Are You Asking Yourself, “Can Dogs Eat Grains?”

As a pet owner, you naturally want your furry companion to live a long, happy, and healthy life. So, a significant part of supporting your pet’s health comes down to making the right choices for them about their nutrition. With more pet food options available than ever before—ranging from raw, organic, and limited ingredients to grain-free diets—it can be tough to decide what’s best. Among these, grain-free pet foods have become some of the most popular but also some of the most debated. 

So, is grain-free pet food really better for your dog, or do they need grains for optimal health? What about cats—can cats eat grains? 

Let’s explore everything you need to know about grain-free pet food and how grains affect your pet’s overall health.

Can Dogs Eat Grains Safely?

Grains have been a staple in dog food for ages, but are they still a good choice?  Can dogs eat grains safely? Yes, most dogs can, but it largely depends on their individual health and dietary needs. Grains like rice, oats, barley, and corn are commonly included in dog food due to the variety of nutrients they provide, such as carbohydrates, fiber, and even some protein. These nutrients contribute to energy production, aid digestion, and support overall vitality.

From a purely science perspective, grains provide carbohydrates, which are broken down into glucose. Fiber from grains also promotes regular digestion, helping to maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Grains like quinoa and barley are rich in B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, all of which play critical roles in nerve function, muscle health, and immune system support.

SCAN TIP: Did your pet resonate with multiple energetic food sensitivities? Grains, legumes, and even meat may have shown up. It’s natural to worry about the foods listed, but take a step back and look at the bigger picture—your pet’s systems and toxins. Is there stress on the Digestive System? Is there a lack of digestive enzymes? Supporting your pet’s digestive health with probiotics, pet appropriate enzymes, and addressing bacterial or parasitic imbalances can improve nutrient absorption and restore balance to the energetic body.

Dogs’ Adaptation to Digest Grains

Believe it or not, today’s dogs are pretty good at handling grains, thanks to their evolutionary upgrades. Unlike their wild ancestors, modern pups have more amylase, an enzyme that helps break down starches in grains. This means many dogs can digest grains efficiently and may benefit from their nutrients. So, can dogs eat grains? Individual variation exists, and not all dogs tolerate grains the same way.

Potential Sensitivities

While most dogs can chow down on grains with no issues, some might be a bit sensitive. Certain grains, particularly wheat and corn, may trigger allergies or intolerances in some dogs.

If your dog is one of them, you might notice signs like:

•  Bloating
•  Diarrhea
•  Itching
•  Ear Infections

In these cases, eating grain-free pet food may be worth exploring, though it may be important to consult with a vet to determine the cause of the issue and choose the right diet accordingly.

Bioresonance testing is a great way to support your pet holistically, and our Full Scan helps you to look at any health issues your pet is experiencing and any possible bioenergetic food sensitivities.

You can learn more about food sensitivities in this blog:  

Grain-Free Pet Food: The Growing Trend

Grain-free diets have surged in popularity, but, just like any trendy food, they come with its pros and cons. Grain-free foods typically replace grains with alternative carbohydrates, like sweet potatoes, lentils, or peas.

 

Why Grain-Free?

Some pet owners opt for grain-free diets to dodge ingredients that could potentially cause sensitivities or allergies. Plus, these diets often pack in higher protein levels, which is great for active dogs who need an energy boost.

Other potential benefits of a grain-free pet food include:

1. Improved Digestion

If your dog’s tummy is a bit fussy, grain-free might help. Many dogs with sensitive digestion find that skipping grains leads to smoother digestion.

2. More Protein and Nutrient-Rich Ingredients

Grain-free dog foods often emphasize higher protein content, coming from meat or plant-based sources. These diets may offer more bioavailable nutrients from a colorful mix of fruits and veggies, adding antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.

3. Weight Management

Less carbs from grains might mean fewer extra pounds for your dog. Grain-free diets can help keep weight in check while still providing the energy your dog needs to stay active and playful.

4. Better Coat and Skin Health

Dogs with grain sensitivities often experience improvements in skin and coat condition after switching to a grain-free diet. By removing grains that may contribute to skin irritations, some dogs see a reduction in itching, dandruff, or dull coats and experience better overall skin health.

5. Energy Levels

For some dogs, switching to grain-free can mean more consistent energy throughout the day. With healthier fats and proteins, they might stay lively and bouncy without the energy crashes.

6. Higher-Quality Ingredients

Grain-free pet foods often highlight top-notch ingredients and avoid fillers. This focus on quality can mean better overall nutrition, but make sure the diet is well-balanced and does not miss any essential nutrients.

Potential Concerns About Going Grain-Free

Here’s a heads-up: taurine, an amino acid crucial for heart health, might be a concern with some grain-free diets. Some studies have suggested that grain-free diets, especially those high in legumes or potatoes, may contribute to low taurine levels in some dogs. This deficiency has been linked to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that weakens the heart muscle and can lead to serious health problems. While the link between grain-free diets and DCM is still being researched, it’s important to ensure that any diet provides adequate taurine, especially for breeds predisposed to heart conditions.

Can Cats Eat Grains?

Unlike dogs, cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet naturally relies on animal-based proteins and fats for optimal health. Can cats eat grains? Yes, they can, but grains aren’t necessary for their nutrition. 

Cats have a more acidic stomach environment that aids in protein breakdown and pathogen control. Yes, grains can be included, but they shouldn’t replace the high-quality animal protein that keeps your kitty purring.

Your pet’s Digestive System is essential to their overall health. Learn how your pet’s digestive system works here:

 

For some cats, especially those with sensitive digestion or grain-related allergies, a grain-free diet might be a better option.

For cats with sensitivities or allergies, grain-free diets may alleviate symptoms like itching, vomiting, or diarrhea. However, it’s important to note that most cats do not develop grain-specific allergies. In fact, protein sources like chicken or fish are more common culprits when it comes to food allergies in felines.

While grains can be part of a balanced diet for cats, they should never replace the high-quality animal protein that cats rely on for energy and well-being. Whether your cat thrives on a grain-inclusive or grain-free diet, the most important thing is ensuring they receive the proper balance of nutrients tailored to their carnivorous nature.

Ultimately, every pet is different. The best diet for your dog or cat is one that keeps them feeling their best, keeps skin conditions at bay, and helps them thrive.