The Differences between Raw Food, Wet Food, Cold-Pressed Food, and Kibble

Each type of dog food has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your dog’s dietary needs, lifestyle, and health. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between raw food, wet food, cold-pressed food, and kibble:

Raw Food (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food – BARF or Prey Model)

What it is:
Raw feeding includes uncooked meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables. It mimics what dogs would eat in the wild.

Pros:

• Highly nutritious and species-appropriate – Maintains natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.
• Promotes a shiny coat and healthy skin – Rich in natural Omega-3s.
• Promotes stronger joints and muscles – High protein supports mobility.
• Great for dental health – Chewing raw bones naturally cleans teeth.

Cons:
Not always balanced – Sometimes needs variety and supplementation for complete nutrition.
More storage space needed – Requires freezing/refrigeration.

Best for: Owners who want a natural, high-quality diet for their dog and are comfortable with meal preparation.

Wet Food (Canned or Pouched Food)

What it is:
Wet food consists of cooked meat, vegetables, and grains in a moist, gravy-based or pâté-like texture. It’s usually sold in cans or pouches.

Pros:

• Highly palatable – Great for fussy eaters.
• Higher moisture content – Helps hydration and kidney function.
• Easier to chew – Ideal for puppies, seniors, and dogs with dental issues.

Cons:

• More expensive per meal than kibble.
• Spoils quickly – Must be refrigerated after opening.
• Lower in protein compared to raw or cold-pressed food.

Best for: Dogs that need soft food, extra hydration, or have difficulty chewing dry food.

Cold-Pressed Dog Food

What it is:
Cold-pressed food is made by gently compressing raw ingredients at low temperatures (below 45°C) to preserve nutrients. Unlike kibble, which is highly processed, cold-pressed food retains more natural enzymes and vitamins.

Pros:

• More nutritious than kibble – Retains more natural nutrients.
• Easier to digest – Breaks down quickly in the stomach (unlike kibble).
• Long shelf life – More convenient than raw food.
• Less processed than standard kibble.

Cons:
More expensive than regular kibble.
Can still contain fillers or grains, depending on the brand.

Best for: Owners who want a nutritious, shelf-stable alternative to raw food with less processing than kibble.

Kibble (Dry Dog Food)

What it is:
Kibble is heavily processed dry food made by cooking ingredients at high temperatures and then shaping them into pellets. It often contains meat meals, grains, and preservatives.

Pros:

• Affordable and convenient – Easy to store, transport, and portion.
• Long shelf life – No refrigeration required.
• Can support dental health – Some kibbles are designed to help remove plaque.

Cons:

• Highly processed – Loses many natural nutrients due to high-heat cooking.
• Lower moisture content – Can contribute to dehydration, kidney issues, and urinary problems.
• Often contains fillers and artificial additives – Some brands use low-quality ingredients, grains, and preservatives.

Best for: Budget-conscious owners who want a convenient, long-lasting food option.