Dog Bone Broth: Benefits, How to Make It & Safe Serving Guide 2026
Dog bone broth is a slow-simmered liquid made from animal bones and connective tissue that provides collagen, gelatin, glucosamine, and chondroitin in a highly bioavailable form. It supports joint health, soothes digestive issues, and encourages hydration in dogs that don’t drink enough water. You can make it at home for under $5 or buy commercial versions for $10–$30 per container — but always use dog-safe, unseasoned broth with no onion or garlic.
This guide is for informational purposes. Always consult your veterinarian before adding supplements to your dog’s diet.
What Is Dog Bone Broth?
Bone broth for dogs is a nutritious liquid made by slowly simmering animal bones (beef, chicken, turkey, or fish) in water for 12–24 hours. The long cooking process draws out collagen, gelatin, amino acids (glycine, proline, hydroxyproline), and minerals like calcium and phosphorus from the bones and connective tissue.
Unlike regular stock (which cooks for 2–4 hours), true bone broth cooks long enough for the bones to soften and release collagen, which forms gelatin when cooled — that’s why a quality bone broth should gel in the refrigerator. This gelatin is what delivers many of the joint and gut health benefits.
Critical safety note: Human bone broth often contains onion, garlic, and high sodium — all toxic or harmful to dogs. Always use dog-specific broth or make your own with no seasonings.
Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs
Joint Support
Bone broth is one of the richest natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin — the same compounds found in expensive joint supplements. Collagen also directly supports cartilage structure. For dogs with arthritis or hip dysplasia, daily bone broth can meaningfully support joint comfort alongside veterinary treatment.
Gut Health
Gelatin seals and heals the intestinal lining. This is particularly helpful for dogs with leaky gut, inflammatory bowel disease, or chronic diarrhea. The amino acid glycine also stimulates stomach acid production, improving overall digestion. Pair bone broth with a dog probiotic for comprehensive gut support.
Hydration
Dogs who don’t drink adequate water benefit enormously from bone broth added to food. The palatability of broth makes dogs eager to lap up extra liquid, reducing risks of urinary tract issues and kidney strain. This is particularly useful for dogs eating dry kibble exclusively.
Appetite Stimulation
Senior dogs, post-surgery patients, and picky eaters often show improved appetite when broth is added to their food. The strong aroma and flavor is irresistible to most dogs. Drizzling broth over kibble is a simple and effective way to get reluctant eaters interested in their bowl.
How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs at Home
Making bone broth at home is simple, inexpensive, and ensures you know exactly what’s in it. Here’s a basic recipe:
Simple Dog Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2–3 lbs beef marrow bones, chicken backs, or turkey necks (raw or roasted)
- Enough water to cover bones by 2 inches
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (helps draw minerals from bones)
Instructions:
- Place bones in a large pot or slow cooker. Add water and apple cider vinegar.
- Let sit 30 minutes (the vinegar begins extracting minerals).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
- Simmer 12–24 hours (longer = more gelatin and nutrients).
- Let cool, then strain out all bones and bone fragments.
- Refrigerate overnight — quality broth will gel when cold.
- Remove the fat layer from the top before serving.
⚠️ Never add: onion, garlic, leeks, chives, salt, pepper, or any seasonings.
Best Commercial Dog Bone Broths 2026
| Brand | Protein Source | Price | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brutus Bone Broth | Beef + Chicken | ~$14/32 oz | Added turmeric and ginger |
| The Honest Kitchen Bone Broth | Chicken | ~$18/8 oz powder | Human-grade, dehydrated |
| Solid Gold Bone Broth | Beef | ~$12/10.5 oz | Widely available, grain-free |
| Open Farm Bone Broth | Chicken or Beef | ~$10/12 oz | Humanely sourced, certified |
How Much Bone Broth to Give Your Dog
| Dog Size | Daily Serving |
|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | 1–2 oz per day |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | 2–4 oz per day |
| Large (50+ lbs) | 4–8 oz per day |
Drizzle over kibble, serve as a warm drink, pour over freeze-dried or raw food, or freeze into cubes for treats. Bone broth keeps refrigerated for 5 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Bone Broth
Is bone broth good for dogs?
Yes, bone broth is beneficial for most dogs. It provides natural sources of collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, and amino acids that support joint health, gut integrity, and hydration. It’s particularly helpful for senior dogs, dogs with joint issues, picky eaters, and dogs recovering from illness or surgery.
Can I give my dog store-bought bone broth?
Only if it’s specifically formulated for dogs or certified free of harmful ingredients. Human bone broth almost always contains onion, garlic, or high sodium — all dangerous for dogs. Look for dog-specific broths or check labels carefully: the only acceptable ingredients are bones, water, and possibly apple cider vinegar or dog-safe vegetables.
How often should I give my dog bone broth?
Most dogs can have bone broth daily as a food topper or supplement. Typical serving sizes are 1–2 oz for small dogs, 2–4 oz for medium dogs, and 4–8 oz for large dogs per day. There’s no strict upper limit, but start with smaller amounts to ensure your dog tolerates it well before giving larger servings.
How do I make bone broth for my dog at home?
Combine 2–3 lbs of raw or roasted animal bones with enough water to cover plus 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Let sit 30 minutes, then simmer on low heat for 12–24 hours. Strain out all bones, cool, refrigerate to gel and remove fat, then serve. Never add salt, onion, garlic, or any seasonings.
Is bone broth good for dogs with kidney disease?
This is case-specific and you must consult your vet first. Bone broth can be beneficial for hydration in kidney disease patients, but some versions are high in phosphorus — which is restricted in kidney diets. A vet or veterinary nutritionist should approve any broth for a dog with kidney disease and may recommend a specific phosphorus-low recipe.