Homemade Soups for Dogs: A Complete Guide
The history of soups, broths and stews for dogs spans thousands of years. Before the invention of pet food in the mid-1800s, liquid-based meals were one of the primary ways humans provided easily digestible, nutrient-dense sustenance to domesticated dogs.
As veterinary science began to take shape in the 19th century, liquid diets continued to be recommended for canine vitality and recovery. Early British texts regarding dog care explicitly advised that a dog’s daily rations could include soups, while the 20th and 21st centuries have seen dog soup evolve from a survival food into a premium wellness product with the emotional connection between “soup” and “comfort” even crossed over into branding.
Soup Recipes
What is soup?
In terms of homemade dog food, soup is a liquid-based supplement or meal topper typically made from unseasoned meat broth (like bone broth), safe vegetables and shredded meats.
While it is rarely served as a stand-alone, fully balanced meal, it is highly popular among pet parents as a dietary addition for their dog.
Health benefits of homemade soups for dogs
- Enticement for fussy eaters: the intense aroma of warm soup helps stimulate the appetite of fussy eaters or sick dogs.
- Hydration boost: soup is an excellent way to sneak extra moisture into a dog’s diet, especially during hot weather or for dogs that do not drink enough water.
- Sick bay recovery: just like humans, dogs recovering from stomach upsets are often given a simple, bland chicken-and-rice soup to soothe their digestive tract.
How much soup for dogs?
If part of a properly prepared homemade diet, there are no upper or lower limits to the amount of soup you can feed your dog just as there are no upper or lower limits to the amount of soup human beings can have.
Feed in moderation — as a general rule, no more than 10 percent of your dog’s homemade diet.
How to make homemade soups for dogs
Homemade dog soups generally consist of a simple cooked base:
- Proteins: such as chicken breast, beef, turkey or lamb.
- Liquids: water or low-sodium bone broth.
- Vegetables: such as carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans, broccoli and celery.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Can dogs eat canned soup or instant dry soup mixes?
A. No, you should never feed dogs shop-bought canned soups or dry soup mixes. These products are highly processed and packed with massive amounts of sodium, artificial preservatives and flavourings like monosodium glutamate (MSG), which can cause severe health issues or salt toxicity in pets.
Q. How can I make a dog-safe soup at home?
A. You can create a simple, healthy soup by boiling a plain chicken breast in water with dog-safe vegetables like carrots, celery and green beans. In tiny amounts, you can even add salt, pepper, oil, butter and garlic, but only in tiny amounts remember.
Q. How much soup can I give my dog?
A. Follow the 10 percent rule. Homemade soup should not exceed about 10 percent of your dog’s overall diet.
The Dog Chef Guide to Homemade Dog Food
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