This low sodium chicken broth is a simple, vet-friendly way to add flavor and hydration to your dog’s meals. Made with just chicken, water, and a few safe vegetables, it’s free of the salt, onion, and garlic that are common in store-bought broths and can be harmful to dogs. It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs and a great base for homemade dog food or a tasty topper for kibble.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) bone-in chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a whole cut-up chicken)
- 8 cups (1.9 L) water, plus more as needed
- 2 medium carrots, roughly chopped (about 1 cup / 130 g)
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped (about 1 cup / 120 g)
- 1 small handful fresh parsley (optional, for added nutrients)
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the carrots, celery, and parsley (if using).
- Pour in the 8 cups (1.9 L) of water, or enough to cover the chicken and vegetables by about 1 inch (2.5 cm).
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and falling off the bone. The broth should be aromatic and lightly golden.
- Remove the chicken pieces from the pot using tongs. Set them aside to cool enough to handle. The chicken should reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) per USDA FSIS guidelines; check with a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or container. Discard the cooked vegetables (they have given up their flavor and are usually too soft to be appealing to dogs).
- Let the broth cool to room temperature, then skim off any fat that rises to the top with a spoon. You can also use a fat separator.
- Once the chicken is cool, remove the meat from the bones. You can chop the meat into small pieces and add it back to the broth, or reserve it for another use (like a treat or topper). Discard the bones.
- Store the broth in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer, as described below.
Tips
- No salt, onion, or garlic: These are toxic to dogs, so never add them. The natural flavor of the chicken and vegetables is enough.
- Skim the fat: Too much fat can cause digestive upset in dogs. After chilling, the fat will solidify on top, making it easy to remove.
- Use bone-in chicken: The bones add collagen and minerals to the broth, which are good for joint health. Always remove the bones before serving.
- Make it in a slow cooker: For a hands-off version, place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, then follow the same straining and cooling steps.
Serving Suggestions
Pour a small amount (about 1/4 cup / 60 ml) over your dog’s regular kibble or homemade food to add moisture and flavor. You can also serve it as a warm, low-calorie treat in a bowl, or freeze it in ice cube trays for a refreshing summer snack. Always serve the broth at room temperature or slightly warm—never hot—to avoid burning your dog’s mouth.
Variations
- Turkey broth: Substitute turkey pieces for chicken for a different protein source.
- Add pumpkin: Stir in a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to the finished broth for extra fiber.
- Herb boost: Add a sprig of fresh thyme or a small piece of turmeric root (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm) to the pot for additional flavor and antioxidants. Avoid rosemary and sage in large amounts, as they can be strong for some dogs.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate the broth in airtight containers for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays or freezer-safe jars, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) of headspace for expansion. Frozen broth keeps for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Stir well and check the temperature before serving—it should be lukewarm, not hot. Never leave broth at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken stock instead of broth? Stock is made with bones and broth with meat, but for this recipe they are interchangeable. The key is to use a low-sodium or homemade version with no onion or garlic.
Is it safe to give my dog broth every day? Yes, in moderation. Start with a small amount to see how your dog tolerates it. If your dog has kidney disease or other health issues, consult your vet first, as even low-sodium broth may not be suitable.
Can I use a whole chicken instead of pieces? Absolutely. A whole chicken works well; just increase the simmering time to 2 hours to extract flavor from the bones.
My dog is on a low-fat diet. How do I remove all the fat? After chilling the broth in the refrigerator, the fat will solidify on top. Use a spoon to lift it off completely. You can also run the broth through a paper-towel-lined sieve to catch any remaining fat.
Can I add rice or noodles? Plain, cooked rice is fine to add to the broth for extra calories, but avoid noodles as they often contain salt. If you add rice, you may need to add more water as the rice absorbs liquid.
How long can I leave the broth out? Never leave the broth at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that, bacteria can grow, making it unsafe for your dog.
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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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