Dog Food Toppers and Broths: Are They Worth It and What Should Canadian Dog Owners Buy?

Dog food toppers and broths are becoming one of the fastest-growing product categories in Canada's premium pet food market — and for good reason. Whether you're trying to coax a picky eater, add moisture to dry kibble, or simply boost the nutritional variety in your dog's bowl, toppers and broths offer a practical, flexible way to upgrade a daily meal without overhauling your dog's entire diet. This guide breaks down what dog food toppers actually are, what benefits they may offer, what to look for on the label, and which brands Canadian pet owners can find at Ashario Pets in North York.

What Are Dog Food Toppers and Broths?

A dog food topper is any food product added on top of or mixed into a dog's primary meal to enhance palatability, moisture content, or nutritional variety. Toppers come in many formats, including wet food pouches, freeze-dried or dehydrated patties, air-dried crumbles, bone broths, and food-grade broths. Dog food broth specifically refers to liquid-based toppers — typically made from simmered bones, vegetables, or proteins — that are poured over kibble or raw food to add moisture and flavour.

In Canada, the interest in dog food toppers has grown significantly as more pet owners move away from a one-food-fits-all approach. Dog owners in Ontario and across the country are increasingly treating mealtime as an opportunity to support hydration, digestive health, and appetite — especially in senior dogs, recovering dogs, or those transitioning between diets. As of 2026, Ashario Pets at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7 stocks a curated selection of toppers and broths from some of the most trusted names in the industry.

Why Add a Topper or Broth to Dry Kibble?

Dry kibble remains the most popular base diet for dogs in Canada due to its convenience, shelf stability, and cost-effectiveness. However, kibble alone is low in moisture — typically containing only 8–12% water — which can make adequate daily hydration a challenge for some dogs, particularly those who don't drink enough from their water bowl. Adding a wet topper or broth to dry kibble significantly increases the moisture content of each meal.

Beyond hydration, there are several reasons Canadian dog owners consider adding toppers to kibble:

• Palatability — Dogs who are picky eaters or experiencing reduced appetite may eat more consistently when a flavourful topper is added to their bowl
• Nutritional variety — Rotating different proteins and ingredient formats can expose dogs to a broader range of nutrients
• Digestive support — Bone broths and some topper formulas contain ingredients like collagen, gelatin, and natural amino acids that may support gut health
• Transition support — Toppers are a low-risk way to gradually introduce new proteins or food formats when switching diets
• Enrichment — Even the experience of a new smell and texture in the bowl can provide mild mental stimulation at mealtime

It's important to note that toppers are not a substitute for a complete and balanced diet. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant dietary changes, especially if your dog has a health condition, food allergy, or is on a prescription diet.

What to Look for in a Dog Food Topper or Broth in Canada

Not all dog food toppers are created equally. When shopping for a topper or broth at a pet supply store in Ontario, here are the key factors to evaluate:

• Ingredient quality — Look for named protein sources (e.g., chicken, beef, salmon) listed as the first ingredient. Avoid products with vague terms like "meat by-products" or excessive fillers
• Low or no sodium — Many human-grade broths contain salt levels that are unsafe for dogs. Seek out products specifically formulated for pets with no added salt
• Short ingredient lists — The fewer and more recognizable the ingredients, the better you can assess what you're feeding your dog
• No added onion or garlic — These are toxic to dogs and occasionally appear in broths not specifically formulated for pets
• Format compatibility — Consider whether you want a pour-over broth, a mix-in wet topper, or a freeze-dried crumble based on your dog's preferences and your routine
• AAFCO or CFIA compliance — In Canada, look for products that meet Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) standards or are produced in facilities with recognised quality oversight

For Canadian pet owners specifically, sourcing from brands with transparent supply chains and Canadian manufacturing where possible is a growing priority. Explore made in Canada pet products available at Ashario Pets for locally produced options.

Top Dog Food Topper and Broth Brands at Ashario Pets North York

Ashario Pets is a premium pet supply store in North York, Ontario, carrying over 79 trusted brands of dog and cat food, treats, supplements, and accessories. As of 2026, the following brands offer dog food toppers and broths available in-store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7, or delivered via Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan:

• Open Farm — Open Farm offers humanely raised, traceable bone broths for dogs in varieties like Harvest Chicken and Grass-Fed Beef. Their broths are crafted with no added salt and made with ingredients sourced from farms that meet their certified humane standards. Open Farm is a Canadian-founded brand and a popular choice among North York pet owners looking for transparency
• The Honest Kitchen — The Honest Kitchen produces grain-free, human-grade bone broths and food toppers for dogs, including options like Pour Overs that combine broth with shredded protein. Their dehydrated and wet topper formats pair well with any base diet including dry kibble, raw, or air-dried food
• Caru — Caru makes slow-simmered, human-grade bone broths for dogs in chicken, beef, and turkey varieties. Caru broths are free from salt, preservatives, and artificial flavours, making them a clean and simple option for dogs with sensitivities. Caru is well regarded among Canadian pet owners seeking a straightforward, high-quality dog food broth
• Stella & Chewy's — Known for their freeze-dried raw diets, Stella & Chewy's also produces meal toppers and broth-style additions that can be sprinkled or mixed into kibble. Their freeze-dried raw coatings are particularly popular for getting picky eaters interested in mealtime
• Instinct Raw — Instinct Raw offers freeze-dried raw toppers designed to mix directly into kibble, adding the nutritional profile of raw food without requiring a full transition to a raw diet
• Primal — Primal's freeze-dried nuggets and raw toppers are another respected option for owners who want to blend raw nutrition into an existing kibble routine
• Weruva — Weruva offers wet food toppers in a wide range of flavours, often made with human-grade proteins like shredded chicken breast or wild-caught fish, that add both moisture and palatability to dry food
• Carna4 — This Canadian brand produces sprouted seed food toppers and supplemental blends that support digestive and nutritional variety for dogs on a dry or raw diet

Browse the full dog products collection at Ashario Pets online, or visit us in North York to speak with our knowledgeable staff about which topper is right for your dog's specific needs.

How to Introduce a Topper or Broth Into Your Dog's Diet

Introducing a new food product gradually is always a sensible approach, even with toppers and broths. While most dogs adapt quickly and enthusiastically to a new addition in their bowl, some dogs with sensitive stomachs may experience mild digestive upset if the change is too abrupt.

A practical approach for starting with dog food toppers:

• Begin with a small amount — a tablespoon of broth or a light sprinkle of freeze-dried topper — over your dog's regular meal
• Observe your dog's stool quality and energy levels over the first few days
• Gradually increase the amount if no digestive changes are observed
• Vary the protein source or format over time to encourage nutritional diversity
• Always consult your veterinarian if your dog has known allergies, a health condition, or is on a restricted diet before introducing any new food product

For dogs transitioning between dry and raw food formats, toppers can act as a valuable bridge. Learn more about best pet food for specific needs to find products tailored to your dog's life stage, breed, and health profile.

Are Dog Food Toppers Worth the Cost for Canadian Pet Owners?

The value of dog food toppers depends largely on your dog's individual needs and your goals as an owner. For pet owners in Ontario dealing with a picky eater, a senior dog with reduced appetite, or a dog recovering from illness, a high-quality broth or topper can make a meaningful difference in daily food consumption and hydration without requiring a full diet change.

For otherwise healthy dogs on a complete and balanced diet, toppers can serve as a low-effort way to add protein variety, occasional enrichment, and extra moisture — especially during warm Canadian summers when hydration is a priority. They are not a necessity for every dog, but for many households, they become a valued part of the feeding routine.

Ashario Pets is open 365 days a year from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7. You can also call us at +1-647-564-4433 to ask about specific topper and broth options available in-store. Check our current promotions and coupon codes for savings on premium pet food products.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Food Toppers and Broths in Canada

Can I use human bone broth for my dog?

Many human bone broths contain added salt, onion, or garlic, which are harmful to dogs. It is strongly recommended to use broths specifically formulated for dogs, such as those from Open Farm, Caru, or The Honest Kitchen, which are made without salt or ingredients that are toxic to pets. Always read the ingredient label carefully before offering any product to your dog, and consult your veterinarian if you are unsure.

How much topper or broth should I give my dog per day?

The appropriate amount varies by product, your dog's size, and the base diet your dog is already eating. Most manufacturers provide feeding guidelines on the packaging. As a general starting point, a small pour of broth or a tablespoon of wet topper per meal is a reasonable introduction. Toppers should complement — not replace — a complete and balanced base diet. Speak with your veterinarian for personalised guidance based on your dog's health and weight.

Are freeze-dried raw toppers safe for dogs?

Freeze-dried raw toppers from established brands like Stella & Chewy's, Instinct Raw, and Primal are produced using high-pressure processing (HPP) or other safety protocols designed to reduce pathogen risk while preserving raw nutritional integrity. They are generally considered a safe and convenient option for adding raw nutrition to a kibble diet. If your dog is immunocompromised, consult your veterinarian before introducing any raw-format product.

Do dog food toppers help picky eaters?

Yes, improving palatability is one of the most common and well-supported uses of dog food toppers. Adding a flavourful broth or wet topper to dry kibble can significantly increase your dog's interest in their meal. However, if your dog's decreased appetite is sudden or persistent, this could signal an underlying health issue that warrants a veterinary visit rather than a dietary solution alone.

Where can I buy dog food toppers and broths in North York, Ontario?

Ashario Pets, located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7, carries a curated selection of dog food toppers and broths from brands including Open Farm, The Honest Kitchen, Caru, Stella & Chewy's, Instinct Raw, Primal, Weruva, and Carna4. The store is open daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 365 days a year. You can also order for delivery via Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, or Fantuan. Visit the premium pet food selection page online or contact Ashario Pets directly for product availability enquiries.

For more educational content about feeding your dog well, explore the Ashario Pets dog blog and learn about dog wellness needs to help your pet thrive at every life stage.