Best Bone Broth for Dogs: Top 2025 Picks & Benefits

Bone broth has become a go-to superfood for dog owners looking to boost their pet’s nutrition and appetite. Made by gently simmering animal bones for hours, bone broth is a nutrient-rich, savory liquid that dogs find irresistible. This guide covers everything about the best bone broth for dogs – from homemade recipes and health benefits to our 2025 top product picks. You’ll learn what makes a broth dog-safe, how it supports joints, digestion and immunity, and which bone broth brands (both dry powders and wet broths) stand out this year. Along the way, we’ll cite expert sources to ensure the advice is reliable and up-to-date best bone broth for dogs.

Why Add Bone Broth to Your Dog’s Diet?

Bone broth is more than just tasty for dogs – it’s packed with nutrients. When bones and connective tissues are slow-cooked, they release collagen, amino acids (like glycine and proline), minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium) and gelatin into the broth. These nutrients can support many aspects of canine health. Because bone broth is liquid, it also keeps dogs well hydrated and encourages picky eaters to drink and eat more. Veterinarians and pet experts note that bone broth can act as a “dog-safe substitute for chicken soup” when your pet is under the weather, helping to calm upset stomachs and deliver nourishment.

Many pet nutrition sources highlight these key benefits of bone broth for dogs:
– Rich Nutrition: Bone broth provides essential minerals like calcium and phosphorus, plus electrolytes, that support bone and heart health. It is often high in protein (especially dehydrated bone broths), supporting strong muscles and overall nutrition.
– Joint Support: The collagen and natural glucosamine/chondroitin in bone broth help maintain healthy joints and cartilage, benefiting dogs with arthritis or senior pet. The AKC and vets note that bone broth is a “rich source” of these compounds, promoting mobility and reducing joint pain.
– Gut & Digestive Health: Amino acids like glycine and glutamine found in bone broth soothe the digestive tract. They can help heal “leaky gut” lining, reduce inflammation in the GI tract, and promote better digestion. Many pet owners use bone broth to relieve mild gut upset and improve nutrient absorption best bone broth for dogs.
– Skin & Coat: Collagen is a building block of skin, coat and connective tissues. Adding collagen-rich broth can improve coat shine and skin elasticit. Older dogs, whose collagen production declines with age, especially benefit from this extra source best bone broth for dogs.
– Immune & Organ Support: Bone broth’s nutrients help boost the immune system. It contains the amino acid glycine, which supports liver detoxification, and other compounds that help pets recover from illness faster. The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that nutrient-packed bone broth can “enhance [a dog’s] immune system’s ability to fight diseases” best bone broth for dogs.
– Hydration & Appetite: Because it’s flavorful and hydrating, bone broth encourages dogs to drink more fluids – crucial during recovery from diarrhea or illness. It also makes any food more appealing; even picky eaters or senior dogs often eat better when their regular kibble is moistened with bone broth.

These benefits – from joint support to digestion and hydration – explain why bone broth is often listed as one of the bone broth benefits for dogs: health, joints & digestion. In short, bone broth is a pet-friendly superfood that adds protein, hydration and healing nutrients to your dog’s diet.

Bone Broth Nutrition: What’s Inside

A high-quality bone broth for dogs contains mainly water and collagen-rich proteins. The exact nutritional profile varies, but most broths share certain ingredients:
– Calcium & Minerals: Cooked bones leach calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and trace minerals into the broth. These support bone health and metabolism.
– Gelatin & Collagen: These are the gelatinous proteins from cartilage and connective tissue. Gelatin provides proline and glycine, which improve digestion and skin, and collagen peptides that support joints best bone broth for dogs.
– Glucosamine & Chondroitin: These joint-health compounds naturally occur in bone and cartilage. Broths that include actual bone pieces can deliver glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain joint cartilage best bone broth for dogs.
– Amino Acids: Glycine, proline, arginine and other amino acids in bone broth have anti-inflammatory properties. For example, glycine helps the liver detox and may promote better sleep and muscle function.
– Low Fat: Most broths are naturally low in fat (especially lean-meat broths) unless extra oils are added. Low-fat broths help hydrate without adding many calories best bone broth for dogs.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A homemade bone broth (made from just water, bones, and pet-safe veggies) is likely to have slightly higher nutrient levels and zero additives. Commercial dog bone broths often add extra ingredients (herbs, fruits) to enhance flavor, which can be beneficial. However, the convenience of store-bought broths is popular. Whether you DIY or buy, always check that it’s made with dog-safe ingredients (no onions, garlic or excessive salt) best bone broth for dogs.

How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs (DIY Recipe)

Many dog owners prefer homemade bone broth to control ingredients and ensure freshness. Veterinarians suggest a simple vet-approved recipe: simmer animal bones (chicken backs, beef marrow bones, turkey necks, etc.) in water for a long time. For example:

1. Gather Bones & Veggies: Use raw bones (chicken feet, beef knuckles) and dog-friendly vegetables like carrots, celery, parsley, and a bit of apple cider vinegar. The vinegar helps break down minerals from the bones. Avoid toxic foods – no onions, garlic, chives or excessive salt.
2. Simmer Slowly: Cover bones with water and slowly simmer (on low heat or in a slow cooker) for 12–48 hours. Chicken broths typically need ~24 hours; beef/pork bones benefit from up to 48 hours. This long simmer releases collagen and minerals.
3. Strain Carefully: Once done, let cool and strain the broth through a fine mesh or cheesecloth. Discard any solid pieces and ensure no small bone fragments remain. Refrigerate broth; any fat will congeal on top (you can skim it off) best bone broth for dogs.
4. Store Properly: Fresh homemade broth lasts about 4–5 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in ice-cube trays or jars – it keeps up to 6 months frozen.
5. No Additives: Do not add salt, onion, or garlic to your pet’s bone broth. These common soup seasonings are toxic to dogs. Stick to water, bones, safe veggies and herbs (like parsley or a small pinch of turmeric for extra anti-inflammatory benefit) best bone broth for dogs.

By making broth yourself, you ensure it’s 100% natural and dog-safe. Independence Vet Clinic notes that the cost is very low if you use leftover bones from the butcher or grocery store. Many owners save money by asking for beef marrow bones at the butcher (often free) and then simmering them for hours. If cooking isn’t for you, the next section will cover reliable store-bought options.

How to Best Bone Broth for Dogs

Bone broth is extremely versatile. Here are common ways to serve it (adapted from Chewy’s vet experts and other pet sources):
– As a Meal Topper: Pour bone broth over dry kibble or freeze-dried food. This softens the food and adds flavor. Even a small drizzle can entice picky dogs to eat. For example, mixing a few tablespoons of warm broth into your dog’s meal adds moisture and nutrients best bone broth for dogs.
– Warm Drink: Serve bone broth in a bowl as a nutritious “soup” or warm drink. Many dogs enjoy sipping broth alone. This is helpful during illness or to increase hydration best bone broth for dogs.
– Frozen Treats: Freeze broth in ice cube trays for a fun, lickable treat. Especially good for teething puppies or hot days. You can give one or two cubes (often substituting for a dessert).
– Rehydrating Food: Use bone broth to rehydrate dehydrated or freeze-dried diets (just like you’d use water). It makes meals more flavorful and nutritious best bone broth for dogs.

Portion Guideline: A general rule is about 1 ounce of bone broth per 10 pounds of dog weight per day. For example, a 30-lb dog could have ~3 oz of broth daily. Start with small amounts and monitor your dog’s tolerance. Puppies and very small dogs need even smaller servings. Always provide fresh water alongside bone broth best bone broth for dogs.

Caution: While bone broth is nutritious, it’s a supplement, not a replacement for a balanced diet. Chewy experts remind us that bone broth “doesn’t provide many calories” and should not replace meals. Also, some dogs with kidney disease or other health issues may require low-sodium diets, so check with your vet. Store-bought broths can sometimes be high in sodium unless labeled low-sodium. Always read the label or ask a vet if you’re uncertain best bone broth for dogs.

Choosing Dog-Safe Bone Broth Products

If you prefer ready-made broths, choose those specifically formulated for pets. Many commercial broths (even “natural” chicken stock for humans) contain onions, garlic, or too much salt – all dangerous to dogs. Instead, look for pet bone broth products that explicitly avoid these ingredients. Good options often say “made for dogs/cats” on the label best bone broth for dogs.

Key things to check on a label (from Bluebird’s shopping guide and pet experts):
– Ingredients: First ingredient should be a real bone broth or bone meal, not “broth flavor” or “protein concentrate.” Avoid any onions, garlic, or artificial preservatives.
– Protein Content: Higher protein means more nutrition. Liquid broths gel in the fridge (sign of collagen), but dehydrated powders can have up to ~90% protein. For example, Bluebird Provisions’ bone broth powder has 94% protein (single-ingredient recipe) best bone broth for dogs.
– Sourcing & Quality: Check if the company mentions human-grade or USA-sourced ingredients. Brands like Caru and Brutus emphasize USA sourcing best bone broth for dogs.
– Additives: Some pet broths include extra veggies or supplements (like vitamins or glucosamine). These are fine if they’re all dog-safe. For joint health, some broths add glucosamine/chondroitin explicitly (Brutus does) best bone broth for dogs.
– Form (Liquid vs Powder): Liquids are convenient but often need refrigeration after opening. Powders (dehydrated broths) are shelf-stable and have higher protein percentages, but require mixing. Choose based on your convenience and storage best bone broth for dogs.

Veterinary sources generally recommend vet-formulated or vet-recommended brands. For instance, Dr. Ochoa (vet for Chewy) explicitly advises against any grocery-store broths because of hidden onions/garlic. She recommends known pet brands like Brutus and Solid Gold that guarantee no harmful additives.

Top 7 Bone Broths for Dogs (2025 Picks)

Based on pet nutrition experts and product reviews, here are our top bone broth products for dogs, covering both wet broths and dry powders. These selections offer high-quality, dog-safe ingredients and unique benefits:

1. Bluebird Provisions Grass-Fed Beef Bone Broth (Powder) – Best Overall (Powdered). This high-protein beef broth powder is made from USA grass-fed beef bones, dehydrated into a pure powder. It’s a single-ingredient formula (just beef bone broth) with 94% crude protein and no fillers. Because it’s protein-dense, just a teaspoon or two provides collagen and glucosamine. Pet owners rave that it smells irresistible to dogs. Use it as a meal topper or rehydrated with water. (Tip: See our DIY recipe if you want liquid broth – Bluebird actually simmers traditional broth before drying it.) best bone broth for dogs.
2. The Honest Kitchen Daily Boosters – Beef Bone Broth Stew (Wet) – Best Stew-Style Liquid. Honest Kitchen’s bone broth pour-overs come in hearty stew flavors (beef/lamb, turkey, chicken) made with real meat, vegetables and herbs. The Beef Bone Broth Stew variety (with carrots, squash, thyme) is shelf-stable and human-grade. It’s about 90% moisture and around 4% protein (typical for liquids). It contains no BPA, uses recyclable packaging, and is free of fillers and artificial stuff. This liquid broth is great for picky eaters. Note: Refrigerate after opening. (See Honest Kitchen’s Beef Bone Broth for Dogs on Amazon for prices.) best bone broth for dogs.
3. Bluebird Provisions Pasture-Raised Chicken Bone Broth (Powder) – Best Chicken Broth Powder. Similar to the beef formula, this chicken bone broth powder is made from non-GMO, pasture-raised chicken bones. It’s 100% human-grade and third-party tested for quality. The product has high protein (about 6.25g per tbsp, ~26% by weight) and no allergens or fillers. Many dogs love the taste (authors report their pets excitedly come when the pouch opens). Sprinkle it on food or mix with warm water.
4. CARU Daily Dish Beef Bone Broth (Liquid) – Best Liquid Broth (Beef). CARU’s Daily Dish broth is a ready-to-serve liquid made for pets. It’s human-grade and contains no onion, garlic or MSG, making it pet-safe. The beef version is fat-free and mostly water (about 97.5% liquid). It has organic veggies (carrot, celery, parsley) and apple cider vinegar for flavour. With 3% protein and only ~9 kcal per ¼ cup, it’s very low-calorie. Serve it warm or cold over kibble. CARU is widely available in pet stores (even Walmart/Petco) as a low-sodium, vet-friendly choice best bone broth for dogs.
5. Open Farm Beef or Chicken Bone Broth (Liquid) – Best Ethically Sourced. Open Farm produces bone broths from high-welfare, grass-fed animals. Their broths (Beef or Chicken) are rich in collagen and nutrients, with 2–3% protein. The company highlights that their broth supports joint health, digestion and skin hydration. For example, their Beef Bone Broth includes carrots, pumpkin, parsley and cinnamon, adding antioxidants and flavor. A unique benefit: Open Farm lists all ingredients and sources transparently (GAP certified farms for their beef). Dogs tend to love the meaty taste best bone broth for dogs.
6. Solid Gold Liquid Bone Broth Topper (Chicken or Beef) – Best with Added Superfoods. Solid Gold’s broth topper comes in re-sealable pouches (flavors include Chicken with Lavender & Chamomile, Beef with Turmeric, Turkey with Pumpkin/Ginger). Each serving has about 3% protein and is enriched with gut-friendly nutrients. The added veggies and herbs (like lavender, turmeric, pumpkin) provide extra antioxidants and flavor. It’s marketed for picky dogs, and indeed many pet owners find even finicky eaters love this broth mix.. It’s higher priced per ounce (about $1+ per ¼ cup) but convenient.
7. Brutus Beef Bone Broth (Liquid) – Best Joint-Support Broth. Brutus Beef Bone Broth is a popular liquid broth widely sold (pet stores, online). It’s made in the USA and specifically includes added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support. The broth base is beef stock with added joint supplements (see ingredients). While its protein content is modest (around 1–1.25%), the focus is on hip-and-joint health. Pet parents report positive results for aging dogs. Brutus also offers flavors like chicken and salmon best bone broth for dogs.
8. Native Pet Bone Broth (Powder) – Best Powdered Supplement (Chicken or Beef). Native Pet makes a dehydrated bone broth powder available in chicken or beef. The Chicken Bone Broth powder is extremely high protein (64% protein, 10% fat). This means each serving is almost pure bone broth. The limited ingredients (just chicken broth and chicken protein in the Chicken version) mean no fillers. This high-protein powder easily mixes into food or water. (As one reviewer noted, “They love it… it’s so good for them and uses so few ingredients”.) It’s shelf-stable in a canister – great for travel.

Each of these products has earned praise from pet experts. For example, Chewy’s veterinary specialists recommend Brutus and Solid Gold because they guarantee no harmful additives. Pet nutritionists stress checking labels: Bluebird Provisions and Native Pet, for instance, clearly list only bone broth and minimal additives, offering transparency best bone broth for dogs.

Choosing & Using Bone Broth Safely

When buying bone broth, remember: dogs have different needs than humans. Always avoid onion and garlic – Chewy’s experts warn these can cause serious toxicity. Also, watch sodium levels. For homemade broth, skip the salt altogether. For store brands, opt for low-sodium labels or those formulated for pets.

Some general tips:
– Start Slowly: Introduce broth gradually. Begin with a few teaspoons and watch your dog for any digestive upset. Most dogs tolerate it well, but every pet is different.
– Check Calories: Although relatively low-calorie, bone broth still adds calories. Factor it into your dog’s daily diet to avoid unintended weight gain.
– Avoid Bones: Never let your dog chew on solid (especially cooked) bones. The finished broth should be free of any bone shards. Provide raw bone treats separately if desired.

Finally, remember that bone broth is a supplement, not a cure-all. As AKC experts and vets advise, it should complement a complete diet and veterinary car. When chosen and served properly, however, bone broth for dogs can be a safe, healthy addition – promoting hydration, digestion and joint comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is bone broth safe and beneficial for all dogs?
A: Yes, bone broth is generally safe and highly nutritious for most dogs when prepared correctly. It’s a nutrient-dense liquid that supports hydration, joint health, and digestion. However, you must avoid toxic ingredients. Always use a bone broth made for pets or homemade without onions, garlic or excess salt. Check with your vet before adding it, especially for dogs with kidney disease or specific health conditions best bone broth for dogs.

Q: What are the health benefits of bone broth for dogs?
A: Bone broth provides collagen, gelatin, and minerals that support skin, coat and joint healt. It can help soothe the gut lining and aid digestion. It’s also a tasty source of hydration and nutrients for sick or elderly dogs. Vets note benefits like liver detox (from amino acids), immune boost, and even appetite stimulation in finicky pets best bone broth for dogs.

Q: How do I give bone broth to my dog?
A: There are several ways: pour it over dry or wet food as a meal topper, offer it as a warm drink in a bowl, or freeze it into ice cubes as a treat. Generally, use about 1 ounce of broth per 10 pounds of body weight per day, divided across meals. Always introduce it gradually and ensure fresh water is still available best bone broth for dogs.

Q: Can I use store-bought bone broth for my dog?
A: Only if it’s specifically made for dogs. Human broths (like canned chicken stock) usually have too much salt and contain onions/garlic which are toxic. Look for pet bone broths with simple ingredients. Brands like CARU, Open Farm, Brutus, etc., formulate broths for pets and avoid harmful additives. Always read the label: if it lists onion, garlic, or high sodium, skip it.

Q: Can cats have bone broth too?
A: Yes, bone broth can benefit cats as well (just ensure it’s unsalted and pet-safe). It provides similar hydration and collagen for joint and gut health. Independence Vet Clinic specifically notes that even cats can enjoy bone broth’s benefits best bone broth for dogs.

Q: How should I store bone broth?
A: Homemade bone broth lasts about 4–5 days refrigerated and can be frozen for up to 6 months. Commercial liquids usually say “refrigerate after opening.” For long-term use, consider freezing broth in meal-sized portions best bone broth for dogs.

Q: What’s the difference between liquid bone broth and bone broth powder?
A: Liquid broths are ready-to-serve, often lower in protein (around 1–4%) and must be refrigerated. Powders/dehydrated broths (like Bluebird or Native Pet) are shelf-stable and very protein-rich (often 50–90% protein). Powders require mixing with water but pack more nutrition per teaspoon. Choose liquid for convenience or powders for concentrated nutrition and portability.

Conclusion

Bone broth is a powerful, natural supplement for dogs, offering hydration and a host of nutrients in a delicious form. When used properly, it can improve joint function, digestion, skin health and even a picky eater’s appetite. Remember to choose or make a dog-safe broth – free from onions, garlic and excess salt. Our 2025 roundup of bone broths (from high-quality powders like Bluebird’s to savory liquids like Caru’s) highlights top choices that we trust. We hope this guide helps you pick the best bone broth for your dog and unlock its health benefits.

Have you tried bone broth for your pup? Share your experience in the comments below and feel free to ask questions – we’d love to hear how bone broth has made mealtime more fun and nutritious for your furry friend!