Grain Free

By Minou Tpain

Grain Free

 

Instagram: @modernk9 Carolinas


Dogs do not need fruits, vegetables or grains in their diet the way humans do. They are however scavenger carnivores so they can consume them and tolerate small amounts but they really require a diet high in meat protein. Unfortunately many kibble diets are high in plant protein or high in grains, which are not species appropriate.

Years ago many people started to question the amount of grain that was used in pet food. As a result, some pet food companies choose to go “grain free”. Pet owners were looking for foods with higher meat content but instead, pet food companies replaced one unnecessary ingredient with another-never actually changing the amount of meat. Most of what you will see now in foods that are labeled as “grain free” contain high levels of legumes such as peas. Unfortunately, these grain free diets have been known to cause increased susceptibility to DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy). It is not that legumes are unhealthy for our dogs; they can tolerate small amounts. Scientist believe it’s that the diets did not have a high enough content of meat protein; which then lacks the amino acid Taurine (taurine is found in high quality meats and organs such as the heart). Taurine helps to support normal heart function. This is why I choose to add raw meat to my dogs’ kibble. Some pet food companies have even started adding in taurine supplements to their kibble.

What else is in your dog’s kibble? It’s important to read the ingredient list usually found on the back of the bag. Take a look at the first few ingredients. What do you see?

This is what makes up the majority of your dog’s food. Do you feel comfortable with these main ingredients? How can you add better quality foods to your dog’s diet?

I am not here to convince you to go raw, while I do truly believe it’s the healthiest option, it is not for everyone – even I am not quite there yet. But we can find other ways to better our dogs’ diets and it all starts with understanding what they need.

 

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