Simple Ways to Boost Nutrition in Your Dog’s Kibble
You expect me to eat this dog food like this? Put something fresh in there, Please.
Let’s be real — most of us feed kibble for one reason or another. Budget, convenience, storage space, or even uncertainty about raw or homemade diets can all play a part.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to overhaul everything to make a real difference.
Even small, affordable changes can improve digestion, energy, and long-term health.
Let’s explore how to get more nutrition from the bowl you’re already feeding.
Choose a Better Base
Start where it matters most — with the kibble itself.
Not all dog food is created equal, and many brands use fillers, synthetic vitamins, or preservatives that work against your dog’s health.
Here’s what to look for:
Real meat as the first ingredient
No corn, wheat, soy, or GMO grains
No artificial colors or preservatives (avoid BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin)
Transparent labeling — no mystery “meal” or “flavor” terms
Rotate Protein and Brands
Dogs thrive on variety — not just for taste, but for nutritional balance.
Rotate protein sources (like chicken, beef, or fish) within your preferred brand to help prevent sensitivities and broaden nutrient intake.
If your dog’s digestion allows, rotating between a few trusted brands can further reduce risk of deficiencies over time.
Add a Touch of Fresh
Fresh food is where the magic happens.
You can keep kibble as your base but add:
Lightly cooked or raw meat and organ meats
Finely chopped or pureed vegetables (zucchini, spinach, pumpkin, broccoli)
A drizzle of bone broth or goat’s milk for moisture and gut support
Even a spoonful or two can make a meaningful impact on nutrient absorption, hydration, and microbiome balance.
📎 Explore: Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
📎 Explore: Adding Fresh Meat to Kibble
Hydrate the Bowl
Kibble is dry by design — and that’s tough on the kidneys, liver, and digestion.
Adding warm water or bone broth or goat’s milk before serving helps soften food, improve nutrient uptake, and support better hydration.
Bonus tip: Bone broth adds amino acids and collagen that support joints, skin, and immune health.
Supplement Smart
If you’re feeding mostly kibble, your dog likely needs extra support for digestion and nutrient absorption.
Instead of synthetic multivitamins, focus on whole-food-based supplements such as:
A mineral-rich whole food blend
Digestive enzymes and probiotics for gut balance
Omega-3s for skin, coat, and inflammation
A general immune and endurance support blend
These bridge the gap between kibble and fresh food, supporting a more resilient immune system and vibrant overall health.
(Check out the Products Page for options I use and recommend.)
Upgrade with Food Toppers
Food toppers make the bowl more exciting while packing in extra nutrition.
Try:
Dehydrated or freeze-dried liver and organ meats
Fermented veggie powders for probiotics and antioxidants (See Gussy Gut)
Superfood blends (mushroom powders, kelp, or green mixes)
📎 Read: Other Ideas for Dog Food Toppers
When It’s Time to Rethink the Base
Many clients start by “boosting” kibble — and then notice such dramatic improvements that they begin exploring fresh feeding entirely.
Switching to a whole-food diet can help balance the body, lower inflammation, and reduce the need for constant supplementation or vet visits over time.
As I often say, fresh is best — but every small step counts.
If you’d like help choosing the best approach for your dog’s unique needs, I’m here to help.
🐾 Submit an inquiry for personalized support — no cost, no obligation.
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Hey — we actually recommend not using dog bowls! Consider food puzzles or lick mats!