Trailblazing Unleashed

Introduction

Choosing the right diet for your pets is one of the most debated topics among pet owners. Some swear by raw feeding, arguing that it mimics a dog or cat’s ancestral diet, while others prefer kibble for its convenience and balanced nutrition. But which option is truly better? For Trace and I, we like a combination of the two. But how can you find what’s right for you?

This article breaks down the benefits, drawbacks, and nutritional differences between raw feeding and kibble to help you make an informed decision.

What Is Raw Feeding?

Raw feeding, also known as Biologically Appropriate Raw Food (BARF), consists of uncooked meats, bones, organs, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. Advocates believe this diet is more natural for dogs, resembling what their wild ancestors ate. I have never done a completely raw diet for Trace, but he gets elements of it.

Pros of Raw Feeding

✅ High-Quality Protein – Raw diets provide fresh, unprocessed protein, supporting muscle development and overall health.

✅ Improved Digestion – Many owners report smaller stools and better nutrient absorption with raw diets.

✅ Shinier Coat & Healthier Skin – The natural oils in raw meat contribute to glossier fur and reduced skin issues.

✅ Customizable Diet – Owners can tailor meals to their dog’s specific needs, avoiding allergens or unnecessary fillers.

If your pet has dietary restrictions or skin issues, it may be worth talking to your vet about a raw diet plan.

Cons of Raw Feeding

❌ Bacterial Contamination Risks – Raw meat can contain Salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria, posing risks to both dogs and humans.

❌ Nutritional Imbalances – Without proper formulation, raw diets may lack essential vitamins and minerals, leading to deficiencies.

❌ Higher Cost & Time Commitment – Raw feeding requires careful sourcing, preparation, and storage, making it more expensive and time-consuming than kibble.

Raw feeding can be a lot of extra work, so you need to assess the amount of time you are willing to dedicate to your pups’ meals before you start.

What Is Kibble?

Kibble is processed dry dog food made from a blend of meat, grains, vegetables, and added vitamins and minerals. It’s designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition in a convenient form.

Pros of Kibble

✅ Convenience – Kibble is easy to store, measure, and transport, making it ideal for busy households.

✅ Nutritional Consistency – High-quality kibble is formulated to meet AAFCO and FEDIAF nutritional standards, ensuring balanced meals.

✅ Affordable & Accessible – Kibble is widely available and generally more budget-friendly than raw feeding.

✅ Long Shelf Life – Unlike raw food, kibble can be stored for months without refrigeration.

Cons of Kibble

❌ Processing & Fillers – Some kibble brands contain low-quality ingredients, artificial preservatives, and excessive carbohydrates.

❌ Lower Protein Quality – Kibble often includes processed protein sources, which may not be as digestible as fresh meat.

❌ Potential Allergens – Many kibble formulas contain wheat, soy, or artificial additives, which can trigger allergies in sensitive dogs.

Nutritional Comparison

Factor	Raw Feeding	Kibble
Protein Quality	High (fresh meat)	Processed (varies by brand)
Digestibility	Easier to digest	May contain fillers
Convenience	Requires preparation	Ready to serve
Cost	Higher	More affordable
Safety Risks	Bacterial contamination possible	Lower risk

What Trace, Skully, and I Do

For Trace’s diet, he gets a combination of kibble and raw foods. He often gets raw food as a treat, or supplement in his kibble. Some of our favorite add ins are dog safe fruits and veggies, which can be frozen for an added enrichment element.

For Skully, we stick to vet recommended kibble and wet food, as he has had some urinary complications in the past. With his specific kibble, we keep his urinary issues to a minimum. He also really likes wet food, so his dinners are usually wet food unlike his kibble-based breakfasts. Every once and a while I will give him tuna or ham while I’m cooking, or as a treat for his cognitive puzzles.

Which Diet Is Best for Your Pet?

The choice between raw feeding and kibble depends on your pet’s health needs, lifestyle, and your ability to manage food preparation.

• If you prioritize natural ingredients and high-quality protein, raw feeding may be the better option.
• If you need convenience, affordability, and balanced nutrition, kibble is a reliable choice.
• Some owners opt for a hybrid approach, combining raw and kibble to balance nutrition and practicality, like we do.

Ultimately, consulting a veterinarian or animal nutritionist is the best way to determine the ideal diet for your pet. If you have any questions or concerns, reaching out to your vet is an excellent idea! But having an idea of which option is right for you can never hurt.

Trailblaze on!

–Kaya, Skully, and Trace