Nutrition

Raw Diet vs Kibble for Small Dogs: An Honest Breeder's Take

Raw vs kibble is one of the most charged debates in the dog world. Here's what we actually feed our dogs, what the evidence says, and how to make the right choice for your family.

October 5, 2024 · 7 min read

The Core Argument for Raw Feeding

Proponents of raw feeding (also called BARF — Biologically Appropriate Raw Food — or prey model raw) argue that dogs evolved as carnivores whose digestive systems are optimized for raw meat, organs, and bone rather than processed, heat-treated kibble. They cite anecdotal improvements in coat quality, energy, dental health, stool quality, and allergy reduction. Some of these observations are genuinely documented in limited research; the full evidence base is not yet conclusive.

The Core Argument for High-Quality Kibble

Quality kibble from research-backed manufacturers (Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, Hill's Science Diet) goes through nutritional completeness testing that raw diets typically don't. Kibble is safe from the bacterial contamination risks of raw meat (Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria — real concerns especially in households with young children or immunocompromised individuals). It's also significantly more practical and cost-effective.

What We Feed at Star Struck Puppies

Our adult breeding dogs eat a combination of high-quality kibble (Purina Pro Plan or Royal Canin) as the base, supplemented with raw proteins 3–4 times per week (ground beef, raw chicken, salmon), and occasional whole foods (eggs, blueberries, plain pumpkin, sardines). We don't believe a single approach is ideal — we believe in variety, quality, and avoiding processed ingredients as the base foundation.

For New Owners: Our Actual Recommendation

For new puppy owners — especially first-time dog owners — we recommend starting with a vet-approved high-quality kibble formulated for small breed puppies. It's complete, balanced, consistent, and won't put your puppy through digestive transitions during the stress of a new home. Once the puppy is settled, comfortable, and fully vaccinated, you can explore supplementation or transition if desired.

If you want to feed raw: work with a veterinary nutritionist to formulate a balanced diet, or use a prepared commercial raw diet (frozen or freeze-dried) that meets AAFCO standards. Home-formulated raw diets without professional guidance frequently lack calcium, phosphorus, or key vitamins.