Homemade Bone Broth for Dogs: The Ultimate Guide (Slow Cooker Method)

Updated at: 26/03/2025

Is your canine companion deserving of a nutritious and flavorful treat that also boasts incredible health benefits? Look no further than homemade bone broth! This simple yet powerful elixir, easily prepared using a slow cooker, can offer a wealth of advantages for your furry friend, from improved digestion and joint health to a shiny coat and enhanced immunity. Bone broth is packed with collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin – essential nutrients that support your dog's overall well-being, especially as they age. Forget expensive commercial options laden with questionable ingredients; this guide empowers you to create a healthy and delicious broth tailored specifically to your dog’s needs.

This ultimate guide, focusing on the convenient slow cooker method, walks you through each step of the process, from selecting the right bones to achieving the perfect consistency. Get ready to discover the secrets to brewing a batch of bone broth that your dog will absolutely adore! Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions below to start making this nourishing treat.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Slow cooker
  • Large pot (alternative)
  • Instant Pot (alternative)
  • Colander
  • Fine-mesh strainer
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise your dog while they are consuming bone broth. Choking hazards can occur, especially with larger bone fragments.
  • Avoid using bones from poultry or any other type of bone that can splinter easily. Stick to larger, marrow-rich bones like beef knuckle or oxtail.
  • Introduce bone broth gradually to your dog's diet to avoid digestive upset. Start with a small amount and monitor for any adverse reactions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    • Place beef bones (or chicken, etc.) in the slow cooker.
    • 1 tbsp oregano, 2 tbsp fresh parsley, 2 large fresh basil leaves.
    • chopped green peppers, green beans, carrots, and celery (adjust to your dog's preferences).
    • Add 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar.
    Add 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar.Add 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar.Add 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar.Add 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar.
    Prepare Ingredients

  2. Combine and Cook

    • Add enough water to cover all ingredients.
    • Cook on low for 24 hours (or simmer on the stove for 12 hours, or use an Instant Pot - although the speaker prefers the slow cooker method).
    Cook on low for 24 hours (or simmer on the stove for 12 hours, or use an Instant Pot - although the speaker prefers the slow cooker method).Cook on low for 24 hours (or simmer on the stove for 12 hours, or use an Instant Pot - although the speaker prefers the slow cooker method).
    Combine and Cook

  3. Strain and Cool

    • Let the broth cool slightly before straining through a colander and then a fine-mesh strainer to remove bones and solids.
    Let the broth cool slightly before straining through a colander and then a fine-mesh strainer to remove bones and solids.
    Strain and Cool

  4. Remove Fat

    • Remove fat from the surface of the cooled broth.
    Remove fat from the surface of the cooled broth.
    Remove Fat

  5. Store

    • Store bone broth in the fridge or freezer.
    Store bone broth in the fridge or freezer.
    Store

Read more: Easy Homemade Cranberry Dog Treats: A Simple & Cheap Recipe

Tips

  • Use any type of bones (beef, chicken, etc.), even pre-cooked or roasted ones (without seasonings your dog can't have).
  • Adjust seasonings and vegetables according to your dog's preferences and dietary needs.
  • Add turmeric at the end for best results.
  • Don't give dogs too much fatty pieces to prevent pancreatitis.
  • Save strained vegetables to use as food toppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Bones

Reason: Bones that are too small or lacking marrow won't yield a rich, flavorful broth. Using cooked bones provides little to no nutritional benefit.
Solution: Select large, marrow-rich bones like knuckle, neck, or femur bones from pasture-raised animals and ensure they are raw.

2. Not Simmering Long Enough

Reason: Insufficient simmering time prevents the bones from releasing their nutrients and collagen into the broth, resulting in a less nutritious product.
Solution: Simmer the broth for at least 24 hours, or even longer for a richer, more collagen-dense broth.

3. Ignoring Proper Cooling and Storage

Reason: Improperly cooling or storing the broth can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.
Solution: Allow the broth to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing in airtight containers.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bone for dog bone broth?
While many bones work, opt for marrow bones (like beef knuckle or oxtail) for richer broth. Avoid bones from poultry that have been cooked previously.
How long can I store homemade dog bone broth?
Store cooled broth in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Always allow to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
My dog is allergic to certain things. Can I adjust the recipe?
Absolutely! Omit any ingredients your dog is allergic to. You can also experiment with different bone types and vegetable additions to personalize the broth.