
When choosing food, you need to take into account the age, breed and lifestyle of the pet. Veterinarians recommend buying a Grain-Free feed for a dog prone to allergies. The fact is that wheat and corn rarely falls into the diet of predatory animals in the wild. By excluding the risk of allergies and food intolerance from the dog’s menu. Many dog owners are interested in how to choose food. Here are a few useful rules:
- Study the composition of the product, the higher the content of meat, the better.
- Even if you always buy food of one brand, read the label, because the recipe can change. The packaging should be whole.
- You also need to check the expiration date.
- When choosing food for your beloved dog, you need to take into account its weight, age, activity and health status.
Dry bezeran feed
An adult pet is not recommended to be fed for puppies. An exception can only be made for a nursing dog. Dry bezerane feeds are stored for a long time, this is their advantage over conservatives.
Regardless of age, the dog needs a balanced diet. She needs not only animal proteins, but also vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates and fats.
Grain-Free feed for puppies
Puppies need food that fully satisfies the need for nutrients. Of course, it is very difficult to make a balanced menu for a dog on your own. Products of ready-made food for pets come to the aid of the owners.
Grain-Free feed for puppies is especially relevant in allergies and digestive disorders. A note on the Puppy best dog food storage container means that the food is designed for pets up to six months, the Junior inscription means that the product is intended for animals up to a year.
Of course, the puppy food should have high taste attractiveness, but the use of sweeteners and chemical taste in the production of sweeteners is unacceptable. Puppies need high-calorie nutrition, because they are actively growing and developing. However, you can not overfeed the animal. If the pet eats a lot and moves a little, then he may have obesity.
Feed for puppies
If the puppy is underweight, then you need to increase the portion or replace the food with a higher calorie one. Dry grain-free food has a beneficial effect on the condition of the teeth and prevents the appearance of plaque. In addition, small croquettes are very convenient for puppies to eat.
Proteins must certainly be present in the diet of predatory animals. It is best if their source is natural meat. Protein affects the production of hormones and enzymes, cell regeneration, and maintaining water balance.
Fats should also be present in the diet of puppies. They help in the absorption of vitamins. Fatty acids support healthy skin and coat.
As you know, cereals contain carbohydrates. Does this mean that a dog that eats food that does not use corn and wheat will experience a shortage of them? Of course not, grain-free foods also contain carbohydrates, only their sources can be rice, vegetables, rice.
Grain-free food for adult dogs
Many manufacturers of grain-free feeds have abandoned the heat treatment of ingredients, this allows you to save trace elements, vitamins and minerals. If the pet suffers from allergies, then it is better to purchase food for him with dietary meat, such as turkey.
Of course, natural and balanced food cannot be cheap. True, brand awareness, packaging, advertising costs also affect the price. The most expensive products of famous brands are sometimes counterfeited, so it is better to buy food in trusted pet stores.
Food for adult dogs
It is better not to feed the dog with food from your table, as some foods that are harmless to humans can threaten the health and life of the pet. It is also necessary to choose ready-made food carefully. Do not believe the advertising and communications on the packaging. Recommendations from friends should also be treated with caution, because if the neighbor’s dog liked the food, this does not mean that it will suit your pet. If the animal has chronic diseases, then the diet must be agreed with the veterinarian.
Complete grain free foods are available from brands such as Acana, Orijen, Eukanuba, Barking Heads and others.
Grain Free Senior Dog Food
Dogs over 7 years of age need special nutrition. With age, metabolism slows down and activity decreases. Older dogs are also prone to obesity, in which case the pet will benefit from grain-free food, as it has less carbohydrates and more proteins. This product also contains a prebiotic that improves digestion.
When choosing food for an older dog, you need to consider that:
- The product should not be very high in calories.
- This is especially true for pets that don’t move much.
- The food must be adapted to the teeth of an older animal.
- It is important that the composition of the product contains substances that strengthen bones, as the risk of arthritis increases.
Senior dog food
Modern grain-free senior pet foods are formulated with the needs of older dogs in mind. The composition of the product includes chondroitin and glucosamine – substances that strengthen bones. Vitamins C and E reduce the risk of muscle degeneration and heart disease. Fiber improves bowel function.
It is important to choose food without cheap fillers and artificial additives. Older dogs often have digestive problems. Food that does not contain grain is better digested.
Indications for the use of grain-free food
Some dogs suffer from celiac disease. This disease is most often manifested by the loss of six, diarrhea, skin itching and deterioration in general well-being. Puppies suffering from celiac disease develop and grow slowly. The disease is more common in the Irish Setter.
If the diagnosis is confirmed, the dog will need to be switched to a grain-free diet. Wheat-based foods should be excluded from the diet. This applies not only to ready-made meals, but also to treats that the owners pamper their pets with. Dogs with gluten intolerance should not eat bread, pizza, flour products. These products can cause a significant deterioration in well-being.
Eliminate Wheat
Small breed dogs are prone to gastrointestinal disorders, so grain-free food with a low starch content is suitable for such pets. Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids keep the coat healthy and shiny. For pets of decorative breeds, it is important to choose foods that are well absorbed. The composition must necessarily contain meat, preferably turkey, lamb or chicken.
It is also not uncommon for veterinarians to prescribe grain-free foods to dogs with food allergies. Typical symptoms are itching, rash, runny nose, vomiting, coughing and wheezing.
Despite the fact that a dog is a predatory animal, it can be allergic to certain types of meat. Feeds containing turkey or lamb are suitable for such animals.
Grain-free dog food, fashion or necessity?
Recently, grain-free foods are in great demand in pet stores. Of course, such products are indispensable for pets that suffer from allergies, gastrointestinal diseases and obesity. Why do owners of healthy dogs buy grain-free food for their wards? Here are a few benefits of the product:
- The high content of meat is the main source of protein for predatory animals.
- The composition includes fiber, which has a beneficial effect on immunity and digestion.
- Omega 3 and Omega fatty acids support the beauty of the coat and the health of the skin.
- Dry dog food gently cleanses the teeth and prevents the appearance of plaque.
Complete grain foods will help dogs of all ages be healthy, active and cheerful. The variety of tastes will allow you to create a menu even for picky pets.
See also related videos:
Ready-made dog food is the basis of the diet of most pets, as its composition is balanced and matched to the individual characteristics of animals (size, breed, age, etc.). However, it is difficult to stop at one of the many existing options. When choosing, you should take into account a number of factors, and in no case be guided by television advertising, colorful packaging or advice from friends.
Feed types
Proper nutrition is the basis for the full development and good health of the dog throughout his life. Therefore, the issue should be carefully considered. There are two types of dog food: dry and canned. Each of them has pros and cons.
Concentration
The main difference between the species is the water content. In wet dog food, the amount of liquid is 70-80%, in dry dog food – 10. This means that the solids content in granules is much higher than in canned food.
Related: The Best Wet Dog Foods
Composition
Both types of dog food include meat (or fish) and vegetable supplements, mineral and vitamin complexes. The higher the class, the more natural and useful substances in the mass. The approximate nutritional value of the products is indicated in the table:
Average content in feed (in %) | Dry | Wet |
---|---|---|
Fats | 18-32 | 25-50 |
Squirrels | 8-22 | 20-32 |
Carbohydrates | 46-74 | 18-57 |
Digestibility by the body
The ingredients in wet dog food are found in a naturally digestible form rather than dry dog food. And the dogs themselves prefer canned food. Studies of expensive brands have shown that liquid food is absorbed by the body by 75-95%, dry dog food – by 65-85%.
Benefit for health
It is believed that solid granules cleanse the dogs of dogs well. In fact, this applies only to their contacting surface, and from the sides it will still have to be removed by the pollution with a brush.
Expert’s opinion Anna Abramenko is an avid lover of dogs. Work experience in veterinary medicine since 2009. It is better to buy a question for the elderly or suffering from the digestive tract to animals to buy canned food, as they are easier to digest and do not cause constipation. And with diseases of the teeth and oral cavity, gnawing granules to dogs will be problematic.
Harmful additives
Wet dog food is much less common in the composition of preservatives, flavors and synthetic dyes.
Storage
In this matter, dry dog food has a clear advantage. The open best dog food storage container lies for a long time (if you follow the rules specified on the packaging), and the granules may be in the bowl for several days. And the opened bank of canned food does not spin for long even in the refrigerator. In the cup, in a matter of hours, harmful microorganisms will begin to develop in the mass, and the pet will be poisoned.
Benefit
Conditions are more expensive, they go more for a one-time reception. The difference is not significant if the dog is small, but it is problematic to provide a large breed with expensive food.
Classes of feed
Dog food of different brands is noticeably different in pricech a spread is explained by the difference in composition, production technology, and compliance with quality standards. The table notes brief characteristics of three types of feed.
Index | Economy class | Premium class | Superpremium class, holistics |
---|---|---|---|
Price | Low | Average | High |
Composition | Waste from cattle or from industrial production, bone flour. Instead of plant ingredients, substitutes are often used. Vitamins are present in the form of useless chemical additives | Meat or fish (30%), waste, natural plant components, low proportion of useless or chemical ingredients | Maximum energy value and balance. The composition contains only real meat, fish, cereals and plant components |
Benefit | Practically absent | Small | High |
Energy value, kcal per 100 g | Up to 350 | Above 350 | 450 |
If you compare the composition, then the difference is obvious. When eating by earnest class feeds, the dog will only satisfy hunger. Premium will not harm an adult, but it is undesirable to give it to puppies. Elite superpremium products will satisfy the majority of the needs of the animal’s body, and holistics are so natural that in composition they will be useful even for humans.
The higher the quality of the food, the higher its calorie content. So, a large dog will need a pound of cheap food to saturate, or 300 g of expensive food.
Best Dog Food: Canidae Under The Sun Dog Wet Food [Tested & Reviewed]
Dry dog food rating
The most popular group is granulated (dry) dog food. The top 10 titles include:
- Acana is a holistic person from Canada. The uniqueness of the brand is that the production is carried out on steam at low temperatures, which allows preserving the valuable qualities of the products. All products of the brand contain a lot of protein (up to 85%) and a variety of additives. The range includes a series of feeds, taking into account the ages of dogs, sizes and propensities for allergies. The price of an economical best dog food storage container for 11. 4 kg ranges from 4, 800 to 6, 500, depending on the type.
- Piccolo – English-made holistics, designed for small breeds of dogs. These are hypoallergenic products, the most useful and safe for pets. There is no grain in their composition; vegetables, herbs, algae are its alternative. The protein content is from 60 to 75%. The price is quite high – about 3 thousand 500 for 4 kg.
- Orijen is a Canadian holistic, produced according to the principle of matching the diet and type of animal. Carbohydrates in the composition of the food are not more than 15% (still, dogs are predators), there is practically no grain. Products are used the freshest, without freezing and long-term storage. There are several types in the line: for different ages and breeds of dogs. Best dog food storage container price for 11. 4 kg – 6 200
- Wolfsblut is an English super-premium food. Grain-free, hypoallergenic pellets contain a lot of meat, as well as vegetables and other healthy additives. The range of this brand is wide, the choice is large. The average price of a best dog food storage container of 15 kg is 7 thousand.
- Farmina (Italy) – a range of feeds of any class (from economy to holistic). Each of them occupies one of the leading places in its segment. Manufacturers strive to bring the composition of food as close as possible to natural, natural, so it contains about 70% protein. The brand develops many varieties for any dog. The price of holistics ranges from 5, 500 to 8, 000 per 12 kg (depending on the type).
- Pronature Holistic is a very high quality Canadian holistic. It contains healthy meats, vegetables, fruits, herbs. Ingredients are carefully tested using the most modern equipment. The main varieties are intended for all ages, but there are also universal ones. Packing (13. 6 kg) will cost 6, 200-8, 300
- Applaws – Holistic from the UK. The composition of up to 75% of meat and fish and several types of vegetables. A feature is a high content of spices and hoods from plants. The entire line includes probiotics. There are completely no grain crops. The price is relatively low-3 400-3 800 per 7. 5 kg.
- Duke’s Farm is an English superpremium dog food. The main component of the product is meat, in second place are easily digestible carbohydrates (grain, vegetable, berry additives). The price for 12 kg is about 6 thousand.
- Savarra – English feed of the Holistic and SuperPremium class. The company’s assortment is modest, but the quality of production is at the highest level. The meat content is from 63 to 80%. Grain predominates from plant components. Price-5 200-8 200
- Now Fresh is a Holistic from Canada. These are a berths with a high protein content. The brand is popular, you can buy in any specialized store. The line is very extensive. The product is relatively inexpensive and very high quality. The price per dog food storage container of 11. 3 kg starts from 4, 400
Interesting article: Wolfsblut dog food
When consuming dry dog food, you need to provide a pet round-the-clock access to water.
Wet feed rating for dogs
Many dog owners prefer canned food. They consider them the most delicious, since pets eat such food much more willingly than dry products in granules.
The best wet dog food:
- Belcando – Holistic, mainly from chicken meat (up to 80%). The composition includes other varieties, offal, vegetables, berries, rice, pasta. The main advantages are hypoallergenicity and a variety of tastes. Price – 300 for 800 g.
- Barkingheads – Holistic, 75% of fish or meat. The remaining components are algae, vegetables and herbs. The brand produces a large range of feed of any categories. Price – 120 in 100 g.
- Hill’s IDEALBALANCE – premium nutrition for adult dogs. The share of protein and fats is relatively small. The series includes only 2 types of product (with chicken and turkey, for allergic dogs). Bank price 360 g – 230
- Eagle dog food storage container Holistic – Holistic with a predominance in fresh meat. The manufacturer was the first in the world to produce food without soy. A unique dietary supplement consisting of plant hoods is added to the products. Cost for 374 g – 160
- Innova Evo is the holistic of American manufacturing. The brand produces feed on ancient recipes using the latest technologies. There are both universal rulers and designed for different breeds, as well as therapeutic from a wide range of diseases. The content of meat and fish of several types is from 50% and higher. Price for 374 g – 220
Expert’s opinion Anna Abramenko is an avid lover of dogs. Work experience in veterinary medicine since 2009. It is convenient to mix the question with wet dog food with other products or give a pet as a separate dish.
It is useful to know: how to wean a dog is cat food
Dog feed of different ages
At each stage of the stage, animals have its own needs for nutrition due to physiological changes. Therefore, it is important to give preference to products specially designed by the best manufacturers.
For puppies
List of feed intended for growing dog organisms.
This is interesting: how much water you need to give a puppy feeding dry dog food
Name | The country of the manufacturer | The price of V /weight of packaging in kg |
---|---|---|
Acana Heritage Pappy | Canada | 5 300/11. 4 |
Orijen Puppy | Canada | 6 300/11. 4 |
Belcando Puppy | Germany | 6 550/15 |
For adults
At the age of 1 to 6 years, the dogs are in the prime. However, health care is important at any time, so nutrition should remain full.
Name | The country of the manufacturer | Price in 11. 4 kg |
---|---|---|
Acana Grass-Fed Lamb Dog All Breeds, Holistic | Canada | 5 800 |
Orijen Original Dog, Holistic | Canada | 6 200 |
Now Fresh Adult Dog All Breeds, Superpremium | USA | 4 500 |
Food for adult dogs can be selected among products of absolutely any brand, class and type.
For the elderly
At old age, dogs are especially sensitive to diseases and need easily digestible, nutritious food.
Table with names and average cost of feed:
Name | The country of the manufacturer | The price of V /weight of packaging in kg |
---|---|---|
Acana Senior Dog | Canada | 4 900/11. 4 |
Orijen Senior | Canada | 6 400/11. 4 |
Arden Grange Senior | United Kingdom | 5 500/12 |
The final choice is made only after comparing the body’s reaction to different types of nutrition.
Dangerous ingredients in feed
Manufacturers are required to indicate on the best dog food storage container a detailed list of components included in the product. Unfortunately, not all substances that are indicated on the label are safe for the health of pets.
Description of the most harmful additives:
- Butymed hydronisol (BGA, BHA, BUTYLEETED HYDROXYANILISOLE, E 320). Synthetic antioxidant, preservative feed. Dangerous for kidneys and liver, causes allergies.
- Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, BHT, Butylated Hydroxytolune). Deals the same damage as BGA.
- Digest (digest). This flavor additive is made by hydrolysis from inedible parts of animals (feathers, wool, hooves, etc.). The ingredient is made from any remains, including from animals that died for an unknown reason.
- Yeast. They are used in cheap feeds to enhance the taste and give volume, but they have no nutritional value and are an allergen.
- Fat of birds or animals (tallow). Its quality is not controlled.
- Corn flour. Its composition is poorly digested by the gastrointestinal tract of dogs.
- Sodium metabisulfite (metabisulfite sodium) is a harmful preservative. Negatively affects the dog’s nervous system.
- Milk serum. Strong allergen. Contains indigestible lactose.
- Sodium monoglutamate (MGN, MSG) is a flavor enhancer in dog food.
- Sodium monophosphate (monosodium phosphate, E339). Often causes diarrhea.
- Propylene glycol (propylene glycol). Harmful to animals prone to diabetes. Fish and offal from it, unless the label indicates that it is not intended for human nutrition. Otherwise, the product contains the dangerous preservative Ethoxyquin (ethoxyquin).
- The carbohydrate sucrose. It causes diarrhea, and with regular consumption, the development of diabetes.
- Beet pulp, pulp and other from sugar varieties.
- Soy and soy productsch a protein is poorly digested and even causes bloating in the gastrointestinal tract in a dog, which means that its content should be minimal.
- Meat offal (animal meal, bones, offal, glitch, etc.) These leftovers are often poorly cleaned of contaminants, chemicals, hormones, and even barbiturates.
- Vegetable by-products (starch, grain flour, etc.) are not always well digested by dogs and may contain toxins.
- Potassium chloride (Potassium chloride, E 508). Leads to gastrointestinal disorders.
- Ethylene glycol, preservative and sweetener. Source of unnecessary calories leading to excess weight. Lethal in large doses.
- Ethoxyquin (Ethoxyquin). Carcinogenic, therefore banned in the food industry.
Unscrupulous manufacturers do not always write the full composition of the food components, which means that it is necessary to monitor the reaction of the dog’s body.
Nutritional value of cereals for dogs
Digestibility of grain products
Grain products can affect the digestibility of other components of the diet. The presence of cereals, especially fiber (Fahey et al, 1990) and phytates, can reduce the digestibility of the diet, for example, fat, dry matter and energy (Bazolli et al, 2015; Beloshapka et al, 2014; Merritt et al, 1979; Pacheco et al album. 2014; Swanson et al, 2004; Adolphe et al. 2012; Panasevich et al. 2015; De Gody et al. 2014; Goudez et al. 2011; Guevara et al. 2008; Gajda et al. 2005; Murray et al, 1999; Carciofi et al, 2008; Twomey et al, 2002).
However, they do not affect the digestibility of other components (Beloshapka et al. 2014; Panasevich et al. 2015; de Godoy et al. 2014).
The provision of a balanced diet with a sufficient amount of necessary nutrients, according to the recommendations of European Pet Food Industry Federal, should not negatively affect its health; And cases of diseases associated with a deficiency of nutrients are not reported due to the presence of cereals in the full-line food for dogs.
Dogs – descendants of wolves and cannot digest and absorb cereals
The assumption that domesticated dogs cannot digest cereals, and they should only be fed “like wolves” are not confirmed by evidence.
Firstly, thanks to evolution, domestic dogs are significantly genetically different from wolves, including changes in three genes responsible for the best digestion and use of starch (Axelson et al, 2013; Pang et al, 2009; Tonoike et al, 2015; vilà et al, 1997).
Secondly, the ability of home dogs to digest and use cereals (including starch that they contain) was demonstrated in many studies in vivo and in vitro (Brown et al, 2009; Carcioofi et al, 2008; Murray et al, 2001; Beadnar et al; Al. 2001; Pouteau et al. 1998; Walker et al, 1994), including in dogs with enteropathy (Breitschwerdt et al, 1992).

As for the statement that cereals are a poor source of protein, wheat gluten had a not very high coefficient of protein efficiency for young dogs, in comparison with soy and casein (Burns et al, 1982). However, corn gluten turned out to be the best source of protein for growing puppies than chicken maca (CASE and Czarnecki-Maulden, 1990), and, compared with other vegetable sources of protein, wheat products were characterized by a relatively large output of the amino acids Treonin, isolacin and histidine (savoie et ali, 1989).
In general, studies have shown that the presence of cereals and fiber does not affect protein digestibility, including in growing puppies, or cell regeneration in anemic dogs (Beloshapka et al. 2014; Delorme et al. 1985; Whipple et al. 1951). Some grain products, such as gluten, increase the content of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) (Nogata and Nagamine, 2009).
Wheat gluten digestibility may be better than chicken meal and improves faecal quality in dogs – especially large dogs known to be sensitive to dietary composition (Nery et al, 2012). The addition of wheat bran to the diet did not affect the efficiency of protein digestion (Delorme et al, 1985), and in basenjis with enteropathy, cereals did not adversely affect diet digestibility and fecal consistency (Breitschwerdt et al, 1992).
Extrusion Effects
Most grain-based feeds are produced by an extrusion process that has both positive and negative effects on carbohydrate, fiber, vitamin, protein, mineral and amino acid profile (Beaufrand et al, 1978; Guy, 2001).
Positive effects include:
- Destruction of some natural toxins
- Reduction of microorganisms in the final product
- Slight increase in iron bioavailability
- Increase in the glycemic index of the processed food, increase the availability of carbohydrates for digestion
- Conversion of complex starches to simple sugars

Negative effects of extrusion
- Creation of starches that reduce insulin sensitivity
- Decrease in the content of the essential amino acid lysine
- Destruction of vitamin A (beta-carotene)
- Protein denaturation

Losses of vitamins and amino acids are minimized during short-term high-temperature extrusion, and this can improve protein quality and digestibility, as well as affect shape, texture, color, and flavor.
Nutrient quality has been found to improve at moderate rates (short duration, high humidity, low temperature), while negative effects on extrudate quality are associated with high temperature (minimum 200°C), low humidity (less than 15%), or incorrect ingredients. Mixtures (Harper, 1978).
There are no reports of nutrient deficiencies or other health problems associated with the extrusion process when feeding grain-based dog foods.
Association of cereals with diseases
Gluten sensitivity
A number of studies have been published in dogs confirming the presence of familial gluten-sensitive enteropathy with an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance (especially in one line of Irish Setters).
Fortunately, changes in the structure and function of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as clinical signs, can be reduced and normalized by switching to a gluten-free diet, and, if the diagnosis is confirmed, the development of the disease can be prevented by avoiding subsequent exposure to gluten (Batt et al, 1985 Garden et al. 1998, 2000 Manners et al. 1998a, b Pemberton et al. 1997 Lowe et al. 1995 Hall et al. 1992 Hall and Batt 1990a-c 1991ab, 1992).
Gluten exposure has also been associated with neurological symptoms (seizures) in Border Terriers (Lowrie et al, 2015), and one cited example by Lowrie et al (2016) described a Border Terrier with multisystemic clinical presentations that responded to a gluten-free diet. This dog had a combination of neurological signs, dermatological symptoms, and symptoms suggestive of pathological gastrointestinal disease, as well as positive serology for anti-transglutaminase IgG antibodies and anti-gliadin IgG antibodies, which decreased on a gluten-free diet.
Although the authors’ findings do not support a clear role for gluten in the multisystem symptoms described in this case, the evidence is strong because the symptoms resolved after gluten was removed from the dog’s diet and because of the similarity to a similar condition in humans (Davies, 2016). Although the prevalence of these diseases is unknown, gluten-related pathologies are rarely reported. In a study of protein-losing enteropathy and/or protein nephropathy in soft-coated wheaten terriers, gluten was not found to be associated with disease causes (Vaden et al, 2000a); however, in another study (Vaden et al, 2000b), some affected dogs reacted to the presence of corn or wheat flour as well as other dietary components.

In one study, gluten consumption was associated with anemia after intense exercise (Yamada et al, 1987); however, sled dogs fed a meat-free, cereal-based diet did not show signs of anemia—erythrocyte counts and hemoglobin increased significantly (P
General diets can be associated with a partial muscle mass loss (Wakshlag et al, 2008), which is explained by the absence of some essential amino acids (lysine and tripophane), and chicken protein better regulates the destruction of proteins than corn gluten (Helman et al, 2003).
Food allergies
Allergic reactions associated with dermatological or gastrointestinal symptoms are described, after contact with cereals (Jackson et al, 2003; Paterson, 1995), although the most frequent of them (allergies to wheat) are only about 13% of all cases of food allergies, andThey are less common than allergies to other food components such as beef, dairy products and chicken (Mueller et al. 2016, Mueller et al. 2000; Vaden et al. 2000a; Jeffers et al, 1996).
In some cases, when products based on grain products cause similar symptoms, this can be caused by a shortage / diet, and not a true allergic reaction (Sousa et al, 1988). In one study, a diet containing corn starch did not exacerbate skin lesions or itching in dogs that had a hypersensitivity to corn (Olivry et al, 2007).
Taurin deficiency and dilatation cardiomyopathy
Earlier it was reported that some diets with the content of rice were associated with the development of Taurin deficiency and dilatation cardiomyopathy in dogs (Delaney et al, 2003; Backus et al, 2003; Fascetti et al, 2003). However, later studies (KO and Fascetti, 2016; Tifeers et al, 2003) showed that rice is unlikely to cause the disease, unlike other feed components.
Contamination with mycotoxins
Cereals can be infected with mycotoxins, and Aflatoxins can cause illness and death in dogs (Wouters et al, 2013; Bruchim et al, 2012; Leung et al. 2006; Pestka and Smolinski, 2005; Golinski and Nowak, 2004).
Aspergillus pollution can be found with poor storage of grain, but it is not found in dry pets feed (Campos et al, 2008). It was assumed that Zearalenon is a toxin produced by Fusarium, which can be polluted poorly stored grain, has estrogenic properties and can violate the hormonal cycle of the branch (Golinski and Nowak, 2004); However, any clinical significance of this has not yet been demonstrated.
Contamination with melamine
Wheat gluten, contaminated with Chinese manufacturers with melamine (dangerous toxin), is responsible for thousands of dead dogs due to acute renal failure in North America (Dobson et al, 2008).
It is believed that this was a deliberate effect for an artificial increase in protein content in chemical analysis and, therefore, an increase in the market value of the product.

Niacin deficiency
Historically, it was so that dogs that were fed by homemade diets based exclusively on cereals developed Niacin’s deficiency or “black tongue” (Belavady and GoPalan, 1965).
- Anorexia
- Dehydration
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Gingivitis
- Glossitis
- Oral ulcers
- Excessive salivation
- Vomit
- Weight loss
- In severe cases – death.
This condition is extremely rare and can only occur if the dog is fed with a completely poor-quality home diet with a large shortage of niacin.
Staining of lacrimal paths in small dog breeds
No evidence was discovered confirming the connection between staining the lacrimal paths in dogs and the consumption of feed with the content of cereals.
Wheat peptides inhibiting angiotensin
Wheat gluten contains peptides inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (APF) (Nogata et al. 2009), as well as opioid-active peptides (Schick and Schusdziarra, 1985; Schusdziarra et al. 1981), which can change physiological processes, such as concentration, such as concentrations, such as concentrationInsulin and glucagon in plasma, and play a role in the development of diseases – but this has yet to be found out.
Serum cholesterol level
The presence of wheat bran or other cereals can reduce the level of cholesterol in serum (Swanson et al, 2004; Sharma et al, 1980), which is the potential health benefit.
Hidden blood test in feces
Food ingredients can affect diagnostic tests. In one study, dry diets based on cereals reduced the detection of hidden blood in feces compared to meat conservatives (Rice and Ihle, 1994).
Grain-Free food for dogs
Despite the fact that over hundreds of years, dogs from wild animals have turned into pets, their digestive system has not changed-they still remained predators. Therefore, the most characteristic nutrition for them is meat, and preferably without impurities. But, in the modern world, not all owners can afford to buy meat every day, and here factory dry dog foods come to the rescue.
They are cheaper than meat, have a good composition, and already contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals. But the bulk of the food contains one ingredient that reduces all the benefits of nothing – grain, and its derivatives. Dogs practically do not absorb cereals, and therefore it is impossible to call grain with full-fledged substitutes for meat components. This additive is designed only to reduce the price of the finished product, as it is a cheap source of calories.
An alternative can be a berths of dog food-a diet that is 50-80% of meat and meat components and completely non-cereal crops. We will talk about such feeds today.
What is a Grain-Free food?
As the name is clear, there are no grain crops in such a nutrition, and not only wheat spoils the picture – it is not much more useful for dogs rice, corn, barley and other cereals that a person eats.
On the market, dry halistic feeds are presented in which wheat or barley was replaced with birds, fish, meat and offal. Also, there are vegetables designed to enrich the pet’s diet with fiber in such feeds. Holistics contain herbs, roots and fruits so that the dog can receive vitamins from food in the most natural way.
But their main trump card is meat and meat components. But here there is a nuance – the food of this level includes extremely useful offal (liver, lungs, stomach), and connective tissues (cartilage and protein components of blood).
In addition to holistics, there is also a beer-free food for dogs of a super-premium class. In such a menu, the grain is replaced by more useful vegetables – potatoes, a battery, pumpkin, etc. This, of course, is better than cereal fillers, but inferior to meat components in nutrition and digestibility. Most often, such Grain-Free food is bought by dogs with food allergies, or gluten intolerance.
The best ruler
There are many diets on the market that are full of “Gran-Free” inscriptions, but only some of them can be guaranteed to be attributed to feeds in which there are no cereals. Their distinctive feature is always the price – a product, even half of natural meat, cannot be cheap – the cost of the diet will be high in comparison with conventional feeds, which contain two or more types of cereals. But there are trademarks that have been producing top-free z-free feed food for many years:
- Orijen is a product of the Canadian brand Champion Petfoods, which has set itself the goal of producing Biologically Appropriate pet food. This means that all the ingredients used to create the diet are typical for the nutrition of dogs in the wild, so to speak. In addition, the highest quality ingredients, only Canadian-made, make this dog food an excellent option for everyday feeding.
- Acana is a product of the same concern. According to the manufacturer, any Acana grain-free dog food is made only from fresh products suitable for human consumption. This means that preservation of raw materials, freezing, or other processes designed to prevent the product from spoiling are excluded. There is also an emphasis on free range – all animals used in feed are raised by green farming and are not kept in pens or stalls.
- Pronature is the brainchild of PLB International, a Canadian family owned brand that has been in the pet food business for many years. The credo of the brand is “You know your pet”. The feature of this feed is the use of a single source of meat – this allows you to avoid allergies, and choose food for individual food intolerances.
- Go! Natural is a grain-free dog food from Canada created by Petcurean. For almost 20 years, this factory has been developing and manufacturing high quality holistic dog food. The raw materials used undergo quality control, and are also checked for freshness and chemical purity – pesticides in vegetables or antibiotics in meat are not acceptable. Due to the high standards of production, the rations of this brand have become popular all over the world.
- Grandorf is the result of a collaboration between Italian and Belgian animal nutrition professionals. Grain-free food of this brand is produced in Italy by Monge & C SpA, as well as in Belgium by United Petfood Producers NV. Quality meat and additional ingredients make this food a welcome addition to any dog’s bowl – it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
- Farmina – the N& D GrainFree series of this manufacturer has already firmly entered the everyday life of many dog lovers who care about the health of their pet. Factories in Brazil, Italy and Serbia produce food from the finest meats, vegetables, fruits and herbs to keep dogs healthy and full of energy throughout their life. Grain-free food for dogs Farmina – a guarantee of excellent health and great appearance of your pet!
- Arden Grange is a product of the British brand of the same name, located in the town of Elbourne. The founders of the plant started with breeding shepherd dogs, but later they got so carried away with food recipes for their dogs that they decided to produce high-quality food for sale. This is how Arden Grange dry dog food appeared – high-protein holistic diets designed to provide the dog’s body with everything it needs.
- Bozita Naturals is a Swedish grain-free food from a factory with over a century of history. Thanks to the high standards of production, as well as the demanding laws of Sweden, this feed is exceptionally good – all products are carefully selected, and suppliers are repeatedly checked before supplying their raw materials to the production lines. Thanks to this approach and scrupulousness, Bosita is now known throughout the world.
- Wolfsblut – German quality for all dogs. The recipes of this feed are developed by leading laboratories in Europe, and the production itself is located in Germany. The good composition and absence of grains make this food an excellent alternative to cheaper and lower quality super-premium foods.
- Brit Care is a Czech food produced by VAFO PRAHA. And although this is not a Holistic dog food, but a strong super-premium class, you can talk about high quality and nutrition – any Care series diet is a grain-free dog food containing sweet potato or potatoes as a source of carbohydrates.
In addition to this list, there are many more brands that produce grain-free diets – we have considered only the most popular ones that can be seen on the shelves of almost any pet store in the country.
You can see the current price of feed and buy it now right here:
We hope our short review will help you choose the right diet for your pet, and just want to remind you once again – any grain-free holistic dog food is almost ideal nutrition that does not require additional feeding with vitamins, minerals and other useful substances. Go holistic as soon as you can, and your four-legged friend will appreciate the good food immensely!
Useful materials:
Composition and form of release Fiprist is available in the form of drops and spray, and the drops are produced in two…
Scheme of administration Animal owners who are thinking about whether the drug can be used in veterinary medicine should know…
Forza 10Forza 10 (Forza 10) is a premium feed from the SANYpet SpA concern. The manufacturer confidently occupies a large…
Feed rangeEukanuba brand technologists have developed a fairly wide range of rations. First of all, they are divided into…
Contents
- Grain-Free feed for puppies
- Grain-free food for adult dogs
- Grain Free Senior Dog Food
- Indications for the use of grain-free food
- Grain-free dog food, fashion or necessity?
- Feed types
- Classes of feed
- Dry dog food rating
- Wet feed rating for dogs
- Dog feed of different ages
- Dangerous ingredients in feed
- Nutritional value of cereals for dogs
- Association of cereals with diseases
- Grain-Free food for dogs
- What is a Grain-Free food?
- The best ruler