Homemade Salmon Meatballs for Dogs
These salmon meatballs for dogs are a simple, protein-rich, healthy treat made with just a handful of pantry staples. These salmon treats are something you can feel good about feeding to your pup, and your dogs will love them.
I’ll give you variations and substitutions where I can, plus helpful tips and tricks for success. Read on for this info as well as the recipe. If you’d like to skip straight to the recipe, use the jump to recipe button at the top of the post.
You may also be interested in my homemade salmon dog food and my ground turkey dog food recipes. For ease of browsing, you can find all of my dog food recipes in one place.
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Salmon meatballs for dogs
These soft salmon meatballs for perfect for senior dogs. They are a variation of my chicken meatballs for dogs.
These homemade salmon meatballs are a soft, flavorful treat that’s perfect for dogs of all ages—especially picky eaters or dogs who benefit from extra omega-3s in their diet. They’re easy to make, freezer-friendly, and a great alternative to traditional beef or chicken-based treats. If your pup is a fan of fish treats, check out my salmon dog treats recipe.
What you need to know
This recipe freezes beautifully, so if you only have one small dog, you can stash most of the meatballs in the freezer. Then, store a handful in the refrigerator for the week ahead.
Using a tablespoon scoop to portion out the mixture, you’ll likely end up with anywhere from 40 – 50 meatballs. Slight variations, like, how tightly you pack the scoop, the size of your egg, etc. will affect your yield.
I made this recipe with fresh (previously frozen) salmon. Make sure you press the water out as well as you can if you are also using frozen salmon. You can use canned salmon as well, same rules apply – squeeze out as much water as possible. Excess water can make the meatballs soggy.
Can Dogs Eat Salmon Meatballs?
Yes, dogs can eat salmon meatballs—as long as they’re made with fully cooked, boneless salmon and dog-safe ingredients.
To ensure these treats are safe for your dogs:
- Always cook salmon thoroughly (never raw – raw salmon can contain parasites harmful to your pup)
- Remove all bones – carefully check salmon to remove all skin and bones.
- Skip garlic, onion, or other seasonings like salt – your dogs palate is different from a humans.
- Serve in moderation as a treat or topper – These salmon meatballs are not meant to be a meal replacement.
Ingredients
This salmon recipe for dogs comes together from start to finish in about 30 minutes, and uses common ingredients you likely already have.
- Egg – The egg helps bind everything together, and it provides moisture and protein.
- Oats – Oats add structure so the meatballs hold their shape without needing flour.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have oats, you can swap out brown rice flour or oat flour.
- Salmon – I’m using fresh salmon, but you can use canned salmon if you prefer.
- Carrots – For a little sweetness, extra vitamins and a bit of fiber, I’ve added a grated carrot to the mix.
- Substitutions: You can swap out the carrot for sweet potato, or canned pumpkin.
- Dried parsley – This is optional. Read the notes in the recipe card about parsley so you can make that decision for your pup.
How to make salmon meatballs for dogs
Here’s a quick summary of how to make salmon dog meatballs. Please see the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the full recipe.
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- Prep – Preheat oven to 350°F / 180°C. Place fresh salmon in a mini food processor, or finely chop by hand.
- Chop – Pulse the processor a few times to break up the salmon.
- Add – Combine all of the ingredients in a medium mixing bowl and gently fold everything until it is a uniform mixture.
- Scoop – Using a tablespoon-sized scoop, portion the mixture into bite-sized meatballs.
FAQ’s
Yes—when prepared properly. This recipe is made without onion, garlic, salt or oils, which aren’t necessarily good for your pup.
Salmon must always be fully cooked before feeding it to your dog. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or specific health concerns, check with your veterinarian before introducing new foods.
Salmon is easily digestive for most dogs, plus it contains omega-3 fatty acids that support skin and coat health. It also supports brain and joint health, just as it does for humans.
If your dog has a sensitivity or allergy to poultry, salmon is a great option as a protein source.
Serve in moderation as a treat or topper for your dog’s regular food. Serving suggestions are:
Small dogs: 1–2 meatballs
Medium dogs: 2–3 meatballs
Large dogs: 3–4 meatballs
Yes, canned salmon can be used if it is packed in water with no added salt or seasoning. Be sure to drain it well and check carefully for any bones before using it in the recipe.
Storage / Freezing Information
To store: Store salmon meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days.
To freeze: Store in the freezer, in an airtight container, for up to 3 months.
Variations and substitutions
- Sweet potato or canned pumpkin – Swap out the grated carrots for cooked sweet potato or canned pumpkin purée.
- Greens – Chopped cooked spinach or finely chopped cooked broccoli would be a nutritious addition.
Serving suggestions
- Add these meatballs for dogs to your pups normal food as a treat. They should NOT be your dogs full meal.
- They can also be used as a pill pocket! Gently push any medications inside the meatball, or tear off pieces and smoosh them around the pill to make a smaller piece for smaller dogs.
Helpful tools and equipment
- Heavy duty sheet pans that hold up to high temps without warping.
- Parchment paper sheets are MUCH easier to use than tearing pieces off of a roll.
- To portion these salmon meatballs for your dog, I suggest this tablespoon scoop.
- This is the mini food processor I use.
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Salmon Meatballs for Dogs
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh salmon finely diced, or pulse in a mini food processor to break it up
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup oats
- ¼ cup finely grated carrot
- 1 tablespoon chopped curly parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley, optional *see note
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F / 180°C, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Check salmon carefully for bones – remove any bones or skin you find. Finely dice salmon, or place it in a small food processor and pulse to break it up.
- In a medium mixing bowl, gently fold everything together until just combined. *The mixture should hold together when pressed—if it feels too wet, add a bit more oats; if it feels too dry, add a small splash of water.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the meatballs – this keeps them uniform so they cook evenly, and they are easy to portion. Then gently roll into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 tablespoon each) in your hands to shape them.
- Arrange the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until set and lightly golden brown.
- Cool completely before serving to your pup.
Chef’s Notes
- I used a tablespoon scoop to portion the salmon meatballs. Using this size scoop to portion out the mixture, you’ll likely end up with anywhere from 40 – 50 meatballs. Slight variations, like, how tightly you pack the scoop, the size of your egg, etc. will affect your yield.
- If the mixture is too soft to roll, chill for 10–15 minutes – this will allow the oats to absorb some of the moisture and help the meatballs to set up.
- Fresh parsley can be used in small amounts, but it’s best to stick with curly parsley and avoid large quantities. If your dog has kidney issues or is pregnant, skip it altogether.
- Avoid overworking the meatball mixture so the texture stays tender rather than dense.
- These meatballs are intended as a treat or topper, not a complete meal unless properly balanced.
- Always adjust portion size based on your dog’s size and dietary needs – consult your vet if you have questions or concerns.
- Introduce any new food gradually to ensure it agrees with your dog.
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
Nutritional information is an estimate provided to you as a courtesy. Use your preferred nutritional calculator using the products and brands you are using for exact information.
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My dogs LOVE Salmon!! I make their broth and add a salmon head, and salmon bellies to the broth. They LOVE it! I am going to make these gorgeous salmon balls of yours today and, I’m 100% sure they are going to go “Bonkers” over them. Thank you for the recipe!! I am going to try many of your others too!! ***** Stars!!!
Thank you!!!!
AWESOME RECIPE!! OUR DOGS LOVE!! ***** STARS!!!
Thank you so much, Debbie! I’m so glad they were a hit with your pups!! 🙂