The RISKS of Grain in Dog Kibble - What You Need to Know
The Risks of Grain in Dog Food
Grains, such as wheat, corn, and soy, have been a common ingredient in dog food for many years. Purina made by Mars Pet Foods are some of the biggest brands of dog foods containing grains.
However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern among pet owners and veterinarians about the potential risks of grains in dog food. In this blog post, we will explore the risks of grain in dog food and what pet owners should be aware of.
The Potential Risks of Grains in Dog Food
One of the biggest concerns about grains in dog food is that they can cause food sensitivities and allergies in some dogs. This is because grains contain proteins that some dogs may be sensitive to. Common symptoms of food sensitivities and allergies in dogs include itching, digestive issues, and ear infections.
Another concern is that some grains, such as corn and wheat, are considered to be less digestible than other ingredients. This can lead to digestive issues and malnutrition in dogs over time.
Symptoms of Grain Allergies in Dogs
The symptoms of grain allergies in dogs can vary from mild to severe and can include:
Itching and scratching
Red, inflamed skin
Chronic ear infections
Digestive issues, such as vomiting and diarrhea
Discoloration of the paws from excessive licking
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the cause and best course of action.
Causes of Grain Allergies in Dogs
While grains are often blamed for causing allergies in dogs, the truth is that most dogs with true food
allergies are actually allergic to a specific protein rather than a grain. However, some dogs may have a sensitivity to grains, which can lead to allergy-like symptoms.
Additionally, some experts believe that the high carbohydrate content of grain-based dog foods can contribute to the development of allergies in dogs. This is because carbohydrates can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to a weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to allergies.
Treatment of Grain Allergies in Dogs
The treatment of grain allergies in dogs will depend on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying cause. If your dog is diagnosed with a grain allergy, your veterinarian may recommend a special diet that is free from grains and other common allergens. Additionally, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to help manage your dog's symptoms, such as antihistamines or steroids.
It is important to note that it can take time to determine the underlying cause of your dog's symptoms. Your veterinarian may recommend allergy testing or a food trial to determine the cause of your dog's symptoms.
Prevention of Grain Allergies in Dogs
While it may not be possible to prevent all cases of grain allergies in dogs, there are a few things you can do to reduce your dog's risk.
First, choose a high-quality dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from fillers and artificial additives. Additionally, consider feeding your dog a grain-free diet or a diet that is low in carbohydrates.
How to Choose a High-Quality Dog Food
If you are concerned about the potential risks of grains in dog food, there are a few things you can do to ensure that you are choosing a high-quality dog food for your furry friend. First, look for a dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from fillers and artificial additives. Additionally, look for a dog food that has been certified by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and has undergone feeding trials to ensure that it is safe and effective.
If you suspect that your dog may have a food sensitivity or allergy, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action. Your veterinarian may recommend a special diet or allergy testing to determine the cause of your dog's symptoms.
THE CONCERN ABOUT DCM AND GRAIN-FREE DOG FOOD
Some raise the concern that vets recommend GRAIN for dogs susceptible to DCM (a heart condition called Dilated Cardiomyopathy). However, the FDA has now withdrawn any support for a causality between dog foods and DCM.
“FDA does not intend to release further public updates until there is meaningful new scientific information to share,” the agency announced in a press release on Dec. 23. “FDA has followed up on a subset of these reports, but is unable to investigate every report to verify or confirm the reported information. While adverse event numbers can be a potential signal of an issue with an FDA-regulated product, by themselves, they do not supply sufficient data to establish a causal relationship with reported product(s). FDA continues to encourage research and collaboration by academia, veterinarians, and industry.”
Read the above full article HERE.
Conclusion
Grain allergies in dogs can cause a variety of symptoms, including itching, red skin, chronic ear infections, and digestive issues. While grains are not the most common cause of food allergies in dogs, they can contribute to allergy-like symptoms in some dogs. If you suspect that your dog may have a grain allergy, it is important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action.
Dee-O-Gee Franklin has many kibble varieties for dogs that do not contain grains, and all you need to do is come into our store, go down the kibble aisle, and look on the bag for the Grain-Free wording on the front of the bags. Stella & Chewy's, Fromm, Zignature, Nulo, SquarePet, The Honest Kitchen, Open Farm, Farmina, and Nutrisource ALL have grain-free options that are meaty and delicious for your pet.
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