The Great Kibble Con: Why Your Dog’s Food May Be Shaving Years Off Their Life

Lately, how we feed our dogs has become a fast-moving and controversial issue. But to understand where we are going, we have to look at where we started.

A Relationship Built on Scraps

Thousands of years ago, the ancestors of modern dogs were likely old, sick, or injured wolves. These early canines survived by scavenging from human refuse or eating leftovers from abandoned campsites. Over time, they moved closer to human settlements, drawn by the promise of food. Humans began offering scraps as a form of "bribe," which laid the foundation for a unique bond between species.

This relationship evolved beyond mere survival. Dogs became co-workers, protectors, hunters, and companions. Their diet was simple and natural, consisting mostly of leftovers from human meals, raw meat, and whatever they could scavenge. This natural diet supported their health and longevity for thousands of years.

The Birth of the Dog Food Industry

Before the 20th century, dogs ate what humans ate. The concept of specialized dog food was virtually nonexistent. That changed in the 1920s when Ken-L-Ration introduced the first canned dog food. This product was primarily made from horse meat, which caused public outrage at the time. Despite the controversy, this food likely offered better nutrition than many modern processed options.

At its peak, the horse meat industry for dog food slaughtered around 50,000 horses annually. This practice faded as new forms of dog food emerged, but it highlights how dog nutrition has always been tied to human food sources.

The Rise of Kibble and Its Consequences

The shift toward the "dry food" we recognize today happened in the mid-1950s when Purina began producing extruded kibble. This innovation was born out of necessity: during World War II, both meat and tin (for cans) were strictly rationed, creating the need for a shelf-stable alternative.

However, the process of making kibble involves heating ingredients to very high temperatures. This destroys much of the natural nutritional value of the food. The technology borrowed from the human cereal industry meant that kibble was mostly grain-based. For a carnivore like a dog, this is far from ideal.

Despite these drawbacks, the kibble industry grew rapidly. Powerful lobbying groups and aggressive advertising campaigns featuring famous dogs like Rin Tin Tin and Lassie convinced the public that kibble was the best choice. This marketing success overshadowed concerns about nutrition and health.

Kibble Machine

Marketing was born, and both people and dogs literally ate it up. The industry eventually expanded into "prescription" dog foods, marketed as specialized cures for various ailments.

Today, a handful of large corporations control the kibble and canned food industry. They preach a gospel of "balanced nutrition" and "prime ingredients" designed to help dogs live long, healthy lives. However, despite these lofty claims, many of these products are hardly food at all.

toxic truth

In many cases, the meat used in commercial dog food does not originate from the human food chain. Instead, diseased livestock, euthanized pets, and farm animals often serve as the primary protein sources. The issues don't stop at the meat:

• ​Titanium Dioxide: Used as a coloring agent, this chemical was banned in the EU after research proved it was breaking down DNA (the very process of aging). The US has not banned it, and it remains in most commercial dog foods.

• ​Glyphosate: In 2018, Cornell University analyzed 18 brands of premium dog foods; all of them tested positive for Glyphosate—the active chemical in Roundup known to cause cancer.

• ​Ethoxyquin: Most dog foods use this preservative, which is a known carcinogen.

  
  

Additives and Preservatives

Kibble often contains fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy, which provide calories but little nutritional benefit. Dogs require a diet rich in animal proteins and fats to thrive. The high heat used in kibble production reduces the availability of essential nutrients, including vitamins and amino acids.

To extend shelf life, kibble manufacturers add preservatives and artificial additives. Some of these chemicals have been linked to allergies, digestive issues, and even long-term health problems in dogs.

A Better Way: The Raw Revolution

We don’t sell or feed any of those kibbled or canned products. Instead, we provide an entirely raw diet. For the most part, we use a brand called K9 Kraving, which is highly regarded in the Mid-Atlantic area. There are other high-quality commercial raw foods available if you do the research.

​You may also see "fresh food" diets advertised. While some are excellent, be careful: many use the exact same ingredients found in kibble, just with better packaging.

Truthfully, the dogs of the past eating table scraps were better off than most dogs eating modern commercial pet food.

If you are concerned about the health risks associated with kibble, consider these options:

• Raw Diets: Feeding dogs raw meat, bones, and organs mimics their natural diet. This approach requires careful planning to ensure safety and balanced nutrition.

• Fresh or Homemade Meals: Preparing fresh meals at home allows control over ingredients and quality. Make sure to create balanced recipes.

  
  

What Dog Owners Can Do

• Read Labels Carefully: Avoid foods with excessive grains, artificial additives, and vague ingredient descriptions.

• Consult Professionals: Work with veterinarians or pet nutrition experts to choose the best diet for your dog’s breed, age, and health condition.

• Monitor Your Dog’s Health: Watch for signs of allergies, digestive issues, or changes in energy levels that may indicate dietary problems.

• Stay Informed: The pet food industry is constantly evolving. Keep up with the latest research and recommendations.

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