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Why Kibble Alone May Not Be Enough for Your Dog’s Digestive Wellness

Kibble is a convenient, affordable, and widely used type of pet food. While it meets basic nutritional standards, it may not provide all the essential elements needed to support your dog’s digestive system and overall well-being.

Commercial dog foods are formulated to provide essential nutrients, but often lack the diversity and live elements needed to fully support specific digestion concerns. That’s where targeted dog supplements—like probiotics—can help support healthy digestion and daily wellness.

What Kibble Gets Right—and Where It May Fall Short

Dog food must meet regulatory standards for essential nutrients, including protein, fats, and vitamins. However, supporting healthy digestion is about more than just checking a nutrition box—it’s about balance and variety with gut-friendly extras.

Some areas where kibble may lack support include:

  • Live probiotics: These beneficial microorganisms help support normal gut function but may not survive the high heat used in kibble production.

  • Diverse fiber sources: Fiber feeds beneficial gut bacteria, and varied sources may contribute to a balanced digestive environment.

  • Moisture: Dry kibble typically contains < 20% moisture, compared to canned and homemade diets that can contain as much as 65-80%.

Even with daily kibble feeding, your dog may benefit from additional dietary elements that can help support proper digestion.

Fresh Food vs. Kibble: What’s the Difference?

Whole-food-based diets often include more natural moisture, enzymes, and a wider range of diverse nutrients. While you don’t need to eliminate kibble, incorporating fresh food can go a long way to support healthy digestion. Some examples of beneficial additions to consider include:

  • Lean meats (cooked or raw): Great source of protein and natural enzymes.

  • Steamed veggies like pumpkin, carrots, or spinach: Contain fiber and essential nutrients.

  • Plain yogurt or kefir (in small amounts): Natural sources of probiotics.

  • Bone broth: Can add hydration and nutrients that support healthy digestion

Even small upgrades can help support your dog’s overall digestive wellness.

The Gut-Immune Connection

A large portion of your dog’s immune system is connected to their digestive system. A well-supported gut plays an important role in maintaining healthy immune function and overall wellness.

Factors like age, diet, or stress may impact digestive function. Probiotic supplements like Honest Paws Probiotics can help support the maintenance of proper gut flora and digestive function, especially during times of dietary change or environmental stress.

Probiotics: Supporting What Kibble Leaves Behind

Adding a daily probiotic to a routine can help maintain healthy digestion and immune system function. Honest Paws Probiotics are thoughtfully formulated to support the health of your dog's digestive and immune system. Here's how they help:

Digestive Support
Helps maintain a healthy intestinal tract, supports normal gut pH, and promotes regular digestion, especially during changes in routine.

Immune System Support
Includes Bacillus Subtilis DE111®, a clinically studied strain shown to support immune health in dogs.

Clean, Quality Ingredients
Crafted in the USA with non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free ingredients. 3rd party lab-tested for safety and quality.

Adding Honest Paws Probiotics to your dog’s supplement routine can help support digestive and immune wellness in a simple, effective way.

Digestive Support Is a Daily Commitment

Kibble is practical, but it may not provide all the elements needed to support your dog’s specific digestion concerns. The good news? With small, thoughtful routine add-ons—like Honest Paws Probiotics—you can help support healthy digestion and immune function from the inside out.

You're not just adding ingredients; you're helping your dog thrive with everyday wellness support. Because a happy gut = a happy pup. 🐶💛

 

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Article published on June 03, 2025

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