Yes — dogs can safely eat homemade chicken soup when it’s made without onion, garlic, salt, or seasoning. In fact, a simple chicken soup can help with hydration, digestion, and recovery from mild stomach upset.
If your dog has been feeling low, refusing kibble, or just deserves something warm and nourishing, this recipe is a safe and wholesome option. It’s made with real ingredients you can recognize. No preservatives. No hidden additives.
Let’s make a version your dog will actually benefit from.
Why Make Homemade Chicken Soup for Dogs?
Store-bought broths often contain sodium, onion powder, or artificial flavorings. Those are not safe for dogs.
Homemade soup gives you control over every ingredient.
Here’s why dog owners love it:
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Supports hydration, especially in hot weather
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Gentle on sensitive stomachs
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Easy to digest
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Encourages picky eaters
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Works well as a kibble topper
It’s not a replacement for a balanced diet. But it’s a healthy addition when used properly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keep it simple. That’s the key.
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1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1 medium potato, peeled and diced
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1 carrot, sliced thin
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1 celery stalk (optional)
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2 stems fresh curly parsley (not flat-leaf)
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Water (enough to cover ingredients)
Important:
Never add:
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Onion
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Garlic
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Salt
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Bouillon cubes
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Seasoning blends
Dogs don’t need them. And some are toxic.
Kitchen Tools
You don’t need anything special:
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Large pot with lid
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Knife and cutting board
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Wooden spoon
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Strainer (optional)
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Measuring cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Peel and dice the potato into small cubes. Slice the carrot thin so it softens easily. Chop the celery if using.
Trim visible fat from the chicken thighs. Cut into smaller chunks to cook faster.
Add Everything to the Pot
Place chicken, potato, carrot, celery, and parsley stems into a large pot.
Add enough water to cover the ingredients by about one inch.
Simmer Gently
Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Once boiling, reduce to low. Cover and let simmer for 30–35 minutes.
Stir occasionally.
The chicken should reach 165°F internally and vegetables should be soft.
Cool and Remove Parsley
Turn off heat and let the soup cool completely.
Remove parsley stems and discard them.
You can shred the chicken slightly for easier eating.
Mash or Blend (Optional)
For small dogs or seniors, lightly mash the vegetables.
You can blend part of it for a softer texture. Just don’t make it too thick.
Serve
Serve at room temperature only.
Never give hot soup to your dog.
You can serve it:
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Alone in small portions
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Mixed into kibble
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As a recovery meal for mild stomach upset
How Much Chicken Soup Should You Feed?
This depends on your dog’s size.
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Small dogs: ¼ to ½ cup
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Medium dogs: ½ to 1 cup
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Large dogs: 1 to 2 cups
Use it as a topper or occasional meal support. It should not replace complete dog food long-term.
If your dog has kidney disease, pancreatitis, or special dietary needs, speak to your vet first.
Is Chicken Broth Good for Dogs?
Yes — but only if it’s homemade and low-sodium.
The broth from this recipe contains:
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Natural collagen
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Amino acids
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Hydration support
Avoid store-bought broth unless it clearly states:
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No onion
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No garlic
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No added salt
Always check the label.
Optional Add-Ins (Safe Choices)
You can rotate ingredients to avoid boredom.
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Green beans (fiber boost)
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Sweet potato (gentler carb option)
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Plain pumpkin puree (digestive support)
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Small amount of cooked brown rice
Introduce new ingredients slowly to avoid stomach upset.
Storage Tips
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently. Always cool before serving.
Never microwave until steaming hot and serve immediately. Let it cool fully.
Health Benefits of Each Ingredient
Chicken Thighs
High-quality protein. Supports muscle maintenance and energy.
Carrots
Rich in beta-carotene. Supports vision and immune health.
Potato
Provides carbohydrates for energy.
Celery
Contains antioxidants and helps hydration.
Parsley (Curly Only)
Supports digestion and may freshen breath.
When Should You Give Chicken Soup to Your Dog?
This recipe works well when:
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Your dog feels under the weather
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They’re recovering from minor illness
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They need encouragement to eat
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You want to increase hydration
But if your dog is vomiting repeatedly, has diarrhea for more than 24 hours, or refuses food completely, don’t rely on soup. Contact your vet.
Final Thoughts
Homemade chicken soup for dogs is simple. It’s affordable. And it lets you control what goes into your dog’s bowl.
You don’t need fancy ingredients. Just real food, cooked properly, and served safely.
Dogs may not understand recipes. But they understand care. And sometimes, that starts with a warm bowl of something made just for them.
