Quick Summary

• Bone broth for dogs is a slow-simmered nutrient concentrate naturally rich in collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, glycine and essential minerals, supporting joints, gut health, skin, coat and liver function

• It is one of the most versatile supplements available: used as a food topper, warm drink, hydration boost, appetite stimulant, or frozen treat

• Dr. Linda Simon MVB MRCVS describes bone broth as "a definite doggy superfood... something I often recommend for my patients when they have an upset stomach"

• Anco Bone Broth is made from slow-simmered bones, dehydrated into a pure powder with no added salt, no artificial additives, no hormones or steroids, available in Beef, Chicken, Fish and Pork

• All four variants are £10.00 for 120g, with a Variety Pack of all four available at £55.00

• Suitable from 8 weeks of age. One important caveat: human bone broth is not safe for dogs, it almost always contains salt, onion or garlic, all of which are harmful

The Dog on Your Sofa Is Probably Not Getting Enough of This

Most standard dog diets, kibble, wet food, even quality complete foods, are nutritionally balanced on paper. What they rarely account for is the natural compounds that traditionally came from whole carcass feeding: the collagen from connective tissue, the glucosamine from cartilage, the glycine from slow-cooked bone.

Bone broth helps reintroduce those natural compounds. It has been used in human diets for centuries, and the same principles apply to dogs. When bones are slow-simmered in water for an extended period, those compounds infuse into the liquid. What you end up with is a nutrient-dense concentrate that delivers things your dog's body genuinely needs, in a form that is easy to absorb and, crucially, that virtually every dog will eat without hesitation.

As dog owners ourselves, we wanted to give dogs exactly that, without the mess of home-simmering, without added salt, without anything that should not be there. Anco Bone Broth is slow-simmered, then simply dehydrated into a powder. That is it. Nothing artificial added, just a simple, natural product made the way it should be.

What Is Bone Broth for Dogs, Exactly?

Bone broth is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissue in water over an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. The long, slow cooking process extracts collagen, gelatin, amino acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, and minerals from the bones and surrounding tissue, infusing them into the liquid.

The result is nutritionally very different from stock or regular broth. Stock is typically simmered for a few hours to build flavour. Bone broth is simmered far longer specifically to extract the structural compounds within bone, cartilage and connective tissue, compounds that are not present in meaningful quantities in ordinary wet food or kibble.

Anco's version takes the process one step further. Rather than selling a liquid with a short shelf life, we dehydrate the finished broth into a fine powder that is shelf-stable, easy to portion, easy to store, and simple to use. Add water to make a liquid, or stir the dry powder directly into your dog's bowl. Either way works.

What Is Actually in Bone Broth?

Understanding what bone broth contains helps explain why it does what it does.

Compound	What It Does for Your Dog
Collagen	Structural protein for joints, tendons, ligaments, skin elasticity and coat condition. Naturally declines with age
Gelatin	Derived from collagen during cooking. Coats and soothes the gut lining, supports digestion and nutrient absorption
Glucosamine	Naturally occurring in cartilage. Supports joint cartilage health and helps ease stiffness
Chondroitin	Works alongside glucosamine to maintain cartilage structure and joint fluid
Hyaluronic Acid	Lubricates joints and contributes to skin hydration and elasticity
Glycine	Amino acid with anti-inflammatory properties. Supports liver detoxification and promotes a healthy gut lining
Proline	Amino acid that supports gut lining repair and contributes to collagen synthesis
Calcium and Phosphorus	Essential minerals for strong bones and teeth
Magnesium	Supports muscle function, the nervous system, and heart health

These aren't added ingredients. They are the natural compounds released from bone and connective tissue through the slow-simmering process. In Anco's case, the only ingredient in each variant is 100% named single-source protein, beef, chicken, fish or pork. The nutritional profile comes entirely from what the bones naturally contain.

The Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs

1. Joint Health and Mobility

This is the benefit most owners come looking for, and it is the one with the strongest evidence base. Glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid, all naturally present in bone broth, are the same compounds found in dedicated joint supplements. They support cartilage structure, maintain joint fluid, and help reduce the inflammation that causes stiffness and discomfort.

The collagen in bone broth also directly contributes to joint health. Collagen is the structural protein that forms the cartilage at the ends of bones and the connective tissue around joints. As dogs age, natural collagen production slows, and the gap between production and breakdown widens. Bone broth provides collagen in a form that’s easy for the body to use.

A 2021 study from the University of Sydney's Veterinary Nutrition Lab found that dogs fed bone broth daily for eight weeks showed measurable improvements in joint mobility and reduced markers of inflammation compared to dogs on standard diets.

For senior dogs, large breeds, and working dogs, daily bone broth is one of the simplest and most accessible joint support additions available.

2. Gut Health and Digestion

The gut benefits of bone broth are less talked about than the joint benefits, but arguably just as significant for a large number of dogs.

Gelatin and the amino acids glycine and proline work together to support the integrity of the gut lining. The gut lining contains millions of microscopic openings that allow digested nutrients to pass through into the bloodstream. When that lining is compromised, through illness, stress, diet change, or chronic inflammation, nutrients are absorbed poorly and unwanted substances can leak through.

Bone broth supports the repair and maintenance of that lining. It is anti-inflammatory in the gut, soothes irritation, and promotes the kind of healthy digestive function that shows up as consistent, well-formed stools and a settled stomach.

Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, notes: "The gelatin found in bone broth is fantastic for promoting good digestive health. It helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining, making it great for dogs with sensitive stomachs."

3. Hydration, Appetite and Palatability

Dogs who are ill, recovering from surgery, or going through a period of reduced appetite are among the most obvious candidates for bone broth. The strong natural aroma and flavour makes it one of the most reliable tools for encouraging reluctant eaters to take in nutrients.

It is also a meaningful hydration boost, particularly for dogs who do not drink enough water on their own, for dogs on dry food diets, and for senior dogs whose thirst response naturally decreases with age. Adding bone broth powder to a bowl of warm water and pouring it over dry food dramatically increases fluid intake alongside the nutritional benefit.

4. Skin, Coat and Connective Tissue

Collagen is the protein beneath your dog's skin that gives it elasticity and supports the health of the coat above it. As collagen levels decline with age, skin becomes less hydrated and the coat loses its natural lustre. Regular use helps provide the amino acids the body uses to maintain and rebuild that structural layer.

For dogs with dull coats, dry or itchy skin, or coat thinning associated with age, bone broth is a sensible and straightforward daily addition.

5. Liver Support

Glycine, one of the key amino acids present in bone broth, plays a direct role in liver function. The liver's primary job is filtering toxins from the body, and glycine supports that process. Dogs who regularly scavenge, are exposed to environmental toxins, or are on long-term medication can benefit from the additional glycine that bone broth provides.

6. Immune Function

Bone broth contains a broad spectrum of minerals, amino acids and anti-inflammatory compounds that support immune health. Glycine and arginine in particular have well-documented anti-inflammatory properties. A dog whose gut lining is healthy and whose inflammatory response is balanced is a dog whose immune system is better equipped to do its job.

Who Benefits Most from Bone Broth?

Dog Profile	Primary Benefit
Senior dogs (7+ years)	Joint support, collagen replenishment, appetite stimulation, hydration
Dogs with stiff or achy joints	Glucosamine, chondroitin and collagen support cartilage and reduce inflammation
Dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues	Gelatin and glycine soothe and repair the gut lining
Picky eaters or dogs with reduced appetite	Irresistible flavour stimulates appetite, particularly useful over dry food
Dogs recovering from illness or surgery	Gentle, highly digestible nutrition that does not stress the digestive system
Dogs on dry food only diets	Adds hydration and fills nutritional gaps in processed diets
Active and working dogs	Collagen supports connective tissue recovery after high-intensity exercise
Puppies from 8 weeks	Gentle introduction of collagen and minerals during growth
Dogs with dull coats or dry skin	Collagen and amino acids nourish skin and coat from within
Dogs on long-term medication	Glycine supports liver function during extended medication use

The Anco Bone Broth Range: What's in Each Variant

Every Anco Bone Broth is made from 100% single-source protein, slow-simmered and dehydrated into a pure powder. No added salt. No artificial additives. No hormones, steroids or antibiotics. No GMO, dairy or soy.

Anco Beef Bone Broth, £10.00 (120g)

ancodogtreats.co.uk/product/anco-beef-bone-broth

Made from 100% grass-fed cattle bones, slow-simmered to extract maximum collagen, calcium, phosphorus and amino acids.

Nutrient	Amount
Protein	99%
Fat	5%
Ash	6%

At 99% protein, this is extraordinarily nutrient-dense. The collagen content from beef bones is among the highest of any single protein source, making this the strongest choice for dogs with specific joint concerns. Beef bone broth is also the richest in minerals, with calcium and phosphorus from the bones supporting skeletal health alongside the joint-support compounds.

Note: Currently showing as temporarily out of stock at time of writing. Sign up for a back-in-stock notification on the product page.

Best for: joint health focus, senior dogs, high collagen requirement, dogs without beef sensitivity.

Anco Chicken Bone Broth, £10.00 (120g)

ancodogtreats.co.uk/product/anco-chicken-bone-broth

Made from 100% free-range chicken bones, slow-simmered for collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin and minerals.

Nutrient	Amount
Protein	93%
Fat	Less than 0.5%
Ash	8%

The standout figure here is the fat content: less than 0.5%. This is the lowest-fat option in the range, making it the natural first choice for dogs with pancreatitis, dogs on a strict low-fat diet, and dogs who need the nutritional benefit of bone broth without any additional fat loading. It is also hypoallergenic, gentle on sensitive stomachs, and described by Anco as an excellent option for fussy or reluctant eaters. Free-range source adds a further layer of quality to an already clean product.

Best for: dogs with pancreatitis or low-fat dietary requirements, sensitive stomachs, fussy eaters, picky eaters, all-round daily use.

Anco Fish Bone Broth, £10.00 (120g)

ancodogtreats.co.uk/product/anco-fish-bone-broth

Made from 100% fish bones, slow-simmered for collagen, minerals and natural Omega-3 fatty acids.

Nutritional analysis: Protein 90%, Fat Less than 0.5%, Collagen 6%.

Fish bone broth is the most novel protein option in the range and brings the added benefit of naturally occurring Omega-3 alongside the standard bone broth compounds. For dogs already on a fish-based diet, this maintains protein consistency. For dogs on a protein rotation plan, fish broth adds a genuinely distinct nutritional profile from the beef and chicken variants. The Omega-3 content supports skin, coat, cognitive function and anti-inflammatory response alongside the gut and joint benefits all variants share.

Best for: dogs on fish-based diets, protein rotation, additional Omega-3 support, skin and coat focus.

Anco Pork Bone Broth, £10.00 (120g)

ancodogtreats.co.uk/product/anco-pork-bone-broth

Made from 100% outdoor-bred pig bones, slow-simmered for collagen, minerals and the naturally high Thiamine (Vitamin B1) content that pork is uniquely rich in.

Nutritional analysis: Protein 99%, Fat 5%, Ash 6%.

Pork bone broth brings the same core benefits as beef and chicken but with the added Thiamine content that distinguishes pork from other proteins. Thiamine is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and brain function. For dogs who benefit from pork-based nutrition specifically, or who are on a protein rotation that includes pork, this is the broth variant to match.

Best for: dogs already on pork-based diets, protein rotation, Thiamine support, brain health focus.

Anco Bone Broth Variety Pack, £55.00 (4x120g)

ancodogtreats.co.uk/product/anco-bone-broth-variety-pack

One pack each of Fish, Beef, Chicken and Pork. The most practical option for owners who want to rotate proteins, find out which variant their dog responds best to, or maintain a varied supplement routine. At £55.00 for four 120g packs, this represents a saving of £5.00 versus buying each individually at £10.00.

Best for: first-time buyers trialling the range, protein rotation, multi-dog households, value over individual packs.

How to Use Anco Bone Broth

One of the things dog owners appreciate most about a powder format is how many ways there are to use it. Here are the most practical:

Use	How
Food topper (dry powder)	Sprinkle directly onto dry or wet food. The powder dissolves naturally and the aroma encourages eating
Warm liquid topper	Mix powder with warm water to create a broth, pour over food. Particularly good in colder months and for dogs who need appetite stimulation
Hydration drink	Mix with water and serve alongside or between meals, excellent for increasing fluid intake in dogs that under-drink
Frozen treat	Mix with water, pour into ice cube trays, freeze. Serve as a cool summer treat or post-walk recovery reward
Kong or lick mat filler	Mix to a paste consistency and stuff into a Kong or spread onto a lick mat for slow, enriching consumption
Medication disguise	The strong, meaty flavour of bone broth powder disguises tablets and capsules that dogs refuse to take otherwise
Recovery support	After illness, surgery or a digestive upset, warm bone broth over plain food provides gentle nutrition that almost no dog will refuse

Bone Broth for Dogs vs Human Bone Broth: An Important Distinction

This question comes up regularly and the answer is straightforward: do not give your dog human bone broth.

Commercial human bone broth almost always contains added salt, which is harmful to dogs even in moderate quantities. Many varieties also contain onion or garlic, both of which are toxic to dogs. Even "low sodium" human versions typically contain salt levels that are inappropriate for canine consumption.

Dog-specific bone broth, made without salt, without seasoning, and from a trusted source, is a fundamentally different product.

Anco Bone Broth	Human Bone Broth (Commercial)
Added salt	None	Almost always present
Onion or garlic	None	Common flavouring agents, both toxic to dogs
Artificial additives	None	Common in shelf-stable versions
Single-source protein	Yes, 100% named protein	Varies
Suitable for dogs	Yes	No

If you want to make bone broth at home for your dog, it is straightforward to do so safely. Use raw bones from a trusted butcher, cover with water, simmer for 12 to 24 hours, strain thoroughly to remove all bone fragments, and allow to cool completely before serving. Add nothing else. No salt, no seasoning, no onion, no garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bone broth good for dogs?

Yes. Bone broth is commonly recommended as a natural addition for dogs with joint or digestive needs reduced appetite or low energy. It delivers collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, glycine and essential minerals in a highly bioavailable, easily digestible form. Dr. Linda Simon MVB MRCVS calls it "a definite doggy superfood" and recommends it regularly for patients with upset stomachs. As with any supplement, introduce gradually and consult your vet if your dog has a diagnosed health condition.

How much bone broth should I give my dog?

A general guide from veterinary sources is approximately 1 ounce (30ml) of liquid bone broth per 10 pounds (4.5kg) of body weight per day. For powder format, follow the specific dosage guidance on the Anco product. Always start with a small amount and build up gradually to give the digestive system time to adjust.

Can puppies have bone broth?

Yes. Anco Bone Broth is suitable from 8 weeks of age. Bone broth is gentle, easy to digest, and provides minerals and collagen that support healthy development. It is also a good way to encourage young dogs to eat if they are going through a fussy phase during the transition to solid food. Introduce gradually and in small amounts initially.

Is bone broth good for dogs with pancreatitis?

The Anco Chicken Bone Broth, with less than 0.5% fat, is the appropriate choice for dogs with pancreatitis or those on a prescribed low-fat diet. It delivers the full gut and joint benefits of bone broth with negligible fat contribution. Always confirm with your vet before introducing any new supplement if your dog has an active pancreatitis diagnosis.

Can I give my dog bone broth every day?

Yes. Bone broth is safe for daily use as a food topper or supplement. The nutritional benefits build over consistent daily use, particularly for joint support and gut health. It is a complement to a balanced diet, not a replacement for it.

What is the difference between the Anco bone broth variants?

The primary differences are protein source, fat content, and additional nutritional profile. Beef (99% protein, 5% fat) is the richest in collagen and minerals, best for joint focus. Chicken (93% protein, less than 0.5% fat) is the lowest fat option, best for sensitive stomachs and pancreatitis management. Fish adds naturally occurring Omega-3 alongside the standard compounds. Pork is uniquely rich in Thiamine (Vitamin B1), supporting brain function and carbohydrate metabolism. The Variety Pack lets you rotate all four.

Can I use bone broth alongside Anco collagen chews?

Yes, and they complement each other well. Collagen chews deliver structural protein through the physical act of chewing, with the added benefit of dental action. Bone broth delivers collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin and gut-supporting amino acids in liquid form, accessible to dogs who cannot or will not engage with hard chews. Used together, they provide a comprehensive daily collagen and joint support routine.

The Bottom Line

Bone broth is not a new idea. It has been nourishing bodies, human and canine alike, for centuries. What is new is how easy it has become to give your dog the benefit of slow-simmered bones without the 24-hour kitchen commitment.

Anco Bone Broth takes a single-source protein, slow-simmers it the right way, and dehydrates it into a shelf-stable powder with nothing added. No salt. No additives. Just the collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, glycine and minerals that dogs need and that standard diets rarely provide in adequate quantities.

Whether your dog is a stiff-legged senior who needs joint support, a rescue with a sensitive stomach, a healthy adult on dry food who would benefit from a nutritional top-up, or simply a fussy eater who needs some encouragement at mealtimes, bone broth belongs in the bowl.

Shop Anco Bone Broth at ancodogtreats.co.uk/shop/bone-broth

Sources

• Anco Dog Treats, Bone Broth range (ancodogtreats.co.uk/shop/bone-broth)

• Dr. Linda Simon MVB MRCVS, Pooch and Mutt, What Is Bone Broth for Dogs? (poochandmutt.co.uk)

• Dr. Sara Ochoa DVM, quoted in Chewy, 9 Health Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs (chewy.com)

• American Kennel Club, Bone Broth for Dogs: A Superfood With Many Benefits (akc.org, 2026)

• University of Sydney Veterinary Nutrition Lab, joint mobility study, 2021, cited in veterinary summary sources

• CliniPaw, Bone Broth for Dogs: A Nutritious Superfood for Joint and Gut Health (clinipaw.com, 2025)

• The Kennel Club, guidance on supplements and dog nutrition (thekennelclub.org.uk)

Anco Bone Broth is a complementary pet food. Use as part of a nutritionally balanced diet. Suitable from 8 weeks of age. Always ensure fresh drinking water is available. Introduce gradually. If your dog has a diagnosed health condition, consult your vet before adding new supplements to their diet.