Can dogs eat it?
Is bone broth good for dogs?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Homemade bone broth made without onion, garlic, or salt is a safe and tasty addition to most dogs' meals, and many owners use it to add moisture and flavor. Broth and stock sold for people are a different matter: they usually contain onion, garlic, and a lot of salt. Always strain out every bone fragment, and skim off the fat before serving.
Making a dog-safe broth
Simmer chicken carcasses, turkey necks, or beef bones in water for 12 to 24 hours with nothing else added, or with a few carrot pieces for flavor. Strain through a fine sieve twice to catch small bone fragments, and discard all bones, which become brittle after long cooking. Chill the broth overnight and lift off the solid fat layer.
The result often sets into a jelly, which is normal.
Why shop-bought stock is a problem
A single stock cube can contain around 1 g of sodium, and most cubes, pots, and cartons list onion or garlic among the ingredients. Ready-made soups and gravies are similar. Broths sold specifically for dogs are formulated without these, so read the label if you prefer not to make your own.
Low-sodium human broths often still contain onion.
Using broth in the bowl
Pour two to four tablespoons over dry food for a medium dog, or freeze broth in ice cube trays and add a cube to meals. On hot days, frozen broth cubes are a popular lick treat. Broth can also soften kibble for older dogs with sore teeth, although dental pain itself needs a vet check.
Store broth in the fridge for three to four days, or freeze it for up to three months.
Health claims
Bone broth is often promoted for joints, skin, and gut health. It contains some collagen and minerals, but there is little evidence it treats any condition in dogs. Enjoy it as a food topper, and speak to your vet about joint or digestive concerns.
Key takeaways
- Homemade broth with no onion, garlic, or salt is safe for most dogs.
- Strain out every bone fragment and skim the fat.
- Human stock cubes and cartons are salty and often contain onion.
- Broth is a tasty topper, not a treatment.