1. Highly Processed Ingredients: Losing Natural Nutrients

One of the biggest concerns with kibble is the high level of processing it undergoes. Kibble is made through a method called extrusion, which involves cooking the ingredients at extremely high temperatures. Unfortunately, this process can destroy many of the natural nutrients and enzymes in the ingredients. To compensate, manufacturers often add synthetic vitamins and minerals back into the food. While this ensures your dog gets the necessary nutrients, they might not be as beneficial or bioavailable as those found in whole, fresh foods.

2. Carbohydrate Overload

Did you know that some kibbles contain more than 50% carbohydrates? While dogs can digest carbohydrates, they are primarily carnivores and have evolved to thrive on protein and fat. An excess of carbs can lead to health problems like obesity, diabetes, and inflammation. Unlike humans, dogs don’t require high levels of carbohydrates in their diet, so a lower-carb, protein-rich diet is often more suitable for their nutritional needs.

3. Common Allergens in Kibble

Kibble often contains fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which are some of the most common allergens for dogs. Many dogs develop food sensitivities or allergies, leading to issues like itchy skin, digestive discomfort, and chronic ear infections. If your dog has unexplained skin problems or frequent stomach upset, their kibble could be the culprit.

4. The Dental Health Myth

One common belief is that kibble helps clean a dog’s teeth, but this is largely a myth. While the texture of dry food might scrape the surface of the teeth, it doesn’t effectively prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Regular dental care, including brushing your dog’s teeth and providing chew toys or raw meaty bones, is a much more effective way to maintain your dog’s oral health.

5. Artificial Preservatives and Chemicals

Some kibble brands use artificial preservatives like BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin to extend shelf life. These chemicals have been linked to health issues in dogs, including cancer and organ damage over long-term exposure. While many dog food companies have started to switch to natural preservatives, it’s still crucial to check the ingredients list and be aware of what’s in your dog’s food.

6. Dehydration Risk

Kibble is a dry food with only about 10% moisture content, which means your dog needs to drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. Dogs on a kibble diet are at a higher risk of chronic dehydration if they don’t consume enough water daily. This can lead to kidney strain and urinary tract issues over time. Feeding your dog fresh, moisture-rich foods can help support better hydration and overall kidney health.

7. Impact on Gut Health

A kibble diet may not support a diverse and healthy gut microbiome in dogs. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and overall health. Fresh food diets rich in whole ingredients can promote a more balanced gut flora, leading to improved digestion and a stronger immune system. A varied diet with fresh ingredients can make a big difference in your dog’s digestive health.

Should You Consider Fresh Food for Your Dog?

Given these surprising facts about kibble, more dog owners are exploring fresh food diets, including homemade or commercially-prepared options that offer a healthier alternative. Fresh foods typically contain higher levels of natural nutrients, enzymes, and moisture, supporting better digestion, immune function, and overall well-being for dogs.

While kibble is convenient and often more affordable, it’s worth considering how it may be affecting your dog’s health in the long run. Understanding the impact of highly processed ingredients, hidden carbs, allergens, and artificial additives can help you make more informed choices for your pet’s diet. Every dog is unique, so finding the right balance of nutrients and quality ingredients will go a long way in supporting their happiness and health.