Trying to find a healthy homemade meal for your dog that’s actually easy to make? This fish stew is such a great option. It’s gentle on the stomach, full of nourishing ingredients, and simple to put together — no weird fillers or overly processed stuff.
It’s a great pick for dogs who need something a little lighter, or just deserve a special treat (which, let’s be honest, is always). The flavors are mild, the ingredients are clean, and chances are this will become a new favorite in the meal rotation.
Perfect for pups of all ages, especially the ones who perk up any time fish is in the kitchen.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless cod fillets
- 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped into small pieces
- 3 cups water
Pro Tips
- Cool it down before serving — stew should always be room temperature to avoid burning little mouths.
- Smaller portions for small pups — aim for about 1 cup of stew per 20 pounds of body weight per day.
- Stick to plain, simple ingredients — no seasoning, salt, garlic, or onion (those aren’t dog-safe).
- Make it fun — let kids help stir or portion it out into containers for a cute family moment.
- Use it as a topper — even a scoop of this stew over dry food can make meals more exciting and nutritious.
Tools to Have on Hand
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Stirring spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap the fish: Salmon or tilapia work well too — just keep it boneless and skinless.
- Try sweet potatoes: A great alternative to russet if that’s what’s in the pantry.
- Add variety: Zucchini or peas can be swapped in for green beans.
- Grain-friendly version: Add a bit of cooked rice or barley if grains are part of the dog’s diet.
Make Ahead Tips
- Freeze for later: Divide into individual portions and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Store in the fridge: Airtight containers will keep it fresh for about 4 days.
How to Make Fish Stew for Dogs
- Dice the potatoes and carrots. Chop green beans into small bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, combine water, vegetables, and place the cod fillets on top.
- Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- When the vegetables are soft and the fish flakes easily, gently break the fish into smaller pieces.
- Let the stew cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate, Per Cup)
- Calories: 138 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 2385 IU
- Vitamin C: 7mg
- Calcium: 35mg
- Iron: 1mg
Always double-check with a vet if there are dietary concerns or sensitivities.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Keep in a sealed container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Use freezer-safe containers for portioning. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat gently: A quick warm-up (not hot!) makes it more appealing for picky eaters.
FAQs
- Can canned fish be used? Yes, as long as it’s packed in water with no added salt, seasonings, or oil.
- Is this safe for puppies? It can be, but always check with a vet to make sure it meets specific puppy nutrition needs.
- Can supplements be added? Absolutely — just make sure the vet confirms dosage and that it blends well with the ingredients.
- How often can dogs eat this stew? It can be a daily meal or an occasional topper, depending on the dog’s size, age, and dietary needs.
Give It a Try
This fish stew is a comforting, nourishing option for dogs that love something warm and homemade. It’s simple to make, easy to freeze, and a great way to keep meals healthy and interesting.
If this recipe gets a tail-wag of approval, leave a comment with how it went, how your dog liked it, or any questions that came up while making it!