Feeding your dog can sometimes feel like a research rabbit hole. One day you’re happily scooping kibble into the bowl, the next you’re wondering if your dog needs goat kefir, wild sardines, or a DIY fermentation station in your kitchen. Let’s take a breath.
At Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp, we’re all about real-life solutions that work. No guilt. No overwhelm. Just intentional, healthy dog food toppers that elevate your pup’s nutrition in less than 30 seconds.
If you’re feeding kibble—and so many of our clients do—you don’t need to ditch it. You just need to supercharge it. Let’s talk about my favorite healthy additions to dog kibble that pack a punch.
Sardines in Water (Not Oil!)
Sardines are tiny powerhouses loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats support your dog’s brain, joints, and skin while reducing inflammation.
- Choose sardines packed in water with no salt or added flavoring
- Avoid those in oil or sauces
Serving Guide:
- Small dogs: 1/2 can
- Large dogs: 1 full can
Mash them into kibble for a high-value, nutrient-dense boost that most dogs go crazy for.
Pure Pumpkin
Pumpkin is a staple at Aly’s—it’s rich in fiber and beta-carotene and is great for digestion. We especially love it for dogs with sensitive tummies.
But remember: you want plain pumpkin, not pie filling.
Our go-to? Diggin’ Your Dog Firm Up! Pumpkin Digestive Aid shelf-stable, mess-free, and easy to mix into meals.
This is one of our top dog nutrition supplements because it supports gut health during transitions, training, and travel.
Cooked Egg (Soft-Boiled or Scrambled)
Eggs are packed with protein, biotin, and amino acids—all great for your dog’s coat, nails, and energy levels. They’re especially helpful for underweight pups or those in more active training phases.
- Cook fully—no runny whites, seasoning, butter, or oil
- Mix into kibble or serve on the side
Serving Guide: 1 egg, 2–3 times a week
Kefir or Plain Greek Yogurt
Gut health = immune health = better behavior. These fermented foods deliver a healthy dose of probiotics that aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
Serving Guide:
- Small dogs: 1 tablespoon
- Medium to large dogs: 2 tablespoons
Stick with unflavored versions and avoid anything with xylitol. For fun enrichment, freeze with a few blueberries.
Bonus: Cottage cheese is another excellent option. Rich in protein and calcium, it’s easy on the stomach and often loved by picky eaters.
Tip: Start small—1 tablespoon for small dogs, 2–3 tablespoons for larger dogs.
A Drizzle of Healthy Oil
Healthy fats do wonders for coat shine and skin health. I alternate between olive oil and fish oil—both provide essential fatty acids and support joint function.
Serving Guide:
- Small dogs: 1 teaspoon
- Large dogs: 1 tablespoon
- Use 2–3 times per week
Make sure the oil is fresh. Rancid oil can be more harmful than helpful.
Aly’s Real Talk: Start Small
The biggest mistake I see? Trying to change everything at once. It’s tempting to load your dog’s bowl with all the toppers at once, but that can backfire.
Start with one healthy dog food topper this week. Watch how your dog responds. Next week, try another. Your dog’s body will thank you—and so will your wallet.
A Word on Safety
As always, check in with your vet before adding something new, especially if your dog has known allergies, GI issues, or medical conditions. These kibble add-ins for dogs are meant to complement, not replace, a complete and balanced diet.
Watch your dog for signs of discomfort like vomiting, itching, or diarrhea. If anything seems off, pause and reassess.
Why It’s Worth the Effort
Healthy dog food toppers don’t just support your pup’s physical health—they impact behavior too. When your dog is well-nourished, they’re more:
- Focused
- Resilient under stress
- Responsive to training
I see it every day. Dogs in Aly’s Academy who are supported by strong nutrition make faster progress and bounce back quicker from stress.
What About You?
Have you tried healthy additions to dog kibble? Whether your pup devours sardines or falls in love with a dollop of cottage cheese, your story could help another dog parent in our Aly’s Insider Community.
Come share your experience with our pack. We talk food, training, structure, and tools every single week.
Final Scoop
You don’t need to be a canine nutritionist to boost your dog’s meals. With just one or two healthy dog food toppers, you can improve digestion, behavior, and vitality—fast.
Add smart. Keep it simple. And always stay connected to how your dog is responding.
You’ve got this and I’m cheering you on.
Warm wags and blessings,
Aly