13 Lean Cod And Sweet Potato Dog Food Recipes

Let’s start with a timeless classic. This simple mash is incredibly easy to digest, making it perfect for dogs of all ages, especially seniors or those with sensitive tummies. It’s gentle, nutritious, and a fantastic introduction to homemade meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod fillets, boneless and skinless
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the water or broth to a boil.
2. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Add the cod fillets and green peas to the pot. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for another 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Drain most of the liquid, reserving about a cup.
5. Add the coconut oil to the pot and use a potato masher or a fork to mash everything together into a chunky or smooth consistency, depending on your dog’s preference. Add some of the reserved liquid if it’s too thick.
6. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This recipe is the go-to for a quick, comforting, and easily digestible meal. It’s ideal for dogs recovering from an upset stomach, senior dogs with chewing difficulties, or as a simple start to your homemade dog food journey.

For the pup who loves a bit of texture and crunch, this baked recipe is a winner. Baking retains more nutrients compared to boiling and gives the ingredients a delicious roasted flavor your dog will go crazy for.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod fillets
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into wedges
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the sweet potato wedges in a bowl with the olive oil until they are lightly coated.
3. Spread the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15 minutes.
5. While the potatoes are baking, pat the cod fillets dry.
6. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven, flip the wedges, and make space for the cod fillets.
7. Place the cod on the baking sheet and return it to the oven for another 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
8. Let everything cool down. You can serve the fillet whole or flaked over the wedges. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is a fantastic recipe for adult dogs who enjoy more texture in their food. The roasted sweet potato wedges also make a great healthy treat on their own!

A warm, comforting stew is like a hug in a bowl. This recipe is packed with extra veggies for a nutritional boost, making it a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for a chilly day.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1/2 cup rolled oats (optional, for thickening)
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil

Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the sweet potato, carrots, green beans, and broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the cod chunks and rolled oats (if using). Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the flaxseed oil.
5. Allow the stew to cool to a safe temperature before serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This hearty stew is perfect for active dogs who need a substantial meal, or for any pup who enjoys a warmer, soupier dinner. It freezes beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is so exciting! This ultra-gentle purée is designed specifically for their tiny, developing digestive systems. It’s smooth, easy to eat, and packed with the nutrients they need to grow big and strong.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz cod fillet, steamed or boiled
• 1 medium sweet potato, baked or steamed until very soft
• 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened yogurt (with live cultures)
• 2-3 tablespoons of water or bone broth, as needed

Instructions:

1. Make sure the cod is fully cooked and the sweet potato is very tender. Remove the skin from the sweet potato.
2. Combine the cooked cod, sweet potato, and yogurt in a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of water or bone broth at a time until you reach a creamy, porridge-like consistency.
4. Serve a small portion once it has cooled. This can be used as a meal topper or a full meal for very young puppies, as advised by your vet.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This purée is the perfect first ‘real food’ for puppies or for dogs of any age needing an exceptionally gentle, bland diet. Always consult your vet before changing a puppy’s diet.

Our senior companions deserve the best, and that often means softer foods that are easy on their aging teeth and jaws. This baked loaf has a soft, meatloaf-like texture that’s easy to chew and full of joint-supporting ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod, cooked and flaked
• 2 cups mashed sweet potato
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a small loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flaked cod, mashed sweet potato, beaten eggs, oats, parsley, and ground flaxseed.
3. Mix everything together until well combined.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf is firm and cooked through.
6. Let it cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

An excellent choice for senior dogs or any pup who prefers a softer, sliceable meal. It’s a comforting and nutritionally dense option that shows your old friend how much you care.

Want to sneak some extra greens into your dog’s diet? This recipe is for you! We’ve added dog-friendly power greens like spinach and kale to the classic cod and sweet potato base for an antioxidant-rich meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod fillets, steamed and flaked
• 2 cups sweet potato, cooked and mashed
• 1 cup spinach, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup kale, stems removed and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, start with the mashed sweet potato.
2. While the sweet potato is still warm, stir in the finely chopped spinach and kale. The residual heat will help wilt the greens slightly.
3. Gently fold in the steamed, flaked cod.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and mix everything together.
5. Serve once cooled to room temperature.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is the perfect meal for giving your dog an extra nutritional punch. It’s great for overall health and vitality, and a clever way to get more veggies into their bowl.

Turmeric is a natural wonder, known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe incorporates a pinch of this golden spice to help support joint health, making it a great choice for active dogs or those with a bit of stiffness.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod, boiled and flaked
• 2 cups sweet potato, boiled and cubed
• 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil
• A pinch of black pepper (helps with turmeric absorption)

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled cod, sweet potato cubes, and steamed broccoli.
2. In a small bowl, mix the coconut oil, turmeric, and black pepper to form a paste.
3. Pour the turmeric paste over the food and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

A fantastic functional meal for dogs with arthritis, joint pain, or for highly active breeds as a preventative measure. Always start with a very small amount of turmeric to see how your dog reacts.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or grain allergies, this recipe is a lifesaver. We’ve swapped out any potential grains and added pure pumpkin, which is a superstar for regulating digestion.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod fillets, baked
• 1 large sweet potato, baked and mashed
• 1/2 cup pure pumpkin purée (not pie filling)
• 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions:

1. Once the cod and sweet potato are cooked and cooled, flake the cod into a large bowl.
2. Add the mashed sweet potato and the pumpkin purée. Stir to combine.
3. Gently fold in the blueberries. These little bursts of antioxidants are a sweet surprise for your pup!
4. Serve immediately or store in the fridge.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is the ultimate tummy-friendly meal. It’s perfect for dogs with grain sensitivities or those who need a little extra help with digestive regularity.

For the canine athlete in your life! This casserole adds quinoa, a complete protein, to the mix for an extra energy boost. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that will fuel your dog’s adventures.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod, cut into chunks
• 1 large sweet potato, diced
• 1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 cup water or low-sodium broth
• 1 cup chopped carrots and celery
• 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a saucepan, bring the water/broth to a boil, add the quinoa, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cod chunks, diced sweet potato, carrots, and celery.
4. Stir in the beaten eggs until everything is well-coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is set and the fish is cooked through.
7. Cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

Ideal for working dogs, sporting dogs, or any pup that needs a high-energy, protein-rich diet to keep them going strong all day long.

Who says cod and sweet potato can’t be a refreshing treat? On a hot summer day, these frozen ‘pupsicles’ are a fantastic way to help your dog cool down while getting some healthy nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 lb cod, cooked and flaked
• 1 cup cooked sweet potato, mashed
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or water
• A few dog-friendly berries (like blueberries or strawberries)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the cooked cod, mashed sweet potato, and yogurt or water.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds.
4. Press a berry into the center of each mold for a fun surprise.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
6. Pop one out and let your dog enjoy a cool, tasty treat!

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

These pupsicles are a must-have for the summer months. They provide hydration and a little nutritional boost in a fun, frozen form that dogs love.

Store-bought training treats can be full of questionable ingredients. Why not make your own? These dehydrated bites are crunchy, delicious, and made with just two ingredients. They are perfect for training sessions or as a healthy snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod fillets, raw, skinless and boneless
• 1 large sweet potato, raw

Instructions:

1. Thinly slice the sweet potato into 1/8-inch thick rounds. A mandoline slicer works best for consistency.
2. Cut the raw cod into small, treat-sized strips.
3. Arrange the sweet potato slices and cod strips in a single layer on your dehydrator trays.
4. Dehydrate at 145°F (63°C) for 6-8 hours, or until the sweet potato is crisp and the cod is dry and jerky-like. The time will vary based on your dehydrator and the thickness of your slices.
5. Let the treats cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

If you have a dehydrator, this is the cleanest and healthiest way to make treats for your dog. They are high-value rewards that you can feel good about giving.

For the busy pet parent, the slow cooker is a lifesaver. This ‘set it and forget it’ recipe lets you go about your day while a delicious, healthy meal for your pup cooks to perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets
• 3 medium sweet potatoes, cubed
• 2 cups chopped carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 4 cups water or low-sodium broth

Instructions:

1. Place the sweet potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Lay the cod fillets on top of the vegetables.
3. Pour in the water or broth.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the fish is cooked.
5. About 30 minutes before it’s done, stir in the frozen peas.
6. Once cooked, use a fork to flake the fish and gently mix everything together. Let it cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

This is the ultimate recipe for convenience without compromise. Perfect for making a week’s worth of food in one go with minimal effort.

Have a picky eater on your hands? These savory patties are often a huge hit! They can be served as a meal, crumbled as a topper, or given as a special treat. The pan-fried texture is irresistible to most dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb cod, cooked and finely flaked
• 1.5 cups mashed sweet potato
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup oat flour (or finely ground oats)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the flaked cod, mashed sweet potato, egg, and oat flour. Mix until it forms a thick, dough-like consistency.
2. Shape the mixture into small, 1.5-inch patties.
3. Heat the coconut oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and firm.
5. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Pros & Cons:

Verdict:

These patties are a fantastic tool for enticing a picky dog to eat. Their delicious smell and texture make them a high-value meal that feels like a special treat.

Feeling inspired to head to the kitchen? That’s awesome! Before you start, let’s go over a few key things to ensure your homemade meals are safe, balanced, and delicious.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

• Cod: Look for wild-caught cod if possible, as it tends to have a better fatty acid profile. Both fresh and frozen fillets work perfectly. If using frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Always choose boneless, skinless fillets to avoid any choking hazards.
• Sweet Potatoes: Any variety of sweet potato will do! Make sure to wash them thoroughly. While the skin is edible and contains fiber, it can be hard for some dogs to digest, so it’s often best to peel it.
• Add-ins: Always ensure any additional fruits, vegetables, or grains you add are safe for dogs. Great options include carrots, peas, green beans, pumpkin, blueberries, spinach, and quinoa. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, which are toxic to dogs.

Achieving Nutritional Balance

While these recipes are healthy, they are not all formulated to be 100% nutritionally complete for long-term daily feeding on their own. A balanced canine diet requires a specific ratio of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. For long-term homemade feeding, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian or a canine nutritionist. They can help you formulate a recipe or recommend a high-quality supplement mix (like Balance IT or Just Food For Dogs’ Nutrient Blends) to add to your homemade meals to fill any nutritional gaps.

Portion Control and Storage

• How much to feed? Portion size depends on your dog’s age, weight, breed, and activity level. A general guideline is to feed 2-3% of their ideal body weight per day, but this can vary. Start with a small amount and monitor your dog’s weight and body condition. Again, your vet is your best resource here!
• Storage: Most of these cooked meals can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. The dehydrated treats will last for several weeks in an airtight container at room temperature.

1. Can I use other types of fish besides cod?

Absolutely! Other great fish options for dogs include salmon, pollock, haddock, and flounder. Salmon is higher in fat and calories but also richer in omega-3s. Just be sure that any fish you use is fully cooked and deboned.

2. Is it safe to feed my dog sweet potato skin?

While sweet potato skin isn’t toxic, it can be difficult for some dogs to digest and could cause an upset stomach. To be safe, it’s generally best to peel the sweet potatoes before cooking and feeding them to your dog.

3. How should I introduce homemade food into my dog’s diet?

Transition slowly! A sudden change in diet can lead to digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade food (about 25%) with their current food (75%). Gradually increase the amount of homemade food over 7-10 days until you have fully transitioned.

4. Do I need to add supplements to these recipes?

For short-term feeding or as a special treat, supplements may not be necessary. However, if you plan to feed a homemade diet exclusively for the long term, you absolutely need to ensure it’s nutritionally complete. This usually requires adding a specific vitamin and mineral supplement formulated for homemade dog food. Always consult with your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist to ensure your dog’s diet is balanced.