Chicken Broth for Dogs: Easy Homemade Recipe

This simple chicken broth is a nourishing, vet-friendly addition to your dog’s meals. Made with just chicken, water, and a few safe vegetables, it’s a flavorful way to encourage picky eaters, add moisture to kibble, or soothe an upset stomach. Unlike store-bought broths, this homemade version contains no onions, garlic, or excess salt, making it a safe and healthy treat for your furry friend.

Ingredients

2 lbs (900 g) bone-in chicken pieces (such as thighs, drumsticks, or a whole chicken cut up)
8 cups (1.9 L) water
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 small handful of fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Place the chicken pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and parsley (if using).
Pour the water over everything, ensuring the chicken and vegetables are fully submerged. If needed, add a bit more water to cover.
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours. The broth should be barely bubbling, not boiling hard.
After simmering, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot using tongs. Place them on a cutting board to cool slightly.
Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the vegetables and any small bones. Discard the vegetables.
Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones. Shred or chop the meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
Let the broth cool completely. Skim off any fat that rises to the top with a spoon.
Store the broth in airtight containers in the refrigerator, or freeze in ice cube trays or freezer-safe jars for later use.

Tips

Bone-in chicken is key: The bones add collagen and flavor to the broth, making it more nutritious and appealing. You can use a mix of dark and white meat.
No onions or garlic: These common soup aromatics are toxic to dogs, so leave them out entirely. Stick to dog-safe vegetables like carrots, celery, and green beans.
Skim the fat: While a little fat is fine, too much can cause digestive upset in dogs. Use a spoon or a fat separator to remove the excess fat after the broth has chilled.
Cool completely before serving: Hot broth can burn your dog’s mouth. Always let it cool to room temperature or slightly warm before adding it to their food.

Serving Suggestions

Pour a few tablespoons (about 15-30 ml) of broth over your dog’s dry kibble to soften it and add flavor. You can also serve it as a special treat on its own, or mix it with shredded chicken for a simple, gentle meal for a dog with a sensitive stomach. For small dogs, start with a tablespoon (15 ml) and adjust based on their size.

Variations

You can swap the chicken for turkey or beef bones (beef bones should be large and not weight-bearing to avoid cracking teeth). Add other dog-safe vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or sweet potato. For an extra boost, you can add a pinch of turmeric (known for its anti-inflammatory properties) or a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin. Always introduce new ingredients gradually.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate the broth in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the broth in ice cube trays, then transfer the cubes to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw the broth in the refrigerator overnight or warm it gently on the stovetop. Always reheat to a safe temperature (165Â°F / 74Â°C) if you’re warming it, and let it cool before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a rotisserie chicken carcass? Yes, but be sure to remove all the skin and any seasoning. Rotisserie chickens are often high in salt and may contain garlic or onion powder, so it’s best to use leftover plain cooked chicken or a fresh bird for the most control.

How much broth should I give my dog? As a general rule, add 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) per 10 lbs (4.5 kg) of body weight per meal. For a 50 lb (23 kg) dog, that’s about 5-10 tablespoons (75-150 ml). Start with a smaller amount to see how your dog tolerates it.

Is it okay to give broth every day? Yes, in moderation. Broth should be a supplement to a balanced diet, not a replacement for water or meals. If your dog has kidney issues or other health conditions, consult your vet before adding broth to their diet.

Can I use chicken broth as a meal replacement? No. Broth is low in calories and lacks the complete nutrition your dog needs. It’s best used as a flavor enhancer or hydration aid.

Why is my broth jelly-like after refrigeration? That’s a good sign! The gelatin from the bones and connective tissue makes the broth gel when cold. It will become liquid again when warmed.

Can I add salt? No, dogs need very little sodium. The natural chicken flavor is enough, and added salt can be harmful to your dog’s health.

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Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes

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