Is Grain Free Food Good for Dogs?

Research has shown that grain-free food can be beneficial for dogs. Suggesting that grain-free products are not only healthier than a lot of the processed alternatives out there today but that it has been proven: grain-free pet food improves dog digestion, skin health, weight, and can even reduce if not eliminate allergy symptoms. 

Common grains in pet food and food overall are typically grains like wheat, barley, rye, oats, corn, rice, and sorghum. 

Corn, for example, is a whole grain, and whole grains are known for providing dogs with important nutrients that help with digestion like various proteins, vitamin E, linoleic acid, and other energy-working nutrients. It is these nutrients that are vital to a dog’s health. 

It is most important for dog owners to remember that their dog’s diet must maintain a complete nutritional balance. And this is the bottom line truth for food that contains grains or otherwise. 

Now grain-free food doesn’t mean carb-free, in fact, veterinarians frequently hear this confusion from pet owners all the time. 

Suggesting that grain-free and low-carb food are synonymous. But it is the mere opposite. Grain-free and low-carb foods are not at all anything alike. 

Grain-free foods often replace grains with ingredients such as potatoes, lentils, quinoa, and peas. Sometimes these foods can contain carbohydrate levels identical to or even higher than foods containing grains.

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-Allergies-

Now in terms of allergies, clinically speaking, food allergens found in food are mostly found in foods such as beef and dairy. A good percentage of all pet allergy cases are caused by these types of foods. 

However, most pets typically react to things like pollen instead of their food. If you suspect your dog suffers from an allergic reaction though, whether it be an allergy that stems from the environment or their food, it never hurts to talk with a vet about the issues one’s dog might be experiencing. 

As consistent professional treatment will help determine and evaluate the allergy in question by identifying which ingredient is causing the reactions through some adverse food trials.

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-The bottom line-

As far as grain is concerned, it is a very rare case for dogs to be sensitive to grain. 

Always make sure a veterinarian makes the dietary recommendations so that they can advise special or

high-quality, grain-free dog food that still provides the balanced nutritional content needed. 

It never hurts to ask a professional. So in all, a dog might need grain-free food if they have an allergy to wheat, corn, or other grains and if they are sensitive to wheat or gluten. 

Any other reason for choosing a grain-free diet comes down to choice. There are many excellent grain-free foods today but the ingredients must be read and understood. 

Also, avoid grain-free foods that contain plant proteins as meat protein is much healthier and beneficial. Lastly, make sure the food is relatively low in carbs. 

The bottom line is that one does not have to feed grain-free food to feed a healthy diet. As some great grain-inclusive foods might match a dog’s preference better with smaller amounts of grains. 

Additionally, you can supplement your dog’s diet with healthy, all-natural, grain-free treats that can be used for rewarding or training. Platinum Pet Treats offers a unique variety of dog treats that cater to your dog’s healthy diet. Check out some of our products and order from us today!