Is bone broth good for dogs? We all want the best for our dogs, and there’s no harm in trying new supplements to keep them happy and healthy - that’s if they’re safe for consumption, of course. If you’ve been considering bone broth as a supplement for your dog, read on as we explore whether it’s good for dogs and the potential benefits it offers.
What is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is a flavourful stock made with simmered animal bones. The animal bones are simmered for up to 48 hours to release healthy collagen, acids, and gelatin - all of which can be beneficial for both dogs and humans. Popular bone broths for dogs are often made with beef, poultry, pork, and fish.
Is Bone Broth Safe for Dogs?
Yes, bone broth is safe for dogs! Bone broth is a healthy, nutritious addition to your dog's diet. The potential benefits of bone broth for dogs can support your dog's overall health, regardless of age, size, or breed. However, it’s best (and safest) to buy pet-specific bone broth, rather than products sold in our supermarkets. This is due to the possibly harmful ingredients used in store-bought broths, such as salt, garlic, onions, and spices.
The Potential Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs
Pet-safe bone broth offers several potential benefits to dogs, but what are they exactly? Let’s find out!
- Hydrating: If your dog doesn't drink enough water, incorporating bone broth into their diet can be beneficial.
- Immune System: Bone broth could help enhance your dog's gut health, leading to a better immune system.
- Nutritious: Healthy amino acids, collagen, essential minerals, and protein can be found in bone broth, promoting overall health and wellness for your dog, with the potential to support their digestive system.
- Skin and Coat: Bone broth is packed with collagen, which is essential for healthy skin and shinier coats. Hydration from bone broth could help to prevent dry, irritated skin and fur.
- Joint Health: Bone broth can potentially improve joint health, thanks to the natural compounds in animal bone cartilage.
Please note: The benefits of bone broth show differently in each dog. While your dog may show potential benefits from bone broth, another dog might not.
What’s Best? Buying Bone Broth vs Making Your Own
Pet-specific bone broth is the safest to give to your dog, but why? Let’s look at the key differences between buying pet-specific bone broth compared to making your own.
| Buying Bone Broth | Making Your Own |
|---|---|
| Order online or buy in a pet store | Buy meat and pet-safe ingredients from the supermarket to make |
| Purchase the bone broth | Purchase multiple ingredients to make the bone broth |
| Safe for dogs | May not be safe for dogs |
| Easily accessible | Time-consuming to prepare and cook |
| Consistent product quality | Inconsistent quality |
In summary, although you can make your own bone broth for dogs, it’s better to buy it premade from reputable pet food suppliers, such as us, at Mersey Raw! This way, you can safely feed your dog knowing there are no harmful ingredients.
Introducing Bone Broth into Your Dog's Diet: Step-by-Step
Introducing bone broth on top of your dog's food or as a treat is relatively simple, and we’re here to explain how:
- Start small and feed your dog a tiny amount of bone broth in their regular meal
- Monitor for reactions or signs of sickness within the first 24 hours after feeding
- Slowly increase the amount of bone broth on top of your dog's food
- Consider giving your dog bone broth alone in treat form, either frozen or liquid
- Try out new flavours of bone broth and repeat the steps to ensure your dog's safety
If you have concerns over feeding your dog bone broth, we suggest consulting with a vet.
How Often Can Dogs Have Bone Broth?
Dogs can have bone broth every day. The amount your dog can have depends on several key factors, such as the brand of bone broth, their size, weight, and any specific dietary needs. Bone broth is a supplement and shouldn't replace your dog's regular meals. Pet-specific bone broth brands will advise on how much to feed your dog, and sticking to feeding guidelines is essential.
Key Takeaways
- Bone broth can be good for dogs
- Buying pet-specific bone broth is the safest and most convenient option
- How much bone broth you feed your dog depends on the brand, your dog's size, weight, and specific dietary needs
Where to Purchase Bone Broth for Dogs
If you want to incorporate bone broth into your dog's diet, you’re in the right place! At Mersey Raw, we stock a varied selection of high-quality bone broth available across our site.
We want only the best for your dog, which is why we work closely with leading brands to supply their bone broth products for our customers in the UK. Packed with yummy goodness, there's no doubt your pooch will enjoy our selection of bone broth and frozen bone broth treats.
Take a look at our extensive range of bone broth options from leading brands, Alexanders and Axel's Elixir, today!