7 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Add to Broth (That Dogs Love Too)

When most people think about making broth, they imagine ladling steaming bowls for themselves on cold winter days. What they don’t consider is that their four-legged family members are sitting nearby, drooling over those same delicious smells and wondering why they’re stuck with plain kibble.

Making broth that both humans and dogs can enjoy turns one cooking session into two meals, while sneaking in ingredients that will make any pup’s tail wag faster than a windshield wiper in a thunderstorm. From crunchy additions that satisfy a dog’s need to chomp to aromatic ingredients that freshen their breath, there are plenty of surprises that can transform ordinary broth into something special for everyone at home.

1) Chicken feet (because dogs love a crunchy surprise)

Chicken feet might look weird, but they pack a punch in broth. These wrinkly little appendages are full of collagen and gelatin. They make broth thick and rich.

Dogs go crazy for chicken feet. The texture is perfect for their chomping needs. It’s like nature’s version of a squeaky toy, but edible.

The feet add a deep chicken flavor that regular bones can’t match. They also have lots of joints and cartilage. This means more nutrients get pulled into the broth.

Most grocery stores sell chicken feet in the frozen section. Some butcher shops keep them fresh. Don’t worry about the toenails – they usually come already cleaned.

When you add them to broth, they break down slowly. This releases all those good nutrients into the liquid. Your dog will notice the difference right away.

The best part is watching your pup’s face when they spot a foot in their bowl. They get this look like they just won the lottery. Some dogs will carry them around like prizes before eating them.

2) Beef marrow bones (soupy bones=slurp fest)

Beef marrow bones turn regular broth into liquid gold. The marrow melts out during cooking and creates rich, creamy goodness.

Dogs go absolutely bonkers for this stuff. They can smell marrow from three rooms away.

The bones add deep, beefy flavor that makes store-bought broth taste like water. Plus, the marrow contains healthy fats and nutrients.

When the bones simmer, they release gelatin. This makes the broth thick and silky. Dogs love slurping up this gooey texture.

Pet owners can find marrow bones at most butcher shops. The bones should be cut lengthwise so the marrow can escape easily.

After cooking, remove the bones before serving. Dogs shouldn’t eat cooked bones since they can splinter.

The leftover broth tastes like fancy restaurant soup. Humans can enjoy it too, but they might have to fight their dog for it first.

3) Pumpkin puree (dog’s secret veggie delight)

Dogs go wild for pumpkin puree, even though most of them turn their noses up at regular vegetables. It’s like they have a secret pumpkin radar that activates the moment you open a can.

Plain pumpkin puree adds a sweet, creamy texture to any broth. Just a spoonful transforms boring chicken broth into something that makes dogs do their happy dance.

The orange goodness helps with doggy digestion too. Many pet owners swear by pumpkin for keeping their furry friends regular, which means fewer surprises on the carpet.

Make sure to buy pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The pie filling has spices and sugar that can upset a dog’s stomach. Nobody wants a sick puppy on their hands.

Dogs seem to think pumpkin is nature’s candy. They’ll lick their bowls clean and then stare at their humans with those big eyes that say “more please.”

Human broth lovers will notice the subtle sweetness too. Pumpkin adds depth without being overpowering, making it perfect for fall soups or year-round comfort food.

4) Salmon oil drizzle (fancy fishy flair)

Salmon oil turns regular broth into liquid gold. Dogs go crazy for this fishy addition.

Just a few drops make broth taste like a gourmet meal. The oil adds healthy fats that make dogs’ coats shiny.

Most pet stores sell salmon oil in bottles. A small drizzle goes a long way.

Dogs think they’re getting fancy restaurant food. Really, it’s just broth with fish oil on top.

The oil floats on the surface and creates pretty swirls. Dogs don’t care about the art – they just want to lick the bowl clean.

Salmon oil also helps with dry skin and joint health. Dogs get excited when they smell it coming.

Start with just a tiny amount. Too much oil can upset sensitive stomachs.

Some dogs will sit and stare at their bowl like it’s treasure. Others dive in face-first and make a mess.

5) Parsley sprinkles (doggy breath freshener)

Fresh parsley works like a tiny green toothbrush for dogs. It fights bad breath and makes their kisses smell better.

Chop up a small amount of fresh parsley and add it to warm broth. The herbs will release their fresh scent into the liquid.

Dogs get excited about the new flavor. They don’t know they’re getting a breath mint with their meal.

Parsley contains vitamins that help keep teeth and gums healthy. It’s like sneaking vegetables into a kid’s meal.

Start with just a pinch for small dogs. Bigger dogs can handle about a teaspoon of chopped parsley.

The herb floats on top of the broth like green confetti. Dogs will lap it up without thinking twice about the health benefits.

Pet owners notice fresher breath within a few days. Their dogs just think they’re getting a fancy soup upgrade.

Dried parsley works too, but fresh gives better results. Either way, dogs will drink their broth and walk away with minty-fresh breath.

6) Turmeric pinch (hippy spice magic)

That golden powder sitting in your spice rack does more than make your curry yellow. A tiny pinch of turmeric turns regular broth into a health-boosting wonder drink.

This bright spice fights inflammation in both humans and dogs. Just a small amount goes a long way.

Dogs can safely enjoy turmeric in small doses. Their joints might thank them later, especially older pups who move a bit slower these days.

The earthy flavor blends well with chicken or beef broth. Start with just a pinch because turmeric has a strong taste that can take over.

Your broth will turn a sunny yellow color. Don’t worry if your dog’s tongue looks temporarily orange afterward.

Some people swear turmeric cures everything from headaches to bad moods. While that might be wishful thinking, it does pack real health benefits.

Mix it in while the broth is still warm. This helps the turmeric dissolve better instead of clumping at the bottom of the bowl.

7) Carrot shreds (tiny crunchy treasures)

Carrot shreds add a fun crunch to any broth. They’re like nature’s confetti that actually tastes good.

Dogs go crazy for these orange bits. Their tails start wagging the moment they hear carrots hitting the cutting board.

The thin shreds cook quickly in hot broth. They keep some bite but won’t hurt anyone’s teeth.

Carrots bring natural sweetness to the mix. They also pack vitamins that make both humans and pups happy.

Shred them with a box grater or food processor. The smaller pieces spread throughout the broth better than big chunks.

Fresh carrots work best, but frozen ones do the job too. Just toss them straight into the simmering broth.

Dogs love fishing these orange treasures out of their bowls. It’s like a tasty treasure hunt in every sip.

The bright color makes the whole bowl look more exciting. Even picky eaters can’t resist these crunchy surprises floating around.

Why Cook Broth Just for Your Dog?

Making broth for dogs might sound fancy, but it’s actually the cheapest trick in the book. Smart pet parents know that bulk shopping at stores like Costco turns leftovers into liquid gold.

That rotisserie chicken from your weekend dinner? Don’t toss those bones! Pop them in the freezer along with the carcass.

The same goes for vegetable scraps. Those carrot ends and celery tops that usually hit the trash can become broth gold. Store them in freezer bags until it’s time to cook.

Homemade broth beats store-bought every time. Commercial broths often contain salt, onions, and garlic that can harm dogs. When someone makes it at home, they control every ingredient.

Dogs get excited about plain water when it tastes like chicken or beef. It’s like turning their water bowl into a restaurant experience. Picky drinkers suddenly become hydration champions.

The best part? One big batch lasts for weeks. Freeze the broth in ice cube trays for easy portions. Pop a cube into their regular food or serve it as a special treat.

Cooking broth also saves money on expensive dog supplements. Real bone broth provides natural nutrients that support joint health and digestion. It’s basically a spa treatment that comes from kitchen scraps.

Pet owners who make their own broth never run out of ways to spoil their dogs without breaking the bank.

Bulk Cooking, Broth Banking

Smart cooks know that buying bones in bulk is like finding buried treasure. Large packs of turkey, chicken, or beef bones from Costco or the local butcher cost way less per pound.

The magic happens when someone roasts a whole chicken for Sunday dinner. They eat the meat, but the bones become liquid gold.

The Two-for-One Trick:

• Cook the main protein for human meals
• Save bones, skin, and veggie scraps for broth
• Turn kitchen waste into dog treats

Slow cookers make this process foolproof. Toss in the leftover bones, add some carrot tops and veggie scraps (no onions or garlic), then let it bubble away overnight.

Storage Made Simple:

• Ice cube trays for small dogs
• Mason jars for medium portions
• Freezer bags for large batches

One big cooking session can fill the freezer with months of broth. Dogs think their humans are genius chefs when they get these tasty additions to their kibble.

The best part? This method cuts grocery bills while reducing food waste. Those expensive bones that usually hit the trash can now become a dog’s favorite soup base.

Some people meal prep chicken breasts. Others become broth banking legends who turn every bone into liquid happiness for their furry friends.

The Two-Pot Trick

Most people think making broth for dogs means extra work. They picture two different recipes and double the cooking time. But smart cooks know a secret.

Start with one pot of basic broth. Use chicken, beef, or vegetables with just water. Let it simmer and build flavor naturally.

Here’s where the magic happens: Before adding any salt, garlic, or onions, scoop out some plain broth for the dog. Put it in a second pot.

Pot A (Human Broth)	Pot B (Dog Broth)
Add salt and pepper	Keep it plain
Toss in garlic and onions	Maybe add carrots
Use strong herbs	Skip the spices
Season to taste	Simple is better

Now both pots can finish cooking separately. The human version gets all the bold flavors people love. The dog version stays gentle and safe.

This trick saves time and effort. No need to make two completely different broths from scratch. The dog gets the same love and care, just different seasoning.

Same love, different seasoning is the perfect way to think about it.

The dog won’t miss the salt or garlic. They care more about the rich, meaty smell and warm comfort. Plus, their sensitive stomachs will thank you for keeping things simple.

Safe for Both Bowls

Who says humans and dogs can’t share a good meal? These broth ingredients work for both species.

Turkey and chicken make excellent protein bases. They’re gentle on stomachs and full of flavor. Dogs go crazy for poultry broth.

Spinach adds vitamins without much taste. It sneaks nutrition into picky eaters. Both humans and dogs benefit from the iron boost.

Carrots bring natural sweetness to broth. They cook down soft and add beta-carotene. Dogs love the mild flavor.

Pumpkin creates a rich, creamy texture. It helps with digestion for both species. The orange color makes broth look fancy too.

Celery gives broth that classic soup taste. It adds vitamins and crunch if left chunky. Dogs don’t mind the mild flavor.

Parsley freshens breath naturally. It adds a bright green color to broth. A little goes a long way for both bowls.

Ingredient	Benefit for Humans	Benefit for Dogs
Turkey/Chicken	Protein, comfort food	Easy to digest, tasty
Spinach	Iron, vitamins	Nutrients without strong taste
Carrots	Beta-carotene, sweetness	Natural sweetness, vitamins
Pumpkin	Fiber, creaminess	Digestive health

Pro tip: Make extra dog-safe broth and freeze it in ice cube trays. Pop out a cube whenever the pup needs a special treat.

Recipe: Costco Chicken & Pumpkin Comfort Broth

This recipe makes both dogs and humans happy with one pot. The secret is knowing when to split the batch.

Ingredients:

• 1 Costco rotisserie chicken carcass (or 2 lbs chicken thighs)
• 2 cups pumpkin chunks (fresh or canned)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 8 cups water

Instructions:

Put the chicken, pumpkin, and celery in a large pot. Add water and bring to a boil.

Turn heat to low and simmer for 2 hours. The kitchen will smell amazing.

The Split: Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer. Remove any chicken bones carefully.

For the Dog Bowl: Pour half the broth into a separate container while it’s still plain. Let it cool completely before serving.

Dogs get the pure, simple version. No extras needed.

For Human Bowls: Add these to the remaining broth:

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• Black pepper to taste
• Squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Heat for 5 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Storage Tips: Both versions keep in the fridge for 3 days. Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portions.

The dog version makes great training treats when frozen. Humans can reheat their portion anytime for instant comfort.