Is Bone Broth Good For Dogs?

These days, there are plenty of articles and trends geared towards pet owners on DIY dog enrichment like the best diet or treat for your pet. Of those is bone broth, which can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet.

Packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, bone broth can support your dog's overall health. Plus, it is tasty and easy to digest, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from illness.

However, it is crucial to ensure that the bone broth is made from high-quality ingredients and doesn't contain any harmful additives like onions or garlic, which can be toxic to dogs. Read more below on properly preparing bone broth that can be a delicious and beneficial treat for your furry friend.

• What is Bone Broth?
• Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs
• Safety Considerations
• How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs
• FAQs
• Final Notes

What is Bone Broth?

Bone broth is a savory liquid made by simmering bones, usually from poultry, beef, or fish, with water and sometimes, various herbs, vegetables, and spices. It is simmered over a long period, typically from several hours to a day or more. The slow cooking allows the bones to release nutrients and minerals into the broth, resulting in a flavorful and nutrient-rich liquid.(1)

The key components of bone broth include collagen, gelatin, amino acids, minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and other nutrients. These nutrients offer various health benefits, including supporting joint health, promoting digestion, boosting the immune system, and improving pet skin and coat health.

Bone broth has recently gained popularity as a natural health remedy for humans and pets. It is often used as a base for soups, stews, and sauces or as a warm and comforting beverage.

When making or purchasing bone broth for your pet, it is essential to make sure that it is free from ingredients that may be harmful to them, such as onions, garlic, and excessive salt. Additionally, it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian before incorporating bone broth into your pet's diet to ensure it's appropriate for their needs and dietary requirements.

Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs

With so many articles and trends, it is not out of the ordinary to wonder if bone broth is good for dogs. Benefits of bone broth for dogs include (2):

• Liver Detoxification: Bone broth supports liver health with amino acids like glycine that aid in toxin removal.
• Immune System Boost: It contains nutrients that enhance the immune system, aiding recovery from illness or if you need to feed a dog with an upset stomach.
• Maintain Healthy Skin and Coat: Collagen in bone broth helps maintain a youthful skin and coat, protecting it from environmental elements.
• Support Strong Joints: Glucosamine and hyaluronic acid in bone broth strengthen and repair joints.
• Improve Digestive Health: It helps with leaky gut syndrome by providing nutrients and improving digestion.
• A Source of Essential Minerals: Packed with minerals like magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus, it helps with various bodily functions.
• Fight Inflammation: It contains amino acids with anti-inflammatory properties to help prevent chronic diseases.
• Enhances Hydration and Appetite: Provides hydration and nourishment, stimulates appetite, and is low in allergens. It is beneficial for dogs with upset stomachs.

Safety Considerations

If you are preparing bone broth for your dog, here are some important safety considerations to keep in mind once you have narrowed down a bone broth recipe for dogs:

• Straining: It is crucial to strain the bone broth thoroughly to remove any small bone fragments or sharp pieces that could pose a choking hazard to your pet.
• Avoiding Toxic Foods: Foods like onions and garlic can be toxic to pets and should never be included in bone broth or any other pet food.
• Allergies: Like humans, pets can have food allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. Before introducing bone broth into your pet's diet, consider any known food allergies or sensitivities they may have. Monitor your pet for any signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, vomiting, or diarrhea, and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.
• Consultation with Your Vet: Before incorporating bone broth into your pet's diet, discuss it with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your pet's individual health needs and dietary requirements. Your vet can also advise you on the appropriate amount of bone broth for your pet and how it fits into their diet.

How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs

If you are planning to make homemade bone broth for dogs, it is a relatively easy process.

• Select High-Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality bones from chicken, turkey, beef, or other animal sources. It is best to choose organic or grass-fed bones to avoid potential exposure to antibiotics or hormones.
• Simmer the Ingredients: Place the bones in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the broth simmer for several hours to allow the bones to release their nutrients into the water.
• Strain the Broth: Once the broth has simmered, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Use a fine mesh strainer to strain out the bones.
• Store and Serve: Once the broth has cooled, transfer it to containers for storage. Store the broth in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it in ice cube trays for longer-term storage.

FAQs

How much bone broth should I give my dog?

The amount of bone broth to give to your dog can vary depending on several factors, including their size, weight, health status, and any dietary restrictions they may have. As a rule of thumb, start by offering small amounts of bone broth and gradually increasing the quantity based on your dog's response.

• Small Dogs: Start with 1-2 tablespoons of bone broth daily and adjust as needed.
• Medium Dogs: Begin with 2-4 tablespoons of bone broth daily and adjust based on your dog's preferences and tolerance.
• Large Dogs: Offer around 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bone broth per day initially and monitor how your dog responds.

It is essential to monitor your dog's overall diet and ensure that bone broth is given as a supplement rather than a primary source of nutrition. Always introduce new foods gradually and observe your dog for signs of digestive upset or adverse reactions.

Is store bought bone broth good for dogs?

Store-bought bone broth can be a convenient option for dogs. Still, it is essential to choose a high-quality product that is specifically formulated for pets and does not contain any ingredients that may be harmful to them.

Here are some factors to consider when selecting store-bought bone broth for your dog:

• Ingredients: Look for bone broth made from high-quality, natural ingredients with no added artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. It should primarily consist of bones, meat, and vegetables.
• Low Sodium: Opt for bone broth with low sodium content, as excessive salt intake can harm dogs, especially those with health conditions like kidney disease or heart problems.
• No Onions or Garlic: Avoid bone broth products that contain onions or garlic, as these ingredients can be toxic to dogs.
• Organic and Grass-Fed: If possible, choose an organic or grass-fed bone broth, as these options are typically higher quality and free from antibiotics and hormones.

Make sure to monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset or adverse reactions after introducing the bone broth.

Can I give my dog bone broth every day?

Generally, it is usually safe to give your dog bone broth as part of their regular diet, but the frequency and amount should be moderated based on your dog's needs, health status, and dietary requirements. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

• Moderation: While bone broth can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, it's essential to offer it in moderation. Too much of any new food or supplement can upset your dog's digestive system or lead to an imbalance in their overall diet.
• Nutritional Balance: Bone broth should not replace a balanced diet for dogs. It should be given as a supplement or occasional treat rather than a primary source of nutrition.
• Sodium Content: Pay attention to the sodium content of the bone broth. Opt for low-sodium options or make your bone broth with minimal salt.
• Individual Needs: Consider your dog's needs and preferences when determining how often to give them bone broth. Some dogs may enjoy bone broth as a daily treat, while others may only need it occasionally.
• Watch for Reactions: Monitor your dog for any signs of digestive upset or adverse reactions after introducing bone broth into their diet. If you notice any issues, discontinue use and consult with your veterinarian.

Final Notes

Packed with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, bone broth for dogs supports overall health and is easily digestible, making it suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from illness. However, ensuring the broth is made from high-quality ingredients and free from harmful additives like onions or garlic is crucial. Pet owners should consult a veterinarian before introducing bone broth into a dog's diet to ensure it aligns with their specific health needs and dietary requirements.

At Dutch, we understand that pet owners want what is best for their furry pals but might not know how or where to start. In order to help you through solutions, our platform and online pet pharmacy connects you to licensed veterinarians in multiple states while also providing you with the resources to learn more about a variety of pet health topics.

Through Dutch’s telemedicine for pets, you are able to obtain timely management and advice that can point you in the right direction for improving your pet’s health. This ensures that you can count on a reliable solution to give your pet the care that they deserve.