Is Bone Marrow Good for Dogs? Way Too Much of a Good Thing!

The other day, I made beef bone broth while my 3 dogs watched intently. Over the hours-long simmer, I knew the scent must be overwhelming to their sensitive noses, which are 1000 times stronger than mine. And I looked forward to sharing it with them—but only in moderation—a small bowl with around 1/4 cup each.

Many people have asked me, "Is bone marrow good for dogs?" And, like so many things, the answer is nuanced. Something can be healthy up to a certain point and become harmful in high amounts. As they say, "the dose makes the poison". In this article, you and I will explore how much is too much bone marrow and the best way to ensure you're not giving them too much of a good thing.

Why Is Bone Marrow Good For Dogs?

Bone marrow isn't just a tasty indulgence for a dog. It's a powerhouse of nutrition that can supplement an all-kibble diet by filling in some of what's missing, like:

• Collagen - It's the structural protein that supports joint, skin, and coat health. It's most abundant in bone marrow and connective tissues.
• Healthy Fats - Bone marrow has significant amounts of the essential fats, omega 3 and omega 6, which dogs can't make inside their bodies but need for heart, brain, and immunity. And if that marrow is grass-fed it has 2X the omega 3 and much less saturated fat.
• B Vitamins - These are essential for energy metabolism and a strong nervous system. There's even B12 in bone marrow, which is important for mental health.
• Iron - It aids in red blood cell production and oxygen transport.

So, yes, it's very nutritious. But bone broth isn't the best way to ensure dogs have access to this nutrition. There's a more natural way that adds even more benefits to bone marrow for dogs.

That's marrow bones for dogs!

What Are Marrow Bones for Dogs?

They're single-ingredient, all-natural beef bones that still contain the nutritious marrow inside. The marrow is in a more solid form like refrigerated butter, so as my dogs lick and chew, they warm the marrow, and it comes out slowly—allowing for automatic moderation of bone marrow consumption.

Now, you may be thinking of running to the grocery store to get some bones. But know that marrow bones for dogs are carefully smoked using a slow and low-heat cooking process. This eliminates harmful pathogens that could make my dog sick while retaining the nutrition and getting the bone to a safe chewing density.

Marrow bones are great. They can even stand up to aggressive chewing! That's a must-have trait in our home. Between my terrier Pixie and my lab mix Bruno, most dog bones don't stand a chance.

Are Marrow Bones for Dogs Good?

Yes. Marrow bones are excellent chew treats for dogs for so many reasons beyond nutrition.

• Mental Stimulation - Dogs chew on bones when they're bored because it's instinct. So, it's rewarding, similar to what I get out of scrolling through a social media feed, painting, or gardening.
• Can Reduce Destructive Behavior - Dogs who act out often do so because they can't tell you they're bored or anxious. Dog bones give them an outlet for their chewing instincts. A happy, occupied pup is a well-behaved pup. So, even though I give a dog a bone only a few times a week, I'm improving my relationship with my dogs.
• A Dog Toothbrush - Dog bones act as toothbrushes, removing harmful bacteria-harboring plaque
• Family Togetherness - Chewing on a marrow bone while I'm nearby can feel like a bonding experience for me and my dog. It's one more activity we can do together. Although, instead of a marrow bone, I'm more likely to have a cup of coffee in hand.

How Long Do Marrow Bones Last for Dogs?

Marrow bones can last a surprisingly long time when you properly manage chew time. So, here are some tips for getting the most time out of one bone. With these ideas, one dog's bones can be a month and often much longer.

1. Time Chew Sessions

A chew session should only be 15-20 minutes long. Remember...moderation is important. This amount of time maximizes the nutrition and the integrity of the bone since some dogs chew progressively harder as time goes on.

This recommendation aligns with the American Kennel Club's advice as well. They say treats should be no more than 10% of the dog's diet. Dog bones are nutritious, but if overdone, they enter the dog treats realm and can become less health-promoting.

I set a 20-minute timer and supervise to ensure continued safety.

2. Schedule 2-3 Times a Week

With that 10% limit in mind, 2-3 times a week is ideal. Now, I personally give dog bones to my pups 2X a week. Then I save that third time for something that adds variety and interest, like beef trachea glucosamine treats.

3. Freeze in Between Sessions

To ensure bones don't become a bacteria factory, I freeze the bone after each use. Bone marrow is of a consistency that doesn't freeze solid. So, I can give my dogs their bones right out of the freezer. They'll warm it up fast enough, and who doesn't like popsicles?

4. Have a Plan for Dogs Who Don't Want to Let Go

If you have children of a certain age, particularly a girl, you learned to Let It Go. The song was on repeat in your home for years.

But some dogs never get the memo.

While my Bruno will drop his bone when I call him, Pixie will hold on for dear life. I learned from a very young age not to stick my hands near a dog's mouth while they're eating something. Maybe you got that same life lesson.

So, I've found the best thing to do here is to offer them a trade. I mean, dog bones are the 'da bomb, as no one says ever. But if I grab a bag of beef lung bites, they'll drop it for the instant gratification of an organ meat treat.

5. Refill the Dog Bone

Just because the bone marrow is depleted doesn't mean the bone goes in the trash. While not as nutritious, I can make a bone last for a couple of extra weeks by refilling it with dog faves like peanut butter. I have a whole guide filled with recipes and tips. You can download it for free.

Peanut butter, plain yogurt, or even leftover beef lung treat dust mashed in with pumpkin work great. This strategy stretches the life of each bone and keeps my pups entertained for weeks longer. Plus, what else are you going to use lung bite dust for? It's not like it's from corn chips.

Bottom Line: Is Bone Marrow Good For Dogs?

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