What Exactly is Kibble?
Kibble was not even a thing until the mid-50’s. Prior to that, most people fed their dogs table scraps.
Then, in the early 1900s, for those who could afford it, “canned dog food” became popular. But after the US entered World War II, there was a shortage of tin and metal, which quickly led to the demise of the original canned dog food.
Fast forward to 1956, when the first kibble was made using a brand-new technique called “extrusion”. Extrusion is a process in which a combination of ingredients are ground up, heated to a high temperature, and then pushed through a die to create a desired shape.
There’s no doubt that “kibble” revolutionized the dog food industry, however, over the years, the quality of kibble began to decline. Companies started adding by-products and fillers, as well as artificial flavors and chemicals.
But thanks in great part to the internet, dog owners now have the ability to do their own research, and have become much more knowledgeable about what they feed their dogs.
Bland Diet Beginnings
New products that make our lives easier often arise out of frustration... Thus, was the case when Under the Weather’s founder brought her dog to the vet for digestive upset in the middle of a busy workday, only to hear, “Feed a bland diet of cooked chicken and white rice”.
After a trip to the store for ingredients to prepare the meal, she wondered why there wasn't a product available to purchase from her vet, or from a pet store, just to have on hand.
When Under the Weather set out to fill a void in the pet food industry, we knew we wanted something very convenient, but also healthy, all-natural, and 100% free of by-products, chemicals, and artificial flavors.
Our original product is still made with freeze-dried white meat chicken, white rice, and electrolytes. Now available in 6 flavors, including two with bone broth, our bland diets have a 3-year shelf life, and are ready in minutes, just add boiling water!
Our Inspiration for a Functional Kibble
Dogs absolutely love our Bland Diets, and we constantly hear from customers, “My dog loves this food, can I feed it to them every day?”
Our Bland Diets are specially formulated for use during times of digestive upset, but because they lack the nutrients and minerals that dogs require on a daily basis, they are not meant to be fed exclusively for longer than a few days.
Knowing there was a need for a food that promotes healthy digestion, we set out to create a functional kibble that can be fed as a daily food.
Health Benefits of A Coated Kibble
Before adding the “coating”, we knew it was important to start with a quality kibble. Pacific White Fish, Herring and Cod, combined with Ancient Grains, are the super healthy ingredients we used to create a kibble that is high in lean protein, and low in carbohydrates.
Ocean Fish – A combination of Herring and Cod is a high source of lean protein that is also rich in Omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
Ancient Grains – Free of wheat, gluten, corn, and soy, our kibble contains the Ancient Grains, sorghum, millet, and flaxseed, the healthiest source of carbohydrates available.
With our formula perfected, the next step was to “coat” the kibble with enhancements that not only add delicious flavor, but also provide health benefits!
Probiotics – Encourages beneficial bacteria for daily gut support and healthy digestion.
Beef Bone Broth – A source of collagen that adds vitamins and nutrients for joint support, while also adding a delicious flavor that dogs love.
MCT Oil - A healthy oil sourced from coconuts that aids in digestion, and is thought to improve energy and brain function.
Kibble Created Without Fillers
Feeding a high-quality kibble that is free of fillers and by products, means your dog will not need as much food to feel full, but will still get all the calories and nutrients they need to be healthy.
And get this, they also will not poop as much! YUP! This is because cheap kibble is loaded with fillers, causing it to pass through your dog’s digestive system quickly, and without providing the necessary nutrition they need.
If you have a dog who suffers from occasional digestive upset, or has allergies, try this vet recommended daily diet that is gentle on tummies, and provides a proper balance of protein, healthy carbs, and vitamins and minerals for overall health.
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If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet.
