If you're interested in raw feeding but don't want to switch completely, you might be wondering whether you can feed raw food and kibble together.

The short answer is yes. Many dog owners choose to mix feed, combining raw food with kibble as part of their dog's diet. Whether it's for convenience, cost, or simply finding what works best for their dog, mixed feeding is a popular option.

Here's what you need to know.

What is mixed feeding?

Mixed feeding simply means feeding your dog both raw food and kibble.

Some owners mix the two together in the same bowl, while others feed raw for one meal and kibble for another. There's no single right way to do it, your routine comes down to what suits you and your dog.

For many owners, mixed feeding is an easy way to introduce more real food into their dog's diet without making a complete switch.

Can raw food and kibble be fed together?

Yes. While you'll often hear advice online saying raw food and kibble should never be mixed, there's no universal rule that says they can't.

Many dog owners successfully feed both as part of their dog's daily routine. The most important thing is choosing good-quality food, feeding appropriate portions, and introducing any dietary changes gradually.

If you're unsure what's best for your dog, it's always worth seeking professional advice.

Why do some owners choose mixed feeding?

Every household is different, and mixed feeding can work well for a variety of reasons.

Some owners choose to:

• Introduce raw feeding gradually.

• Balance convenience with flexibility.

• Feed raw when they're at home and kibble when they're travelling.

• Spread the cost of feeding.

• Add more variety to their dog's meals.

How to introduce raw alongside kibble

If your dog has never eaten raw before, introduce it gradually rather than changing everything overnight.

Start with a small amount of raw food alongside your dog's usual diet and increase it over time if you decide to feed more raw.

As with any change in diet, keep an eye on your dog's appetite, body condition, and stools while they adjust.

Frequently asked questions

Can I feed raw food in the morning and kibble at night?

Many owners choose to do exactly that. Others prefer the opposite, or offer both as part of the same meal. It comes down to personal preference and what works best for your dog.

Can puppies be mixed fed?

Puppies can eat both raw food and kibble, provided the food is suitable for their age and nutritional needs. If you're unsure, seek advice before making changes to their diet.

Will my dog prefer raw food?

Every dog is different. Some take to raw immediately, while others are perfectly happy eating a mixture of both.

Is mixed feeding better than feeding kibble alone?

There's no single answer to this. Every dog is different, and the right feeding approach depends on their individual needs, your lifestyle, and what works best for you both.

The bottom line

You don't have to choose between feeding only raw or only kibble. Many dog owners find that mixed feeding fits their lifestyle while giving their dog more variety at mealtimes.

Whether you're introducing raw for the first time or simply adding it alongside your dog's current food, the key is to keep things simple, make changes gradually, and choose food that's right for your dog.