When it comes to picking the best for their pets, pet parents tend to do a lot of digging into finding out what the best beds, toys, treats and dog foods are. But as their pet grows they may not realise that a swap in foods or treats might benefit their pets digestion and how their pets digestion links to many different aspects of their pets health.
So Barking Heads vet Dr Scott Miller and dog behaviourist Adem Fehmi share their insights into why focusing on your dog’s digestion when choosing what they eat is important.
Grain-free – the secret to better doggy digestion
All pet parents know their pup is their baby, and a 2022 study revealed that 1 in 4 pet owners refer to their pets as their children. Like children, pet parents want only the best for their pup but may not know quite where to start in their search for the best. But some may stumble upon the term ‘grain free’ when looking for the best kibble for their fido. Barking Heads vet Dr Scott Miller aims to help clear up some misconceptions around the term, and Barking Heads dog behaviourist Adem Fehmi wants to share the benefits to your pup’s behaviour that grain free food may have.
What does grain free dog food mean?
It may be easier to explain what grains are in dog food. When talking about grains, people refer to carbohydrates that make us human cereals. Which are oats, rye, wheat, corn, rice, soy and barely. These can be used as fillers in dog food. They’re not bad for dogs as they have lots of fibre, but adding grains can sometimes limit the nutrients if the ratio of ingredients is not chosen carefully.
Grains like these may sometimes be the root of grain allergies in dogs. In the same way, humans can be lactose intolerant. Adult dogs with grain sensitivities may find themselves with digestive issues like constipation or extra smelly farts after consuming grains. If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, it’s best to visit your vet so they can get to the root of the issue and suggest the best course of action for your dog. They may suggest trying grain free food.
Grain free dog foods are free of the grains above, and they tend to have more non-starchy vegetables like carrots, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and peas, and they also have more animal protein to make up for the lack of grains.
Do note that although grain free dog foods have no grains, it does not mean they are also gluten free. So if your dog has gluten sensitivity, double-check the labels on the food you pick up.
What are the benefits of grain free dog food?
Grain free dog food brand, Barking Heads, Vet Dr Scott Miller shares these benefits of grain free dog food:
- Improved skin and coat condition
This is because where grain free food removes the bulk in grains, it can be replaced with more animal protein and ingredients high in omega, vitamins and fatty acids, which can help with a shiny coat. Omega-3 and omega-6 have also been seen to help promote healthy skin under their coat.
- Reduces flatulence
Grain free food may help with a gassy dog. This is because grains like rice and wheat can cause excessive gas in a dog. If you find that your pup still farts a lot, it may be due to them eating their food too fast and ingesting excessive air with their food. This can be slowed down with slow feeder bowls and smaller, more frequent portions.
- Doggy weight loss
Because of the reduction of carbohydrates, this can lead to weight loss, which can result in a dog with more energy to run around and exercise.
- A healthy change in appetite
Due to the lack of grains, dogs may enjoy the taste of grain free food as it has more animal protein and yummy vegetables for them to enjoy.
How does grain free food help a dog’s digestion?
Miller also shares, “if you as a pet parent notices your dog’s digestion has become inconsistent or causing your pup pain from wind, constipation or other poo-related issues, a quick at-home check-up using the Barking Heads, Head to Paw Examination Guide is a good start before a trip to the vet as these digestive issues could warrant a dietary change.
Grain free dog food can help a dog’s digestive system by helping your pup create firm poos, allowing them to have smaller, less frequent poos as they have lower amounts of starchy carbohydrates to digest in their tummy and more meat content which is easier for them to digest.”
Can grain free dog food help with sensitivities?
This is the case if your dog has grain sensitivity. Dogs can also be sensitive to certain meat proteins like chicken, pork or beef. This can be determined by your vet. If you want to try your dog on naturally hypoallergenic dry food, Doggylicious duck is a tasty grain free option.
Is grain free dog food good for all dogs?
In short, yes, grain free dog food is good for most dogs. For instance, puppies can enjoy a grain free diet as long as you’re making sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need. Barking Heads puppy days range has dry puppy food and , complete with all the nutrients puppies need.
Grain free dog food isn’t just good for puppies but all-sized dogs. It’s all about getting the right nutrients into your precious pup, no matter how big or small. Barking Heads small breed dry dog food and large breed dog food make it easier for you to give your pup the right amount of food to get the right nutrients.
How can grain free food affect your dog’s energy?
Grain free dog food brand Barking heads dog behaviourist Adem Fehmi shares, “Grain free products, such as Barking Heads natural dog food, often use premium carbohydrates such as sweet potato rather than corn or wheat. These more complex carbohydrates release energy more slowly into the bloodstream, which helps to prevent spikes and dips in your dog’s energy and blood sugar levels. This stability in energy can contribute positively to your dog’s wellbeing, helping to keep their behaviour balanced and ‘in character’.
With this type of high-quality food, the chances of ill health, from skin conditions to an irritable bowel, also reduce. Not only will this help to ensure that your dog feels like their best self day to day, free from illness and discomfort, but to some extent it can also help to prevent behaviour issues from occurring. Behaviour issues often relate to negative experiences and encounters, sometimes even pain, and so keeping your dog’s health in tip top condition through feeding a good diet can also assist in keeping your dog’s frame of mind happy and healthy.
With stable energy levels, your dog is also more likely to exhibit natural behaviours, have enough energy to join you on outdoor adventures, and participate in play games. All of these things can help to keep a dog both mentally and physically healthy, reducing the chance of unwanted behaviours from developing.”
How to integrate grain free into your dog’s diet?
Like any change in diet for your pup, you want to start slow by integrating grain free food into their diet by mixing it into the food they currently eat. This will reduce the chance of your pup suffering an upset tummy from the sudden change.
You may still notice a change in your dog’s poo, like it may be a touch more watery or broken up, when you first make the change, as it is a side effect of changing their diet. So you don’t need to worry. However, if it persists, then you should take your dog to the vet so they can see what needs adjusting in your dog’s diet.
So now you know what grain free means. Next time you’re in the pet food aisle, pause and look at all the options. But remember, consult your vet before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, and grain free dog food won’t cure any doggy illnesses but may alleviate symptoms that come from sensitivities.
