Answered: The Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs

Bone broth – the superfood that is truly SUPER!

Bone broth has become somewhat of a superfood in recent times, with nutritionist and health enthusiasts promoting the extensive list of benefits bone broth can provide. Bone broth is a stock liquid made from slowly cooking meat bones at a low heat for an extended period of time. Simmering the ingredients releases their nutrients into the water in a form the body can easily absorb. It is packed in essential nutrients such as protein (including collagen), calcium, magnesium, vitamins A and B, and minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium and selenium, which all support a multitude of bodily functions.

Luckily for our pets, bone broth is not a human-only health booster – dogs can enjoy the delicious benefits of bone broth as well.

Bone broth for joint health

Glucosamine and chondroitin are structural components of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the joints. Bone broth is rich in both glucosamine and chondroitin, making it a perfect addition to your dog’s diet if they’re a breed prone to arthritis, or are becoming ‘stiff’ in their older age. Bone broth is also rich in collagen, which also contributes to joint health.

Bone broth for liver health

Bone broth is rich in amino acids such as glycine, cysteine and glutamic acid. When these three amino acids combine, they produce glutathione – a very powerful detoxifier. This helps to support the liver to detoxify the body, which is essential for happy and healthy dogs. Some amino acids found in bone broth are also great anti-inflammatories, which can help prevent common illnesses such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, some types of cancer, and canine dementia.

Bone broth for hydration

Bone broth is a very tasty liquid food with a high water content, which helps to promote optimal hydration in pups who may have just had a bout of illness (specifically diarrhoea or vomiting), or are not showing much of an interest in their usual food.

Bone broth for digestion and gut health

Bone broth is rich in collagen, which when heated as it is in bone broth, forms the liquid gelatin. Gelatin has been proven to support gut health by protecting the intestinal wall from damage, which helps with conditions such as leaky gut.

Bone broth for immunity

Bone broth is super-rich in nutrients and is therefore a fantastic way to support your dog’s immune system and prevent illness. Bone broth can help poorly pups get back to fighting-fit, and is a great substitute for their normal raw meals if they have had a bout of vomiting or diarrhoea.

How do I make bone broth?

A simple and easy homemade beef bone broth recipe needs just 4 ingredients: beef marrow bones, carrots, celery and rosemary. Add these ingredients to a large soup pot, along with enough water so submerge all ingredients. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer (with the lid on) for around 9 hours. Remove the bone(s) and allow to cool to room temperature, then serve! Bone broth can also be frozen if you want to prepare a batch in advance. Other bones such as chicken, turkey or lamb can be used, but ensure all bones are removed from the broth before serving. Buy marrow bones here.

Or - explore Nutriment’s range of ready made broth below!