Should You Be Adding Water to Dog Kibble?
Dog kibble is probably one of your dog’s favourite sights, dry or hydrated. Whether your dog has a dinner time or just grazes, those crunchy bites are an important part of the day. But is crunchy really the best way for your dog to dine?
How Different Are Kibble and Wet Food?
From Hills to Blue Buffalo, almost every brand of dog food sells their recipe as both kibble and wet food. While both are pretty similar to start off, the main difference is how they are made shelf stable. Wet food, or canned food, begins with its choice of protein being ground up along with any vegetables or grains. Once fully mixed, a gravy with plenty of vitamins and minerals, is then mixed in. The whole mixture is then cooked, mainly to sterilize the product, and then canned to be shelf stable.
Dry food begins in a similar way, with the protein and vegetables being ground up together. This grinding process is even more thorough, though, resulting in the mixture resembling a sort of dough. This dough is then cooked, formed into kibble, and dried before being sprayed with healthy fats and vitamins. Some dry foods even spray on probiotics which cannot survive the cooking process wet food has before being canned.
Why Should I Hydrate My Dog’s Food?
Rehydrating dry dog food can be a great and easy way to make the kibble more appealing to your pup. While most dogs are happy to eat food dry or wet, a bit of warm water goes a long way. Remember how dry food did not get any gravy when it was made? Well the kibble will mix with the water, making a gravy that enhances the smell and flavour!
If the better taste is not enough, rehydrated kibble is easier for dogs to eat and digest. Just like cereal for humans, dry kibble will soak up your dog’s saliva as it chews. A bit of warm water helps to soften the kibble, making it easier on your dog’s teeth. This softer food is also easier for your dog to digest as it moves through their system. Finally, it can also help reduce the choking hazard for those speed-eating dogs!
Are There Cons to Rehydrating Kibble?
While pouring some water on your dog’s kibble sounds like a perfect choice, there are a few cons to consider.
First, is your dog a “grazer” when it comes to food? Rehydrated kibble is like human food when it comes to bacteria. The longer the kibble sits in a warm room, the higher the chances of bacterial growth. Even though dogs have tough immune systems, rehydrated kibble is usually best if eaten within an hour. If your dog likes to eat smaller amounts throughout the day, it would be best to keep their food dry.
Second, your dog’s dental health could also be affected depending on their type of kibble. While dry food will not clean your dog’s teeth for you, some studies have argued that kibble can help. A 2007 study argued that foods with larger sized pieces of kibble can help reduce tartar on your dogs teeth. Additionally, some brands even sell kibble made specifically for dental health. The shape and composition of the kibble is a major part of this, and rehydration could get in the way.
Should I Start Adding Water to My Dog’s Kibble?
The best way to know if rehydrating your dog’s kibble is right for them is to understand their diet overall. Every dog has a different lifestyle, gets different treats, and needs a different diet. While most dogs do not have trouble staying hydrated, some dogs need a little help. Always remember to check the ingredients for their kibble and treats, and pay attention to the way they eat. Understanding your dog’s diet is step one to giving them a long and healthy life!
