Raw vs Kibble: The Evidence-Based Facts
1. Processing Level
Raw Food
- Minimally processed; ingredients remain in their natural state.
- No high‑heat extrusion, which can reduce nutrient availability.
Kibble
- Ultra‑processed; ingredients are ground, heated, extruded, and sprayed with fats/flavours.
- High heat can destroy heat‑sensitive nutrients and enzymes.
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2. Ingredient Quality
Raw Food
- Typically contains identifiable whole ingredients: fresh meat, bone, organs, vegetables.
- No fillers, artificial preservatives, or rendered meat meals.
Kibble
- Often includes meat meals, by‑products, grains, fillers, and synthetic additives.
- Quality varies widely between brands.
3. Digestibility & Stool Quality
Raw Food
- Studies show raw diets are often more digestible, meaning:
- Smaller stools
- Less odour
- Better nutrient absorption
Kibble
- Lower digestibility due to fillers and processing.
- Larger, more frequent stools.
4. Skin, Coat & Allergy Outcomes
Raw Food
- Many owners report improvements in:
- Itchy skin
- Dull coat
- Yeast issues
- Food sensitivities
- Supported by anecdotal and some clinical observations.
Kibble
- Some dogs thrive, but others react to grains, chicken meal, preservatives, or high‑carb formulas.
5. Dental Health
Raw Food
- Raw meaty bones can help reduce plaque and tartar mechanically.
- Chewing improves jaw strength and mental stimulation.
Kibble
- Contrary to marketing, kibble does not clean teeth effectively.
- Many dogs still develop dental disease on kibble diets.
6. Energy Levels & Body Condition
Raw Food
- Higher protein and fat, lower carbs → more stable energy.
- Helps maintain lean muscle mass.
Kibble
- Often high in carbohydrates (30–60%).
- Can contribute to weight gain and blood sugar spikes.
7. Safety Considerations
Raw feeding has real risks if done incorrectly:
- Bacterial contamination (Salmonella, E. coli) — though commercial raw producers use strict safety controls.
- Nutritional imbalance if homemade without guidance.
- Bones must be raw, never cooked.
Kibble also has risks:
- Recalls due to mould, aflatoxins, and contamination.
Ultra‑processing linked to long‑term health concerns in emerging research. Sources:
Bottom Line
Raw feeding is chosen because it’s fresher, less processed, and often leads to visible improvements in digestion, coat, stool quality, and overall vitality. Kibble is convenient and cheaper but heavily processed and often lower in biological quality.
The best diet depends on the dog, the owner’s lifestyle, and the quality of the food chosen.
This is why we feed all our dogs on Raw Food and we have now started working with Birmingham Raw to sell Raw food to our clients to help their dogs and also the local community.
