Bone Broth for dogs

“A pennyworth of broth is better than a pound of meat.”

– Old English proverb

“Good broth will resurrect the dead.”

– Old South American proverb

Bone broth is a powerhouse superfood for dogs, perfect for boosting immunity, aiding recovery from illness, or keeping active pups in top shape. Even picky or sick dogs that turn their noses up at food will often lap up a warm bowl of broth. You can drizzle it over kibble to entice eating or serve it solo as a nutrient-packed treat. Here’s why bone broth is a game-changer for your dog and how to make it safely.

Why Bone Broth is Great for Dogs

Bone broth is loaded with easily absorbed minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium, which support strong bones and overall health. It’s rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, which promote calm behaviour and healthy digestion. The collagen and gelatin from bones help repair the gut lining, improve nutrient absorption, and reduce inflammation—perfect for dogs with arthritis, leaky gut, or joint pain. Marrow supports healthy blood cells and immune development, making broth a go-to during flu season or recovery from illness. Plus, gelatin strengthens fur, skin, and nails, keeping your dog looking and feeling great.

Best of all, it’s budget-friendly! All you need are quality bones, a splash of vinegar, and time.

Key Ingredients

Apple Cider Vinegar: 2-4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar helps leach minerals from bones, maximising the broth’s benefits. It’s also antibacterial, antifungal, and great for digestion, coat health, and deterring parasites like fleas. Use raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar for the best results.

Organic Bones: Choose raw chicken, pork, or beef bones—meaty marrow bones are ideal. If possible, opt for organic or grass-fed beef bones, which are higher in Omega-3s, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), vitamin E, vitamin A, and antioxidants. Grass-fed bones are anti-inflammatory and less likely to contain hormones or antibiotics. Outdoor-raised pork bones have a better Omega-3/Omega-6 ratio. If organic isn’t an option, local butchers or pet stores often carry safe, raw bones—just ensure they’re fresh and unseasoned.

Important Health Notes

Bone broth is fantastic for most dogs, but it’s not for everyone. The high fat content can be tough on dogs with pancreatitis, liver disease, or fat sensitivities. Consult your vet before offering broth to dogs with these conditions or those on low-fat diets. Introduce broth gradually to avoid tummy upset, starting with small amounts (e.g., 1-2 tbsp per 10kg body weight daily). Check for allergies to specific bones (e.g., chicken).

How to Serve Bone Broth

• Puppies/Small Dogs: 1-2 tbsp daily, mixed with food or as a treat.
• Medium Dogs (10-25kg): 2-4 tbsp daily.
• Large Dogs (25kg+): 4-8 tbsp daily.

Adjust based on your dog’s needs and activity level. Broth is great for:

• Sick Dogs: Encourages eating and hydrates during recovery.
• Senior Dogs: Eases joint pain and supports mobility.
• Active Dogs: Replenishes minerals and supports muscle repair.
• Leaky Gut: Soothes and repairs the digestive tract.

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Cooking Methods

I use my Instant Pot but any stove top pressure cooker is just as fast. You know it’s ready when the bones start to soften and get crumbly/chalky.

• Pressure cooker = 4 hours
• Slow cooker = 12-24 hours
• Stovetop = 6-12 hours

Once cooked discard the bones, it’s just the broth you want. Dogs should never be fed cooked bones.

Storage Tips

Bone broth stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze it in small portions (ice cube trays work great!) for up to 6 months. Thaw only what you need to keep it fresh and safe.

Ingredients

• 1kg raw bones (chicken, pork, or beef; organic/grass-fed preferred)
• 2-4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• Water to cover bones

METHOD