Can You Really Mix Raw and Kibble?

Can You Really Mix Raw and Kibble?

Let’s Talk: Can You Really Mix Raw and Kibble? 

Pull up a chair, grab your latte, and let’s chat about something that’s been popping up in the shop a lot lately.

You’ve probably heard the "rule" on the internet—the one that says you absolutely, under no circumstances, should mix raw food and kibble in the same bowl. The theory goes that because they digest at different speeds and require different stomach pH levels, mixing them will cause a "digestive traffic jam" or make your pup sick.

Here’s the short version: It’s a total myth.

We’ve seen so many pet parents feeling stressed or guilty because they want to give their dogs the benefits of fresh food but aren't ready (or able) to go 100% raw. If that’s you, take a deep breath. You’re doing great, and your dog’s stomach is way tougher than the internet forums give it credit for. At the end of the day, a fed dog is a happy dog, and obsessing over "perfect" shouldn't get in the way of "good."

Myth-Busting the "pH Balance" Theory

The idea that kibble "neutralizes" stomach acid and prevents raw food from digesting is just not backed by science. A dog’s stomach is incredibly adaptive. Whether they're eating a steak or a biscuit, their body knows how to pump out the necessary enzymes and acids to get the job done.

Think about it this way: if humans couldn't mix food groups with different digestion times, we’d have to eat our steak, wait four hours, and then go back for the salad. Our bodies (and our dogs'!) are masters of multitasking.

The Magic of the "20% Rule"

If you’re worried that adding just a little bit of raw won't make a difference—think again! We love pointing people toward the research coming out of the University of Helsinki.

Their studies found some pretty incredible results:

  • The 20% Threshold: Even replacing just one-fifth of your dog’s kibble with raw food can significantly improve their health markers.

  • Skin & Allergy Relief: Adding fresh, raw components was shown to decrease the risk of skin issues and allergies later in life.

  • Better Gut Health: Introducing that raw variety helps create a more robust and diverse microbiome.

The takeaway? You don't have to be a "purist" to be a great dog parent. A little bit of fresh food goes a long way.

Keep it Simple: The "AM/PM" Split

While mixing them in one bowl is perfectly safe, we totally get that sometimes you just want to avoid the "faff" of weighing out two different things at 7:00 AM while you're still waiting for your coffee to kick in.

If you want to keep things organized and mess-free, try the split-day method:

  • Morning: Serve up their raw portion. It’s fresh, hydrating, and a great way to start the day.

  • Evening: Scoop out their kibble. It’s convenient, easy to store, and keeps the evening routine simple.

This way, you get the best of both worlds without needing a degree in nutritional mathematics every time you open the pantry!

Looking for the Ultimate Sidekick? Meet WILD.

If you’re looking for the perfect partner for your raw feeding journey, you have to check out our WILD Cold Pressed food.

Unlike standard high-heat kibble, WILD is cold pressed, which preserves more of those natural nutrients your dog thrives on. It’s an 80/20 formula, meaning:

  • 80% Animal Ingredients: High-quality protein to keep those muscles strong.

  • 20% Fruit & Veg: Packed with antioxidants and fiber for great digestion.

Because it’s cold pressed, it breaks down much more similarly to raw food than traditional kibble does, making it the "gold standard" for anyone looking to do a mixed-feeding routine.

The Bottom Line

Whether you mix them in the bowl or split them by time of day, remember that a fed dog is a happy dog. The "best" diet is the one that works for your dog, your budget, and your lifestyle. If feeding 100% raw isn't in the cards right now, adding 20% is a massive win for your furry best friend.

Don't let "perfect" be the enemy of "better." Your dog will thank you for that extra bit of fresh goodness—and their wagging tail is the only evidence you really need!

Ready to try the 20% boost? Swing by the shop to grab a bag of WILD or chat with us about which raw proteins would suit your pup best.

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