How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs

Bone broth has become one of the most popular homemade supplements for dogs and for good reason. Packed with collagen, amino acids, gelatin, minerals, and joint-supporting nutrients, bone broth is far more than a flavorful liquid. It’s a warm, soothing, nutrient-dense addition that supports digestion, improves hydration, enhances appetite, and boosts overall health. Whether your dog is a picky eater, a senior struggling with joint pain, or recovering from an upset stomach, bone broth can make a noticeable difference.

If you’ve been curious about how to make bone broth for dogs at home, this guide walks you through everything you need to know from choosing the best bones to simmering, storing, and serving it safely.

What Is Bone Broth for Dogs?

Bone broth is a slow-simmered liquid made from animal bones, connective tissues, and sometimes vegetables. Unlike regular stock or soup, bone broth is cooked for a much longer period sometimes up to 48 hours. This long simmering process gently extracts beneficial nutrients from the bones, including collagen, gelatin, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.

The result is a deeply nourishing, gut-friendly broth that’s safe for dogs when made correctly. It contains no seasonings, no onions, and no harmful ingredients. Instead, it provides a natural way to support hydration, mobility, digestion, and immune function.

Because bone broth is incredibly gentle on the stomach, many pet parents use it when their dogs are sick, recovering from surgery, or refusing food.

Health Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs

Bone broth offers numerous health advantages for dogs of all ages, activity levels, and breeds. Below are some of the most important benefits.

1. Supports Joint Health

One of the top reasons dog owners make bone broth is its natural joint-supporting nutrients. Bone broth is rich in:

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• Collagen
• Gelatin

These components help reduce inflammation, lubricate joints, and support healthier cartilage. Senior dogs, dogs with arthritis, and large-breed dogs often show noticeable improvement in mobility after bone broth becomes part of their diet.

2. Boosts Digestive Health

Bone broth is easy to digest and gentle on the gut lining. The gelatin in bone broth helps strengthen the intestinal barrier, which is especially helpful for dogs with:

• Sensitive stomachs
• Diarrhea
• Digestive inflammation
• Food intolerances

It also provides hydration and electrolytes, which can help restore balance after a digestive upset.

3. Strengthens the Immune System

Because bone broth is packed with nutrients extracted from bones, cartilage, and connective tissue, it naturally boosts the immune system. Its minerals and amino acids support healing and help the body fight infections, making it a great addition when your dog is recovering from illness or surgery.

4. Helps Picky Eaters Enjoy Their Food

If your dog ignores kibble or regularly loses interest in meals, bone broth can be a game-changer. Just a splash of warm broth over dry or wet food creates aroma, moisture, and flavor that tempt picky eaters. It also encourages better calorie intake for dogs that struggle with appetite.

5. Improves Hydration

Getting dogs to drink more water is a common challenge. Because bone broth is warm, flavorful, and fragrant, it encourages even reluctant drinkers to consume more fluids. This is especially beneficial during hot weather, illness, or after exercise.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing the right ingredients is key to creating a safe, nutritious bone broth for your dog. Here’s what to use—and what to avoid.

Best Bones to Use

The best bones are rich in connective tissue, marrow, and joint cartilage. Top choices include:

• Chicken bones (feet, wings, necks, backs, carcasses)
• Turkey bones
• Beef bones (marrow bones, knuckles, joints)
• Lamb bones
• Pork bones (must be cooked thoroughly; avoid smoked bones)

These bones release collagen, gelatin, and joint-supportive nutrients during long simmering.

Dog-Safe Additions

You can add vegetables for extra nutrients:

• Carrots
• Celery
• Pumpkin
• Parsley

These help deliver fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants without overwhelming the broth.

Optional Supplements (Safe in Small Amounts)

You may add a small amount of:

• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Apple cider vinegar (1–2 tablespoons total)

Apple cider vinegar helps draw nutrients from the bones during simmering, while turmeric and ginger support anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients to Avoid Completely

These ingredients are toxic to dogs and should never be added to broth:

• Onion
• Garlic
• Leeks
• Scallions
• Added salt
• Seasoning blends

Bone broth for dogs should always be plain, mild, and free of seasonings.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs

Making bone broth at home is simple, but time is the most important ingredient. The longer it simmers, the more nutrients it releases.

1. Prepare the Bones

Start with fresh or frozen bones. You can use:

• Raw bones
• Cooked bones from meals (avoid smoked, charred, or heavily seasoned bones)

Rinse bones with water before cooking.

2. Add Bones to a Pot

Choose one of the following:

• Stockpot
• Slow cooker
• Instant Pot

Fill the pot with bones, leaving enough room for water.

3. Add Water

Add enough water to completely cover the bones. Leave at least 2 inches of space at the top of the pot to prevent boiling over.

4. Add Apple Cider Vinegar (Optional)

Add 1–2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to help extract minerals and collagen from the bones. This step is optional but highly recommended.

5. Simmer Slowly

The longer you simmer, the better the broth becomes.

• Stovetop: 24–48 hours on low
• Slow Cooker: 24–48 hours on low
• Instant Pot: 2–4 hours (pressure cook)

During simmering, skim off foam or impurities as needed. Avoid boiling aggressively gentle simmering extracts nutrients more effectively.

6. Add Vegetables Midway

If you’re adding veggies like carrots, pumpkin, or celery, add them during the last 6–10 hours of cooking to prevent breaking them down too much.

7. Strain the Broth

After cooking:

• Remove all bones
• Strain through a fine mesh strainer
• Make sure no bone fragments remain

This part is essential because even small splinters can be dangerous for dogs.

8. Chill the Broth

Refrigerate the broth overnight. The next day, you’ll notice a hard fat layer on top.

9. Remove the Fat Layer

Scoop off and discard the fat layer—dogs do not need this excess fat, and it may upset their stomach.

Underneath, you’ll find a nutrient-rich, jelly-like broth. This gel is a sign of excellent collagen extraction and is very healthy for dogs.

How to Serve Bone Broth to Dogs

Your dog can enjoy bone broth in multiple ways. Start with small servings and gradually increase.

Serving Sizes

• Small dogs: 1–2 tablespoons per meal
• Medium dogs: 2–4 tablespoons per meal
• Large dogs: ¼ to ½ cup per meal

These are general guidelines and can be adjusted based on your dog’s needs.

Ways to Serve Bone Broth

• Pour over dry kibble
• Mix into canned or homemade dog food
• Serve slightly warm (never hot)
• Use as a hydration booster
• Freeze into ice cube molds for summer treats
• Add to enrichment toys or slow feeders

Bone broth can also help sick dogs who temporarily refuse food.

Variations of Bone Broth for Dogs

You can customize bone broth depending on what you have available.

1. Chicken Bone Broth

Mild flavor, perfect for sensitive stomachs. Chicken feet add extra collagen.

2. Beef Bone Broth

Rich in minerals and great for dogs needing joint support.

3. Turkey Bone Broth

A holiday favorite. Turkey necks and frames provide excellent nutrients.

4. Veggie-Boosted Broth

Add dog-safe vegetables for extra vitamins and fiber.

Storage Tips

Bone broth stores beautifully, making it convenient for weekly use.

Refrigerator Storage

• Lasts 3–5 days
• Keep in sealed containers

Freezer Storage

• Lasts up to 3 months
• Portion into ice cube trays for quick servings
• Store cubes in freezer bags

This makes thawing and adding broth to meals incredibly easy.

Safety Tips for Feeding Bone Broth to Dogs

Bone broth is safe for most dogs, but keep these tips in mind:

• Remove all bones before serving
• Introduce gradually if your dog is new to broth
• Avoid fatty, seasoned, or salted broths
• Consult a vet if your dog has pancreatitis, kidney disease, or severe food allergies
• Never substitute broth for a complete meal

Bone broth is a supplement—not a full diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can puppies drink bone broth?

Yes, puppies can safely enjoy small amounts. It helps hydration and supports growing joints.

2. Can I use store-bought bone broth?

Most store-bought broths contain onion, garlic, salt, or seasoning. Only use unsalted, dog-specific broths with clean labels.

3. How often can dogs have bone broth?

Daily use is safe for most dogs in moderate amounts.

4. What if my dog gets diarrhea after drinking bone broth?

Reduce serving size and ensure the fat layer was removed. Some dogs are sensitive to rich foods.

5. Can bone broth replace a meal?

No, bone broth is a supplement. It can be used during temporary illness but should not replace complete nutrition long term.

Final Words

Making bone broth for dogs at home is simple, cost-effective, and incredibly rewarding. This nourishing liquid can support your dog’s joints, digestion, immunity, and overall well-being. With just bones, water, and a little time, you can create a powerful supplement that improves your dog’s meals and provides comfort when they need it most.

Whether you’re helping a picky eater, offering hydration during hot weather, or supporting an older dog’s mobility, bone broth is a safe and wholesome addition to their diet. Start with small servings, customize it with dog-friendly ingredients, and watch your pup enjoy every warm, flavorful sip.