In Australia, where pet nutrition is taken seriously, shelves are stocked with an increasing variety of grain free dog food options suggesting that this choice is more than just a passing trend. In fact, a study undertaken in 2023 indicated that 30% of Australian pet owners seemed to prefer grain free dog food options for their fur babies.
But is grain free dog food truly beneficial for dogs?
Grain free dog food has become increasingly popular over the last few years, with owners believing that dogs instinctively favour meat over grains. However, according to veterinarians, the key to a healthy diet is not merely the exclusion of grains - it is achieving a balance of necessary nutrients. Properly balanced dog food should be rich in fibre, protein and other nutrients that stimulate digestion, aid muscle development, and keep dogs healthy and strong. While grain free dog food diets may be suitable for some dogs, specifically those with allergies or sensitive digestive systems, studies have revealed that they have no inherent health advantages over dog food with grains. What truly matters is the overall nutrient content and not individual ingredients. This then raises an important question: if grain free dog food diets offer no specific health advantage, why have they become so popular among dog owners?
Understanding Grain Free Dog Food Diets and Why They Became Popular
The push for grain free dog food diets started as part of a broader trend toward “clean eating” for pets, much like the rise of gluten-free and paleo diets for humans. Many pet owners assumed that if avoiding grains was healthier for people, it must be better for dogs too. Consequently, grain free dog foods began to get popular. Made without the common grains of wheat, corn, rice, and oats, they usually contain alternative sources of carbohydrates such as potatoes, lentils, peas, or chickpeas.
Also, some people believe that most dog breeds struggle to digest grains or develop allergies. While food allergies do occur among dogs, they are far less common than many assume and grain allergies particularly, are rare. Actually, studies suggest that beef, dairy, and chicken are more frequent culprits as far as food sensitivities go compared to wheat or corn – so it becomes clear that the real issue is not grains themselves, but the quality and type of ingredients used in commercial dog foods - whether grain-based or grain free.
Is a Completely Grain Free Diet Good for Dogs?
While the premium grain free dog food formulas have benefits for certain dogs (such as those with genuine grain allergies), veterinarians have also raised some red flags.
Heart Health Concerns: In 2019, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration began investigating a possible link between grain free dog food diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition. The concern? Many grain free formulas rely heavily on legumes as grain replacements, which may interfere with taurine absorption - an amino acid crucial for heart function.
Nutrient Gaps: Some grain free dog food formulas are lower in fibre and may lack essential nutrients. In an effort to make up for the missing grains, manufacturers often add excessive amounts of plant-based proteins or fillers, which don’t always provide the same nutritional benefits.
Misleading Marketing: Many grain free dog foods use high-protein claims to appeal to consumers, but more protein doesn’t always mean better. Dogs require a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates to thrive, and a high-protein, low-carb diet isn’t inherently superior.
What Dog Owners Should Consider
So, should you ditch the best grain free dog food options completely? Not necessarily - but the decision should be based on your dog’s individual needs, not just marketing hype
Check the Ingredient List:
If considering a grain free dog food diet, examine the ingredient list carefully. Avoid brands that rely too heavily on fillers, preservatives, or vague terms like “meat meal” without specifying the source. Choose instead from Brunswick Fur Food’s range of grain free wet dog food and dry meals made from sustainably sourced produce to ensure balanced meals for your dog
Talk to Your Vet:
Before making any significant changes to your dog's diet, discuss it with your veterinarian. They can assess your dog’s breed, age, activity level, and potential sensitivities to recommend the right diet.
Monitor Your Dog's Health:
Regularly observe your dog for any signs of health issues, such as lethargy, hair loss, itchy skin patches, coughing, difficulty breathing, or weight changes. Early detection of potential problems can lead to more effective interventions.
At the end of the day, the best diet for your dog isn’t about having to choose between grains and no grains – it is about ensuring nutritional balance. A high percentage of fresh, sustainably sourced chicken, meat and fish, combined with nutrient-rich vegetables provide essential vitamins and fibre to help support gut health, build immunity and contribute to overall well-being. So, make a studied decision, because when it comes to nutrition, it’s not about following trends - it’s about what truly benefits your fur baby.
