Tips
What About Fish? Should It Be Cooked or Raw?
Fish can absolutely be part of your gently cooked food plan, but it needs a little special handling.
Unlike red meat and poultry, fish is more delicate—both in texture and in nutrient profile. Cooking it too long can destroy the very nutrients we’re trying to feed, especially heat-sensitive omega-3s.
Should You Cook Fish?
Small oily fish (like sardines or anchovies) are often safe to feed raw, especially if frozen beforehand to reduce parasite risk.
Larger fish like salmon, cod, or mackerel are often best lightly cooked or gently steamed, especially if they’re wild-caught and you want to reduce the risk of parasites or contaminants.
For safety and digestibility, cooking is often preferred—but keep it gentle.
Pro Tip: Keep the Fish Smell Out of Your House
No one wants their house to smell like a bait bucket. Here's how to make it easier:
Don’t add fish at the beginning of the cooking process.
Instead, prepare your full batch of gently cooked food first—using your meats, organs, veggies, etc.
Once the rest is fully cooked, and as the batch begins to cool, stir in your thawed fish during the last 30–60 minutes.
This method gently cooks the fish without overcooking or drying it out, and greatly reduces the smell in your home.
If you're batch-cooking and freezing meals, this method works perfectly—your fish stays fresh, your kitchen stays clean-smelling, and your dog gets all the nutritional benefits.