Are Grain-Free Diets Bad for Dogs?

What Is Grain-Free Food?

Familiar grains such as wheat, rice, corn, and barley are integral parts of many humans' and dogs' diets, providing complex carbohydrates as well as proteins, fibers, vitamins, and minerals.

Approximately two decades ago, veterinarians striving to provide better nutrition for animals with dietary sensitivities led to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) trials being conducted by nutrition companies. These assessments helped verify that grain free dog food, hypoallergenic diets were safe for both cats and dogs to consume.

Beginning in 2005, pet food companies began to advertise grain-free diets as being potentially beneficial for dogs with health concerns, allergies, or those who needed fewer fillers in their food.

The word "filler" can be confusing, since it implies an ingredient without benefit. However, fillers used in pet food are normally dietary fiber, which nourishes the gut bacteria and produces the short-chain fatty acids that maintain intestinal health. Without fiber and filler, the pet food wouldn't be nutritionally complete.

Is Grain-Free Food Linked to Health Conditions in Dogs?

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a genetically associated condition characterised by an enlargement and thinning of the heart's chambers. This malady can result in heart malfunction, arrhythmias, and unexpected death. The breeds primarily impacted are the Doberman Pinscher, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, Boxer, and Cocker Spaniel.

In 2018, an uptick of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) cases was reported among breeds typically not at risk for the condition. The link between these cases was their shared consumption of boutique or grain-free diets. Following a switch to a diet containing grains, the dogs began to recover.

Seventeen peer-reviewed studies within the past 4½ years have been released, including 1,382 canine cases and 20 feline cases (as of Dec. 23, 2022) reported to the FDA. It is thought that the situation is worse than what is reported, as animals need a thorough evaluation from a cardiologist and filing a complaint to the FDA can be challenging. The original hypothesis of a taurine deficiency in pet food, which had been observed sporadically, has now been shown to be more complicated.

In 2018, one study found that, of all breeds, only Golden Retrievers eating grain-free diets were deficient in taurine. Subsequent research, however, found that no breed was deficient in taurine. Pulses, such as peas, lentils, and chickpeas, were high in the ingredient list of the reported cases. Aside from DCM, there are no other major health issues linked to grain-free diets. Pets with food allergies may still express itching, vomiting, and diarrhea when given over-the-counter diets if the product was not made and cleaned in a facility specific to such cases.

Why Would Dogs Be Recommended Grain-Free Food?

Celiac disease, a gluten-intolerant disorder prevalent in humans, is exceedingly rare amongst dogs. One line of Irish Setters in the UK do exhibit gluten intolerance similar to Celiac disease while some Border Terriers have been proven to suffer from epileptoid cramping syndrome which can be alleviated with a gluten-free diet. To this day, these are the only canine species known to be affected by gluten-responsive medical difficulties.

Pets with food allergies can experience relief with specialized diets like limited ingredient and hydrolyzed plans, many of which are grain-free. Prescription hypoallergenic formulas that have been put through AAFCO or more thorough feeding trials have yet to yield any reports of dogs developing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Such diets are recommended by vets for reasons beyond the DCM issue.

Prescription hypoallergenic diets are formulated rigorously to ensure ingredients don't cross-contaminate and are tested for any rogue elements. As a result, dogs are much less prone to flare-ups of allergies or gastrointestinal issues. Although costly, these prescriptions may ultimately save pet owners money on vet bills since their pet's symptoms are unlikely to recur.

Should I Feed My Dog Grain-Free Food?

If you want to explore grain-free diets for your pup, talking to a vet is essential. They can advise on the best diet for your pup's age, health and any existing medical issues, as well as any potential clinical signs. Additionally, this may help with issues such as if your pup doesn't like their regular food, itches constantly or has a sensitive stomach.