If you are not feeding your dog grains, then you must be feeding him meats right? Well grain free dog food is what you would call meat in a bag. But before we go deeper into the argument of "to grain or not to grain". We must remember where dogs come from and what their forefathers diet consisted of. Dogs are descendants from wolves and if anyone knows what a wolf is you would know that they are not fond of grains or vegetables, but would rather a nice deer, a couple chickens and rabbits. Dogs, just like wolves, would prefer this type of diet and maybe even become much more healthier eating what is natural to them.
What are the benefits of Grain-Free Dog Food?
If you speak to your vet, he/she will identify a common percentage of grains to meat in your dog's diet. What surprises me is that some would recommend a percentage of the following; 10%Grains, 50%Vegetables and get this, 40% Meats. They seem to have this whole thing inside out. Logically and naturally if you place a bag of corn in your dogs dish and place some nice juicy steak in another dish, your dog would snub the corn and devour the steak. That's because dogs are natural carnivores and meat eating is embedded in their DNA and physical structure. What do you honestly believe those strong jaws and sharp teeth in your dog's head was made to do? The thing is, dogs need a lot of protein and the best way to get the right protein is through meat and less grains. Other than grain free dog food has more meat therefore more easily digested by the animal. But what other benefits do grain free dog foods have? Let's take a look.
- Better Doggy Breath
- Healthier Dog skin
- Reduce canine allergies
- Shiner Coat
- Less Shedding
- Fewer Stools (More food is digested)
- More Energetic
How do you pick out Grain Free Dog Food
It is quite simple. When ever you decide on switching your dog to a better diet of more meat and less grains, you should check the contents or listed ingredients. If the first listed items are grains such as corn or wheat, you must ensure that the main ingredients are meat such as turkey or chicken. But if you decide on switching to more meat and less grain and you have been feeding your dog grains for a very long time. Do not immediately switch diet. do so gradually so your dog's metabolism adjust better to the new diet.
What About Puppies?
Diets high in protein can be damaging to puppies’ kidneys. Note that some grain-free dog food brands only recommend their food for adult dogs, while other brands have formulas for all life stages and dietary needs. Ask your vet to find out what would be best for your puppy. Puppies especially new born naturally would be nursed by their mom.