Is Bone Broth Good for Dogs? Benefits, How to Choose, and How to Use It
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If you've spent any time exploring fresh feeding, you've probably noticed bone broth popping up everywhere. From raw feeders to kibble feeders, more pet parents are pouring bone broth over meals, freezing it into enrichment treats, or using it to rehydrate freeze-dried food.
But is bone broth actually good for dogs?
The answer is yes. When made specifically for pets with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, bone broth can be an easy way to add moisture, flavor, and variety to your dog's bowl. It's incredibly versatile, making it a favorite for picky eaters, active dogs, senior dogs, and just about every feeding style in between.
Of course, not every bone broth is created the same.
Many broths made for people contain ingredients that aren't appropriate for dogs, including onions, garlic, excessive sodium, artificial flavorings, or preservatives. That's why choosing a bone broth formulated specifically for dogs matters just as much as deciding to feed one in the first place.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- What bone broth is
- The benefits of bone broth for dogs
- What to look for when choosing a bone broth
- The differences between frozen and shelf-stable bone broth
- Creative ways to use bone broth every day
- Frequently asked questions from pet parents
Whether you're feeding raw, lightly cooked, freeze-dried, or kibble, bone broth is one of the easiest ways to add a little something extra to your dog's daily routine.
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is made by slowly simmering bones in water over many hours. This extended cooking process creates a rich, flavorful broth that's naturally rich in collagen and other compounds found in bones and connective tissue.
Unlike traditional cooking stock, bone broth is simmered much longer, allowing more flavor and naturally occurring nutrients to be extracted.
For dogs, bone broth is most commonly served as a meal topper, hydration booster, or enrichment ingredient rather than as a complete meal. It pairs well with virtually every type of diet and can easily become part of an everyday feeding routine.
The key is choosing a bone broth that's made specifically for dogs.
Many grocery store broths include onions, garlic, excess sodium, or seasonings that aren't appropriate for pets. A dog-specific bone broth eliminates those ingredients while focusing on simple, high-quality recipes that complement a species-appropriate diet.
Why Pet Parents Love Bone Broth
Bone broth has earned its place in thousands of dog bowls because it solves several everyday feeding challenges without requiring major changes to your dog's diet.
It Helps Increase Moisture Intake
Hydration supports countless everyday body functions, yet many dogs, especially those eating dry food, don't naturally consume as much water as we'd like.
Adding bone broth to meals is an easy way to increase moisture while making meals more exciting at the same time.
Many pet parents find it especially helpful for:
- Dogs eating kibble
- Active and sporting dogs
- Senior dogs
- Warm weather feeding
- Dogs recovering after long hikes or adventures
- Dogs that simply enjoy a little extra flavor
It Makes Meals More Appealing
Sometimes the difference between an untouched bowl and an empty one is simply adding a little variety.
The rich aroma and savory taste of bone broth can encourage picky eaters without changing the food they're already eating.
Instead of constantly rotating foods, many pet parents simply rotate toppers like bone broth to keep meals interesting.
It Works With Nearly Every Feeding Style
One reason bone broth has become so popular is its versatility.
It works equally well with:
- Raw food
- Freeze-dried food
- Lightly cooked food
- Air-dried food
- Kibble
Rather than replacing your dog's diet, bone broth complements it.
It's Perfect for Enrichment
Bone broth isn't limited to mealtime.
Freeze it into silicone molds, pour it into enrichment toys, spread it across lick mats, or make frozen treats during warmer months.
It's an easy way to combine hydration and enrichment in one simple step.
Dogs Love the Flavor
Let's be honest.
Most dogs simply love bone broth.
The naturally rich aroma and meaty flavor make it one of the easiest additions you can make to almost any bowl.
That's part of what makes it such an effective topper. Even a small amount can make familiar meals feel new again.
Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs
Supports Everyday Hydration
One of bone broth's biggest benefits is also one of its simplest.
It adds moisture.
Whether your dog spends weekends hiking, enjoys long days at the beach, or simply needs encouragement to drink more fluids, bone broth offers an easy way to increase water intake while making meals even more enjoyable.
For dogs eating primarily dry food, adding moisture to meals is one of the most common reasons pet parents reach for bone broth.
Naturally Rich in Collagen
As bones slowly simmer, they naturally release collagen into the broth.
Collagen is a structural protein naturally found throughout the body, including connective tissue, cartilage, skin, tendons, and ligaments.
Our frozen bone broths are slow simmered and naturally collagen rich while keeping the ingredient list beautifully simple.
A Simple Way to Add Variety
Dogs thrive on routine, but that doesn't mean every meal has to taste exactly the same.
Bone broth offers an easy way to add variety without changing your dog's primary food.
A splash over breakfast one day and frozen enrichment the next can keep feeding routines interesting while staying consistent with your dog's overall diet.
Easy to Incorporate Into Daily Feeding
Unlike supplements that require measuring or complicated schedules, bone broth fits naturally into meals you already serve.
Pour it over food.
Mix it into freeze-dried recipes.
Freeze it for enrichment.
Use it after outdoor adventures.
Or simply keep it on hand whenever your dog deserves something a little extra.
How to Choose the Best Bone Broth for Dogs
Not all bone broths are made the same. While the ingredient panel may seem simple at first glance, there are a few key things that separate a thoughtfully crafted bone broth from one that's simply flavored liquid.
Here's what to look for when choosing a bone broth for your dog.
Start With Real Ingredients
A quality bone broth starts with quality ingredients.
Look for recipes made with recognizable, whole food ingredients rather than artificial flavors, preservatives, gums, or unnecessary fillers. The shorter and more purposeful the ingredient list, the easier it is to understand exactly what you're serving your dog.
At smallbatch, every ingredient has a purpose. Whether it's organic carrots in our frozen recipes or organic produce and herbs in our shelf-stable broths, we believe real food should stay just that: real food.
Choose Bone Broth Made Specifically for Dogs
Many bone broths found in the grocery store are intended for human consumption and often contain ingredients that aren't appropriate for dogs, including onions, garlic, excessive sodium, yeast extracts, or added seasonings.
A bone broth made specifically for dogs removes the guesswork, so you can confidently add it to your pet's bowl.
Consider How It's Made
How a bone broth is processed matters just as much as what's inside it.
Many shelf-stable broths rely on high-heat retort processing or irradiation to achieve shelf stability. While effective, these methods expose the product to intense heat.
Smallbatch takes a different approach.
Our shelf-stable bone broths are crafted using organic apple cider vinegar and organic lemon to create the proper pH environment, allowing us to maintain shelf stability while staying true to our ingredient-first philosophy. It's a thoughtful approach that reflects our commitment to quality without unnecessary shortcuts.
Look Beyond the Bones
A great bone broth doesn't have to stop at bones.
Our shelf-stable recipes pair high-quality, single-source proteins with thoughtfully selected organic produce, herbs, and prebiotics to create recipes that do more than simply add flavor.
Each ingredient is chosen with intention.
- Organic butternut squash adds whole food goodness to every recipe.
- Organic apple appears across the lineup.
- Organic pear complements our chicken recipe.
- Organic ginger is featured in both the chicken and venison recipes.
- Organic chamomile is included in our venison recipe.
- Organic dandelion greens are featured in our beef recipe.
- Prebiotics round out every shelf-stable recipe.
Just like every product we make, these ingredients are there because they belong there, not because they make the label look longer.
Why Smallbatch Bone Broth Is Different
There are plenty of bone broths on the market. Ours reflects the same standards we apply to every recipe we make.
Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we created two different bone broth options to fit different lifestyles while maintaining the same commitment to thoughtfully sourced ingredients.
Whether you prefer freezer storage or pantry convenience, you'll find recipes built around real food and intentional ingredient choices.
Frozen vs. Shelf-Stable Bone Broth
While both products can be used in many of the same ways, each offers its own advantages depending on your feeding routine.
Frozen Bone Broth
If simplicity is your priority, our frozen bone broth is exactly that.
Every recipe contains just three thoughtfully selected ingredients:
- Filtered water
- Organic bones
- Organic carrots
The broth is slow simmered, naturally rich in collagen, and packaged in an easy-pour pouch that makes serving simple, whether you're pouring it over dinner or scooping it into enrichment toys.
Even better, it's suitable for both dogs and cats, making it an easy staple for multi-pet households.
Shelf-Stable Bone Broth
Our shelf-stable bone broth was designed for convenience without compromising on ingredient quality.
Each recipe starts with a single-source protein and is thoughtfully complemented with organic produce, herbs, and prebiotics. Because it can be stored in the pantry until opened, it's perfect for everyday feeding, travel, camping trips, or simply keeping on hand whenever your dog could use a little extra hydration.
It's a great option for busy households that want the convenience of a shelf-stable product while staying true to a real food philosophy.
Available Bone Broth Recipes
Whether your dog has a favorite protein or you like rotating proteins throughout the year, we offer several delicious options.
Frozen Bone Broth
Our frozen bone broth is available in:
Each recipe is made with just three simple ingredients and is suitable for both dogs and cats.
Shelf-Stable Bone Broth
Our shelf-stable bone broth is available in:
Each protein features its own thoughtfully selected blend of organic produce and herbs while maintaining the same convenient pantry-friendly format.
Which Bone Broth Should You Choose?
The good news is that there's no wrong answer.
If you love keeping things simple and have freezer space available, our frozen bone broth offers an incredibly clean recipe with just three ingredients.
If convenience is your priority or you want something easy to keep in the pantry for everyday use or travel, our shelf-stable bone broth is an excellent choice.
Many Smallbatch customers keep both on hand, using frozen bone broth at home and shelf-stable bone broth for busy days, adventures, or whenever convenience matters most.
How to Use Bone Broth for Dogs
One of the best things about bone broth is its versatility. It isn't just a meal topper. It can become part of your everyday feeding routine in a variety of ways, whether you're serving frozen raw, lightly cooked, freeze-dried, air-dried, or kibble.
Here are some of our favorite ways to use it.
Pour It Over Meals
The simplest way to serve bone broth is by pouring it directly over your dog's food.
Adding bone broth can:
- Increase moisture
- Add rich, savory flavor
- Make meals more exciting for picky eaters
- Bring new life to familiar recipes
Even a small splash can completely change mealtime.
Rehydrate Freeze-Dried Food
If you feed freeze-dried food, consider replacing plain water with bone broth.
The broth rehydrates the food while adding even more flavor, making it an easy upgrade to your dog's meal. It's a simple swap that many pet parents incorporate into their daily routine.
Mix Into Raw or Lightly Cooked Meals
Bone broth pairs naturally with fresh food.
Whether your dog eats frozen raw sliders, lightly cooked recipes, patties, or base blends, a splash of bone broth adds moisture without taking away from the meal itself.
It's one of the easiest ways to change up the bowl while keeping your dog's primary diet consistent.
Freeze It Into Enrichment Treats
Bone broth isn't just for mealtime.
Pour it into:
- Silicone molds
- Ice cube trays
- Lick mats
- Enrichment toys
- Slow feeders
Frozen bone broth treats are especially popular during warmer months and are a fun way to add enrichment to your dog's day.
Bring It Along on Adventures
Shelf-stable bone broth was made with convenience in mind.
Keep a carton in your camping bin, RV, hiking pack, or weekend travel bag so you always have an easy way to add moisture and flavor to your dog's meals, no matter where the adventure takes you.
Because it doesn't require refrigeration until opened, it's easy to keep on hand whenever you need it.
Make Mealtime Feel New Again
You don't always have to change foods to create excitement.
Many pet parents rotate toppers instead.
Using bone broth throughout the week is an easy way to add variety while keeping your dog's primary food consistent. It's a small change that can make familiar meals feel fresh again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bone Broth for Dogs
Is bone broth good for dogs?
Yes. Bone broth made specifically for dogs can be a flavorful addition to your dog's diet. Many pet parents use it to add moisture, variety, and enrichment to meals.
Can dogs have bone broth every day?
Yes. Bone broth can be offered daily as a topper or hydration boost alongside a complete and balanced diet. Because it's intended to complement your dog's food rather than replace it, many families incorporate it into their everyday feeding routine.
Can puppies have bone broth?
Yes. Bone broth formulated specifically for dogs can be introduced as your puppy transitions to solid foods. As with any new food, start with a small amount and monitor how your puppy responds.
Is bone broth good for senior dogs?
Many pet parents enjoy serving bone broth to senior dogs because it's an easy way to increase moisture and make meals more enticing. The rich aroma can also be especially appealing for older dogs.
Can cats have bone broth?
Our frozen bone broth is suitable for both dogs and cats.
Our shelf-stable bone broth is formulated specifically for dogs.
Can I pour bone broth over kibble?
Absolutely.
Bone broth is one of the easiest ways to add moisture and flavor to kibble without changing your dog's primary diet.
Can I use bone broth with raw food?
Yes. Bone broth pairs naturally with raw diets and can be poured over frozen raw meals after thawing to add additional moisture and flavor.
Can I use bone broth with lightly cooked food?
Yes. Bone broth works beautifully with lightly cooked recipes, adding moisture while complementing fresh, whole food ingredients.
Can I use bone broth to rehydrate freeze-dried food?
Yes. Bone broth can be used instead of water when rehydrating freeze-dried recipes, making meals even more flavorful.
Can bone broth be served warm?
Yes. Many dogs enjoy bone broth slightly warmed, particularly during cooler weather. It should never be served hot. Warm it gently until it's comfortably warm to the touch before adding it to your dog's meal.
Can bone broth be frozen?
Yes. Bone broth freezes extremely well.
Freeze it into cubes, silicone molds, enrichment toys, or lick mats for an easy treat that can be enjoyed later.
How long does bone broth last after opening?
Follow the storage and refrigeration instructions printed on the packaging. Once opened, bone broth should be refrigerated and used within the recommended timeframe.
What's the difference between stock and bone broth?
Bone broth is generally simmered much longer than traditional stock, allowing naturally occurring collagen and flavor to be extracted from the bones over time.
Can I give my dog grocery store bone broth?
Human bone broth often contains onions, garlic, added sodium, or seasonings that aren't appropriate for dogs. It's best to choose a bone broth made specifically for pets.
How much bone broth should I give my dog?
Bone broth is intended as a topper or complement to your dog's regular meals rather than a complete diet. The amount you use will depend on your dog's size and how you're serving it. Follow the feeding guidelines on the package and adjust as needed for your dog's individual routine.
Final Thoughts
Bone broth has earned its place in dog bowls for good reason. It's simple, versatile, and an easy way to bring more moisture and variety to your dog's daily routine. Whether you're pouring it over dinner, rehydrating freeze-dried food, or freezing it into enrichment treats, bone broth is one of those pantry (or freezer) staples you'll likely find yourself reaching for again and again.
The quality of the bone broth you choose matters just as much as how you use it. Recipes made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and formulated specifically for dogs give you confidence that every pour is adding something meaningful to the bowl.
At Smallbatch, we believe every ingredient should have a purpose. That's why our bone broths are made with the same commitment to quality you'll find throughout our lineup. From our frozen bone broth, made with just three simple ingredients, to our shelf-stable recipes crafted with single-source proteins, organic produce, herbs, and prebiotics, each option is designed to make it easy to add real food to your dog's everyday routine.
Whether you're just beginning your fresh feeding journey or have been feeding real food for years, bone broth is a simple addition that fits seamlessly into almost any feeding style.