What is Gently Cooked Dog Food and Why it May be Better than Kibble?

What is Gently Cooked Dog Food and Why it May be Better than Kibble?

Gently cooked dog food refers to a type of dog food that is prepared using lower temperatures compared to traditional kibble. This method of cooking is believed to preserve more of the natural nutrients found in the ingredients. Here are the key differences and potential benefits compared to traditional kibble:

1.      Nutrient Preservation: Cooking food at lower temperatures helps retain more vitamins, enzymes, and other nutrients that might be destroyed or diminished during the high-heat processing of kibble.

2.      Quality of Ingredients: Gently cooked dog foods often emphasize the use of high-quality, whole-food ingredients. This can include real meats, vegetables, and fruits, offering a diet closer to what dogs might eat in the wild.

3.      Digestibility: Because of the minimally processed nature of gently cooked food, it can be easier for dogs to digest. This is especially beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.

4.      Palatability: Many dogs find gently cooked food more appealing in taste and texture compared to dry kibble, which can be beneficial for picky eaters.

5.      Less Processed: Gently cooked dog foods are typically less processed than kibble, which is believed to be healthier for dogs in the long run.

6.      Moisture Content: These foods usually have a higher moisture content than kibble, which is beneficial for hydration, especially for dogs that don’t drink enough water.

Gently Cooked comes frozen and needs to be thawed before using. Once thawed the food is good for 7-10 days. We carry gently cooked from Open Farm, Stella & Chewy’s, A Pup Above and Raised Right. We also carry a shelf stable diet from Health Extension.

Gently cooked can be used as topper to entice picky eaters. In most cases it can also be used as a complete meal. However, it's important to note that while there are potential benefits, gently cooked dog food might not be the best option for every dog. It can be more expensive than kibble, and not all products may be balanced for all life stages or health conditions.

Stop into one of our stores and ask our team members if gently cooked food is the right choice for your pets.