Bone Broth for Dogs: The NZ Guide to Benefits, Serving Sizes and How to Feed It

Yes, bone broth is generally a safe, useful addition to a dog’s diet when it’s plain and served in a sensible amount. It’s a topper, not a meal: it can add moisture and flavour, but it shouldn’t replace balanced food or veterinary care.

What is bone broth for dogs?

Bone broth is made by slowly simmering animal bones and connective tissue in water. The finished broth may contain gelatin, collagen and small amounts of minerals, though what it contains varies with the bones, recipe and cooking method.

It’s important to be realistic about the claims. Many reported benefits are anecdotal, and there isn’t strong evidence that bone broth treats joint, skin or digestive problems in dogs. Think of it as a tasty way to add liquid to a meal, rather than a medicine.

Why do people give dog bone broth?

The most straightforward reasons are moisture and taste. A little broth may make a meal more appealing, add liquid to a raw bowl, or encourage a fussy dog to eat their usual food. Some owners also like offering it as a warm (not hot) topper in winter, or softening food for an older dog who prefers a softer texture.

Some dogs recovering from illness may be less interested in food, and a palatable topper can sometimes help. But if your dog is refusing food, vomiting, unwell or recovering from surgery, ask your vet what is appropriate. Bone broth is not a treatment, and it won’t cure joint pain or gut problems.

How much bone broth to feed a dog

There’s no single proven serving size for every dog. Start with a small amount, see how your dog responds, and use the following as a practical daily guide for a healthy dog:

If your dog is new to broth, begin with less than the suggested amount and introduce it gradually. Stop if you notice vomiting, diarrhoea or another unusual reaction. These are general serving suggestions, not medical dosing advice; follow the product label if it recommends less.

Broth is an extra, so count it as part of your dog’s daily food allowance rather than adding it on top of their usual food. This matters especially for dogs on a weight-loss plan. If you’re unsure how a topper fits into your dog’s overall bowl, our Raw Dog Feeding Guide and Feeding Calculator can help you work out a starting point for their main meals.

How to serve bone broth

Thaw frozen broth safely, then warm it gently if you like. It should be lukewarm or cool before serving, not boiling or hot.

You can pour a little over your dog’s regular meal or raw food, serve it in a bowl, or freeze small portions in an ice-cube tray for a lick mat or enrichment treat. For older dogs, a splash may soften food and make it easier to eat.

If you feed raw, don’t pour boiling-hot broth over the meal. Let it cool first, and keep handling and storage in line with the product label.

Choosing bone broth for dogs in NZ

When buying bone broth, check the ingredient list and feeding instructions. A good option should have a short, clear list, no added salt, no artificial flavour, and no onion or garlic. Garlic is a genuine no for dogs, and onion is toxic. Avoid products with seasoning, stock cubes or gravy ingredients, too.

Look for clear information about whether the broth is a concentrate or ready to use; these aren’t necessarily served in the same way. Ideally, choose a product that says where its ingredients come from and is made with NZ-sourced bones.

For local options, take a look at our NZ-made range: lamb bone broth, goat bone broth and duck bone broth for dogs.

Homemade or bought bone broth?

Homemade broth can be a budget-friendly option, but it takes time to prepare, and it’s easy to add ingredients dogs shouldn’t have or leave too much fat in the broth. If you make it at home, keep it plain and strain it carefully so no bone fragments remain.

A bought dog broth is convenient and provides product information to check before serving. Read its label closely, including the ingredients, storage instructions and suggested portion. You can browse our supplements and toppers to see available options.

Safety: when to check with your vet

Bone broth should be a simple addition, not a workaround for a medical diet. Check with your vet before serving it to a dog with pancreatitis, kidney disease or another medical condition, or one who needs a low-fat or restricted diet. Dogs on a weight-loss plan may also need their portions adjusted. If your dog has pancreatitis, our guide to pancreatitis and low-fat dog food may be useful, but your vet should advise on your dog’s specific diet.

Be cautious with supermarket broth or stock. Many products contain salt, onion, garlic or seasonings, so don’t assume a human product is suitable just because it’s called broth. Check the full ingredient list; if anything is unclear, choose a product made for pets or ask your vet.

Finally, bone broth must not contain cooked bone fragments. Cooked bones can splinter and cause injury or obstruction if swallowed. Strain homemade broth thoroughly and don’t add cooked bones to your dog’s bowl.

Bone broth for dogs NZ: FAQs

Is bone broth good for dogs?

It can be a useful topper for adding moisture and flavour, and some dogs enjoy it on their food. Claims that it treats joint or gut problems are not proven, so it shouldn’t replace a balanced diet or veterinary advice.

Can puppies have bone broth?

A small amount of plain, suitable broth may be offered, but it’s not a substitute for a complete diet designed for growth. If your puppy has a health issue or you’re unsure about their diet, check with your vet.

Is bone broth safe every day?

Many healthy dogs can have a small amount regularly if the broth is suitable and their overall food allowance is considered. Start gradually, follow the label and ask your vet if your dog has a medical condition.

Can I give my dog bone broth from the supermarket?

Only if the ingredients are suitable for dogs. Avoid broth containing onion, garlic, added salt, seasoning or other ingredients you can’t identify.

Does bone broth help with joint pain?

It may contain collagen or gelatin, but there isn’t strong evidence that broth relieves joint pain in dogs. If your dog is stiff or sore, talk to your vet rather than relying on broth.

Is bone broth OK for a dog with pancreatitis?

Don’t give it without your vet’s approval. Broth can contain fat, and dogs with pancreatitis may need a carefully managed low-fat diet.

If you’d like to add a little variety to your dog’s bowl, browse our toppers and supplements or ready-made raw meals. Use the Raw Dog Feeding Guide and Feeding Calculator to plan the whole bowl, and check with your vet if your dog has specific dietary needs.

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