November 18, 2024 4 min read
Kibble has long been marketed as a one-size-fits-all solution, but its limitations become evident when you look closer. One of the biggest issues is its lack of moisture. While fresh foods contain around 70% moisture, kibble only offers 5-10%. This leaves dogs in a chronic state of dehydration, as their bodies must pull water from vital organs like the kidneys and liver to aid digestion.
Dehydration can lead to a host of problems, including kidney strain, dry skin, and reduced energy levels. Adding moisture to your dog’s kibble is an easy fix. Start with:
These additions improve hydration while delivering essential nutrients, making them an easy first step in elevating your dog’s diet.
Eggs are one of nature’s most complete foods, offering an impressive array of nutrients in a single package. They are rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making them a fantastic supplement to your dog’s kibble. Highlights include:
For maximum nutrition, feed raw, pasture-raised eggs. The shell can be crushed and added for a calcium boost, while the membrane inside the shell is packed with collagen and joint-supporting nutrients. If you’re concerned about raw eggs, softly boiling them preserves most of their nutritional benefits.
Fish like sardines, mackerel, and sprats are nutritional powerhouses, especially for their high omega-3 fatty acid content. Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory, support brain health, and improve skin and coat condition. Additionally, they offer:
Fresh fish is ideal, but tinned options are a great backup. Look for fish packed in water (not oil, brine, or sauce) and rinse them before serving. Feeding guidelines recommend one fresh sardine or two tinned sardines per 10kg of body weight, two to three times a week.
Organ meats like liver, kidney, and heart are some of the most nutrient-dense foods you can offer your dog. They’re loaded with:
However, because organ meats are so nutrient-rich, they should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet. Feed them raw, lightly cooked, or dehydrated for variety, but avoid dehydrating kidneys due to the smell.
Contrary to popular belief, raw bones can be a safe and highly beneficial addition to your dog’s diet. They provide:
Begin with softer options like chicken wings or necks, and supervise your dog during chewing to prevent choking. Avoid cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause injuries.
While dogs are primarily carnivorous, fruits and vegetables can offer complementary benefits when prepared correctly. Vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli provide:
Fruits like blueberries, apples (without seeds), and watermelon are excellent occasional treats rich in antioxidants. However, avoid toxic foods like onions, grapes, raisins, and macadamia nuts.
Preparation is key—dogs can’t digest cellulose, so blend or lightly steam vegetables to break down their tough cell walls.
Research shows that adding just 20% fresh food to a kibble-based diet can significantly reduce your dog’s risk of developing allergies and chronic diseases. Start small, incorporating one new ingredient at a time, and observe how your dog reacts.
Every addition—be it a splash of bone broth, a raw egg, or a handful of leafy greens—contributes to better health and a happier pup. By embracing these simple changes, you’re not just feeding your dog; you’re investing in their long-term well-being.
So why settle for less when you can give your dog more? With a little effort, you can transform mealtime into a celebration of health and vitality.
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