Take a Bite: The Benefits of Adding Raw Food to Dry Kibble
Written by Christian Morgan, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Every dog is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to optimal nutrition. Whether your pup thrives on our Essential blend for everyday nutrition, needs the high-energy boost of our Elite formula for peak performance, or you're exploring the benefits of adding raw food to their routine—the key is finding what works best for your dog's unique needs. For those curious about raw feeding but hesitant about the complexity and cost of going 100% raw, the 75%/25% approach offers an incredible middle ground. This science-backed method combines three parts Team Dog Essential or Elite with one-part high-quality raw food, giving your dog enhanced nutrition without the guesswork.
This combination supports various aspects of your dog's health, including digestion, gut health, immune function, allergies, energy levels, behavior, and appearance. It’s just one powerful option in the spectrum of feeding approaches, but for many dogs, it's the sweet spot that maximizes health benefits while keeping feeding practical, affordable, and perfectly balanced.
Digestibility
- Improved Nutrient Absorption: Raw food contains natural enzymes that aid in the breakdown of nutrients, leading to better digestion and nutrient absorption. This can result in firmer stools and reduced gastrointestinal issues.
- Enhanced Stool Quality: Studies have shown that dogs fed raw diets often exhibit improved stool quality, including reduced stool volume and odor.
Gut Health
- Balanced Gut Microbiome: Introducing raw food can positively influence the gut microbiome, promoting a more balanced and diverse bacterial community. This balance is crucial for optimal health with direct implications on gut and skin health.
- Reduced Digestive Issues: Many pet owners report a decrease in digestive problems such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after incorporating raw food into their dog's diet.
Immune Health
- Enhanced Immune Function: Raw diets are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants that support a robust immune system, helping your dog combat infections and illnesses more effectively.
- Reduced Inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of raw food ingredients can help alleviate chronic inflammation, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Allergies
- Fewer Allergic Reactions: By eliminating common allergens found in many commercially-produced processed foods, raw diets can reduce the frequency and severity of allergic reactions in dogs.
- Improved Skin Conditions: Dogs with food sensitivities often experience relief from symptoms like itching and redness when switched to a raw diet.
Energy Levels
- Increased Vitality: The high-quality proteins and fats in raw food provide a more bioavailable energy source, leading to increased stamina and overall vitality in dogs.
- Sustained Energy: Unlike kibble, which may cause energy spikes and crashes, raw food offers a steady release of energy, keeping your dog active and alert throughout the day.
Behavior
- Improved Behavior: Some studies suggest that a raw diet can positively impact behavior, potentially reducing hyperactivity and promoting a calmer demeanor in dogs.
- Enhanced Cognitive Function: The nutrients found in raw food support brain health and decrease pro-inflammatory markers, which can contribute to better learning and memory in dogs.
Appearance
- Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin: The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids present in raw food promote a glossy coat and healthy skin, reducing issues like dryness and flakiness.
- Reduced Shedding: Many dog owners notice a decrease in shedding after incorporating raw food into their dog's diet, leading to a cleaner home environment.
If you are interested in adding raw food into your dog’s diet, consider the 75/25 approach. Whether you start with 75% Team Dog Essential for balanced everyday nutrition or 75% Team Dog Elite for high-performance needs, adding 25% Team Dog Raw creates a feeding routine that's as sustainable for you as it is beneficial for your dog. Your pup gets enhanced digestion, improved immunity, better energy levels, and that unmistakable vitality that comes from truly optimized nutrition. Sometimes the best solutions aren't about choosing sides—they're about finding the perfect balance that works for both you and your four-legged family member.
