📚 Part of our comprehensive guide: Complete Guide to Dog Joint Health & Mobility
Bone Broth for Dogs: Benefits, Research & How to Use It
Bone broth has become a popular addition to dog diets—and for good reason. When made properly, it provides natural glucosamine, collagen, gelatin, and amino acids that support joint health, gut function, and hydration. But not all bone broth is created equal. Here's what you need to know.
Bone Broth for Dogs: Key Points
- Natural joint support — Provides glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen from whole-food sources
- Gut healing — Gelatin and amino acids (glycine, glutamine) support intestinal lining
- Hydration boost — Especially useful for picky drinkers or senior dogs
- Nutrient-dense — Contains minerals, amino acids, and collagen in bioavailable forms
- Quality indicator — Should gel when refrigerated (shows high collagen content)
- Generally safe — Use caution with kidney disease (high phosphorus)
- Best bones — Chicken feet, necks, and knuckle bones for highest collagen
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is made by slow-simmering bones—typically chicken, beef, or turkey—along with connective tissue and cartilage for 12-24+ hours. This extended cooking time extracts collagen, gelatin, glucosamine, chondroitin, and amino acids into the liquid.
What makes bone broth different from stock:
- Longer cook time — Stock: 2-4 hours. Bone broth: 12-24+ hours.
- More collagen — The extended simmer breaks down more connective tissue, yielding gelatin.
- Gels when cooled — High-quality bone broth becomes semi-solid (jello-like) when refrigerated due to gelatin content. Stock stays liquid.
- Higher nutrient concentration — The long extraction process pulls more minerals, amino acids, and joint-supporting compounds from the bones.
Why this matters for dogs: The longer cooking extracts compounds that support joint and gut health—specifically glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen, and amino acids like glycine, proline, and glutamine. If your bone broth doesn't gel when refrigerated, it lacks sufficient collagen content to provide the primary benefits.
What Are the Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs?
1. Joint Support: Natural Glucosamine and Collagen
Bone broth is one of the best whole-food sources of glucosamine and chondroitin—the same compounds found in joint supplements.
How it works:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin — These compounds help maintain cartilage structure and may slow degradation in osteoarthritis. Bone broth made from cartilage-rich bones (chicken feet, knuckles, oxtail) provides significant amounts naturally.
- Collagen peptides — As the broth cools, collagen breaks down into gelatin and smaller peptides. Research shows these can improve joint mobility and reduce pain markers in both humans and dogs with osteoarthritis.
- Glycine and proline — These amino acids (abundant in bone broth) are building blocks for collagen synthesis in the body. Glycine also has anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit joint health.
Research support:
A 2017 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that collagen hydrolysate (similar to what's in bone broth) significantly reduced joint pain and improved mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis after 70 days of supplementation. While this study used isolated collagen, bone broth provides these same peptides in a whole-food matrix alongside complementary nutrients.
2. Gut Health: Gelatin and Amino Acids
The gelatin in bone broth is particularly valuable for digestive health—especially for dogs with inflammatory bowel conditions, food sensitivities, or leaky gut.
How it works:
- Gelatin coats and soothes the gut lining — It forms a protective layer over the intestinal mucosa, which may help repair damage from inflammation, poor diet, or medication use (like NSAIDs).
- Glutamine supports gut barrier function — This amino acid (abundant in bone broth) is the primary fuel for intestinal cells. Studies show glutamine supplementation can reduce intestinal permeability ("leaky gut") and support healing after gastrointestinal damage.
- Glycine reduces inflammation — Glycine has documented anti-inflammatory properties and supports detoxification in the liver, which is especially relevant for dogs on medications or with chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Proline supports tissue repair — This amino acid is essential for collagen formation, which is critical for healing damaged gut lining.
Research support:
A 2017 review in the journal Nutrients found that gelatin and glutamine both support gut barrier integrity and reduce inflammation markers in animal models of colitis and intestinal injury. While more canine-specific research is needed, the mechanisms are well-established.
3. Hydration and Mineral Support
Bone broth provides more than just water—it's loaded with electrolytes and minerals that support hydration and overall health.
- Enhanced palatability — The rich flavor encourages drinking, making it especially useful for senior dogs, picky eaters, or dogs recovering from illness.
- Electrolytes — Sodium, potassium, and magnesium support proper hydration and cellular function.
- Bioavailable minerals — Calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals are extracted from bones during the long simmer, appearing in forms that are easily absorbed.
| Benefit | Key Compounds | Evidence Level |
|---|---|---|
| Joint Support | Glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen peptides, glycine | Moderate (collagen studies in dogs support use) |
| Gut Health | Gelatin, glutamine, glycine, proline | Moderate (mechanisms well-supported, limited canine trials) |
| Hydration | Fluid, electrolytes, amino acids | Strong (well-established, widely accepted) |
| Nutrient Density | Minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium), amino acids | Strong (nutritional analysis confirms content) |
How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs
Making bone broth at home gives you complete control over ingredients, quality, and cost-effectiveness. Here's a step-by-step guide.
Best Bones to Use
Not all bones are equally effective. For maximum collagen and gelatin content, choose bones high in connective tissue:
- Chicken feet — Highest collagen content per pound. Produces extremely gelatinous broth.
- Chicken necks and backs — Excellent collagen, easy to break down during cooking.
- Beef knuckle bones — High in cartilage and connective tissue.
- Oxtail — Rich in collagen, produces thick gel when cooled.
- Pork feet — Very high collagen content, similar to chicken feet.
- Turkey necks — Good alternative to chicken, high collagen.
Avoid: Weight-bearing leg bones from large animals (like beef marrow bones) alone—they're dense and low in collagen. These can be used as part of a mix, but won't produce a gelatinous broth on their own.
Basic Bone Broth Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lbs chicken feet, necks, or backs (or mix of bones listed above)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (helps extract minerals)
- Enough water to cover bones by 2 inches
- Optional: Safe vegetables like carrots, celery (avoid onions, garlic—toxic to dogs)
Instructions:
- Place bones in large pot or slow cooker — Add apple cider vinegar and let sit for 30 minutes (this helps extract minerals from the bones).
- Add water — Cover bones with cold water by about 2 inches. Don't overfill—you want a concentrated broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer — Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface in the first hour.
- Simmer for 12-24 hours — Chicken: 12-18 hours. Beef/pork: 18-24 hours. The longer the better for collagen extraction. Add water as needed to keep bones covered.
- Strain and cool — Remove bones and solids. Let broth cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.
- Remove fat layer — Once refrigerated, a fat layer will solidify on top. Remove and discard (or save for another use). The broth should gel underneath.
The gel test: Properly made bone broth should be jiggly and semi-solid when cold—like jello. If it stays liquid, your broth lacks sufficient collagen. Try using more collagen-rich bones (especially chicken feet) and simmering longer.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Refrigerator: 4-5 days in airtight container
- Freezer: 4-6 months in ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers
- Pro tip: Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Each cube = ~1 oz for convenient daily dosing.
How to Choose Store-Bought Bone Broth
If making your own isn't practical, store-bought can work—but quality varies dramatically.
What to Look For
- Bones listed as first ingredient — Avoid products that list water first or include multiple fillers.
- Gels when refrigerated — This is the gold standard. If possible, test before buying in bulk.
- Simple ingredient list — Bones, water, maybe vinegar. Avoid added salt, preservatives, or "natural flavors."
- Species-specific sourcing — Look for "chicken bone broth" not just "bone broth." Know what animal it's from.
- Organic or grass-fed (if possible) — Reduces pesticide/herbicide exposure and supports better animal welfare.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Added salt — Dogs don't need extra sodium. Plain broth is safer.
- Onion or garlic — Both are toxic to dogs even in small amounts.
- Doesn't gel — Indicates low collagen content, which means it lacks the primary beneficial compounds.
- Mostly water — If water is the first ingredient and bones are listed fourth or fifth, it's diluted and low-quality.
How Much Bone Broth to Give Your Dog
Bone broth should be used as a supplement to a complete and balanced diet—not as a meal replacement.
Daily Serving Recommendations
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 ounces daily
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 ounces daily
- Large dogs (50-80 lbs): 4-8 ounces daily
- Extra-large dogs (80+ lbs): 8-12 ounces daily
How to serve:
- Pour over regular meals as a topper
- Serve separately as a treat or hydration boost
- Freeze in ice cube trays for hot weather treats
- Use to rehydrate freeze-dried or dehydrated dog food
Start slowly: Begin with smaller amounts (1/4 to 1/2 of the recommended dose) and increase gradually over 5-7 days to avoid digestive upset.
Safety Considerations and When to Use Caution
Bone broth is generally safe for most dogs, but there are specific situations where caution is warranted.
Use Caution With:
- Kidney disease — Bone broth is high in phosphorus, which dogs with kidney disease must limit. Consult your vet before adding to the diet.
- Pancreatitis-prone dogs — Remove all fat from the surface before serving. Even small amounts of fat can trigger flare-ups.
- Sodium-restricted diets — Make sure homemade broth contains no added salt. Avoid store-bought versions with added sodium.
- Food allergies — If your dog is allergic to chicken or beef, choose bones from a novel protein source (turkey, pork, fish).
Common Side Effects (Usually Mild)
- Loose stools — Can occur if you introduce too much too quickly. Reduce amount and increase slowly.
- Increased thirst/urination — The extra fluid intake may temporarily increase water consumption and bathroom breaks.
Bone Broth vs. Joint Supplements: Which Is Better?
This is a common question. The answer: they serve different purposes.
| Factor | Bone Broth | Joint Supplements |
|---|---|---|
| Glucosamine/Chondroitin Dose | Variable, typically lower | Standardized, therapeutic doses |
| Additional Benefits | Gut health, hydration, minerals | Focused on joint support only |
| Cost | Lower (homemade), variable (store-bought) | Higher for quality products |
| Whole-Food Source | Yes (natural matrix of nutrients) | Usually isolated compounds |
| Best For | Mild joint support, gut health, overall wellness | Moderate to severe arthritis, targeted intervention |
Our take: For dogs with significant arthritis or joint damage, dedicated supplements with standardized doses of glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are likely more effective. For overall wellness, mild joint support, and gut health, bone broth is an excellent whole-food option. Many dog owners use both—bone broth daily for general support, plus targeted supplements for specific joint issues.
Related Articles
Collagen for Dogs
Why bone broth is rich in collagen and how it supports joint health
Joint Supplements for Dogs
How bone broth compares to glucosamine and chondroitin supplements
Gut Health for Dogs
How gelatin and amino acids in bone broth support digestive health
Frequently Asked Questions
How much bone broth should I give my dog?
Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1-2 ounces daily. Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 2-4 ounces daily. Large dogs (50-80 lbs): 4-8 ounces daily. Extra-large dogs (80+ lbs): 8-12 ounces daily. Start with smaller amounts and increase gradually over 5-7 days to avoid digestive upset.
Should I make bone broth or buy it?
Both work, but homemade gives you complete control over ingredients and quality, plus it's more cost-effective when made in bulk. Store-bought is convenient but often lower quality. If buying, look for products that gel when refrigerated and list bones as the first ingredient. Avoid products with added salt, onion, garlic, or that don't gel when cold.
Is bone broth safe for all dogs?
Generally yes, but use caution with dogs that have kidney disease (bone broth is high in phosphorus) or pancreatitis (remove all fat before serving). Dogs on sodium-restricted diets should only have unsalted bone broth. Start slowly with any dog and watch for digestive upset. Bone broth should complement a balanced diet, not replace it.
What are the best bones to use for dog bone broth?
The best bones are those with high collagen and connective tissue content. Excellent choices include chicken feet (extremely high in collagen), chicken necks and backs, beef knuckle bones, oxtail, pork feet, and turkey necks. Avoid using only weight-bearing leg bones from large animals—they're dense and low in collagen. For best results, use a mix that includes chicken feet or necks.
How can I tell if bone broth is high quality?
The single best indicator is whether it gels when refrigerated. High-quality bone broth should be jiggly and semi-solid (like jello) when cold due to high gelatin content. If it stays liquid after refrigeration, it lacks sufficient collagen. For store-bought, also check that bones are the first ingredient, there's no added salt, and the ingredient list is simple (just bones, water, maybe vinegar).
How long does homemade bone broth last?
In the refrigerator: 4-5 days in an airtight container. In the freezer: 4-6 months. For easy portioning, freeze in ice cube trays (each cube = ~1 oz) and transfer to freezer bags once solid. This makes it simple to thaw exactly the amount you need for daily servings.
Can I add vegetables to bone broth for dogs?
Yes, but be selective. Safe additions include carrots and celery. Never add onions or garlic—both are toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Keep vegetables minimal and focus on bones for the primary benefits. Remove vegetables before serving if your dog has food sensitivities.
Is bone broth better than joint supplements?
It depends on your dog's needs. For dogs with significant arthritis or joint damage, dedicated supplements with standardized therapeutic doses of glucosamine and chondroitin are likely more effective. For general wellness, mild joint support, and gut health, bone broth is an excellent whole-food option. Many owners use both—bone broth daily for general support, plus targeted supplements for specific joint issues.
Can I give bone broth to puppies?
Yes, bone broth is safe for puppies in appropriate amounts. Use smaller servings (1-2 ounces for small breed puppies, 2-4 ounces for large breed puppies) and introduce gradually. The nutrients support growth, but bone broth should supplement a complete puppy food, not replace it. Puppies need balanced nutrition specifically formulated for growth.
What if my bone broth doesn't gel?
If your broth stays liquid after refrigeration, it lacks sufficient collagen content. This usually happens when using bones low in connective tissue (like large marrow bones alone) or not simmering long enough. To fix: (1) Use more collagen-rich bones like chicken feet, necks, or backs, (2) Simmer for longer (18-24 hours for beef, 12-18 for chicken), (3) Use less water so the broth is more concentrated, (4) Add apple cider vinegar to help extract collagen from bones.
Can bone broth help with picky eaters?
Absolutely. The rich, meaty flavor of bone broth can entice picky eaters to consume their regular food. Pour 1-2 ounces over kibble or mix into meals. It also works well for senior dogs who may have decreased appetite or difficulty staying hydrated. The aroma and taste make food more appealing without adding unhealthy ingredients.
Should I remove the fat from bone broth?
Yes, especially for dogs prone to pancreatitis or gastrointestinal upset. After refrigerating, a solid fat layer will form on top—simply lift it off and discard. Even for healthy dogs, removing excess fat reduces calories and makes the broth easier to digest. However, a small amount of fat is fine and adds palatability for most dogs.