CAN I MIX RAW FOOD WITH KIBBLE?

A Guide to Mixed Feeding for Dogs

Many pet owners are curious about feeding their dogs a combination of raw food and kibble, commonly known as "mixed feeding." The idea of offering both has grown in popularity as pet parents seek to give their dogs a balanced diet while incorporating the benefits of raw nutrition. In this blog, we’ll cover whether it’s safe to mix raw food with kibble, the benefits and potential drawbacks of mixed feeding, and tips for introducing both into your dog’s diet safely.

1. Is It Safe to Mix Raw Food with Kibble?

Yes, it is generally safe to mix raw food with kibble, but there are some important factors to consider. Raw foods and kibble have different digestion rates, which can impact your dog’s digestive process. Kibble, which is highly processed, takes longer to digest than raw food, which can sometimes lead to digestive upset if combined. However, many dogs tolerate mixed feeding well, especially if introduced gradually.

 2. Benefits of Mixing Raw Food with Kibble

Combining raw food with kibble can offer unique advantages, allowing your dog to enjoy the benefits of both diets:

- Improved Nutrient Profile: Raw food introduces fresh proteins, enzymes, and essential vitamins that are often lacking in kibble, giving your dog a more varied nutrient intake.
- Increased Flavour and Enjoyment: Raw food enhances the taste of meals, making them more appealing to even picky eaters.
- Affordability: Feeding exclusively raw can be expensive; by mixing raw with kibble, you can provide the health benefits of raw feeding without significantly increasing your budget.
- Easier Transition to Full Raw: If you’re considering a full switch to raw feeding in the future, starting with mixed feeding allows you to gauge your dog’s reaction to raw food before committing fully.

 3. Potential Drawbacks of Mixed Feeding

While there are benefits, there are also some challenges to consider:

- Digestive Differences: As mentioned, kibble digests more slowly than raw food. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, this difference can lead to minor digestive issues.
- Balancing the Diet: Mixed feeding requires careful consideration to ensure a balanced nutrient profile. Kibble often contains fillers and carbs, while raw food is high in protein and fat, so it’s essential to strike a balance.
- Risk of Bacterial Contamination: Handling raw food comes with the need for strict hygiene to avoid bacteria like Salmonella. Make sure to store and prepare raw ingredients safely.

 4. Tips for Safely Mixing Raw Food with Kibble

If you’re ready to try mixed feeding, here are some tips to help make it a smooth transition:

Start Slowly

Introduce raw food gradually to allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust. Start with a small amount of raw food mixed into the kibble and observe your dog’s response. If they tolerate it well, you can gradually increase the portion of raw food over a week or two.

Feed Raw and Kibble Separately
To make digestion easier, you may consider feeding raw food and kibble at separate times. For example, you could feed a raw meal in the morning and a kibble meal in the evening. This allows your dog to digest each type of food without any interference.

 Choose High-Quality Ingredients
Opt for high-quality, human-grade meats when feeding raw, and avoid any additives or preservatives. Chicken, turkey, and beef are commonly used proteins that are easy for dogs to digest. For kibble, look for high-protein, grain-free options with minimal fillers for a more complementary diet.

Monitor Your Dog’s Health
As you introduce raw food, keep an eye on your dog’s stools, energy levels, coat condition, and any changes in behavior. Positive indicators that your dog is thriving include firm stools, a shinier coat, and steady energy levels. If you notice digestive upset, reduce the raw food portion and reintroduce slowly.

 Balance Nutrients Over Time
Mixed feeding is an excellent way to offer a variety of nutrients, but it’s important to maintain balance. Generally, a raw meal should consist of 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ meat to ensure a balanced diet. Adding some leafy greens or low-carb vegetables is also a good way to include fiber and essential vitamins.

5. FAQ: Common Questions About Mixing Raw and Kibble

Can All Dogs Eat a Mixed Diet?
Most dogs can safely eat a mixed diet, but individual reactions vary. For dogs with specific health conditions, such as digestive sensitivities or food allergies, it’s wise to consult a veterinarian before starting mixed feeding.

Will Mixing Raw with Kibble Cause Digestive Upset?
While some dogs may experience mild digestive upset at first, many tolerate the combination well. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, feed raw and kibble at separate meals to help ease digestion.

Is Mixed Feeding a Good Long-Term Solution?
Yes, mixed feeding can be a sustainable, long-term solution for those looking to add fresh ingredients without fully switching to raw. It provides the health benefits of raw feeding while maintaining the convenience of kibble.

 6. Conclusion: Giving Your Dog the Best of Both Worlds

Mixing raw food with kibble can be an effective way to give your dog a nutrient-rich, flavourful diet without the full commitment to raw feeding. By balancing fresh, high-quality meats with a portion of kibble, you provide essential proteins, vitamins, and enzymes that support overall health, digestion, and coat quality.

At Wellness Dog Co., we believe in giving dogs the best nutrition possible. Whether you’re exploring full raw feeding or a mixed approach, our resources are here to guide you through a safe, nutritious diet that benefits your dog’s health and happiness.