Gluten intolerance is much less common in dogs than in humans. Therefore, there are only a few dogs that need a gluten-free diet. The Irish Setter is an exception among dog breeds. Irish Setters are more susceptible and there are known cases of coeliac disease.
A diet for a dog should not be chosen unwisely. Gluten- and grain-free dog food is becoming increasingly popular, but this trend reflects the dietary trend of people. A healthy dog should enjoy as varied a diet as possible and not be unnecessarily restricted to gluten-free. The more varied the diet is in dogs and also in humans, the more likely a healthy balance of all nutrients is ensured. So before the dog has to give up gluten-containing food or grains, find out whether it is necessary for his health and whether he will benefit health-wise by doing so.
Grain-free or gluten-free dog food?
Gluten-free is not the same as grain-free. Grain-free dog food does not contain any grains, while gluten-free dog food only avoids certain grains containing gluten. Gluten is a protein that is mainly found in wheat, so gluten-free only means that no wheat has been used, but possibly other types of grain.
Grain-free dog food is produced without the use of any grain, including wheat, which means that grain-free is always gluten-free.
Why do many dog owners choose a grain-free diet?
Behind the grain-free dog food trend lies the explanation that the ancestors of today's dogs did not feed on grains, meaning that grains are unnatural for dogs. While the ancestors of dogs lived grain-free, today's dogs have evolved to be able to easily digest grains and carbohydrates. Dogs can live a very healthy life on a grain-free diet, but it is not necessary for their health.
As gluten-free and grain-free are often confused with each other, many dog owners believe that a grain-free diet is necessary for their dog if it suffers from food allergies. However, gluten is the only grain known to cause allergies in dogs. Corn, which is often used in food, is the least likely to cause allergic reactions. It is often beef that dogs are allergic to.
Does my dog need a gluten-free or grain-free diet?
Most dogs do not need grain-free or gluten-free food. To find out whether your dog is one of the few exceptions, a diagnosis must first be made.
If your dog suffers from the following symptoms, you can try a gluten-free or grain-free diet to see if it improves their health.
