Why Human-Grade Food is Far Superior to Even the Best Dog Foods
For years, the pet food industry has marketed high-end kibble and canned food as the best option for dogs. But the truth is, even the most expensive commercial dog food can’t compare to fresh, human-grade ingredients when it comes to nutrition, digestibility, and overall health benefits.
At Designer Doodles by Kim, we believe in feeding dogs the way nature intended—with real, whole foods that provide optimal nutrition and support long-term well-being. Let’s break down why human-grade food is vastly superior to even the best dog food brands.
What is Human-Grade Dog Food?
When we talk about human-grade food for dogs, we’re referring to fresh, whole ingredients that meet the same quality and safety standards as food meant for human consumption.
In contrast, most commercial dog food (even the premium brands) are labeled “feed-grade,” meaning they contain ingredients that wouldn’t legally be allowed in human food. This includes:
❌ Meat by-products (ground-up bones, organs, and slaughterhouse waste)
❌ Rendered fats (low-quality animal fats used as flavor enhancers)
❌ Synthetic vitamins & minerals (to replace nutrients lost in processing)
❌ Preservatives & additives (BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin—linked to health issues)
Even “grain-free” and “all-natural” kibble undergoes extreme processing, stripping it of real nutritional value.
5 Reasons Human-Grade Food is Superior for Dogs
1. Higher-Quality Protein = Stronger Muscles & Better Health
Dogs thrive on high-quality protein, but most commercial dog food contains low-grade, heavily processed meat meals or by-products.
✅ Human-grade food uses real meat like chicken, beef, fish, or turkey—ensuring proper amino acids for muscle growth, immune function, and coat health.
In contrast, kibble often contains “mystery meats” labeled as “meat meal” or “animal by-products,” which could be expired grocery store meat, diseased livestock, or even euthanized animals.
2. Fresh, Whole Ingredients Improve Digestion
Many commercial dog foods rely on fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, which can cause bloating, gas, and food allergies in dogs.
✅ Fresh, whole foods like lean meats, vegetables, and healthy fats are more digestible, leading to:
✔️ Smaller, firmer stools (because their body absorbs more nutrients)
✔️ Less gas & bloating
✔️ Fewer food allergies & sensitivities
Dogs fed fresh, whole food diets often have less inflammation, fewer digestive issues, and improved gut health.
3. No Artificial Additives, Preservatives, or Fillers
Most kibble contains synthetic vitamins, preservatives, and artificial flavors to make up for the nutrients lost in high-heat processing.
✅ Human-grade food doesn’t need artificial additives—real food naturally provides essential vitamins and minerals in their most bioavailable form.
Many common pet food preservatives, like BHA and BHT, have been linked to cancer, liver damage, and kidney disease. Feeding your dog fresh food means you eliminate these unnecessary risks.
4. Improved Skin, Coat, and Overall Longevity
Dogs on a high-quality, fresh diet typically have:
✔️ Shinier, healthier coats
✔️ Less itching, hot spots, and skin allergies
✔️ More energy and vitality
✔️ Better weight management
Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, coconut oil, and fresh meats provide anti-inflammatory benefits that support skin health, joint function, and heart health.
In contrast, commercial pet foods often contain high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids from processed vegetable oils, which contribute to chronic inflammation and skin issues.
5. Dogs Live Longer on Fresh Food Diets
Several studies show that dogs fed fresh, whole foods can live years longer than dogs on processed kibble diets.
???? One European study found that dogs eating fresh food lived an average of 32 months longer than kibble-fed dogs.
Because fresh, human-grade food reduces inflammation, improves digestion, and prevents chronic diseases, dogs on fresh diets often live longer, healthier lives with fewer vet visits.
How to Switch Your Dog to a Human-Grade Diet
If you’re ready to upgrade your dog’s diet to real food, here’s how to do it safely:
???? Transition Gradually – Mix fresh food with their current diet over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.
???? Start with Lean Proteins – Chicken, turkey, or beef are great starter proteins.
???? Add Fresh Veggies – Carrots, spinach, and pumpkin provide natural vitamins and fiber.
???? Include Healthy Fats – Fish oil, coconut oil, or eggs boost omega-3s and coat health.
The Bottom Line: Human-Grade Food is the Best Choice for Dogs
If you want your dog to live a longer, healthier, and happier life, there’s no comparison—human-grade food is far superior to even the most expensive commercial dog food.
At Designer Doodles by Kim, we care about the long-term health of our puppies, which is why we always encourage fresh, high-quality diets for all the Doodles we raise.
???? Want to learn more about feeding your dog the best diet? Stay tuned for more tips and recommendations!
???? Have questions about our puppies or their nutrition? Contact us today!