Why dog food should be grain free?

Grain-free dog food has become popular for several reasons, but whether it’s the right choice depends on your dog’s specific needs. Here’s why some dog owners choose grain-free food:

1. Helps Dogs with Grain Allergies or Sensitivities

• Some dogs are allergic or intolerant to grains like wheat, corn, or soy.
• Symptoms of grain allergies include itchy skin, ear infections, digestive issues, and excessive paw licking.

2. May Reduce Inflammation

• Grains can contribute to inflammation in some dogs, potentially worsening conditions like arthritis, skin issues, or chronic ear infections.

3. Supports Better Digestion

• Some dogs digest meat-based diets better than grain-heavy ones.
• Grain-free foods often contain sweet potatoes, peas, or lentils as alternative carb sources, which may be easier to digest.

4. Mimics Ancestral Diets

• Dogs evolved from wolves, whose natural diets were high in protein and low in carbohydrates.
• Many believe grain-free diets align better with a dog's biological needs.

5. May Help with Weight Management

• Some grain-based dog foods contain high-glycemic carbs that cause weight gain.
• Grain-free options often focus on higher protein, which can help maintain lean muscle.

But… Are Grain-Free Diets Always Better?

Not necessarily. The FDA has investigated a possible link between grain-free diets and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), especially those with legumes (peas, lentils) as main ingredients. Some dogs do just fine with grains, especially whole grains like brown rice or oats.