Chicken Soup For Dogs
This is one of Grandma Chow's favorite Cantonese-style chicken soup recipes. She loves making it, especially during winter. We also share this soup with our 8-year-old German Shepherd dog, Rambo. Our whole family enjoys this soup a lot.
Why Homemade Chicken Soup For Dogs?
People always talk about the benefits of bone broth for dogs. In addition to bone broth, chicken soup can offer several benefits as well:
Nutrient-Rich: Chicken soup made with lean chicken provides essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals necessary for a dog's overall health.
Hydration: The liquid content in chicken soup helps keep dogs hydrated, which is crucial for various bodily functions. This is especially beneficial for dogs who are on a kibble-based diet.
Appetite Stimulant: The aroma and flavor of chicken soup can be enticing for dogs, making it a nutritious way to stimulate their appetite.
Why Is This Homemade Chicken Soup Especially Good for Winter Time (for Both Humans and Dogs)?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the combination of chicken soup with dried dragon eye fruit (longan), jujube (red dates), and goji berries is considered beneficial for winter for several reasons:
Warming Properties: Winter is associated with the cold, and this soup, with ingredients like dried dragon eye fruit, jujube, and goji berries, is believed to have warming properties in TCM. This helps balance the body's energy during the colder months.
Tonifying Blood and Qi: Dried dragon eye fruit, jujube, and goji berries are often used in TCM to tonify blood and Qi (vital energy). This is important during winter, when the body may need extra nourishment to support overall health and vitality.
Boosting the Immune System: Many TCM herbs and ingredients, including those in this soup, are thought to have immune-boosting properties. Strengthening the immune system during winter is crucial to prevent illness and maintain well-being.
Supporting Heart Health: Jujube, in particular, is believed to benefit the heart in TCM. Winter is associated with the Water element and the Kidney system, and supporting the heart can be important for overall balance.
Nourishing Yin: TCM emphasizes the balance between Yin and Yang energies in the body. Some ingredients in this soup, such as dried dragon eye fruit and goji berries, are considered Yin-tonifying, helping nourish bodily fluids and counterbalance excessive Yang, which can be beneficial in winter.
It's important to note that while TCM principles provide a unique perspective on health and nutrition, individual responses may vary, and these concepts should not replace professional medical advice.
Ingredients for Grandma Chow's Cantonese Style Chicken Soup:
Whole Chicken (We only use chicken breasts and back for this recipe. We save the chicken thighs, legs, and wings for a different dish. If you are feeling fancy, you can use the whole chicken.)
4 jujubes
1 big teaspoon of goji berries
4 dried dragon eye fruit (longan)
7-8 cups water
Salt (based on personal preference)
Instructions:
Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker. Add water. Ensure the chicken is completely submerged in the water.
Set on high in the slow cooker for 6 hours.
Add salt. If you want to share this with your dog, set aside a portion before adding salt. Spoon out the oil on the top layer before serving to your pup.
Bonus tips: I like to save the chicken breast from the soup, break it into smaller pieces, and put them into a dehydrator to make chicken treats for Rambo. The result is extra airy and crunchy chicken treats!
Want to know more about our homemade/ DIY recipes?
Check out the blog posts below:
Homemade Electrolytes for Dogs
Homemade Dog Breath Mint Recipe
Disclaimer:Please remember that I'm not a medical professional. The insights shared in this blog post are based on my personal research and the experiences I've gained as a crazy dog mom who is obsessed with my dog's health. In cases where your dog has any medical issues or health concerns, it's vital to consult with a licensed veterinarian or a qualified animal healthcare provider. While I aim to provide informative content based on my personal experiences, it should never be considered a replacement for professional veterinary guidance.
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