Nutrition is a major concern for many dog owners who care about their companion's well-being, and one of the questions that frequently arises in my community is: can I mix raw food and kibble in my dog's bowl? This question sparks passionate debates and diverse opinions. Indeed, nutrition isn't a simple matter of "yes" or "no"; it's often nuanced and complex. In this article, I'll share the different perspectives on this topic to help you make an informed decision, considering your personal situation, your values, and your dog's needs.
The advantages of mixing the 2:
A little bit of raw food is better than nothing.
Some studies have revealed that even a small amount of raw food (around 20%) in a dog's diet can provide health benefits. Researchers in Finland observed a decrease in blood markers for cancer, inflammation, and certain diseases in dogs that consumed part of their diet in raw form.
Some dogs tolerate it well.
Every dog is unique, and some dogs tolerate a mix of both types of food very well, without experiencing digestive issues. This can be a good option if your dog seems to enjoy this combination and if you have practical or budgetary constraints that prevent you from opting for a 100% raw diet.
Regarding the budget:
Raw food can sometimes be more expensive than kibble, and some families may find it difficult to maintain an exclusively raw diet for their dog. In this case, mixing the 2 can be an alternative to provide your dog with additional nutrition while respecting your budget.
The disadvantages of mixing the 2:
Decrease in nutritional benefits
By mixing kibble and raw food, it's important to understand that you won't get all the nutritional benefits offered by an exclusively raw diet. Raw food is known to be superior in terms of nutritional value, resulting in positive effects on a dog's health, such as a healthier coat, improved digestion, increased vitality, and better dental health.
Possible digestive issues
Dry kibble and raw food require different digestive systems. Mixing the 2 can cause digestive issues in some dogs, as their digestive system isn’t optimized for this type of hybrid diet.
Not suitable for dogs with sugar intolerance
Some dogs may suffer from sugar intolerance, which can lead to various health issues such as yeast infections or digestive upset. Since many kibble brands contain a significant amount of sugar, mixing the 2 types of food isn’t suitable for dogs with sugar intolerance.
In short, there's no single answer to whether you should mix raw food and kibble for your dog. Every dog is unique, with its own specific needs and dietary preferences. Ideally, you should adapt to your dog, considering its health, well-being, and your personal constraints.
If you plan to mix the 2 types of food, be sure to carefully monitor your dog's reaction and overall health. If you notice any digestive issues, intolerance, or a decline in their health, it might be best to reconsider this approach and opt for a diet better suited to their needs.
It's essential to keep in mind that dog nutrition is a complex field, and there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The key is to make an informed and thoughtful decision, considering your dog's specific needs and what works best for them.
Bonus tip: To help you know if your dog is well-fed and healthy, I suggest you download my free app. tool which will give you key indicators to monitor. This will help you make the right decisions regarding their diet and well-being.
Thank you for joining me in this discussion about canine nutrition and see you soon for new content!
Karine
P.S.: Whether you decide to feed kibble, raw food, or both, it's important to choose quality food.
