As a veterinarian with years of experience, I have seen many cases where a change in diet has resulted in stomach upset for dogs. One brand that has been brought to my attention recently is The Honest Kitchen. While I cannot speak to the specific case of the dog who became sick after consuming their products, I can provide some general information about the brand and potential causes of dietary issues in dogs.
The Honest Kitchen is a company that produces dehydrated, whole-food diets for dogs and cats. Their products are made with human-grade ingredients and are free from preservatives, by-products, and fillers. They are also gluten-free and grain-free, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
However, any change in diet, regardless of the brand or ingredients, can cause stomach upset in dogs. This is because a dog’s digestive system needs time to adjust to new foods. When a dog is suddenly switched to a new diet, it can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and other stomach issues. This is known as “dietary transition.”
While Honest Kitchen products are made with human-grade ingredients, not all ingredients are appropriate for dogs or all dogs may not tolerate certain ingredients. It’s always best to check with a veterinarian before making any dietary changes, especially if you have any concerns about the product.
How do I transition my dog to Honest Kitchen?
The key to a successful transition is to do it gradually over the course of a week or two to allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust.
Here’s a general guideline for transitioning your dog to The Honest Kitchen:
Day 1-2: Begin by mixing the new food with the old food at a ratio of 75% old food to 25% new food. This will give your dog a chance to become familiar with the new food while still getting the nutrients from the old food.
Day 3-4: Gradually increase the ratio of new food to old food, by trying a 50% mix of old and new food.
Day 5-6: Continue to increase the ratio of new food, by trying a 75% new to 25% old mix.
Day 7-8: By this point, your dog should be ready to transition to the new food completely.
Every dog is different and some may take longer to adjust to the new food. If you notice any signs of stomach upset such as diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite, stop the transition process and consult with your veterinarian.
When introducing Honest Kitchen, you may want to start with the brand’s least complex recipe first, as some dogs may have trouble digesting certain ingredients. Introduce new recipes over time and monitor the dog’s reaction.
In regards to freezing their products, the company states that their dehydrated dog food can be kept in the freezer for up to 30 days.
Freezing is not a necessary step for preservation, but it can be done as long as the food is stored properly. When freezing, it is important to use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn and to maintain the quality of the food. Once thawed, the food should be consumed within 3 days, as per the company’s instructions.
Freezing may change the texture of the food, and it may not be as palatable for some dogs. Also, if the food is not stored properly or if it has been thawed and refrozen, it could lead to the growth of harmful bacteria which can make your dog sick.
Is Honest Kitchen dog food cooked or raw?
The Honest Kitchen states on their website that their food is gently cooked at low temperatures to preserve the nutrients and enzymes in the ingredients. They also claim that their food is “Human grade” and that it’s made with whole foods, which they believe make it more nutritious than other dog foods.
While the gentle cooking of Honest Kitchen dog food may help to preserve the nutrients and enzymes in the food, some pet owners prefer to feed their dogs raw food as they believe it is more natural and closer to a dog’s ancestral diet. As always, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet and to consider the specific needs of your individual dog.
Is there an alternative to Honest Kitchen dog food?
Here are a few options that may be worth considering for your furry companion.
First, there are other dehydrated dog food brands that use human-grade ingredients and avoid preservatives, by-products, and fillers. Some examples include Stella & Chewy’s, Sojos, and Ziwi Peak. These brands also offer grain-free and gluten-free options, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
Another alternative to consider is homemade dog food. By preparing meals at home using fresh ingredients, you have complete control over what goes into your dog’s food. You can also tailor the diet to your dog’s specific needs and food preferences. However, it’s important to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced and appropriate for your dog’s life stage, size, and health conditions. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended before starting a homemade diet.
Alternatively, you can also look into frozen or freeze-dried dog food. This option, like dehydrated food, it’s made with whole ingredients, with minimal processing and preservatives. Brands such as Open Farm, Grandma Lucy’s, and Nature’s Variety offer these types of food options.
FAQs about Honest Kitchen dog food
We’ll go over some frequently asked questions about Honest Kitchen and what you should do if your dog has had a negative reaction to their food.
What is Honest Kitchen?
Honest Kitchen is a pet food company that specializes in dehydrated, all-natural food for dogs and cats. The company was founded in 2002 and is based in San Diego, California. Their food is made with human-grade ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. Honest Kitchen’s food is sold in many pet stores and online retailers, and the company has a loyal following of pet owners who believe in the quality of their products.
Has Honest Kitchen been involved in any recalls?
Yes, Honest Kitchen has had a few recalls in the past. In 2013, the company recalled five lots of its Verve, Thrive, and Zeal products due to concerns over potential salmonella contamination. In 2018, Honest Kitchen recalled a lot of its chicken recipe dog food due to elevated levels of vitamin D. While these recalls are concerning, it’s worth noting that every pet food company can experience issues with contamination or formulation at some point. The important thing is how the company responds to these issues and works to prevent them in the future.
Like any pet food, Honest Kitchen’s food has the potential to make dogs sick if it’s not handled or prepared properly. However, there have been some reports of dogs getting sick after eating Honest Kitchen’s food, even when it’s prepared correctly. Some dogs have experienced vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy after eating Honest Kitchen’s food. It’s not entirely clear why this happens, but some pet owners speculate that it could be due to the high fiber content or the fact that the food is dehydrated.
What should I do if my dog gets sick after eating Honest Kitchen’s food?
If your dog gets sick after eating Honest Kitchen’s food, the first thing you should do is stop feeding it to them immediately. Then, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to determine if your dog’s symptoms are related to the food or if there’s another underlying issue. It’s also a good idea to report the issue to Honest Kitchen so that they’re aware of the problem and can take steps to investigate it.
Should I continue feeding Honest Kitchen’s food to my dog?
If your dog has had a negative reaction to Honest Kitchen’s food, then it’s probably best to switch to a different brand. However, if your dog has been eating Honest Kitchen’s food with no issues, then it’s up to you whether or not you want to continue feeding it to them. Keep in mind that every dog is different, and what works for one dog may not work for another. It’s always a good idea to talk to your vet about your dog’s specific nutritional needs and to do your own research before choosing a new brand of pet food.
How can I prevent my dog from getting sick from Honest Kitchen’s food?
To reduce the risk of your dog getting sick from Honest Kitchen’s food, it’s important to follow the preparation instructions carefully. This includes adding the correct amount of water and letting the food rehydrate for the recommended amount of time. It’s also important to wash your hands and any utensils used to prepare the food thoroughly. Additionally, make sure to store the food properly in a cool, dry place.
Are there any specific ingredients in Honest Kitchen’s food that could be causing my dog’s illness?
It’s difficult to pinpoint specific ingredients in Honest Kitchen’s food that could be causing dogs to get sick, as every dog is different and may react differently to certain ingredients. However, some pet owners have speculated that the high fiber content in the food or the fact that it’s dehydrated could be causing issues for some dogs.
Should I give Honest Kitchen’s food another try if my dog has had a negative reaction in the past?
If your dog has had a negative reaction to Honest Kitchen’s food in the past, it’s understandable to be hesitant to try it again. However, if you’re interested in giving the food another try, it’s important to start slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction closely. Try feeding a small amount of the food and see how your dog reacts. If they seem to tolerate it well, gradually increase the amount of food over time.
What should I look for when choosing a new brand of pet food?
When choosing a new brand of pet food, it’s important to look for high-quality ingredients that are free from fillers and artificial preservatives. Look for a brand that uses human-grade ingredients and has a good reputation for safety and quality. Additionally, talk to your vet about your dog’s specific nutritional needs and any health concerns they may have.
Is Honest Kitchen’s food more expensive than other brands?
Honest Kitchen’s food is generally more expensive than other brands of pet food. However, many pet owners believe that the quality of the food justifies the higher price. It’s worth noting that the cost of pet food can vary widely depending on the brand and the specific formula. Additionally, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of feeding your dog a high-quality diet, as it may lead to better overall health and potentially fewer vet bills down the line.
How can I tell if my dog is having an adverse reaction to Honest Kitchen’s food?
If your dog is having an adverse reaction to Honest Kitchen’s food, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or a decreased appetite. These symptoms may appear shortly after eating the food or they may take a few days to develop. If you suspect your dog is having an adverse reaction to the food, it’s important to stop feeding it to them and consult with your vet.
Is Honest Kitchen’s food suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies?
Honest Kitchen’s food is marketed as being suitable for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, as it contains only whole food ingredients and does not contain any fillers or artificial preservatives. However, every dog is different, and some dogs may still be sensitive to certain ingredients in the food. If your dog has food sensitivities or allergies, it’s important to introduce the food slowly and monitor their reaction closely.
What should I do if my dog gets sick from eating Honest Kitchen’s food?
If your dog gets sick from eating Honest Kitchen’s food, it’s important to stop feeding it to them immediately and consult with your vet. Your vet may recommend treatment such as medication or IV fluids to help your dog recover. It’s also important to report any adverse reactions to the manufacturer so they can investigate and take appropriate action.
How can I ensure my dog is getting a balanced diet from Honest Kitchen’s food?
Honest Kitchen’s food is designed to provide a balanced and complete diet for dogs, but it’s still important to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients they need. You can supplement the food with additional fruits, vegetables, or protein sources if needed, but it’s important to talk to your vet before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
Is it safe to feed my dog Honest Kitchen’s food?
While some dogs have experienced adverse reactions to Honest Kitchen’s food, the brand has not been recalled for safety concerns. It’s important to follow the preparation instructions carefully and monitor your dog’s reaction to the food. If you have any concerns or notice any adverse reactions, consult with your vet. Overall, Honest Kitchen’s food can be a safe and healthy option for many dogs.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
