You may have heard it isn’t safe to give your dog chicken bones (most cooked bones are hazardous for dogs because they can splinter and damage your dog’s stomach) but what about bone broth. what is it? Is it safe? Is it healthy? Will my dog like it? How do I make it? And most importantly, WHY should I give it to my dog.
Traditionally bone broth was recommended for dogs with leaky gut and digestive problems but recently it’s popularity has grown as more benefits are discovered. Benefits such as improved joint health, liver detox, reduced inflammation, healthy bones, and more.
What is bone broth and how is it made?
Bone broth is made with raw or cooked bones (preferably raw). You toss one or more bones in a pot, add water and simmer for 18-24 hours.
✔️The more bones the better because each type of bone offers a different nutritional element.
✔️If you don’t have any raw bones use bones from last night’s dinner, that’s perfectly fine.
✔️If 18-24 hours is too long or will cost too much in electricity, use a pressure cooker for 40 minutes.
Be sure to add an acidic element as this helps draw the nutrients out of the bone. Apple cider vinegar is used most often with lemon 🍋 juice as the second runner up.
You can also add these for flavor and added health benefits
🥕carrot
🥕turmeric
🥕ginger
🥕kelp
🥕herbs (such as basil, thyme and sage).
If you only have 5 minutes
If you’re on the go or looking for a very simple method I use this bone broth mix made just for dogs (with added turmeric).
Just add it to your dog’s meal. If you dog isn’t a huge fan of kibble, it’s a great way to get your dog interested. Not only does it pack a tremendous punch with needed nutrients but it adds a flavor that he will never turn down. Note: Good for dogs and cats!
Helps with Leaky Gut Syndrome and Digestive disorders
Leaky gut syndrome happens when small gaps form in the intestines. In turn, particles of food that are undigested (and carry bacteria) pass straight into the bloodstream. 🤢This causes multiple issues but most common are
- allergies
- digestive disorders
- autoimmune disease.
Leaky gut syndrome is believed to be caused by a prolonged diet of unhealthy processed food ongoing or large amounts of antibiotics, and foods that cause inflammation.
Bone broth helps because it is easily absorbed by the gut and carries multiple nutritional benefits such as amino acids (arginine, glycine, glutamine and proline).
Bone broth aids with digestive issues thanks to the high levels of gelatin (a protein derived from collagen in the bones extracted during the boiling process). Gelatin is a major player with maintenance of the intestinal lining and promotion of good bacteria.
Tip: If your dog has digestive issues or arthritis or other joint issues, be sure to throw in some joint bones (like legs, feet) as these have more gelatin.
Bone broth can help improve your dog’s joint health:
If your dog requires joint maintenance due to age, injury or chronic issue (like arthritis or a luxating patella) bone broth can help. It’s is loaded with glycosaminoglycans. Think glucosamine for dogs. You have probably heard that glucosamine is good for your dog’s joints but just as important is chondroitin and hyaluronic acid. All of these are included in the bone broth stew!
Bonus: Bone broth is a home run for dogs with arthritis.
Bone broth helps with liver detox:
Glycine helps detox the liver and bone broth has this important element. Think your dog doesn’t need a liver detox? Think about everything that they eat, all of the chemicals they come across on a regular basis (Lawn pesticides, flea and tick spray, carpet cleaners, floor cleaners, antibiotics or other drugs they may be on, etc)!
Conclusion
Consider bone broth for your dog’s ongoing diet. Whether it’s once a week or on a regular basis this super treat can add flavor to your dog’s meal and pack a powerful punch of nutrients all at the same time!
