Grain-free foods are very popular among pet owners nowadays. From dry dog food to wet food to puppy food, grain-free options are available in all varieties, making them a delicious choice for your pets.
But the question is, how good are these diet foods for pets? If you are a pet owner who is always worrying about the right food choice for your dog, we are here to help you. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about grain-free pet foods and their effects.
Is grain-free food the way to go?
As the name suggests, grain-free dog foods are diets that do not contain grains. There are different kinds of grain-free pet foods available in the market, all of which are made up of high-quality ingredients, such as chicken, whitefish, salmon, beef, turkey, tuna, and eggs. Because they are mainly protein sources, these foods are deemed to be better than traditional dog food.
Many veterinary doctors recommend that food for pets, especially dog food, should have less quantity of carbohydrates and grains. This is because grains have gluten and are very low in nutritional value, offering little benefit to your pet apart from some dietary fiber and calories for energy. In fact, many commercial pet food manufacturers use grains as inexpensive fillers in their products.
All of his makes grain-free food products a healthy alternative for pets. Grain-free foods (especially the moist and freeze-dried grain-free dog foods) have more protein and animal fats and fewer carbohydrates, making them easily digestible for dogs. Some other benefits of grain-free dog food include reduced canine food allergies, more energy, healthier skin, less shedding, and better breath.
Is grain-free food right for your dog?
If your dog seems perfectly healthy and happy, you may not need to change his diet. Due to the centuries of domestication, dogs have adapted themselves to accommodate grains in their food. That’s why ordinary dog food with grains like corn and wheat has little to no effect on your dog’s digestive system. However, the quality of food you are feeding your dog may certainly impact his health. Lower-quality brands usually have too much starch as fillers, and that’s not at all good for your pets.
What is the best way to go grain-free?
If you are suspecting some kind of allergy in your dog, switching his diet from grain to grain-free may seem like a plausible solution. However, don’t make it too sudden, or your dog won’t be able to take it. Slowly introduce him to grain-free food by adding to his diet little by little. You can gradually increase the amounts to allow your dog’s digestive system to adjust to this new kind of food. As a rule of thumb, make sure to consult a vet before making any such changes to your dog’s diet.
When should you switch to grain-free food?
If you notice the following symptoms in your dog, know that he is suffering from some kind of allergy. You can go for a food trial with grain-free foods to determine if they are beneficial for your dog.
● Itchiness
● Excessive hair loss
● Bald patches
● Inflamed skin
● Sores and scabs
● Hot spots
If you want more information on grain-free food products, or need help with general pet care, visit our experts! At Dog Day Afternoon, we help you find the best solutions for all your pet problems and needs.
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