Is Bone Broth Good For Dogs With Diarrhea?
When a dog is suffering from diarrhea, pet owners often look for natural, gentle remedies to help restore their pet’s digestive health. Bone broth, a nutrient-dense liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues, has gained widespread attention as a holistic supplement for dogs experiencing gastrointestinal upset.
What Is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is crafted by slowly boiling bones (commonly beef, chicken, or turkey), along with connective tissues and optional dog-safe vegetables, in water for 12 to 48 hours. The slow cooking process extracts vital nutrients like collagen, gelatin, and minerals, resulting in a highly digestible liquid that’s easy on the stomach.
Why Bone Broth Helps Dogs With Diarrhea
Bone broth is excellent for dogs with diarrhea for several reasons:
- Hydration: Diarrhea can cause dehydration. Bone broth replenishes lost fluids, offering a tastier alternative to plain water.
- Easy To Digest: Gentle on the digestive system, bone broth is suitable even when your dog refuses solid food.
- Soothes The Gut: The gelatin in bone broth forms a protective barrier over the intestinal lining, aiding in healing an inflamed gut.
- Protein And Amino Acids: Amino acids like glycine and glutamine support gut health and liver function, essential during recovery.
- Entices Appetite: The warm, savory flavor encourages dogs with poor appetite to eat something nutritious.
Additional Benefits Of Bone Broth
Beyond supporting digestive health, bone broth has many other benefits for canine well-being:
- Improves Joint Health: Contains natural glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen to support joints.
- Enhances Skin and Coat: Collagen supports skin elasticity and a shiny coat.
- Supports Immunity: Nutrients like proline and glycine assist immune function.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps reduce inflammation linked to chronic health issues.
- Low-Calorie & Nutritious: Ideal for overweight pups or those with dietary restrictions.
How To Make Bone Broth For Dogs
Homemade bone broth is best for dogs, as store-bought versions often contain harmful ingredients. Here’s how to make it:
- Use raw marrow bones (beef, chicken, turkey, etc.)
- Add dog-safe vegetables like carrots and celery
- Include an acidic ingredient (apple cider vinegar or lemon juice) to extract minerals
- Optional herbs: basil, thyme, parsley (avoid onions and excessive garlic)
- Simmer for 12–48 hours, then strain and cool
Feeding Guidelines
Introduce bone broth gradually and consult your vet first. Recommended daily amounts are:
- Under 20 lbs: 1 oz
- 20–40 lbs: 2 oz
- 50–80 lbs: 4 oz
- 80+ lbs: 6 oz
Safety Considerations
- Never feed cooked bones—always remove bone fragments
- No onions, salt, or spices—toxic to dogs
- Use high-quality bones—preferably grass-fed or pasture-raised
Bone Broth As Part Of A Balanced Diet
Bone broth should be served as a supplement or topper, not as a full meal. While it offers hydration and specific nutrients, it lacks the complete nutrition needed for long-term feeding.
Conclusion
Bone broth is a gentle yet nourishing addition to support dogs with diarrhea. It rehydrates, calms the gut, and delivers restorative nutrients—all essential during recovery. When made properly at home, it’s a safe, natural way to help your furry companion return to health.
