Jessica
At WeLovePetz, we are dedicated to providing you with the best pet care tips.
Introduction: The Liquid Gold of Dog Nutrition
Bone broth has exploded in popularity, transitioning from a trendy human health drink to a staple in canine nutrition. Praised for its collagen content and palatability, it is often the first recommendation for a dog that refuses to eat or needs extra hydration. However, traditional liquid bone broth comes with logistical headaches: it’s heavy to ship, takes up refrigerator space, and spoils within days of opening.
Native Pet Bone Broth Powder offers a solution to these pain points. By dehydrating grass-fed beef broth into a shelf-stable powder, it promises the nutritional benefits of “liquid gold” with the convenience of a spice jar. But does the dehydration process kill the flavor? And is it truly as effective for joint support as fresh broth? In this review, we analyze the ingredients, the cost-per-serving, and the real-world appeal to picky eaters.
Features and Ingredient Analysis
Native Pet prides itself on “clean labels,” and this product is a testament to that philosophy. The ingredient list is shockingly short, which is a major positive in an industry filled with fillers.
Three Ingredients Only
The formula consists of: Beef Bone Broth, Beef Liver, and Sunflower Lecithin. That’s it. There are no added salts, onions, garlic, or preservatives—ingredients often found in human broths that are toxic to dogs. The inclusion of beef liver is a smart move; it acts as a natural flavor enhancer that drives dogs wild, while the sunflower lecithin ensures the powder mixes smoothly with water without clumping.
Collagen for Joints
Bone broth is naturally rich in collagen, the protein responsible for maintaining the elasticity of connective tissues. For senior dogs or breeds prone to hip dysplasia, adding a collagen source to their diet can support joint health. While it isn’t a replacement for a high-dose glucosamine supplement, it is an excellent dietary preventative.
Hydration Strategy
Many dogs, especially those on dry kibble diets, are chronically mildly dehydrated. By mixing this powder with warm water to create a gravy, you trick your dog into drinking more fluids. This is particularly beneficial for dogs with kidney issues or active dogs recovering from a long hike.
Hands-On Experience: The Picky Eater Test
We tested the Beef Bone Broth powder on a senior dog who had recently lost interest in his food.
The “Gravy” Method
Mixing the powder with warm water creates an instant, savory gravy. The smell is distinct—meaty and rich—but not overpowering. When poured over dry kibble, it coats every piece. Our test dog, who usually picks around his food, licked the bowl clean. The liquid format softens the kibble slightly, which is a bonus for older dogs with sensitive teeth.
The “Sprinkle” Method
You can also sprinkle the powder dry directly onto food. This is faster and less messy, but less effective for hydration. In our testing, the dog still ate it enthusiastically, but the gravy method seemed to provide a higher value experience. It effectively turns a boring meal into a “wet food” experience without the cost of canned food.
Cost and Value
At first glance, the price tag might seem high for a small canister. However, one canister provides up to 48 servings. Compared to buying liquid bone broth pouches (which often cost $5-$8 each and last only a few days), the powder is significantly more economical per serving. Plus, there is zero waste—you make exactly what you need.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Shelf Stable: Lasts for months in the pantry; no refrigeration required until mixed. | Mixing Required: Requires a spoon and water to create gravy (slight effort). |
| Picky Eater Solution: Highly palatable beef liver flavor encourages eating. | Clumping: If added to very cold water, it may clump slightly (warm water works best). |
| Clean Ingredients: Zero fillers, salts, or artificial flavors. | Price Upfront: Higher initial cost compared to a single carton of broth. |
| Hydration Boost: Encourages water intake, crucial for kidney health. | Not a Meal: It is a topper, not a complete nutritional meal replacement. |
Competitive Comparison
Is powder better than liquid cartons?
| Feature | Native Pet Powder (This Review) | Brutus Bone Broth (Liquid Carton) | The Honest Kitchen (Powder) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storage 📦 | Pantry (Indefinite) | Fridge (7-10 Days) | Pantry |
| Cost/Serving 💰 | Low ($0.40 – $0.60) | High ($1.00+) | Moderate |
| Ingredients 🥩 | 3 Ingredients (Beef) | More complex (Gums/Flavor) | Includes Goat Milk/Parsley |
| Convenience 🥄 | Mix as needed | Pour and go | Mix as needed |
| Protein Source 🐄 | Beef + Liver | Beef/Chicken | Beef/Turkey |
Analysis: Brutus Broth is convenient because it is pre-mixed, but the waste factor is high if you don’t use it quickly. The Honest Kitchen offers a “pour over” stew which is thicker, but Native Pet’s simplicity makes it the best choice for dogs with extremely sensitive stomachs who can’t handle complex ingredient lists.
Final Verdict
Native Pet Bone Broth Powder is a modern staple for the health-conscious dog owner. It solves the logistical problems of liquid broth while delivering a high-quality, palatable product that dogs love. The versatility—use it as a dry sprinkle, a hydrating gravy, or even frozen into “pupsicles”—makes it a tool you will reach for constantly.
For owners of picky eaters, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to salvage a bag of kibble that your dog has decided they hate. It adds moisture, flavor, and nutrition without the risk of spoilage. It is a smart, simple, and effective supplement.
Recommendation: Highly recommended for senior dogs, picky eaters, and active dogs needing hydration support.
