Before you feed ….., read this article.
Contrary to what many people believe, grain-free dog food is not the best for your dog’s health. This was something I learned recently from my vet about the potential dangers of a boutique and grain-free diet for dogs. My vet recommended that my dog be switched to a boutique or grain-free diet in order to minimize health risks. This caught my attention immediately and I began researching to find out more information and share it with other pet owners.
Background about Grain Free Diets. Selecting healthy food for your dog can be difficult. Grain-free diets that contain potatoes, legumes, or peas as the main ingredient have seen a lot of marketing over the past few years. Almost 70% of the dog food on shelves today is grain-free.
Two years ago, veterinarian cardiologists observed a rise in heart disease in dogs. They discovered a link between canine heart disease and grain-free foods. Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a condition in which the heart expands and doesn’t pump blood properly.
The Culprit – Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a form of cardiac arrhythmia that can lead to sudden death, congestive or severe heart failure, and even cardiac arrhythmias. DCM was being seen in new breeds and dogs that are not often associated with the problem. It is believed that grain-free diets lack essential nutrients needed to maintain healthy heart muscles. Dilated cardiomyopathy DCM has been increasing in dog cases over the years.
Current Situation In July 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), received reports that dogs had been suffering from DCM for months to years. They began an investigation. Current Situation The FDA and the veterinary cardiologist continue their efforts to identify all the factors contributing to DCM.
If caught early, veterinary treatment can be provided and diet changes made to improve the dog’s heart function. How to help your dog if they are on a Grain-free or boutique diet. According to the American Kennel Club, FDA and other sources, it is best to consult your veterinarian about your dog’s diet. You can discuss the pros and cons with your veterinarian and, if necessary, monitor your dog for DCM signs. The FDA Safety Reporting Portal can also be used to report DCM cases related to specific diets to them. Additional information can be found here:
Broken hearts: Heart disease risk in exotic or boutique diets.
It’s not only grain-free: A review on diet-associated dilated cardiomyopathy
Grain-free food Q andA: FDA Updates on Investigation into Possible Connection between Certain Diets And Cases Of Canine Heart Disease
The FDA’s Grain Free Diet Alert: What Dog Owners Need To Know
A Grain-Free Dog Food may be bad for your dog’s heart…
