Crispy, savory, and tail-waggingly irresistible, this recipe is a fantastic way to turn salmon skin into a special treat for your pup. Whether you’re cooking salmon for dinner or just picked up some fresh fillets, don’t toss that skin! Instead, transform it into a crunchy snack your dog will love. It’s super simple to make, packed with protein and omega-3s, and way more affordable than store-bought options.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
There’s something so satisfying about making homemade dog treats, knowing exactly what’s in them and seeing your pup’s excitement when they get a whiff of what you’ve cooked up. And this salmon skin for dogs recipe checks all the boxes:
Only 2 ingredients plus water – That’s it! Just salmon skin and a touch of coconut oil, plus water to help release the skin from the fillets.
Easy to make in an air fryer or oven – Choose the method that works best for you. Both are quick and simple.
High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids – These treats are not just tasty, they’re also great for your dog’s skin, coat, and overall wellness.
High-value and great for training – Use small pieces as a reward during training sessions. Dogs go wild for the smell and taste!
Great way to use salmon skin if you don’t eat it – Don’t let it go to waste, give it to your pup instead!
Has an awesome and easy way to remove the skin from a salmon fillet – Boiling water does the trick and makes peeling off the skin a breeze.
Economical – Store-bought salmon skin dog treats can be pricey. Making your own is budget-friendly and just as good.
Ingredients and Their Part in the Treats
You only need 3 simple ingredients to cook salmon skin for dogs. If you already have just the skin, you’re down to two! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Raw Salmon Fillets – The star of the show! Use any type you like – sockeye, coho, Atlantic, or wild-caught.
- Water – A quick pour of boiling water helps release the skin from the salmon fillet.
- Coconut Oil – Brushed on to keep the skin from sticking and help it crisp up beautifully.
Equipment Needed
The only special equipment you’ll need to make this recipe is an air fryer. But you can bake the skin in an oven if you don’t have one. See the oven method below.
How to Air Fry Salmon Skin for Dogs
Making these fishy treats is so easy, especially in an air fryer! Here’s how to cook salmon skin for dogs:
- Place salmon fillets skin side up in a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet.
- Pour boiling water over the skin. This loosens the skin from the fish.
- Gently peel off the skin in sheets or smaller pieces.
- Pat the skin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Brush melted coconut oil on both sides of the skin.
- Place the skin in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes or until crispy.
- Let cool completely and break into bite-sized pieces if needed.
Oven Method
Prefer to use your oven? Here’s how:
- Place the oiled skin on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
- Bake at 450°F for 10 minutes or until crispy.
What to Do With the Salmon Fillets After Removing the Skin
Don’t let those delicious salmon fillets go to waste! You can cook them for yourself or your pup, or make a batch of homemade salmon dog food.
To cook skinless salmon: Coat with a little oil and air fry at 400°F for about 8 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily. If you’re making it for yourself, go ahead and season it. For your pup, keep it plain and simple.
How to Store the Treats and How Long They Last
Store the treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 4 days.
Can people eat this crispy salmon skin?
Yes, they certainly can! If you’re a fan of salmon, you just might love it too. It’s crunchy, savory, and makes a fun snack straight from the air fryer. And some folks use it as salmon “bacon” and put it on fish sandwiches or crumble it into a salmon rice bowl.
More Homemade Dog Treat Recipes
Do you want to make more fishy or meaty treats for your spoiled hound? Try these recipes:
- Dehydrated Chicken Wrapped Sweet Potatoes
- Salmon Jerky
- Salmon Ball Dog Treats
- Tuna Dog Treats
- Turkey Dog Treats
Find lots of easy recipes for dog treats with meat right here on Spoiled Hounds!
Salmon Skin Dog Treats
Ingredients
- 2 pieces salmon fillet with skin (6 ounces or about the size of your hand)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 teaspoon melted coconut oil
Instructions
- Place salmon fillets skin side up in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Boil the water and carefully pour it over the salmon skin. This will release the skin from the filet. Pull off the skin either in sheets or small pieces. Place the skin on a paper towel and either cover it with another paper towel or flip it over to remove the water.
- Melt the coconut oil. Use a basting brush to brush both sides of the skin with melted coconut oil. Place the skin in the air fryer basket, spaced apart in a single layer.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes or until crispy.
- Wrap and refrigerate the skinless fillets, or cook them after air frying the skin.
- You can break the cooked skin into smaller pieces if needed. Allow to cool completely before serving.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
Serving Amount
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Consult your vet if you are unsure of the portion size for your dog.
Since the crispy skin can be a choking hazard, be sure to break it into smaller pieces, especially for small dogs or pups who gobble treats without chewing.
If your dog hasn’t had salmon skin before, start with a small piece to make sure they don’t have any allergies, sensitivities, or adverse reactions.
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