Kibble may be the most convenient way to feed your dog, but it’s far from the most nutritious. Highly processed and often filled with questionable ingredients, kibble lacks the moisture, enzymes, and fresh nutrients that dogs need to thrive.
Luckily, there are simple ways to upgrade your dog’s kibble to improve digestion, boost nutrition, and support overall health. Let’s explore easy, vet-approved kibble enhancements you can start using today!
1️⃣ Add Fresh, Whole Foods
The best way to make kibble healthier is to add fresh, species-appropriate foods. Even a small amount can significantly improve your dog’s health!
🥩 Raw or Lightly Cooked Meat
- Provides high-quality protein and essential amino acids
- Choose lean beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, or venison
- Avoid seasoned, processed, or cooked bones
🥚 Eggs (Raw or Cooked)
- One of the most complete proteins for dogs
- Packed with biotin, healthy fats, and essential amino acids
- Feed raw for maximum benefits or soft-boiled
🐟 Sardines or Other Oily Fish
- Loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids for brain, joint, and coat health
- Choose wild-caught, unsalted, water-packed fish
- Avoid fish with added flavorings, sauces, or preservatives
🥕 Fresh Vegetables & Fruits
- Provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants
- Best options: broccoli, carrots, blueberries, spinach, zucchini, pumpkin
- Avoid grapes, onions, garlic, and high-sugar fruits
2️⃣ Add Bone Broth for Hydration & Gut Health
Kibble is extremely dry (around 10% moisture), while fresh food is 70%+ moisture. Hydration is key for kidney health, digestion, and nutrient absorption.
🥣 Bone broth is an easy way to add:
✅ Collagen & gelatin (good for joints)
✅ Amino acids (support gut & immune health)
✅ Electrolytes & hydration
💡 How to Use: Pour a little warm, homemade, or store-bought bone broth over kibble before serving.
3️⃣ Rotate Proteins for Better Nutrition
Most kibble brands use the same protein source (chicken, beef, or lamb). This increases the risk of food sensitivitiesand nutrient deficiencies over time.
🔄 Solution? Rotate protein sources!
- If your dog eats chicken-based kibble, add some beef, turkey, or duck.
- Try different protein-based meal toppers (e.g., lamb, venison, fish).
- Variety helps reduce allergies and prevents nutrient imbalances.
4️⃣ Add Healthy Fats for a Better Coat & Brain Health
Many kibble brands contain rancid fats or low-quality oils, which can contribute to inflammation and dry skin. Adding fresh, high-quality fats can boost your dog’s health!
🛢️ Best Fats to Add:
- Salmon oil (rich in Omega-3s)
- Coconut oil (antibacterial, good for digestion)
- Flaxseed oil (supports skin & coat health)
💡 Tip: Just a small amount (½ - 1 tsp per 20 lbs of body weight) can make a big difference!
5️⃣ Add Probiotics for a Healthy Gut
Many dogs fed kibble suffer from digestive issues due to lack of live enzymes and beneficial bacteria. Adding probiotics can help restore gut balance.
🥛 Great Probiotic Options:
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt or kefir
- Fermented vegetables (e.g., sauerkraut, kimchi - without onions/garlic!)
- Probiotic supplements (dog-specific strains)
💡 Bonus Tip: Combine probiotics with pumpkin or goat’s milk for extra gut health benefits!
6️⃣ Use a Quality Kibble Topper
If you’re short on time, a nutrient-rich kibble topper is an easy solution!
🦴 Best Kibble Toppers Include:
✅ Freeze-dried raw food (adds natural enzymes & protein)
✅ Gently cooked fresh food
✅ Dehydrated organ meats (liver, heart, kidney)
💡 Tip: Look for toppers without fillers, artificial flavors, or excessive starches.
Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Health Benefits!
You don’t have to switch completely from kibble to raw or fresh food overnight. Even adding 10-20% fresh food to your dog’s kibble can increase their lifespan and overall health.
🔹 Start small – add one or two fresh ingredients to your dog’s diet.
🔹 Observe improvements in energy, coat quality, and digestion.
🔹 Rotate & vary ingredients for balanced nutrition.
🐶 Your dog will thank you for the extra love and care in their bowl!
💬 Have you tried enhancing your dog’s kibble? What’s your go-to addition? Share in the comments!