon (or finely chopped salmon fillet)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup chopped zucchini, moisture squeezed out
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground salmon, cooked quinoa, beaten eggs, zucchini, oats, and parsley.
3. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Press the mixture into a lightly greased loaf pan.
5. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and cooked through.
6. Let it cool completely before slicing and serving.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

A brilliant solution for pet parents managing their dog’s weight. The easy-to-serve slices take the guesswork out of feeding time.

Do you have a fussy eater on your hands? Texture can make all the difference. This recipe blends all the healthy ingredients into a smooth, irresistible pâté that even the most discerning canine critic will have a hard time resisting.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/4 cup steamed carrots
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy, savory flavor)

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa, salmon, and carrots until everything is soft.
2. Place all ingredients—quinoa, salmon, carrots, broth, and nutritional yeast—into a food processor or high-powered blender.
3. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth, pâté-like consistency. You can add a little more broth if needed to get the right texture.
4. Serve as a standalone meal or as a tempting topper on their regular food.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

This smooth and savory pâté is a game-changer for picky dogs or those with dental problems who struggle with harder foods.

Give your dog’s skin an extra dose of hydration and healthy fats with this tropical-inspired recipe. Coconut and mango are not only delicious but also offer unique benefits for skin and coat health.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/4 cup finely diced mango (no skin or pit)
• 1 tablespoon organic, cold-pressed coconut oil
• A few leaves of fresh mint, finely chopped (optional, for fresh breath)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the quinoa and salmon and let them cool.
2. In a bowl, gently mix the flaked salmon and quinoa.
3. Stir in the diced mango and chopped mint.
4. Melt the coconut oil (if solid) and drizzle it over the mixture, then toss to coat everything evenly.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

A fantastic, flavourful option for dogs with dry, itchy skin or a dull coat, providing a delicious taste of the tropics.

When the weather gets chilly, a warm and hearty stew is the ultimate comfort food. This recipe uses root vegetables and a rich broth to create a nourishing meal that will warm your pup from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, in chunks
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup diced parsnips
• 1 cup low-sodium beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the broth to a simmer. Add the carrots and parsnips and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender.
2. Add the cooked quinoa, salmon chunks, and rosemary to the pot.
3. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to meld.
4. Let the stew cool to a safe, lukewarm temperature before serving.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

The perfect, soul-warming meal for a cold winter’s day, packed with hearty root vegetables and savory flavor.

For those busy weeknights when you want to give your dog a fresh meal without all the fuss. This one-pan recipe minimizes cleanup and gets a healthy dinner in their bowl in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz salmon fillet, cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• 1 cup water or low-sodium broth
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots blend
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet or pan with a lid over medium-high heat. Add the salmon cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Add the rinsed quinoa and water/broth to the skillet. Stir and bring to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff with a fork and let it cool completely before serving.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

A lifesaver for busy pet parents who don’t want to compromise on providing a fresh, homemade meal for their dog.

Go green with this bowl packed full of chlorophyll-rich ingredients. Leafy greens and green veggies are fantastic for detoxification and providing a wide array of micronutrients for your dog’s overall vitality.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz cooked salmon, flaked
• 1/2 cup steamed broccoli florets, chopped small
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• A handful of fresh spinach, wilted

Instructions:

1. Cook the quinoa and salmon.
2. Steam the broccoli florets until tender, then chop them into bite-sized pieces.
3. Wilt the spinach in a hot pan for 30 seconds.
4. Combine the quinoa, salmon, broccoli, wilted spinach, and fresh parsley in a bowl.
5. Mix gently and serve.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

An incredibly healthy, nutrient-dense meal for the health-conscious pet owner looking to boost their dog’s vitamin intake and vitality.

Not ready to switch to a fully homemade diet? No problem! This recipe creates a crunchy, dehydrated topper you can sprinkle over your dog’s existing kibble to add the coat-boosting benefits of salmon and quinoa.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 lb raw salmon fillet, skin removed
• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to its lowest temperature (usually around 170-200°F or 75-95°C) or use a dehydrator.
2. In a food processor, blend the raw salmon into a paste.
3. In a bowl, mix the salmon paste, cooked quinoa, and ground flaxseed until a thick, dough-like mixture forms.
4. Spread the mixture thinly and evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake/dehydrate for 2-4 hours, or until the mixture is dry and brittle. The time will vary greatly depending on your oven/dehydrator.
6. Once cooled, break the brittle into small, kibble-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

The perfect solution for pet owners who want to add a powerful nutritional punch and the benefits of salmon to their dog’s current diet without a complete overhaul.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, this gentle and easily digestible recipe can help. Pumpkin is a well-known digestive aid, and ginger can help soothe nausea, making this a comforting meal for a tender tummy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 6 oz poached salmon, flaked (poaching is a gentle cooking method)
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions:

1. To poach the salmon, place it in a pan and add just enough water to cover it. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until opaque. Let it cool and flake it.
2. Cook the quinoa as usual.
3. In a bowl, gently mix the poached salmon, cooked quinoa, pumpkin puree, and grated ginger.
4. The mixture will be soft and moist. Serve at room temperature.

Pros and Cons

Verdict:

An excellent choice for dogs experiencing temporary digestive upset or for those who generally have a sensitive stomach. It’s a bland diet with a nutritional twist.

Switching to homemade dog food is a big step, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Here are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure you’re doing it safely and effectively for your beloved pet.

Why Salmon and Quinoa?

We’ve touched on it, but let’s dive deeper. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA and DHA), which are vital for reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and giving that coat an incredible shine. Quinoa is a fantastic carb source because it’s a ‘complete protein,’ meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s also gluten-free and a good source of fiber.

Choosing Quality Ingredients

• Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible, as it typically has a better fatty acid profile and fewer contaminants than some farmed varieties. If using canned salmon, choose one packed in water with no added salt. ALWAYS ensure the salmon is deboned.
• Quinoa: It’s crucial to rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking. It has a natural coating called saponin which can be bitter and may cause stomach upset in some dogs.
• Vegetables: Fresh or frozen vegetables are both great choices. Avoid canned vegetables with added salt. Ensure all vegetables you use are dog-safe (no onions, garlic, or avocado!).

The Importance of Balance and Vet Consultation

While these recipes are healthy, they are not all formulated to be 100% nutritionally complete for long-term, exclusive feeding on their own. Homemade diets can easily become deficient in certain minerals, like calcium and zinc. It is absolutely critical to consult with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist before making a full switch to a homemade diet. They can help you formulate a plan, recommend necessary supplements (like a vitamin/mineral blend or calcium source), and ensure the diet is appropriate for your dog’s specific age, breed, and health status.

Storage and Safety

You can prepare these meals in batches to save time. Store the food in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Always thaw frozen food in the refrigerator, not on the counter, to prevent bacterial growth.

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh fillets?

Yes, you absolutely can! Canned salmon is a convenient and often more affordable option. Just be sure to choose a variety packed in water with no salt added. Drain it well and flake it just as you would a fresh fillet.

Is quinoa really safe for all dogs?

For the vast majority of dogs, quinoa is perfectly safe and healthy. It’s a gluten-free seed that’s easy to digest. However, as with any new food, it’s best to introduce it slowly. The key is to rinse it very well before cooking to remove the saponins. If your dog shows any signs of digestive upset, it might not be the right grain for them.

How much of this homemade food should I feed my dog?

This is a critical question that depends entirely on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. A general rule of thumb is to feed about 2-3% of their ideal body weight in total food per day, but this is just a starting point. The best and safest approach is to consult your veterinarian. They can calculate your dog’s specific caloric needs and give you precise feeding guidelines.

My dog is a picky eater and turned their nose up at the recipe. What can I do?

Don’t give up! First, try warming the food slightly, as this can enhance the aroma and make it more appealing. You can also try mixing a very small amount of the new food with their old food, gradually increasing the ratio over a week or two. Sometimes, a different texture works better; if you made a chunky stew, try the pâté recipe instead. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast or a few drops of fish oil can also make the meal more enticing.