The Real Difference Between Cooked & Gently Cooked Dog Food - Why The Bon Pet Is Changing the Game
If you’ve been on the hunt for the healthiest food for your dog, you’ve probably seen terms like “gently cooked” thrown around. But what does that actually mean and is it really better than traditional cooking methods?
Let’s break it down. Here’s everything you need to know about gently cooked dog food, why it’s a total win for your pup’s health, and how The Bon Pet makes feeding your bestie fresh, wholesome meals easier than ever.
🐶 What Does “Gently Cooked” Dog Food Mean?
“Gently cooked” means the food is cooked just enough to kill harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli but without blasting away the good stuff like proteins, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Unlike kibble or high-heat cooked foods, gently cooked dog food uses lower temperatures (around 60–70°C). This locks in nutrients, flavor, and texture so your dog gets all the benefits of fresh food without the risks of raw.
Think of it as the sous-vide of dog cuisine: scientifically backed, super nutrient-rich, and drool-worthy.
💡 Studies (like those from the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry) show that gentle cooking helps preserve more proteins and essential vitamins than boiling or frying. Translation: your pup gets maximum nutrition in every bite.
✨ The Benefits of Gently Cooked Dog Food
1. Better Digestion = Happier Belly
Dogs have shorter digestive tracts than humans, so digestibility matters big time. According to research from the National Research Council, dogs absorb nutrients more efficiently when their food is easier to digest.
That means The Bon Pet gently cooked meals give your pup more energy, better poops, and all-around happier vibes.
2. More Nutrients, Less Heat Damage
Heat-sensitive vitamins like C and B-vitamins can vanish when food is cooked at high temps. Gentle cooking keeps those alive and thriving, making fresh dog food a nutrient jackpot compared to kibble.
3. All-Natural Goodness Beats Synthetic Add-Ins
Kibble is often cooked under extreme pressure and then reloaded with artificial nutrients to meet basic standards. But here’s the catch synthetic vitamins aren’t absorbed as well as natural ones.
With The Bon Pet best-selling healthy dog meals, your pup gets nutrients straight from real food not a lab.
4. Juicy Meals = Better Hydration
High-heat cooking sucks out moisture. Gently cooked meals, on the other hand, retain natural juices and moisture, keeping your dog hydrated and their skin and coat looking chef’s kiss.
Hydration supports joint health, digestion, and organ function all from delicious, ready-to-serve meals.
🐾 Busting the Myths About Gently Cooked Dog Food
❌ “It’s Not Cooked Enough”
Nope! Cooking at around 80°C (176°F) destroys common pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. It’s perfectly safe and way more nutritious.
❌ “It’s Not as Natural as Raw”
Raw food can be great, but it’s risky for dogs with sensitive immune systems. Gently cooked food gives you the same nutrient profile plus food safety peace of mind. It’s the best of both worlds.
🍲 How to Make Gently Cooked Dog Food at Home (If You Want To)
Got a sous-vide machine? You can DIY it!
Just combine lean meat, organ meat, and fresh fruits and veggies in a sealable bag. Cook at 60–70°C for about 1–2 hours. Voilà a wholesome meal your dog will love.
But real talk: balancing nutrients is tricky. Over time, feeding an unbalanced diet can cause health issues. That’s why The Bon Pet makes it easy — every recipe meets AAFCO and NRC standards for complete and balanced nutrition.
🥩 Gently Cooked vs. Traditionally Cooked Dog Food — The Bon Pet Difference
| Feature | Gently Cooked Dog Food (The Bon Pet) | Traditionally Cooked / Kibble |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Temperature | Low (60–70°C) – preserves nutrients while eliminating bacteria | High (120–200°C) – destroys nutrients and enzymes |
| Nutrient Retention | High – keeps protein, vitamins, and minerals intact | Low – many vitamins and amino acids lost |
| Digestibility | Easily digestible for dogs’ shorter tracts | Often harder to digest due to processing |
| Moisture Content | Naturally high – promotes hydration and healthy skin | Low moisture – may contribute to dehydration |
| Nutrient Source | Real, whole ingredients with natural nutrients | Artificial supplements added after cooking |
| Taste & Aroma | Fresh, meaty, and aromatic | Often bland or processed-smelling |
| Safety | Safe from pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli | High-heat kills bacteria but also key nutrients |
| Texture | Soft, juicy, and close to natural food | Dry and crunchy |
| Storage | Refrigerated or frozen for freshness | Shelf-stable for months (more preservatives) |
| Overall Benefit | Balanced nutrition + freshness + hydration | Convenience but lower nutrition quality |
💚 The Bon Pet: Fresh, Gently Cooked Dog Food That Delivers
Skip the meal prep stress. With The Bon Pet gently cooked dog food, your furry bestie gets:
✅ Fresh, vet-approved ingredients
✅ Gently cooked to lock in nutrients
✅ Ready-to-serve meals with perfect portion sizes
✅ A subscription service so you never run out
Because your dog deserves more than just food they deserve The Bon Pet lifestyle.
🐕 Ready to Make the Switch?
Check out our best-selling gently cooked meals and start your journey to healthier, fresher eating for your dog today.
Your pup’s tail will say it all.
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