Guest Blog by Kylie Makel
Dogs hold a special place in our hearts, and as pet owners, we always want what's best for them. From nutritious meals to cozy beds, we strive to provide our four-legged friends with the very best care. One often overlooked but incredibly beneficial addition to your dog's diet is bone broth. In recent years bone broth has become super trendy as people learn the health benefits it provides, however, this superfood isn’t just for humans; it offers numerous benefits for our canine companions as well.
What is Bone Broth?
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering animal bones (such as chicken, beef, or fish), along with vegetables, herbs, and spices, for an extended period of time. The result is a flavorful liquid that's packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It truly is a superfood as it has benefits from joint health to immune support. While bone broth has gained popularity among humans, it can also be a valuable addition to your dog's diet.
5 Health Benefits of Bone Broth for Your Dog
1. Promotes Joint Health
One of the most significant benefits of bone broth for dogs is its ability to promote joint health. The broth is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, two compounds that support cartilage and joint health. As dogs age, they may develop joint issues, making bone broth an excellent preventative measure or supplement for dogs with existing joint problems. As many of you know, I work as a vet assistant for a holistic vet and we recommend bone broth for joint health every single day. Whether your dog is suffering from a cruciate ligament tear or severe arthritis, bone broth can be a major part of their healing journey.
2. Aids in Digestion
Digestion issues are a common problem we see in dogs that can lead to discomfort and decreased nutrient absorption. Digestive issues present themselves in symptoms such as:
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Excessive gas
• Constipation
• Disinterest in food
• Weight loss
We see and treat this problem regularly in my veterinary clinic. And while many traditional vets are quick to prescribe antibiotics or other drugs to relieve these symptoms, we tend to lean towards more natural solutions that won’t just treat symptoms, but will treat the problem as a whole. Bone broth is a great ailment for digestive issues as it contains gelatin, which can help soothe and protect the digestive tract. It also aids in the digestion of other foods, making it easier for your dog to absorb vital nutrients.
3. Provides Essential Nutrients
Bone broth is a nutritional powerhouse, offering a wide range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones, teeth, and overall health. Additionally, bone broth is rich in amino acids like glycine and proline, which play crucial roles in maintaining healthy tissues, muscles, and skin. Bone broth really is a superfood, as it benefits the entire body, both inside and out.
4. Boosts Hydration
Making sure our pups stay hydrated (especially during extremely hot weather!) is so important. Like humans, dogs need to be hydrated in order to keep their body functioning properly. Brutus Bone Broth has a moisture content of 98% making it a great supplement to keep up your dog's hydration. It is an especially great choice for dogs who aren’t great about drinking water, as Brutus Broth is so tasty, most dogs can’t resist ;)
5. Supports Immune Health
Did you know that illnesses we often associate with humans such as the common cold or flu also exist in the canine world? Unfortunately, dogs aren’t immune to viral and infectious diseases. Keeping your dogs immune system as strong as possible is so important to their overall health and longevity. The nutrients in bone broth, including vitamins like A and K, as well as amino acids and antioxidants, can help boost your dog's immune system. A robust immune system is essential for warding off illnesses and maintaining overall well-being.
Why Brutus Broth?
Now that you know all of the benefits bone broth can provide to your furry friend, you’re probably wondering the best way to incorporate it into your dog's diet. Making homemade bone broth can be time-consuming and a hassle. I love Brutus Broth because it’s convenient, affordable, and comes in a variety of flavors and forms to fit every lifestyle. Brutus Broth makes it easy to supplement your dog's diet and give them the health benefits they need to thrive. Whether your dog has allergies to certain proteins or you and your pup are constantly on the go, there’s something for everyone with Brutus Broth.