Although grain-free dog foods have long been hailed as the best option for canines, recent research indicates that these diets may also have unintended dangers. For the majority of dogs, whole grains are a healthy option, and some owners are thinking of adding their own grains to dog food to improve its nutritional value. Here’s what you need to know if this describes you!
Why Avoid Grain-Free Dog Food?
Grain-free foods have been incredibly popular over the past several years, and there are now hundreds of varieties on the market. But in June 2019, the FDA revealed that there may be a connection between eating foods without grains and heart disease. Dogs on grain-free diets were more likely to develop dilated cardiomyopathy. However, studies have shown that whole grains constitute a healthy component of the diets of the majority of dogs and that most food allergies are not to grains. Because of this, most dogs don’t require a diet free of grains and would benefit from them. Here are five steps to get you started if you want to try adding grains to your dog’s diet.
The 5 Steps To Add Grain to a Grain-Free Dog Food
Determine Whether Grain Is Needed
Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as adding some oatmeal to grain-free diet to avoid the hazards that come with it. The nutritional composition of dog diets should be balanced, and many grain-free options already contain a lot of carbohydrates from sources like potatoes and legumes. Additionally, it’s unclear if heart problems are caused by common alternatives or by a lack of grains in general. There might be instances, though, when adding grain is acceptable.
The most crucial step in selecting if you want to add grains is to read the label on the food that you feed your dog. Maximum carbohydrate content in dog food should be 50%, with at least 10%–20% protein and 5%–10% fat. Including some grains may be advantageous if your dog food contains more protein than 30%.
Choose a Grain Source
Grain products come in a wide variety that is utilized in dog food. The list of grains includes wheat, rice, corn, barley, sorghum, millet, and quinoa. Every grain offers unique health advantages. Wheat and corn are two common grains that some dogs are sensitive to.
The accessibility of grains should also be taken into account. It’s crucial to choose a grain that is both accessible and simple to prepare. The two greatest ingredients to use in dog food are oatmeal and brown rice. This is because they are readily available, healthful, and simple to cook.
Because it is simple to digest, brown rice is perfect for dogs with delicate stomachs. It has a high level of fiber and is rich in B vitamins. Oats are high in protein, low in gluten, and beneficial for dogs that have problems with their cholesterol or blood sugar. A fantastic way to include oats in your dog’s diet is through oatmeal. You can also add another whole grain to your dog’s diet even though these are some of the simplest options.
Cook or Prepare Grains as Needed
It’s crucial to prepare the grains once you get them in your possession. For the most part, grains must be cooked before eating. Food can be prepared in a manner similar to how it might be for people. For instance, rice can be prepared by being boiled in water. While there are several ways to prepare, it is advisable to choose one that doesn’t include adding extras like fats or dairy products. For instance, you should make simple grits from cornmeal rather than cornbread if you wish to introduce corn to your dog’s diet.
Mix Grains Into Food
You can begin adding grains to your dog’s meal once they have been cooked. It is simple to mix a few spoonfuls into your dog’s diet if they consume wet food. Additionally, it can be added as a topping to dry foods. Some dogs might prefer to eat the grain food on its own. Determine the best technique to feed your dog because some dogs may be pickier than others.
Find the Balance That’s Right for Your Dog
Without taking into account their nutritional requirements, just adding food to your dog’s diet can lead to disaster. It’s advisable to start out slowly, incorporating no more than a spoonful or two of grains. Due to the high glucose content of grains, your dog probably won’t want to eat them frequently in the long run. Make careful to keep track of the calories and carbohydrates that your dog’s meals’ addition of grains adds so that you can alter them appropriately. Keep in mind that you never want your dog’s intake of protein and fat to fall too low or his consumption of carbohydrates to rise too high.
Last Thoughts
Not all dog owners should add grains to their dog food, but in some circumstances it can be a terrific way to complement a protein-heavy diet and offer extra nutrients. This article should have assisted you in determining whether it is the best option for your dog.
Credit for the Featured Image: Laura Beach, Shutterstock
