Grain-Free Diets: The Science Behind the Trend

In recent years, grain-free diets have become increasingly popular for dogs. Many pet owners have switched their dogs to grain-free food, believing it is healthier. But is there scientific evidence to support going grain-free? Let's take a look at what the research says.

Potential Benefits of Grain-Free 

There are some theoretical reasons why grain-free diets may be beneficial for dogs:

• Dogs have not evolved to efficiently digest grains. Since dogs descended from wolves, who were carnivores, some argue they are optimally adapted to eat meat, not carbs. Their digestive systems may lack certain enzymes needed to properly break down grain-based carbohydrates.

• Grains may trigger inflammation or allergic reactions in some dogs. Dogs can develop sensitivities to ingredients like wheat, corn, or soy. About 1-2% of dogs have confirmed grain allergies. For these dogs, a grain-free diet eliminates these potential triggers and causes of gastrointestinal distress. 

• Grains may contribute to obesity. Some sources suggest the carbs in grain are rapidly converted to blood sugar. This leads to insulin spikes and increased fat storage and weight gain. However, this effect has not been directly studied in dogs.

However, there is limited evidence directly demonstrating improved health outcomes with grain-free diets. More research is still needed.

 

                  

 

 

Potential Risks of Grain-Free

While grain-free diets may offer some benefits in theory, there are also some potential downsides:

• Nutrient imbalances. Grains provide important nutrients like iron, zinc, copper, B vitamins, amino acids like taurine, and fiber. Removing grains creates a need to supplement with these nutrients. Some brands may not provide adequate fortification.

• Risk of DCM. Multiple studies have found a potential link between grain-free diets high in legumes and potatoes and an increased risk of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart disease. The exact cause is still being investigated, but may be related to taurine deficiency or ingredient differences.

• Higher cost. On average, grain-free pet foods are 20-30% more expensive than grain-inclusive varieties. The increased cost may be prohibitive for some pet owners.

• Lack of variety. Dogs fed the same grain-free food long-term can develop sensitivity to the overused ingredients like chicken or peas. Rotating proteins is important for any dog diet.

The Research on Grain-Free Diets

So what does the scientific literature actually tell us about grain-free diets? Here is a more in-depth look at some key studies:

• A 2018 study analyzed over 100 grain-free recipes from 25 brands. It found the diets were often nutritionally unbalanced, with excesses or deficiencies in certain nutrients like iron, copper, zinc, calcium, and vitamin D. This suggests grain removal is often not properly supplemented.

• A large 2019 study reviewed cases of DCM and found dogs eating grain-free diets were overrepresented. It noted that 91% of dogs with DCM were eating grain-free diets, most containing peas and/or lentils.

• A 2021 study assessed 48 dogs with DCM. The researchers found lower taurine levels and cardiac changes consistent with DCM in dogs eating BEG diets (boutique, exotic ingredient, or grain-free diets). 

• However, other studies have not found a clear causal link between grain-free diets and DCM. One 2021 meta-analysis concluded that while there appears to be a statistical association between BEG diets and increased DCM risk, additional research is needed to understand the influencing factors.

• Looking beyond DCM, few studies have directly compared health outcomes in dogs fed grain-free versus grain-inclusive diets. A 2015 study found some modest differences in nutrient digestibility but no changes in allergy symptoms. More research is still needed in this area.

Overall, the research suggests that grain-free diets may help dogs with confirmed grain sensitivities or allergies. But there is no evidence that all or most dogs require grain-free food. In fact, potential nutritional imbalances mean these diets could pose risks (like DCM) in dogs without grain intolerances.

Veterinary Recommendations 

Due to the potential risks, most veterinary nutritionists only recommend grain-free diets in cases of confirmed grain allergies. The American Veterinary Medical Association and other professional groups note grain-free diets should be fed only when medically indicated. They recommend consulting a vet before switching diets.

According to veterinary nutrition guidelines, if a dog has an allergy or sensitivity to one grain, they should be fed another well-tolerated grain like oats or rice. This provides balanced nutrition versus making the entire diet grain-free, which carries higher risks.

Considerations for Homemade Grain-Free Treats

Many pet owners opt to make their own homemade treats to ensure they are grain-free.

 

However, it's important to be aware of key considerations if making homemade treats without grains:

• Nutritional adequacy - Treats should not make up more than 10% of a dog's diet. Homemade treats may lack complete nutrition, so ensure the bulk of the diet is nutritionally balanced.

• Food safety - Proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices are critical. Contamination risks are higher with homemade treats. Avoid raw eggs, raw meat, raw fish, or unpasteurized milk.

• Dietary restrictions - Account for any special dietary needs. Dogs with food allergies or intolerances may require restrictions beyond just grains. Consult your vet.

• Ingredient substitutions - Swapping grains for random ingredients can alter the nutrition profile. Stick to nutritious substitutions like sweet potatoes, chickpeas, banana, peanut butter, etc. Avoid sugar or excessive fat.

• Supplements - Fortifying treats with supplements (like taurine, iron, zinc, etc.) helps prevent deficiency, but dosing must be correct. Too much of some supplements can also be dangerous.

With proper precautions, homemade grain-free treats can be a healthy component of a dog’s diet.

Here’s a great recipe and you can always find more in our recipe catalog

Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana 
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (no added sugar)
• 1 egg
• 2 cups oat flour or almond flour 

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth. Stir in the peanut butter and egg until well combined. 
3. Add the oat or almond flour and stir until a dough forms. The dough should be thick and sticky. If it seems too wet, add a bit more flour.
4. Transfer dough to a lightly floured surface. Roll out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into shapes.
5. Arrange shaped treats on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly browned. 
6. Allow treats to cool completely before serving. Store leftover treats in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Tips:

• Try substituting almond butter or sunflower butter for the peanut butter if your dog has peanut allergies. 
• For dogs with egg allergies, the egg can be omitted. The treats may be more crumbly.
• Adjust oven temperature and bake time as needed based on size of treats. Smaller treats may cook faster. 
• These treats can be made grain-free by using almond flour. For dogs that tolerate oats, oat flour adds fiber.

These simple treats give dogs the nutrition of banana, peanut butter, and fiber without any grains. The egg and flour help hold them together for the perfect crunchy, hearty grain-free snacks!

The Bottom Line

Based on the current research, grain-free diets do not appear to be necessary or beneficial for most dogs without grain sensitivities or allergies. There is little proof they improve health for the average dog. In fact, they may disrupt nutrient balance and carry risks like DCM. 

That said, if your dog has a proven adverse reaction to grains, a grain-free diet may be warranted. In this case, work closely with your vet to ensure nutritional deficiencies are addressed and your dog’s unique needs are met. Occasional homemade grain-free treats can also be a great supplement but should not outweigh complete meals.

While the popularity of grain-free diets has outpaced the science, research is ongoing. Some dogs may indeed benefit from grain-free food, but the current evidence suggests most dogs do fine with thoughtfully chosen grain-inclusive diets. As with any major diet change, consult your vet to decide what is right for your dog’s health.