Reuben's Bone Broth Treats
I know that I am not the only one who has taken to unexpected pastimes during this endless pandemic. When baking bread and binging Bridgerton (thrice) wasn’t enough, I took to my kitchen to spoil my dog. Reuben is bizarre in the fact that he doesn’t really like to eat. I know, how could he be my child? It killed me to set out his food everyday to see him only peck at it. I have glamorized his meals with an omega oil that he loves, but I have heard a lot about the benefits of homemade bone broth for dogs, especially dachshunds. As you can imagine, weenies are prone to back problems due to their elongated profile, so it’s important to take measures to minimize their risk of injury. Homemade bone broth’s vitamin richness aids in joint support while promoting a healthy coat and gut. Not only that, it’s practically chicken soup for your dog and I knew it would help Reuben enjoy his food more. And that, it does.
You may be wondering why I am making bone broth when store bought bone broth is available. Store bought bone broth is made with garlic and onions, which are toxic to dogs. So, I make a big batch of these treats about once a month, and spoil the hell out of my dog.
I warm up one of these frozen treats for both of Reuben’s meals to coat his kibbles, and I add a splash of water for softening to promote easy digestion. The recipe I am showing you today is my rendition on Blooming Culture’s dog bone broth treat. Sourcing ingredients will be your biggest hurtle, but once located, making this recipe couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to do it.
Ingredients
2 lbs. of chicken feet (I get mine at my local Asian grocery store, but a butcher should sell them)
4 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
8 cups of water
4 tbs. raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar
4 tbs. ground flaxseed (not meal)
Instructions
Split all measurements except the flaxseed amongst 2 stock pots.
On the lowest heat setting, cook for 5-6 hours with the lids on but cracked.
Remove and discard the bones and meat, and strain the stock.
Refrigerate overnight.
The next day, warm the bone broth in the microwave until liquid and skim the fat cap, then mix in the ground flaxseed.
Pour broth into molds, and freeze.
The frozen treats are good for up to 9 months, if they last that long!
I hope you try your hand at making these easy and delicious treats for your dog, and I will see you back here soon!