One of the most important decisions you will ever make as a pet parent is what to feed your dog. With everything from raw feeding trends to premium dry food and home-cooked meals, it's easy to get confused. Here at mybestie.gr, we believe that each dog deserves to get a properly balanced diet matching its age, lifestyle, and health needs. Let's break down the most common types of dog diets to help you decide what's best for your furry friend.

1. Raw food diet: Natural or risky?

The raw diet has gained great popularity over the last few years. It is based on feeding dogs raw meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables, just like their ancestors had in the wild.

Pros:

• High in protein and nutrients that promote muscle growth and a shiny coat.
• Accordingly, many owners report better digestion and smaller stools.
• Raw food is often more palatable and exciting for dogs.

Cons:

• The risk of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella or E. coli, if the food is not handled appropriately.
• Nutritional imbalance can happen if the diet is not rightly planned with professional advice.
• Not suitable for dogs with certain medical conditions or weaker immune systems.

Always consult your vet before switching to raw feeding-and follow strict hygiene practices if you do.

2. Dry food (kibble): The convenient classic

Dry food remains the most common choice for dog owners around the world. It's easy to store, portion, and it lasts for months without refrigeration.

Pros:

• Affordable and convenient for busy pet parents.
• Promotes dental health by helping reduce tartar build-up.
• Complete and balanced formulas are available for all ages and needs.

Cons:

• Certain lower-end brands use fillers, artificial additives, or low-grade meat by-products.
• Less moisture content may lead to dehydration if dogs don’t drink enough water.
• Picky eaters might find kibble less appealing compared to wet or fresh food.

Tip: Choose high-quality kibble with named meat sources and minimal artificial ingredients.

3. Canned or wet food: Appealing and hydrating

Wet food generally has a more pleasant smell and is easier to chew, making it suitable for elderly dogs or those with dental issues.

Pros:

• High moisture content helps with hydration.
• Often richer in flavor and great for fussy eaters.
• Useful for dogs with smaller appetites or certain health conditions.

Cons:

• Can be more expensive in the long run.
• May be associated with dental problems if used exclusively.
• It must be refrigerated after opening and consumed quickly.

Many owners combine wet and dry food to balance taste, texture, and nutrition-a great compromise.

4. Homemade food: Love in every bite

Preparing your dog’s meals at home feels very personal and caring. You know just what’s in the bowl — no hidden preservatives or fillers.

Pros:

• Complete control of ingredients and quality.
• Great for dogs with allergies or specific dietary needs.
• Can strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Cons:

• Difficult to maintain proper nutrient balance without expert input.
• Time-consuming and at times more costly.
• Risk of deficiencies in calcium, vitamins, or essential fatty acids.

Design a plan with close assistance from a veterinarian or canine nutritionist if you select this option.

What's the best choice?

There is no universally "best" diet; it depends upon the dog's age, breed, activity level, and health. What really matters is quality, balance, and continuity. Whether you choose a raw diet, dry kibble, canned food, or homemade, always consult your vet before making significant changes in your pet's diet. At mybestie.gr, we know that a healthy dog is a happy dog — and nutrition is the foundation of wellbeing. And when we care for what’s in their bowl, we’re really caring for what’s in their heart.