21 Collagen Jelly for Dogs Recipes to Boost Joint Health

This is the foundational recipe that’s impossible to get wrong. It’s simple, packed with flavor your dog will love, and delivers a solid dose of collagen to support their cartilage, bones, and joints.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of high-quality, low-sodium beef broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored beef gelatin powder

Instructions:

1. Pour 1 cup of cold beef broth into a saucepan. Sprinkle the gelatin powder evenly over the top and let it ‘bloom’ for 5 minutes. It will look wrinkly and absorb the liquid.
2. Once bloomed, place the saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until all the gelatin has completely dissolved. Do not let it boil!
3. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 cup of cold broth.
4. Pour the mixture into silicone molds (paw or bone shapes are fun!) or a shallow glass dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Perfect for first-timers or for dogs who prefer simple, meaty flavors. It’s a fantastic starting point for your jelly-making journey.

Give the classic recipe an anti-inflammatory kick! Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound celebrated for its ability to reduce inflammation, making this jelly ideal for dogs with arthritis or achy joints.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored beef gelatin
• 1 teaspoon of organic turmeric powder
• A pinch of black pepper (to aid curcumin absorption)

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold beef broth in a saucepan for 5 minutes.
2. Warm over low heat, stirring until the gelatin dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the turmeric powder and black pepper until fully combined.
4. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of cold broth.
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate until firm (about 4 hours).

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent choice for senior dogs, highly active dogs, or any pup needing extra joint support and inflammation management.

Just like the beef classic, this chicken version is a crowd-pleaser. It’s a lighter option that’s just as beneficial and easy to whip up. Use homemade chicken bone broth for maximum collagen content!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of high-quality, low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin (porcine or bovine)

Instructions:

1. Follow the same instructions as the Basic Beef Broth Jelly, simply substituting the beef broth for chicken broth.
2. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold broth, warm to dissolve, then add the second cup of cold broth.
3. Pour into molds and chill until set.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A fantastic alternative to beef for dogs with allergies or sensitivities. It’s a gentle, easy-to-digest option for all dogs.

Combine the power of collagen with the antioxidant benefits of blueberries. These little berries are packed with vitamins and can help fight free radicals, supporting your dog’s overall immune system.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
• 0.5 cup of water
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries, pureed

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of the cold chicken broth for 5 minutes.
2. Heat gently, stirring until the gelatin dissolves.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in the remaining 0.5 cup of broth, the 0.5 cup of water, and the pureed blueberries. Mix well.
4. Pour into molds and refrigerate for 4-5 hours until very firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Ideal for any dog needing an immune system boost. The touch of sweetness makes it an extra-special treat.

Ginger is well-known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach and aid in digestion. Combined with collagen, this recipe is a double-whammy for gut health and joint support.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger (or 1/4 tsp dried ginger)

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold broth in a saucepan.
2. Warm over low heat until dissolved.
3. Remove from the heat and whisk in the grated ginger.
4. Stir in the final cup of cold broth.
5. Pour into molds and chill until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who suffer from occasional digestive upset. Introduce ginger slowly to ensure your pup enjoys the taste.

This recipe isn’t just for autumn! Pumpkin is a fantastic source of fiber, great for digestive regularity. A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and has anti-inflammatory properties of its own.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of water or bone broth
• 1/2 cup of 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold water/broth in a saucepan.
2. Heat gently until the gelatin dissolves completely.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the pumpkin puree, the remaining 0.5 cup of water/broth, and the cinnamon until smooth.
4. Pour into molds and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: Perfect for dogs who need a little help with their digestion. It’s a tasty, healthy treat that supports both gut and joint health.

Pack a powerful punch of vitamins and minerals with this ‘Green Machine’ jelly. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are loaded with nutrients that support everything from heart health to energy levels.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of chicken or beef broth
• 0.5 cup of water
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped spinach or kale (or a mix), lightly steamed and pureed
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Steam the greens until wilted, then puree with the 0.5 cup of water until smooth.
2. In a saucepan, bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold broth.
3. Warm over low heat until the gelatin is dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the green puree and the remaining 0.5 cup of broth.
5. Pour into molds and chill until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A fantastic recipe for pet parents who want to sneak some extra greens into their dog’s diet. It’s a nutrient-dense treat for a healthy boost.

Get ready for a shiny coat! Sardines are an incredible source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are superstars for skin, coat, and joint health. This one is a bit stinky, but your dog will go wild for it.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of fish stock (or water)
• 1 can of sardines in water (no salt added), drained
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Mash the sardines thoroughly with a fork.
2. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold fish stock/water.
3. Heat gently until the gelatin dissolves.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the mashed sardines and the remaining 1 cup of stock/water.
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate. Be prepared for the fishy smell!

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The ultimate treat for dogs with dry skin, dull coats, or those needing a potent anti-inflammatory boost. Just maybe open a window while you make it!

A delightful combination of savory pork and sweet apple. Apples provide fiber and vitamins, while unsweetened applesauce makes this recipe incredibly easy to put together.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of pork bone broth (or water)
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold pork broth.
2. Warm over low heat, stirring until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the applesauce and the remaining 0.5 cup of broth until well combined.
4. Pour into molds and chill for 4 hours.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A great recipe for picky eaters who enjoy a touch of sweetness with their savory treats. It’s a fun way to vary their flavor experiences.

Carrots are a dog-approved favorite, packed with beta-carotene for eye health and vitamins for their immune system. This recipe adds a satisfying texture and natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of beef broth
• 0.5 cup of water
• 1/4 cup of finely grated or pureed carrot
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. To make it easier to incorporate, you can lightly steam and puree the carrot with the 0.5 cup of water.
2. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold beef broth.
3. Heat gently until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the carrot puree and remaining 0.5 cup of broth.
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent way to add vegetable-based nutrients to a classic beef jelly. Perfect for dogs of all ages, supporting both vision and joint health.

This jelly is designed to be a soothing, relaxing treat. Chamomile is a gentle herb known for its calming properties, making this perfect for anxious pups or as a bedtime snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of water
• 1 chamomile tea bag (ensure it’s caffeine-free)
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of strong chamomile tea with 1 cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 10 minutes, then remove the tea bag and let the tea cool completely.
2. Pour the cooled chamomile tea into a saucepan and sprinkle the gelatin over it to bloom for 5 minutes.
3. Warm over low heat to dissolve the gelatin.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 cup of cold water and the honey (if using).
5. Pour into molds and chill.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A wonderful, calming treat for stressful situations like thunderstorms, or as part of a relaxing bedtime routine.

Why stick to one berry? This recipe uses a mix of dog-safe berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a full spectrum of antioxidant power and a flavor your dog will adore.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of water
• 1/2 cup of mixed berries (fresh or frozen), pureed
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold water in a saucepan.
2. Heat gently until the gelatin dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the berry puree and the remaining 0.5 cup of water.
4. For a chunkier texture, you can stir in a few whole berries.
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate until firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A super-tasty, immune-boosting treat that feels truly gourmet. Perfect for spoiling your pup in a healthy way.

Goat milk is often called the ‘universal milk’ because it’s easier for many dogs to digest than cow’s milk. It’s packed with probiotics and calcium, making this a gut-friendly and bone-supporting treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of plain, unsweetened goat milk
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Follow the standard method: bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold goat milk in a saucepan.
2. Warm gently (do not boil) until the gelatin dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1 cup of cold goat milk.
4. Pour into molds and chill for 4-6 hours until very firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: An excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those who could benefit from extra probiotics. It’s creamy, nutritious, and delicious.

This recipe is a powerhouse of healthy fats and fiber. Coconut oil is great for skin and coat, while chia seeds provide omega-3s, fiber, and an interesting texture.

Ingredients:

• 1.75 cups of warm water
• 1/4 cup of coconut milk (canned, full-fat) or 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1 tablespoon of chia seeds

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the chia seeds with 1/4 cup of the warm water and let them sit for 10 minutes to form a gel.
2. Meanwhile, bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cool water in a saucepan.
3. Warm gently until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the coconut milk/oil, the chia seed gel, and the remaining 0.5 cup of water. Mix thoroughly.
5. Pour into molds and chill.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A unique, nutrient-dense treat for active dogs or those needing extra support for their skin and coat. A great way to introduce healthy fats.

Fight doggy breath from the inside out! Parsley and mint are natural breath fresheners. This jelly supports their joints while also promoting better oral hygiene.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of low-sodium chicken or beef broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh mint

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold broth.
2. Heat gently to dissolve.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, mint, and the final cup of cold broth.
4. Pour into small molds (since it’s for breath, smaller treats are great) and chill.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A must-try for any dog owner who wants to combat bad breath. It’s a functional treat that tackles two problems in one tasty bite.

This is the ultimate joint-support recipe. Green-lipped mussels are a superfood, famous for their unique concentration of omega-3s and glycosaminoglycans, which are building blocks for cartilage and joint fluid.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of fish stock or water
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1-2 teaspoons of Green Lipped Mussel powder

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold stock/water.
2. Heat gently to dissolve the gelatin.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in the Green Lipped Mussel powder until no clumps remain.
4. Stir in the final cup of cold stock/water.
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The gold standard for dogs with significant arthritis or joint issues. This is less of a ‘treat’ and more of a powerful, edible supplement.

Sweet potatoes are a fantastic, dog-safe carbohydrate source, rich in vitamins and fiber. Paired with savory pork broth, it’s a hearty and satisfying combination.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups of pork broth or water
• 1/2 cup of cooked, mashed sweet potato
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin

Instructions:

1. Ensure the mashed sweet potato is smooth and free of lumps.
2. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold pork broth.
3. Warm over low heat until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the mashed sweet potato and the remaining 0.5 cup of broth until fully incorporated.
5. Pour into molds and chill until very firm.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A great option for active dogs who need the extra energy from complex carbs, or for adding more fiber to a dog’s diet in a delicious way.

Want to provide the benefits of collagen without any extra calories, flavors, or ingredients? This is it. It’s a pure, simple way to supplement gelatin in your dog’s diet.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of plain water
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored, high-quality gelatin

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold water in a saucepan.
2. Heat gently, stirring until it’s completely dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the final cup of cold water.
4. Pour into a dish or molds and refrigerate.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The ideal choice for overweight dogs, dogs with severe allergies, or those on a strict prescription diet. It delivers pure joint support with no frills.

Elevate the classic beef jelly with aromatic herbs. Rosemary and thyme not only add incredible flavor but also have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of beef broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of beef broth with the rosemary and thyme. Warm it gently for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors, then strain out the herbs if desired (or leave them in). Let the broth cool.
2. Sprinkle the gelatin over the cooled, infused broth to bloom.
3. Warm again over low heat to dissolve the gelatin.
4. Remove from heat, stir in the final cup of cold broth, pour into molds, and chill.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: For the canine connoisseur with a sophisticated palate. It transforms a simple treat into something truly special.

Don’t throw away your eggshells! When cleaned, dried, and ground into a fine powder, they are a fantastic source of natural calcium for bone health. This jelly supports both cartilage (collagen) and bones (calcium).

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of chicken broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1/2 teaspoon of finely ground eggshell powder

Instructions:

1. To make eggshell powder: wash shells thoroughly, bake at 200°F for 10 mins to sterilize, then grind into a super-fine powder in a coffee grinder.
2. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold chicken broth.
3. Heat gently to dissolve.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the eggshell powder until it’s evenly distributed.
5. Stir in the final cup of cold broth, pour into molds, and chill.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: A great recipe for those on a raw or homemade diet to ensure adequate calcium intake, or for any dog needing extra bone support along with their joint care.

Why choose between land and sea? This recipe combines the savory flavor of beef broth with the omega-3 power of fish oil for the ultimate joint-health concoction.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth
• 4 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin
• 1 teaspoon of high-quality fish oil (like salmon or sardine oil)

Instructions:

1. Bloom the gelatin in 1 cup of cold beef broth.
2. Heat gently, stirring until the gelatin has dissolved.
3. Remove from the heat. It’s important to let it cool slightly before the next step.
4. Once the mixture is warm but not hot, whisk in the fish oil and the remaining 1 cup of cold broth. This prevents high heat from damaging the delicate omega-3s.
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate.

Pros & Cons

Verdict: The perfect all-in-one recipe for pet parents who want to maximize the joint-supporting benefits in a single, highly palatable treat.

Making these treats is fun and easy, but keeping a few key things in mind will ensure they are as healthy and effective as possible for your furry friend.

Choosing the Right Gelatin

The star of the show is gelatin! Always choose unflavored, unsweetened gelatin. Look for powders derived from grass-fed beef or pasture-raised pork for the highest quality. This ensures you’re getting a pure product without any added sugars, artificial flavors, or xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs.

Sourcing Quality Ingredients

The better your ingredients, the better the final treat. If using broth, opt for low-sodium or no-sodium-added versions. Better yet, make your own bone broth at home! For fruits and veggies, fresh or frozen (with no additives) are both great choices. Always double-check that any ingredient you add is safe for canine consumption.

Essential Equipment

You don’t need much to get started:

• A small saucepan: For dissolving the gelatin.
• A whisk: For ensuring all the ingredients are well combined.
• Silicone Molds: These are fantastic! They come in fun shapes like paws and bones, and they make popping the finished jellies out incredibly easy. Alternatively, a shallow glass dish works perfectly—you can just cut the final jelly into cubes.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Store your finished collagen jellies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully! You can pop a few out of the freezer for a cool, soothing treat on a warm day. As for serving size, it depends on the size of your dog and the treat. Start with one or two small jellies per day and observe your dog. They are a treat/supplement, not a meal replacement.

How much collagen jelly can I give my dog?

A good rule of thumb is to follow the ‘10% rule,’ where treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For a small dog, one or two small jellies per day is plenty. A large dog could have a few more. Always start small and consult your vet if you have concerns.

Can puppies have collagen jelly?

Yes! Collagen is beneficial for growing puppies as it supports the development of their joints, bones, and connective tissues. Just be sure to introduce it slowly and in small amounts, and use simple, puppy-safe recipes like the Basic Beef or Chicken Jelly.

My jelly didn’t set! What did I do wrong?

This is a common issue! The most likely culprit is the ratio of liquid to gelatin. Ensure you’re using at least 2 tablespoons of gelatin per cup of liquid. Another reason could be that the gelatin didn’t dissolve completely. Make sure to warm it gently over low heat, stirring constantly, until the liquid is clear and free of granules. Finally, some fresh fruits like pineapple and kiwi contain enzymes that prevent gelatin from setting, so avoid using those.

Can I use store-bought Jell-O?

Absolutely not. Store-bought Jell-O and other similar dessert products are loaded with sugar, artificial colors, and artificial flavors. Even worse, the ‘sugar-free’ versions often contain xylitol, which is extremely poisonous to dogs. Stick to plain, unflavored gelatin for all your homemade dog treats.