Take your dog's kibble to the next level

Why Kibble Alone Isn’t Enough

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:

• Warm water: A simple, cost-effective way to soften the kibble.
• Bone broth: Rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, bone broth also contains glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, glycine for liver detoxification, and collagen for skin and coat health.
• Kefir: A probiotic-packed liquid that not only hydrates but also supports gut health.

These additions improve hydration while delivering essential nutrients, making them an easy first step in elevating your dog’s diet.

Eggs: A Nutritional Powerhouse

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:

• Antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin to support eye health.
• Choline for muscle function, brain health, and fat metabolism.
• Vitamin D for strong bones and teeth—essential since dogs can’t produce vitamin D from sunlight as humans do.

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.

Small Oily Fish: The Omega-3 Superstars

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:

• Coenzyme Q10, which can help prevent heart disease.
• Low mercury risk, as smaller fish accumulate fewer toxins compared to larger species like tuna.

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: Nutritional Powerhouse

Organ meats like liver, kidney, and heart are some of the most nutrient-dense foods you can offer your dog. They’re loaded with:

• Iron, copper, zinc, and selenium to support immunity and energy levels.
• B vitamins for nervous system health and metabolism.
• Taurine, an amino acid essential for heart health.

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.

Raw Meaty Bones: The Original Toothbrush

Contrary to popular belief, raw bones can be a safe and highly beneficial addition to your dog’s diet. They provide:

• Mental stimulation: Chewing relieves boredom and stress.
• Dental benefits: Chewing raw bones can help reduce tartar build-up.
• Joint support: Bones are rich in glucosamine and chondroitin.

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.

The Role of Fruits and Vegetables

While dogs are primarily carnivorous, fruits and vegetables can offer complementary benefits when prepared correctly. Vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli provide:

• Calcium, magnesium, and potassium for heart health and nerve function.
• Water content to combat dehydration.
• Fibre to support gut health, which is critical since 70-80% of a dog’s immune system resides in its gut.

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.

A Little Goes a Long Way

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.