Homemade 3-Ingredient Salmon & Rice Flour Dog Biscuits

If you like knowing exactly what goes into your dog's treats, these 3-Ingredient Salmon & Rice Flour Dog Biscuits are a simple, limited-ingredient option to make at home. They're easy to prepare and designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs, which can make them a good fit for many dogs. Salmon is a fantastic source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin, coat, and joint health. Rice flour is a naturally gluten-free alternative to wheat, so these biscuits can suit dogs with common sensitivities or pet parents who simply prefer a clear, minimal ingredient list without hidden preservatives or artificial flavors. Before introducing any new treats or making significant changes to your dog's diet, it's always wise to talk with your veterinarian. They can give personalized guidance based on your dog's specific health needs and dietary requirements. These biscuits are intended as a treat, not a meal replacement, and should be offered in moderation.

ServingsApproximately 2-3 dozen small biscuits (yield varies based on cookie cutter

Prep time20 min

Cook time25 min

Total time45 min

DifficultyEasy

Main ingredientSalmon, Rice flour

Safety first: Introduce new foods gradually and speak with your veterinarian before making major changes to your dog's diet.

Foods to avoid

xylitolonionsgarlicsalt

Always use canned salmon packed in water, not oil, and ensure all bones are removed. Avoid any salmon that is smoked, seasoned, or contains added salt, as these ingredients can be harmful to dogs. Do not use raw salmon. Never use ingredients that are known to be toxic to dogs, such as garlic, onion, or xylitol.

Ingredients

1 (6-ounce) can salmon, packed in water, drained well, and bones removed: We use canned salmon for convenience, making sure it's packed in water and not oil, as oil can be too rich and cause stomach upset. Removing any tiny bones is crucial for your dog's safety.
1 1/2 cups rice flour: Rice flour provides a gluten-free base for these biscuits, making them suitable for dogs with wheat sensitivities. It also contributes to a firm, crumbly texture when baked.
1/4 cup water, plus more as needed: Water helps bind the ingredients together to form a workable dough. The exact amount can vary based on the moisture content of your salmon and humidity, so we'll add it gradually.

EquipmentLarge mixing bowlFork or potato masherMeasuring cupsRolling pinSmall dog bone or round cookie cutter (about 1-2 inch)Baking sheetParchment paper

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon: Open the can of salmon and drain it thoroughly, pressing out as much liquid as possible, then transfer the drained salmon to a large mixing bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, carefully break apart the salmon, making sure all bones are removed and the fish is finely flaked. This is important for both safety and creating a smooth dough.
Combine Ingredients: Add the rice flour to the bowl with the flaked salmon. Mix the salmon and flour together with your hands or a sturdy spoon until well combined and the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This preliminary mixing helps distribute the salmon evenly.
Form the Dough: Gradually add the water, starting with 1/4 cup, to the salmon and flour mixture, then mix well and knead the dough by hand until it forms a firm, cohesive ball. The dough should not be overly sticky or too dry; if it's too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches the right consistency for rolling. If it's too sticky, add a little more rice flour.
Roll and Cut Biscuits: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and lightly flour your work surface with a little extra rice flour. Place the dough ball on the floured surface, roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness, and use your chosen cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes. Gather the dough scraps, re-roll, and cut more biscuits until all the dough is used; this thickness ensures even baking and a good crunch.
Bake the Biscuits: Carefully transfer the cut biscuits to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly golden brown and feel firm to the touch. Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the size of your biscuits, so keep an eye on them.
Cool Completely: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the biscuits cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them fully on a rack helps them crisp up and prevents them from getting soggy. They will firm up considerably as they cool.

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Tips & serving

These biscuits are intended as a treat and should always be given in moderation. The appropriate serving size will depend on your dog's size, activity level, and overall daily caloric intake. For small dogs, one small biscuit might be enough, while larger dogs might enjoy two or three. Always ensure fresh water is available for your dog. Remember, treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake.

Limited ingredients for transparency and allergy management
No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
Gluten-free option for sensitive dogs
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids from salmon for skin and coat health
Homemade control over ingredient quality and freshness
Dough consistency is key: If your dough is too crumbly, add water a teaspoon at a time. If it's too sticky, dust with a little more rice flour. It should be firm enough to roll without sticking excessively.

Storage

Counter5-7 days

Fridge2 weeks

Freezer2-3 months

Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Substitutions

Other fish
Canned sardines (packed in water, drained, boneless) can be used instead of salmon for a similar nutritional profile.
Flour alternatives
While rice flour is excellent for gluten-free needs, you could experiment with oat flour or chickpea flour. Be aware that these might alter the dough's consistency and require slight adjustments to the water content.
Added moisture
A small amount of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana (about 1-2 tablespoons) could replace some of the water for added flavor and moisture, if your dog tolerates these ingredients well.

Dogs recipe FAQ

Is this treat a complete meal for my dog?

Treat it as an occasional extra, not a meal plan. These biscuits are intended as a treat and should always be given in moderation. The appropriate serving size will depend on your dog's size, activity level, and overall daily caloric intake.

Is salmon, rice flour okay for dogs?

This recipe uses salmon, rice flour in a small, dog-appropriate amount. Skip it if your dog has a known sensitivity, and read the foods-to-avoid note on this page before serving.

How long does Homemade 3-Ingredient Salmon & Rice Flour Dog Biscuits keep?

Store cooled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

How should I introduce this treat?

Start with a taste-size portion next to your dog's usual food, and hold off on serving more until you have seen that it agrees with them.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh salmon. You'll need to cook it thoroughly (steamed or baked, plain, without any seasonings or oils) and then flake it, ensuring all skin and bones are removed. Make sure it's completely cooled before mixing.

My dog has other allergies. Can I substitute the rice flour?

If your dog has other allergies, discuss alternative flours with your vet first. Oat flour or chickpea flour are often well-tolerated, but they can affect the dough's texture and require adjustments to the liquid content. Always introduce new ingredients slowly to monitor your dog's reaction.

Sources

Reference notes

Example 3-Ingredient Salmon Rice Flour Biscuits