Bone Broth
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Bone Broth Liquid made from simmering animal bones and connective tissue, rich in collagen, glycine, and minerals.
What It Is
Liquid made from simmering animal bones and connective tissue, rich in collagen, glycine, and minerals.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. beef: Bone broth is made by simmering beef bones (and sometimes meat) to extract collagen, minerals, and flavor. It adds moisture and palatability but less protein than whole beef.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include bone broth in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- Natural source of collagen and glycine
- Provides minerals (calcium, phosphorus)
- Supports joint and gut health
- Adds palatability and moisture
Nutritional Profile
Amino Acids
- Glycine (gut healing, anti-inflammatory, detoxification)
- Proline (collagen formation, joint health)
- Glutamine (intestinal barrier repair, immune function)
- Arginine (wound healing, immune support)
Quality Considerations
When evaluating bone broth in dog products, it's important to understand functional purpose, safety testing, and nutritional contribution. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Trending ingredient with real nutritional benefits when used in meaningful amounts. Contains collagen, gelatin, amino acids (glycine, proline), and minerals. However, amounts in dry food are typically small. Most beneficial in wet foods or as toppers.
Potential Concerns
While bone broth can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of necessity, potential sensitivities, and whether it serves dogs or just appeals to humans. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Beneficial whole-food ingredient rich in collagen and joint-supporting nutrients. While trendy, bone broth has legitimate nutritional value. Most effective in wet foods where amounts are substantial. In dry foods, often more marketing than meaningful nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bone broth safe for dogs?
Yes, bone broth is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.
What does bone broth do in dog products?
Slow-simmered animal bones and connective tissue providing collagen, minerals, amino acids, and hydration. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide natural source of collagen and glycine and provide minerals (calcium, phosphorus).
Why is bone broth added to dog food?
Natural source of collagen and glycine While some additives serve important functional purposes (preservation, texture, stability), others are primarily for human appeal. Beneficial whole-food ingredient rich in collagen and joint-supporting nutrients. While trendy, bone broth has legitimate nutritional value. Most effective in wet foods where amounts are substantial. In dry foods, often more marketing than meaningful nutrition.
Are there natural alternatives to bone broth?
Many modern dog foods use natural alternatives like mixed tocopherols (vitamin E), rosemary extract, or citric acid instead of synthetic additives. Check ingredient labels for "preserved with..." statements to see which preservatives are used.
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