What are the disadvantages of grain free dog food
What are the Disadvantages of Grain Free Dog Food?
In recent years, the trend of feeding dogs grain-free diets has surged in popularity among pet owners, driven by the belief that these diets are closer to a dogs natural ancestral diet and can solve various health issues attributed to grains.
However, as a practicing veterinarian with years of experience in canine nutrition and health, I have seen first hand the multifaceted impact of grain-free diets on our canine companions. This article aims to shed light on the disadvantages of grain-free dog food, a topic that has sparked considerable debate and concern within the veterinary community.
As a practising veterinarian, Ive personally witnessed the varied impact of grain-free diets on our furry friends. This article aims to shed light on the downsides of grain-free dog food, a topic that has sparked significant debate and concern in the veterinary community. So what are the disadvantages of grain free dog food?
What is grain free dog food?
Grain free dog food is unique in that all traces of wheat, barley, oats, corn and rice are completely removed, and typically replaced with other ingredients, most commonly pulses such as lentils and peas, or else potatoes. This relatively new category of dog food has gained significant popularity in recent years, and the upwards trend is especially prominent amongst USA pet owners, with sales increasing by a staggering 221% between 2012 and 2016. Conversations with pet owners in the consult room in my role as a GP veterinarian, as well as data available online, support a single conclusion: grain free diets are big news right now!
My frequent discussions with dog owners have also brought to light a possible reason for this popularity: we see grain free dog food as a healthier choice; more natural, closer in composition to the historical canine diet, which is perceived by many to be entirely prey based with minimal or no carbohydrates. In fact, in one recent survey of US pet owners, approximately half of the respondents reported that they believed grain-free diets were healthier for their pet.
More specifically, grain free dog food is believed to be a superior choice for dogs with digestive issues such as chronic sloppy stools. In my humble opinion as a dog-tor, grain free diets are given a little too much credit in this respect, since the vast majority of dogs can certainly digest grains very effectively and without issues.
Its true that going grain-free will alleviate allergy symptoms in dogs with genuine grain allergies, but such individuals are actually believed to be a surprisingly tiny percentage of the canine population. So, lets stay mindful of the statistics; your dog is considerably more likely to be reactive to beef, chicken or dairy products than to grains! To learn more about dog food allergies check out our article.
For those keen to understand the disadvantages of feeding your dog a food devoid of wholesome, highly digestible and energy-rich grains, stay tuned. We have plenty to discuss.
The Potential Link to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
In 2018, a potential link between grain free dog food and the development of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM; a serious and potentially life-threatening heart condition) was reported by the US Food and Drug Administration. Significant research and in-depth review of the available data has been conducted since, but has done little to offer vets and pet owners a clear answer as to whether or not grain free diets pose a danger to our dogs.
Some studies support a link, and in particular there is concern that grain free diets may contribute to taurine deficiency, which in turn increases the likelihood of DCM developing.
On the flip side, clinical diet trials have shown that feeding grain free has minimal effects on blood taurine levels. Ultimately, the exact role of specific ingredients remains unclear, and since DCM is a complex condition that develops due to an interplay of many factors, experts agree that its probably an oversimplification to attribute an uptick in DCM cases to grain free food alone.
In light of the lack of clarity surrounding the potential link between grain free dog food and DCM, my advice to my clients remains as follows: if theres a genuine, valid reason that your dog needs to be eating grain free dog food, go ahead. If there isnt, I recommend you go with a food that includes grains.
High quality, commercially available grain free dog food should be formulated to include everything your dog needs and to meet all of his or her nutritional needs. So, provided you select the product carefully and ensure youve chosen a complete rather than complimentary dog food, serious or dangerous nutritional deficiencies should not be a problem.
If in any doubt as to whether or not a food is suitable to feed daily as your dogs sole diet, dont be afraid to ask! In most cases its possible to contact the manufacturers technical team directly via email or phone.
Those of you already feeding grain free who have noticed your pooch producing particularly firm poops may be interested to learn that grain free diets are often lower in fibre compared to their grain-containing counterparts. This means feeding grain free can potentially instigate or exacerbate constipations in prone individuals. If this applies to your pet, consider whether you really need to be feeding grain free. You can also consider adding a fibre supplement to your dogs diet. Speak to your vet if youre uncertain which supplement is best suited for your dog.
Talk is cheap, and so are grains! Since wheat, barley, oats and co. are produced in bulk across much of the globe and cost relatively little to produce, diets that contain grains are often (although not always) cheaper than opting for a grain free alternative. So, those with cost concerns may find it easier on the wallet to select a dog food that contains grains.
Grain-Free Diet Misconceptions
By far the most common misconception I come across in my role as a veterinarian is that owners think their dog will struggle to digest grains. In reality (and thanks in part to evolving alongside carbohydrate-loving humans, as mans best friend), dogs happen to be really quite good at digesting grains!
In my experience and yes, this is anecdotal but still worth noting a really big percentage of dog owners self-diagnose their pet as having a grain allergy or intolerance. Lets cast our minds back to the introduction for a second: your dog is far more likely to be allergic to beef, chicken or dairy products than grains, so Id always advise ruling out the more likely potential causes of digestive issues first, before pinning the blame on grains.
The alternative to feeding grain free is to select a food that includes grains: welcome back, wheat, barley, oats, corn and rice! Options include kibble, wet processed dog food (loaf, cans, sachets), fresh dog food (commercially made or home cooked), raw, and freeze-dried raw foods.
Its best to avoid feeding raw (see What dog foods to avoid below). If you decide to produce a home cooked diet for your dog, be sure to consult with a qualified veterinary nutritionist to ensure the end product is complete and balanced and to avoid any nutritional deficiencies or excesses.
This is my favorite question, because the answer can make a really massive difference to both human and animal health! As a preface (and to hopefully show you just how passionate I am about this subject), whilst studying to become a veterinarian I actually completed my dissertation as well as a funded research project investigating raw food diets for dogs. The conclusion? Please dont feed your dog raw meat!
Feeding raw meat is hazardous for humans handling the food and those coming into contact with the dog or their stools. It also encourages the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria; and it has absolutely no benefit for your dog that cant equally (and much more safely) be obtained by feeding a carefully selected, fresh and complete diet. See our full article that covers whether raw meat diets are safe for dogs.
In considering what dog foods you should avoid, I also feel obliged to give a nod in the direction of advanced glycation end products, or AGEs. An increasing awareness and concern regarding these unwelcome little molecules is prompting many owners not to feed kibble or other forms of processed dog food. So, what actually are AGEs?
To put things simply, advanced glycation end products are a potentially harmful group of compounds produced in relatively large amounts when sugars and proteins interact following certain food processing practices, including heating food to very high temperatures (such as during the production of kibble). AGEs build up in the body and have been linked to a number of age-related diseases in both humans and dogs. Its a relatively new area of research and there is still much to be learned, but limiting your pets intake of AGEs may help them live a longer and healthier life.
Again, this area is complex but the key point is that minimally processed foods are often the better option, provided you still ensure your dogs diet is complete and balanced. Companies providing meals that are formulated by a veterinary nutritionist and freshly prepared using gentle cooking methods are a great alternative.
Why does my vet not recommend grain free dog food?
Different vets will have different opinions when it comes to the topic of grain free dog food; theres not really one single, firm consensus within the veterinary community regarding whether or not to feed grain free!If your vet is recommending not to feed grain free dog food, its likely because they feel your dog doesnt need to go grain free. As weve already mentioned, only a minority of dogs are likely to benefit from cutting out grains. Of course, the best thing to do if youre not sure why your vet doesnt recommend grain free dog food is to ask them! Were here to help and advise, so please never be afraid to let your vet know if you need further information or feel something hasnt been fully explained.
Is dog food better with or without grain?
Based on the available evidence, I recommend that my clients only feed their dog grain free food if there is a valid reason to do so, for example a known or suspected grain allergy or intolerance. Grains are a great source of energy, fibre and antioxidants, as well as being cheap and readily available; in my opinion, they have an unfairly bad rep!
To conclude, whilst grain free dog food has certainly soared in popularity in recent years, its important to consider the possible downsides to this form of diet, as well as whether or not its really necessary to cut grains out of your dogs diet completely.
Whilst going grain free may be perceived as the healthier choice, this perception is not necessarily based in fact. Ultimately, the very best advice I can give you is to select a diet based on evidence rather than hearsay.
Best Grain-Free Dog Foods
Turkey Patties is one of6 raw frozen recipesanalyzed inour reviewof the We Feed Raw product line.
This We Feed Raw recipe obtains the better part of its animal protein fromturkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, wfr vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"Our family has been using We Feed Raw for years and we will continue to do so because we love it! Our dogs are healthier and happier on raw. Plus, with WFR, we know they are getting top-notch food without imbalances. Amazing company! Could not be happier!"
Wellness Core Ocean Formula is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
This Wellness formula derives most of its meat protein from fish and fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 38% protein, 17% fat and 38% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
An exceptional protein-rich option.
Read our review of the full Wellness Core Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Whitefish, herring meal, salmon meal, menhaden fish meal, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 38% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog absolutely loves this food! Shes not really a fussy eater, and shes never rushed to eat her food, but from the moment I put this food in her bowl, she started eating it right away! She seems very excited at meal time! I think Ive found her furever food!"
Raised Right Beef is one of11 fresh recipesincluded inour reviewof the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein fromfresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only American Journey Beef and Sweet Potato is one of17 dry recipesincluded in ourreview of the American Journeyproduct line.
This American Journey formula derives most of its meat protein from beef and chicken and turkey meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 16% fat and 41% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
We also note the inclusion of salmon oil, which is rich in healthy, omega-3 fatty acids. The formula also contains both pre and probiotics to support optimal digestion. Highly recommended, especially when you consider the budget pricing.
Read our review of the full American Journey Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, chickpeas Type Puppy, large breed, senior, healthy weight Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is my go to dry food. I have a very picky dog. When we first adopted him he would not eat anything. He went for 2 days and did not eat anything! A friend recommended this and he ate a little bit. Over the next week he ate a little more each day. Now it is his daily food and I use other American Journey flavors and mix the two every now and then just for variety."
Taste of the Wild High Prairie is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Taste of the Wild product line.
Taste of the Wild High Prairie derives most of its meat protein from buffalo, lamb meal and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A superior choice for your dog. Heartily recommended.
Read our review of the full Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Buffalo, lamb meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My fur babies love it, I bought the bag before I finished off their other food and they would inspect the bag. As soon as I cut it open and fed them, they wont touch their other food. They know which is which and they prefer Taste of the Wild over all their food. Glad they're happy."
Orijen Six Fish is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
Orijen Six Fish derives the bulk of its animal protein from whole Atlantic mackerel and herring, as well as monkfish and redfish. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 21% fat and 28% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
A solid grain-free product line. Enthusiastically recommended.
See all 9 available recipes
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Whole Atlantic mackerel, whole Atlantic herring, monksh, Acadian redsh, ounder Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 43% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have always fed my German Shepherds Orijen, so when my boyfriend and I got an 11mo German Shepherd I went straight for this food again. It is the best food on the market! My dogs have always had wonderful coats and teeth with this food. The 6 fish even helps with the shedding. Our dog is protection trained and is in training for competitions so he need a high protein food to keep up with him and this brand does the trick. I love this food!!"
Dr. Tims Salmon and Pork RPM is one of 3 dry recipes included in our review of the Dr. Tims product line.
Dr. Tims Salmon and Pork RPM derives the majority of its animal protein from salmon and pork meals. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A quality, grain-free brand. Readily recommended.
See all 3 available recipes
Read our review of the full Dr. Tims Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Salmon meal, pork meal, dried white potatoes, dried field peas, tapioca Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We have tried everything on the market. Our oldest female had really awful skin allergies. Then we were talking to a friend of our's that recommended this food to us. We researched it and found out it would be great for our girl and her skin allergies PLUS we have sporting retrievers that needed a good food for the protein/energy and carbs. This food has been wonderful for it all. We have raised several young dogs on this food and they did really well on it too. I cannot say enough good things about this food and what it has done for our dogs. We have 4 Labradors, an Aussie, and a small rescue dog. They all love this food! Thank you Dr. Tim's!"
Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe is one of 10 dry recipes included in our review of the Canidae Pure product line.
Canidae Pure Real Lamb and Pea Recipe derives the majority of its animal protein from lamb and poultry meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A superb selection free of grains.
Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, turkey meal, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, garbanzo beans Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog has always been a picky eater even when she was little. Because of that, she wasn't in her proper weight category for her age and breed. I decided to make a switch to a higher quality brand of dog food than what I was feeding. This specific dog food ranks 4.5 / 5 on a popular dog food rating site. It has really good ingredients and actually costs less than most other dog food brand with the same ones. My dog absolutely loves this food. I have never seen her more excited to eat (other than for cheese or boiled chicken)."
The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Chicken is one of 8 dehydrated recipes analyzed in our review of the Honest Kitchen product line.
This Honest Kitchen formula derives most of its meat protein from dehydrated chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Made with genuine human-grade (not feed-grade) ingredients. Nutritionally complete and balanced for all breed sizes.
After adding warm water, the product rehydrates to four times its packaged weight. So, a 10-pound box yields forty pounds of dog food. Contains no preservatives, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat or soy. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Honest Kitchen Grain Free Dog Food (Dehydrated) range here
Main Ingredients Dehydrated chicken, organic flaxseed, dehydrated potatoes, dehydrated sweet potatoes, dried apples Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 26% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I switched my dogs from a kibble to rehydrated food. They don't have poop problems anymore, but most of all, they are not scratching as much. They LOVE it, may have to eventually switch off chicken, as it is known for some food allergies. My 3 small dogs absolutely love it and so far, no $150 per month for allergy shots.. so its worth the costs.."
Ollie Fresh Turkey is one of 4 wet recipes included in our review of the Ollie product line.
This Ollie formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh turkey and turkey organ meat. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% estimated carbs producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
The company designs each custom feeding plan based on your dogs age, weight, activity level and other feeding factors and then recommends a measured portion size, based on the number of calories needed to keep your dog at ideal weight.
The fresh, customized diet is delivered to you on a flexible schedule. It should be stored in your freezer and then thawed (as needed) in your refrigerator.
An exceptional, grain-free option ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet thats as close to homemade as you can get yet without all the tedious work. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 39% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at MyOllie.com"Our 10 year old GSD had skin issues & was refusing to eat his dry food. We made the switch to Ollie & the changes have been amazing. Dexter is no longer scratching all the time and he looks forward to his breakfast & dinner every day. He's also perkier and runs around like a puppy. We are so happy with Ollie!!"
Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato is one of 12 dry recipes included in our review of the Merrick Grain-Free product line.
Merrick Grain-Free Real Salmon with Sweet Potato derives the bulk of its animal protein from salmon and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 16% fat and 40% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 44%.
A great option with multiple formulas. A top grain-free pick.
See all 12 available recipes
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My Goldendoodle wasnt really eating his other new food that I transitioned him to from puppy to adult ... read great things about Merrick and gave it a shot. My pup loves it and eats it all."
Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
Nulo Freestyle Adult Salmon and Peas derives the bulk of its meat protein from salmon, turkey meal and menhaden fish meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 18% fat and 41% estimated carbs yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.
Enthusiastically recommended.
See all 9 available recipes
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Grain Free Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, turkey meal, menhaden fish meal, whole peas, sweet potato Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Im a big fan of Nulo food for my four babies. Compared to other foods in the same price range it rates high. Its nevef had a recall and its an award winning food. My babies love it. The kibble is small for their small mouths and they clean up every bite. No grains and all wholesome ingredients make this a winner..."
Weruva Funky Chunky Chicken Grain and Gluten-Free is one of 14 wet recipes included in our review of the Weruva product line.
Weruva Funky Chunky Chicken derives most of its animal protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 64% protein, 10% fat and 18% estimated carbs which results in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 15%.
An exceptional, grain-free wet dog food.
See all 14 available recipes
Read our review of the full Weruva Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, carrot, green pea Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 64% Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We recently switched wet food because our pup was having digestive issues and the nutritionist recommended removing grain. This was definitely the perfect choice. It looks like real people food, it smells delicious and our dog loves it. Two big thumbs up!"
