Since my last post about feeding your frenchie, we have had some changes in our nutrition plan for a couple of our dogs. We have one dog that flat just doesn't do well on raw. She just doesn't thrive the way the others do. We have also been chatting with other likeminded breeders about their diets for their dogs too. Our experience is that when we are feeding 100% raw our dogs body condition is STELLAR, but one of our new additions (Zelda x Benny puppy) needs a little more rounding out. Enter kibble.
We have noticed that strictly kibble puts weight on our dogs pretty quickly. Weight that is hard to peel off if it gets out of control. The difference between a healthy weight and over weight for a dog is so small. As little a 1 or 2lbs can make a material difference in their look and health. After so many discussions, we chose to split the baby so to speak.
Combining kibble and raw foods in your French Bulldog’s diet can bring together the best of both worlds—convenience and enriched nutrition. However, this approach requires careful management to ensure it meets all dietary needs without introducing health risks.
Benefits of a Hybrid Diet
One major advantage of a hybrid diet is the variety it offers your pet. Kibble is convenient and ensures that your Frenchie gets all the essential nutrients as per AAFCO standards. The raw component can provide natural enzymes and proteins that are sometimes lost in commercial cooking processes, potentially improving your dog’s digestion and overall health.
Another benefit is dental health; raw bones (never cooked) can help reduce plaque and keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy (messy but healthy. beef short ribs or raw knuckle bones are great!). The texture of raw food also encourages chewing, which can further aid in maintaining good dental hygiene.
Risks and Challenges
However, a hybrid diet isn't without its challenges and risks. Raw food can harbor pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, which can be harmful to both pets and humans in the household. Ensuring the raw food is handled safely and is of high quality can mitigate this risk, but it never eliminates it completely.
Moreover, balancing a diet that includes both kibble and raw elements can be complex. Without careful planning, your dog might end up with nutritional imbalances that could lead to health issues over time. It’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or a pet nutritionist to ensure that all nutritional bases are covered effectively. That is easier said than done. There is a huge divide on raw diets in the pet wellness space. Finding a vet that is open to discussing and working with you on a plan might be a challenge. You're best served finding a holistic pet nutritionist if this is something you want to explore.
Implementing a Hybrid Diet
If you decide to feed your Frenchie a hybrid diet, start gradually. Introduce raw components slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction to the new foods. Not all dogs will handle raw food well; some might experience digestive upset or allergic reactions.
Keep proportions in mind; a typical recommendation might be to make raw food about 20% of the diet, but this can vary based on individual health needs and veterinarian advice. Always ensure that the raw food you choose is suitable for dogs, focusing on quality sources of protein and avoiding foods that are dangerous for dogs, such as onions, chocolate, and cooked bones.
A hybrid diet can be a healthy choice for your French Bulldog if managed correctly. It offers the potential for improved health and enjoyment of their meals. However, it requires careful planning and consultation with veterinary professionals to ensure safety and nutritional adequacy.
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