Grain-free dog food has become very popular within the last 12-18 months as a healthy alternative to normal dry dog food. This got us thinking, is grain-free dog food actually good?
Why?
How?
Should you try it?
Let's get into it.
What Makes A Grain-Free Diet Different?
So, grain-free dog food excludes products likely grains, corn, wheat, barley and rice. In place of these ingredients often you'll find peas, lentils, potatoes and chickpeas..so already it does sound like grain free is a "healthier" alternative - however there is a "catch" as grain-free dog food is normally always more expensive. Makes sense though, healthier food is nearly always more money than the alternative. (SOURCE)
Why Would You Swap To Grain-Free Dog Food?
Some dogs are allergic to grains, which can cause issues like persistent itching, recurring ear infections, or digestive upset, I've personally had dogs that would not stop itching, scratching and switching to a different food and also starting steroid injections (which sounds way more full on than it is) helped reduce my dogs skin irritation.
Continuing on with this, grain-free dog food has evidence to support it being a good choice for "working" or active dogs, helping with higher protein levels, supporting their lifestyle. As we talked about above (the replacement from wheat, barley to peas and lentils) help with nutrient absorption. As a pet owner, I would (and did) talk to my vet about my dog who had a long-term itch and scratching issue before changing diets.
Potential Risks and Concerns
While grain-free diets may offer benefits in certain cases, they also come with potential risks and concerns that you should consider. One major issue is the risk of nutritional imbalances—grains are a natural source of important nutrients like fiber, B vitamins, and essential minerals.
Removing these ingredients without proper formulation can lead to deficiencies - this is why it's important to talk with your vet. Another concern is the potential link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition in dogs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has investigated this possible connection, particularly in diets high in legumes and potatoes, though a direct cause has not yet been proven.
Additionally, for most dogs, a grain-free diet may be unnecessary. Unless a dog has a diagnosed grain allergy or sensitivity, grains can actually serve as a valuable and nutritious component of their diet, providing energy and supporting overall health.
(source - https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/dilated-cardiomyopathy-dcm-in-dogs--indepth)
Veterinary Insights
Veterinary professionals emphasise the importance of dietary choices. Dr. Jennifer S. Fryer, DVM, notes that while grain-free diets can be beneficial for some dogs, they may not be suitable for all. It's crucial to consult with a veterinarian before making significant dietary changes.
source - https://www.petmd.com/author/dr-jennifer-fryer)
Conclusion
So, does your dog need grain-free dog food?
Unless you are noticing a lot of itching, rashes or a reaction to dry food it's worth noting that you don't HAVE to swap to grain-free dog food, but if you do talk with your Vet before hand.
Sources used:
https://dogwalkerseasternsuburbs.com/grain-free-dog-food-benefits-risks
https://foodypage.com/is-it-bad-to-feed-your-dog-grain-free-food
https://www.betterpet.com/learn/grain-free-dog-food
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/are-grain-free-diets-bad-for-dogs
https://healthypet.site/2025/04/grain-free-dog-food-health-benefits-risks-explained
https://prosconsreviews.com/grain-free-dog-food/
https://foodypage.com/is-it-bad-to-feed-your-dog-grain-free-food