Making something healthy for the dog that also uses up leftovers? That’s a total win.
These crispy salmon skin dog treats are exactly that kind of win. They’re super simple to make, full of flavor, and loaded with omega-3s that are great for skin, coat, and overall health. Even better? Dogs absolutely go crazy for them.
And if there’s ever been a time when a tail-wagging, treat-loving pup deserved something homemade and crunchy, this is it.
So whether the goal is using up those salmon skins from dinner or just making something special for a four-legged best friend, these treats are an easy go-to.
Let’s break it all down.
What You’ll Need
Just two ingredients are needed to make this happen. That’s it.
- Salmon skin (from about 2 salmon fillets)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or olive oil)
Pro Tips
Here are a few things that’ll make this recipe even better—especially if this is the first time making it.
1. Use unseasoned salmon skin. Salt, garlic, or any seasoning that’s fine for humans can be harmful for dogs. Stick to plain, raw salmon skin only.
2. Pat the skin dry. Removing moisture is what helps the salmon skin get super crispy in the air fryer or oven.
3. Cut the skin into smaller pieces. This is important for puppies or small dogs. Smaller pieces make it easier to chew and avoid any choking risks.
4. Introduce slowly. If salmon hasn’t been a part of the pup’s diet before, start with a small piece and see how it goes.
5. Keep an eye on things. Always supervise treat time with new foods. Better safe than sorry.
Tools You’ll Need
Not much is required, but here’s what will come in handy:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Air fryer or oven
- Baking sheet (for oven method)
- Paper towels
- Airtight container for storage
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is super flexible. Here’s how to make it work with what’s already in the kitchen.
Oil options: Coconut oil works great, but olive oil is just as good if that’s what’s available.
No air fryer? Use the oven instead. Preheat to 400°F (200°C), bake on parchment paper, and flip halfway through.
Want to boost the benefits? A light sprinkle of turmeric (no more than a pinch) can add anti-inflammatory properties. Just double-check that the dog has no sensitivities first.
Make-Ahead Tips
This treat is easy to prep in advance. Cook up a batch and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Want to keep them even longer? Freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw before serving.
How to Make Crispy Salmon Skin Dog Treats
Here’s how to make this crunchy dog treat step-by-step.
1. Prep the salmon skin Make sure it’s clean and free of scales. If removing it from fresh salmon, use a sharp knife to gently separate the skin from the fillet.
2. Dry the skin Use paper towels to blot away as much moisture as possible.
3. Slice into strips Cut into long strips or bite-sized pieces depending on the size of the dog.
4. Coat lightly with oil Toss or brush the skin with coconut or olive oil for crispiness.
5. Cook
- Air Fryer Method: Place in a single layer in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes. Flip halfway through.
- Oven Method: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flip halfway for even crisping.
6. Cool completely Let them sit for a few minutes before giving them to the dog. This helps them crisp up even more and avoids burnt tongues.
Nutritional Breakdown (Approx. Per Treat)
- Calories: ~34 kcal
- Protein: ~4g
- Fat: ~2g
- Omega-3s: Very high (great for coat & skin)
Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on salmon size and oil used.
Leftovers & Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw before serving.
Avoid storing in humid or warm areas—this can make the treats soggy.
FAQs
Can smoked or seasoned salmon skin be used?
Nope. Seasonings like garlic and salt can be dangerous for dogs. Stick with plain, fresh salmon skin.
How often can dogs eat these treats?
Once a day is a good rule of thumb for most dogs. Treats should be no more than 10% of their total daily food intake.
Can these be used as training treats?
Yes, but consider cutting them into small pieces. They’re pretty crunchy, so small bits work best for reward-based training.
What if the dog has a sensitive stomach?
Start small. Every dog is different. If there’s any concern, talk to a vet before adding new treats to the routine.
Final Thoughts
These crispy salmon skin dog treats are a simple way to show some love to a very good boy (or girl). They’re healthy, crunchy, and so easy to make—plus a great way to reduce food waste.
Definitely worth trying, and guaranteed to get some tail wags and happy dances.
Give it a go, and leave a comment with how it turned out, or ask any questions that pop up!
