Why Beef Tallow is the Secret Ingredient Your Dog’s Skin Needs

Is Beef Tallow a Super Ingredient Your Dog Skin Needs? 

 

Yes. Yes, it is.

 

 

Let’s Talk Tallow

 That’s right—beef tallow, the fat that makes your French fries crispy, and sears that perfect steak, is about to become your dog’s new BFF (Best Fur Friend). ;D

 

Imagine opening a tub of beef tallow and harnessing the power of this age-old, all-natural ingredient to nourish so many parts of your fur baby. And it's great for humans too!

 

Rendered beef fat absorbs readily into the skin, providing deep conditioning. Its vitamin content heals to create the perfect, versatile dog balm.

 

"Who would have thought that beef tallow would be a beneficial ingredient in this DIY beef tallow dog balm recipe?" I'm so excited for you to try it. The results are amazing! And you WILL notice a difference. 

 

 

 

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What is Beef Tallow, Anyway? 

 

Beef tallow is a hard white fat surrounding a cow's organs, especially the kidneys.

 

The term "tallow" is commonly referenced as being from cows. Beef tallow is made by rendering beef. 

 

The rendering process involves gently heating it to separate the beef fat from muscle or connective tissue. The result is tallow, a pure beef fat that is solid at room temperature. (similar to butter)

 

Cows are not the only animals beef tallow is derived. Beef tallow can also be derived from other animals like sheep, bison, and lamb. 

 

How is Beef Tallow made? 

 

 Making beef tallow has remained relatively unchanged throughout history, though modern methods have made it easier. 

 

Four Ways to Make Beef Tallow 

 

1. Traditional Rendering -  Traditional rendering involves slowly cooking beef fat over low heat until it melts and separates from the solids. The liquid fat is then strained through a fine mesh to remove impurities.
2.  Wet Rendering - Wet rendering involves boiling the fat in water. As the fat melts, it rises to the top and can be skimmed off, leaving behind any impurities in the water. 
3. Dry Rendering - Dry rendering is similar to traditional rendering. The process is done in an oven or dehydrator. The fat is heated slowly until it melts and the liquid is collected.
4. Industrial Rendering - When you hear the word, "Industrial" you might be thinking, "This can't be a good to use!" On a commercial scale, rendering is done in large facilities using high temperatures and machinery to quickly melt and separate the fat. While it produces large quantities quickly, this process can strip away some of the beneficial nutrients, resulting in a less natural product.

 

 

"Humans have used tallow for centuries to keep skin soft and supple. Now, it’s your dog’s turn to reap the benefits."

 

 

You've learned the four ways in which beef tallow is made. Now, "let's check out the REAL reason we want beef tallow in our dog balms!" "The Good-for-you stuff."

 

 

 What are the benefits of Beef Tallow for Dogs?

 

• Beef Tallow is Rich in Nutrients. It is packed with a multitude of vitamins that are essential for healthy skin. Just like humans, dogs need these vitamins to keep their skin healthy. And what better way than in a DIY homemade creamy luxurious dog balm!

 

• Natural moisturizer. Tallow has a similar composition to the natural oils in your dog’s skin. Tallow is easily absorbed, leaving your dog's skin hydrated and their coat shiny. Beef tallow is rich in several fatty acids. These fatty acids include stearic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid, which may help the skin's ability to heal. 

 

• Beef Tallow has Anti-inflammatory properties. Beef Tallow contains large amounts of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). Conjugated linoleic acid is known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Soothing beef tallow is great for dogs that suffer from itchy skin, hotspots, or dry patches, tallow can help with these irritations.

 

• Non-Toxic. Beef tallow is all-natural and non-toxic. If your dog decides to give themselves a post-application lick, you don’t have to worry about them ingesting any harmful chemicals. 

 

Note: This site contains affiliate links. As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission on products purchased. 

 

 

 FUN FACT- Beef Tallow is a sustainable product. It's made from the part of an animal that might otherwise go to waste. "You're helping your dog and supporting a planet-friendly environment." Win-Win!

 

 

 Let's Jump into the DIY Beef Tallow Dog Balm Recipe

 (Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook)

DIY Beef Tallow Dog Balm Recipe (Made with Raw Honey):

(Makes 3 - 2 oz. Tins)

• 1/2 cup beef tallow (look for grass-fed for the best quality)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil (for extra moisture)
• 1 tablespoon organic white beeswax (to firm up the balm)
• 5-10 drops of dog-safe essential calendula oil  
• 1 T. Raw honey

 

This Recipe is Adjusted below to make (12 - 2 oz. Tins) The Method stays the same

Ingredients:

• 3 cups beef tallow (look for grass-fed for the best quality)
• 3/4 cup organic, unrefined, 100% extra virgin coconut oil (for extra moisture)
• 6 tablespoons organic white beeswax (to firm up the balm)
• 60-120 drops of dog-safe essential calendula oil (or about 1 teaspoon; adjust based on preference)

Instructions:  

•  It is best to melt the beeswax first. You can use a double boiler or in this example, we used a large heat-safe canning jar over boiling water. (This is the method shown) When the beeswax is melted, remove the jar from the boiling water and add the beef tallow, coconut oil, and raw honey. Place the jar back into the boiling water. Stir all ingredients to incorporate.  Once the ingredients are melted remove the jar from the boiling water.

(Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook)

• Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the calendula oil.

(Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook)

• Pour the mixture into a 2 oz. tin or small jar and let it cool until solidified. (See below) "See how ultra-lush and soft it is!"
• You can also pour the mixture into heart-shaped silicone molds and give it as a gift. 

(Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook)

• Apply a small amount to your dog’s dry patches, hot spots, noses, or paw pads. I recommend using an applicator spoon. This will ensure that your balm stays germ-free.

 

 Using beef tallow on your dog isn’t just about moisturizing their skin; it’s about giving them a healthy, natural alternative to the synthetic products on the market. Understanding where it comes from and how it’s made can give you a greater appreciation for this humble yet powerful ingredient.

 

Deep Healing Beef Tallow Dog Balm (Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook)

 

Are you short on time? We have what you're looking for! The next time your dog’s skin feels dry, flaky, or red & irritated, give this rich creamy Deep Healing moisturizing beef tallow a try!  

 

If you like to make homemade everyday moisturizing, dog balm, Check out more FREE Dog Balm recipes here

 

Moisturizing Dog Balm Butter (Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook) 

Did you find this recipe easy to make? Have you tried it on your beloved dog or other pet? I would love to hear about your experience. Let me know in the comments.  -Annmarie