How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs With Arthritis That Actually Helps
If you’ve ever watched your older pup struggle to get up in the morning or limp a bit after a walk, you’ve probably wondered what more you can do to help. As someone who’s worked hands-on as an Animal Care Specialist in clinics and shelters, I’ve seen firsthand how arthritis can affect a dog’s daily life. One of the most natural, nourishing things I often recommend to pet parents is bone broth. Yep — learning how to make bone broth for dogs with arthritis can be a total game-changer. It’s like liquid gold for joints, and it’s easier to make than you might think. Let me walk you through what I’ve learned, both professionally and from my own kitchen experiments with some four-legged clients.
Why Bone Broth is Amazing for Arthritic Dogs
Bone broth isn’t just a foodie trend — for dogs, it’s legit joint support in a bowl. Especially for pups with arthritis, this stuff is loaded with glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen, and amino acids that help reduce inflammation and support cartilage health. And since it’s easy to digest, even dogs with sensitive tummies can usually enjoy it without any issues.
Back when I was working at a shelter in Phoenix, we had a senior shepherd mix named Baxter who had stiff hips and low energy. One of our vets suggested adding homemade bone broth to his diet. Within a few weeks, we saw a noticeable difference — his tail wagged a bit higher, and he started showing interest in toys again. That stuck with me. Sometimes, the most effective treatments come from our own kitchens.
What’s in Bone Broth That Helps with Arthritis?
There’s real science behind the soothing powers of bone broth. When bones are simmered low and slow, they release a bunch of nutrients dogs need — especially those with aging joints:
- Collagen: Supports joint and connective tissue health.
- Glucosamine & Chondroitin: Natural compounds that reduce joint pain and improve mobility.
- Gelatin: Helps cushion joints and strengthens bones.
- Amino Acids: Like glycine and proline, which help reduce inflammation.
- Minerals: Such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which are vital for bone strength.
All of this goodness seeps into the broth during the slow simmer. And if your dog’s a picky eater, you’ll be happy to know that bone broth smells amazing to them — it’s like the canine version of comfort food.
Choosing the Right Bones for Your Dog’s Broth
Not all bones are created equal, especially when it comes to making broth for dogs. You want to pick bones that are rich in joint tissue — think knuckle bones, chicken feet, beef marrow bones, necks, and backs. These types yield the most collagen and gelatin.
Pro Tip from the Clinic:
Back in the clinic, we used to tell pet parents to ask their local butcher for “soup bones.” They’re usually cheap, packed with marrow, and perfect for broth. I’ve also had good luck getting chicken feet from Asian markets — they look a little weird, but trust me, they produce insanely nutritious broth.
How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs with Arthritis: The Basics
Let’s break down the process. You don’t need fancy equipment — just a big stockpot or a slow cooker. Here’s my go-to method I’ve used over and over again for both personal and clinic pups:
- Start with Quality Bones: Get a mix of marrow bones and joints. Chicken feet and beef knuckles are top choices.
- Add Water: Fill the pot with enough water to cover the bones by a couple inches.
- Add Apple Cider Vinegar: About 2 tablespoons. This helps draw the minerals out of the bones.
- Simmer Gently: Keep it on low heat for 12–24 hours (or longer in a slow cooker). The longer it simmers, the more nutrients are extracted.
- Strain & Cool: Strain out all bones and let the broth cool. You’ll notice it turns jelly-like when cold — that’s a good thing. It means it’s rich in gelatin.
- Optional Add-Ins: You can toss in turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits), parsley, or a little ginger for extra goodness — just make sure everything is dog-safe.
A Few Safety Notes
Never feed cooked bones to dogs. After straining, discard all the bones — they become brittle and dangerous once cooked. Also, skip onions, garlic, and excessive salt — those are a big no-no for pups.
I always store mine in mason jars in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze in silicone molds so I can pop out a cube when needed. My current dog, Luna (a senior Lab with creaky joints), literally runs when she hears the freezer drawer open!
What to Expect After Adding Bone Broth to Your Dog’s Diet
Don’t expect a miracle overnight, but give it a few weeks and you might be surprised. Many pet parents — and I’ve seen this in clinic records too — report:
- Increased energy and mobility
- Less limping or stiffness after naps
- Improved appetite (especially helpful for sick or older dogs)
- Healthier skin and coat as a bonus!
The beauty of bone broth is that it’s nourishing on so many levels. Even if your dog doesn’t have arthritis, it’s a wholesome addition to almost any diet.
Creative Ways to Serve Bone Broth to Dogs with Arthritis
So now you’ve got this amazing pot of golden goodness—what’s next? Bone broth is versatile, and there are a bunch of fun (and sneaky) ways to incorporate it into your dog’s meals. Trust me, this comes from years of helping stubborn eaters in both clinic settings and foster care.
Here Are Some Easy Serving Ideas:
- Poured Over Dry Kibble: Perfect for picky eaters or seniors with sensitive teeth. It softens dry food and adds an irresistible aroma.
- Mixed with Wet Food: Adds a moisture boost and makes the meal more digestible.
- Frozen as Treats: Pour broth into silicone molds (paw or bone shapes are cute!) and freeze. Great for hot days or as a slow-lick enrichment treat.
- As a Standalone Snack: Some dogs will lap it up straight like soup—especially if you warm it slightly.
One of my favorite shelter hacks was freezing broth into thin layers on a baking sheet and breaking it into shards—like jerky, but softer and more hydrating. Great for older dogs who needed extra hydration without too many calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Bone Broth for Dogs
Even though making bone broth is pretty straightforward, there are a few things I’ve seen folks mess up over the years—mistakes that can turn a healthy meal into something harmful.
Keep These Tips in Mind:
- Don’t Add Onions or Garlic: Even a little can be toxic for dogs. Always double-check your ingredients.
- Skip the Salt: Dogs don’t need extra sodium, and too much can cause health issues.
- Strain Thoroughly: Tiny bone fragments can be dangerous. Always strain your broth through a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
- Watch the Fat Layer: Let the broth cool in the fridge, then skim off the hardened fat. Too much fat can lead to pancreatitis—especially in senior dogs.
There was a time early in my career when I forgot to skim the fat from a beef broth batch I made for a recovering dog. Poor guy ended up with loose stools for two days. Since then, I’ve been super careful about that step. Live and learn!
How Often Should You Give Bone Broth to Dogs with Arthritis?
This is a question I get all the time. The short answer? It depends on your dog’s size, health, and dietary needs. But as a general guide:
- Small Dogs: 1–2 tablespoons per day
- Medium Dogs: 1/4 to 1/2 cup per day
- Large Dogs: Up to 1 cup per day
You can serve it daily, a few times a week, or just occasionally as a treat. With arthritic dogs, I usually recommend offering it consistently for at least a few weeks to see noticeable benefits. Consistency really is key when it comes to joint health.
Bonus Tip:
If your dog is on any medication for arthritis, like Rimadyl or gabapentin, ask your vet if bone broth could be a good supplement. Most of the vets I’ve worked with have been 100% on board, especially since broth can help ease digestion issues from meds.
Adding Extra Joint-Friendly Boosters to Your Broth
Once you’re comfortable with the basic recipe, you can level it up with a few extras. Over the years, I’ve experimented with add-ins that take the anti-inflammatory power to the next level — just always make sure they’re dog-safe.
My Favorite Joint-Soothing Additions:
- Turmeric: Natural anti-inflammatory. Use sparingly (about 1/4 tsp per quart of broth) and always combine with a pinch of black pepper to activate it.
- Ginger: Helps with joint pain and digestion.
- Parsley: Freshens breath and adds extra nutrients.
- Blueberries (in frozen cubes): Yep, you can freeze broth with a few blueberries inside for an antioxidant boost. Dogs love the surprise!
One time I added a dash of turmeric and a few shredded carrots to a batch, and my client’s bulldog literally licked the bowl clean. His owner texted me a picture of him sitting by the fridge the next morning like he was waiting for seconds. I call that a win.
Signs Bone Broth is Helping Your Arthritic Dog
So how do you know if it’s working? It’s not like your dog can say, “Wow, Mom, my joints feel amazing!” But there are definitely signs to watch for:
- Less limping or hesitation getting up
- More interest in play or walks
- Better posture when standing
- Improved digestion and fewer tummy issues
- Shinier coat and clearer eyes (bonus perks!)
It usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks to see changes, depending on how severe your dog’s arthritis is. Keep an eye on their behavior and energy levels. If you notice a pep in their step or fewer groans when getting off the couch, that’s a pretty clear sign it’s doing its job.
One of my oldest clients — a 14-year-old golden retriever named Daisy — went from needing a lift assist to walking outside on her own after a month of regular broth. Her family was floored, and honestly, so was I. It doesn’t replace meds or vet care, but it sure complements them beautifully.
When to Skip Bone Broth: Dogs Who Might Need Alternatives
Even though bone broth is a nutritional powerhouse for most dogs, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Over the years, I’ve come across a few cases where it just wasn’t the right fit, or at least needed to be adjusted.
Scenarios Where You Might Want to Skip or Modify It:
- Dogs on a Low-Phosphorus Diet: If your pup has kidney issues, bone broth made from marrow-rich bones might be too high in phosphorus. You’ll want to check with your vet first.
- Dogs with Pancreatitis History: Even if you skim the fat, broth can still be too rich for some sensitive tummies.
- Allergy-Prone Dogs: If you’re using beef bones and your dog reacts poorly to beef, you’ll need to switch it up. Chicken or turkey bones are gentler options.
I remember one sweet pug named Olive who had pancreatitis episodes. We gave her a very diluted version—like 1 part broth to 4 parts water—and served it cold. Even that tiny bit helped her appetite bounce back without upsetting her stomach.
Making Bone Broth a Part of a Whole Wellness Plan
Let’s be real—bone broth alone isn’t going to “cure” arthritis. But when it’s part of a thoughtful, multi-faceted care plan? That’s where the magic happens. I’ve seen it make a powerful difference when combined with the right vet care, supplements, exercise, and love (lots of that).
What Else Can You Do to Support an Arthritic Dog?
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess pounds = more pressure on joints. Bone broth can help here too by replacing fatty treats.
- Consider Joint Supplements: Like glucosamine, MSM, or green-lipped mussel. Always check with your vet before starting anything new.
- Use Orthopedic Beds: Memory foam beds can do wonders. I had one older beagle who literally stopped groaning in his sleep after we upgraded his bedding.
- Gentle, Consistent Movement: Regular walks (nothing too strenuous), hydrotherapy, or low-impact play keeps joints lubricated and muscles strong.
- Massage & Acupressure: These techniques, especially when guided by a trained professional, can improve mobility and reduce pain.
Honestly, some of the best recoveries I’ve witnessed came from dog parents who embraced a holistic view—mixing nutrition (like broth), medication when needed, and lots of patience. Your dog may not be able to chase frisbees like they used to, but with the right support, they can still enjoy a joyful, comfortable life.
How Long Does Homemade Bone Broth Last?
This is one of those practical questions that come up a lot. Bone broth can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you’re making a big batch (which I usually do), freezing is your best friend.
Storage Tips That Work for Me:
- Store in mason jars in the fridge (just leave a little room at the top if freezing to prevent cracking).
- Freeze in silicone molds or ice cube trays, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy access.
- Label with the date! Trust me, you’ll forget when you made it. Been there, done that.
When defrosting, I like to pop a cube or two into my dog’s bowl and pour warm water over it. Makes a fast, easy meal topper without dirtying another pot.
Final Thoughts: A Little Goes a Long Way
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t. Making bone broth for your dog doesn’t have to be a complicated project. I started small—one pot on the stove, a couple of bones, and a little curiosity. Before long, I was making it regularly for both shelter dogs and personal pets because the results spoke for themselves.
Your dog doesn’t need you to be a gourmet chef. They just need your care, your consistency, and a little broth love in their bowl.
With just a little effort each week, you can make something deeply nourishing that supports your pup’s joints, immune system, and overall comfort. And honestly? It feels good knowing you’re doing something so wholesome and healing for them.
References
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on my personal and professional experience as an Animal Care Specialist. It is not intended to replace veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or health care routine, especially if your pet has existing health conditions.
