Kibble is known to be a dry food, low in moisture and not as nutritional as may be suggested.
So how can we boost the nutritional value of Kibble? Let’s look at a number of good healthy options of raw food, vegetables, fruit and supplements that can be used, bearing in mind though not to throw the balance of the Kibble diet out of kilter; and also remember to take care that any new foods introduced should be done gradually using small amounts initially. Switch it up and give them some variety a few times a week, remembering to reduce their Kibble meal sufficiently when full portions of the boosters are eventually served.
Raw Eggs
Most dogs are generally fine having a raw egg a few times a week. They are full of nutrition. Egg shells are also a great source of minerals and calcium; not all of our doggo’s are keen on eating the shell broken into pieces, you can grind it up and serve with their food. It’s best to only use organic eggs; commercial brands are known to spray chemicals on their eggs to make them more appealing on the shelf, and we don’t want our dogs munching that. If you do use commercial eggs make sure you wash them first.
Kefir is a friendly probiotic that aids digestive health, fights harmful bacteria, improves bone density and reduces allergies.
One benefit of these small fish is that they are full of Omega 3 fatty acids which are well known to be good for health. You can offer your dog a few raw sardines a couple of times a week. They are also easily frozen.
Broth is wonderful for hydration, especially important for those on a dry food diet. It’s also great for digestion, joint health and a good liver detox. A good idea would be to make ice blocks with it and serve as a treat.
Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
These are full of the good stuff too, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals; but you may want to mush it up a bit. Raw veggies cut up into chunks may not be as well digested as we want, so there is a good probability that the furry ones lose out on much of the nutrition. A blender blitz or puree may be better suited to their digestive system. Try and mix some into the dogs’ dinner every now and then.
Here is a list of some amazing additions to your pets bowl:
Red apples
Spinach
Blueberries
Carrots
Beetroot
Small amounts of garlic
Kelp
Cucumber
It’s very important that you know what food could be harmful to your pet so remember to only use vegetables and fruit that they can safely eat.
Here are some of the things to steer clear of:
Raw potatoes
Onions
Garlic
Radish
Tomatoes
Eggplant
Corn
Mushrooms
Cherries
Lemons
Limes
Raisins
Grapes
Nuts
Nutmeg
Rhubarb
Remember, feeding raw is the best way for your pet to get all the nutrients they need.
Ensuring your pet gets a nutritionally balanced meal is vital. The above are suggestions and remember that each dog is unique and their nutritional needs may vary.
If you’d like to find out more about feeding a raw diet please contact us.
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