Why Fresh Dog Food Is Better Than Dry Kibble

There’s nothing a pet parent loves more than providing the best for their dog, whether it’s cosy beds, fun toys, or long walks in the park. But when it comes to nutrition, many owners default to dry kibble, be it for convenience, cost, or simply because they know nothing else. 

While dry pet food has been a go-to choice for decades, a growing body of research and countless happy dogs suggest that fresh, whole meals might be superior.

From higher-quality ingredients to an increased feeling of satiety and better digestion, fresh dog food is proving to be better than processed kibble. But is it really worth the switch? We’ll break down the science and explore why fresh dog food has been on the rise since 2021.

Nutritional Advantages of Fresh Dog Food 

Even as humans, we try to avoid processed foods as much as possible, so it's no surprise that dogs benefit more from fresh, nutrient-dense meals, too. While the gap in quality isn’t necessarily as wide as some would want you to believe, there are several reasons why fresh food might be leading in the nutrition department. 

• Whole, recognisable ingredients. Kibble often contains rendered meat meals, by-products, and cheap fillers like corn and wheat, which are ingredients you won't find in a home-cooked dog meal. Fresh dog food, on the other hand, features high-quality proteins like real chicken, beef, or fish. In addition, you get fresh vegetables and fruits, plus healthy fats like salmon oil and coconut oil. With fresh food, you don’t have to worry about any mystery ingredients or artificial preservatives.
  

• Higher moisture content for better hydration. Kibble is only 5%–10% water, forcing dogs to compensate by drinking more, which many don't do enough. Fresh dog food usually contains up to 80% moisture, helping support kidney function and boost water intake for dogs with kidney issues. Even better, it improves digestion by helping meals move smoothly through the gut.
  

• More bioavailable nutrients. Kibble production usually entails high-heat processing, which can destroy vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids. With fresh or even lightly cooked food, you get to retain natural antioxidants from fresh veggies, active enzymes aiding digestion, and higher protein quality for better muscle maintenance. 
  

• No harmful additives. It’s well documented that some of the additives in kibble are not just harmful to dogs but also to humans. Studies have shown that artificial antioxidants and preservatives like ethoxyquin and sulfites can cause allergic reactions. In dogs, it may even lead to liver issues, reproductive problems, and thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency. Sweeteners like Xylitol also act as a potent stimulator of insulin release in dogs and are capable of reducing blood glucose levels and causing liver failure. There’s also the issue of excess carbs and fillers, which can lead to weight gain. Fresh food does away with these entirely, reducing the risk of allergies and long-term health issues.

Things to Consider Before Switching 

Making the switch from kibble to fresh dog food is a big step, and while the benefits of fresh food are clear, there are some important factors to examine before transitioning. Here’s what every pet parent should keep in mind.

Cost Comparison

We won’t sugarcoat it for you, kibble is way cheaper than fresh food. However, when you consider the long-term health savings in potentially fewer vet visits and better overall wellness, they might just be worth the investment. 

Also, you can go for pre-made fresh food, which also costs more but saves prep time. Alternatively, you could prepare the meals yourself. However, you do need to be careful with DIY meals because they might be cost-effective, but they also require careful balancing and research.

Slow Transition

When introducing a new diet to your dog, it’s advisable to take things slowly and allow at least a week for the switch. For the first day, give 10% of the new food and 90% of the old one, and gradually continue to increase the fresh food every day until it reaches an 80/20 ratio on the sixth day. You can then switch fully on the seventh or eighth day.

It’s important you watch for changes in stool consistency, energy levels, or appetite. Some dogs adapt quickly, while others, especially seniors or those with sensitive stomachs, may need a slower transition.

Storage and Convenience

This is one area where dry pet food edges out fresh dog food. Fresh meals require cold storage or freezing to stay edible, unlike kibble, which can be kept anywhere dry and clean. Dry dog food is also easier on the go. If you’re serious about going fresh for your dog, opt for pre-portioned meals and plan ahead with canned or frozen fresh options.

Nutritional Balance 

Just because the food is fresh doesn’t mean it’s complete and balanced. Many DIY recipes lack key nutrients, so it's important to consult a vet nutritionist before preparing homemade meals or look for AAFCO-approved fresh dog food brands. 

Also, you might want to consider introducing supplements like calcium or omega-3s, as they can provide much-needed nutrients. A probiotic, which is a digestive enzyme, can also help with the switching process.

Your Dog’s Unique Needs

Just because it’s fresh doesn’t mean it’s officially the best meal for every dog. You should always look into your dog’s specific nutritional needs before buying. 

Puppies and seniors have different nutritional requirements, so take into account their age, breed, allergies, activity level, and any existing health conditions. Your couch potato might not need as much protein/calories as a working dog. There are even online platforms you can visit to get insights from professionals.

Conclusion

Switching from kibble to fresh dog food isn’t just a trend. It’s a genuine game-changer for your dog’s health and happiness. You can’t deny that fresh food is an upgrade in almost every way. It provides optimal hydration, premium proteins for better muscles, and wholesome nutrients that support everything from digestion to immune health.

While kibble offers convenience and easier storage, those are easy trade-offs for a happier and healthier dog. 

Ready to make the switch? Explore Pawy’s fresh food options today and see the difference wholesome nutrition makes.