Grain-Free and “Boutique” Diet Warning
Grain-free and ‘boutique’ diets have become increasingly popular over the past several years, especially in cases of suspected allergies.
For some dogs these diets are essential as the gluten grain can create a pro-inflammatory response in the gastrointestinal tract. It is important to note however, that the vast majority of food allergies in dogs are related to the protein source (chicken, beef, etc..) and NOT to a grain source. In these cases the grain-free diet is likely unnecessary.
Numerous veterinary cardiologists have seen a significant increase in a specific heart disease called Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in several breeds of dogs especially Golden Retrievers. The majority of these patients are being fed grain-free or ‘boutique’ diets. While there appears to be a link to the amount of legumes (peas, lentils) in the diets and a deficiency in taurine, there are many cases where taurine is not an issue so other links between the diets and the cause of DCM still need to be determined.
What is Taurine?
“Taurine is an amino acid that is found in high concentrations in the heart and muscle. Among its many functions, it aids in normal contractile function.” (2)
Dogs are able to synthesize taurine within their body (unlike cats) which is why it is not usually added to dog foods. However, there are some breeds that have defects in metabolizing taurine, and therefore are more predisposed to developing taurine-deficiency.
If feeding a grain-free or ‘boutique’ diet
Change your pet’s diet IMMEDIATELY!
We also recommend a physical examination but it is important to note that the majority of DCM cases typically have normal exam findings. Occasionally, an arrythmia (abnormal heart rythym) may be detected.
You can consider collecting blood for a baseline taurine level as well. If the level is low then:
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Temporary taurine supplementation may be required depending on how low the value is.
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Take baseline chest films (radiographs) to see if the heart is enlarged (cardiomegaly) and consider Echocardiogram with a cardiologist if it is.
Again, since taurine may not be the only concern with these diets, even if the level is normal it is still recommended to change the diet immediately. Just adding taurine or grains to the diets is not going to fix the problem either.
What is Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)?
“DCM is a primary disease of the heart muscle (myocardium), in which the myocardium of the lower pumping chambers (ventricles) becomes weak and so loses its ability to contract normally.” (1)
DCM most commonly affects the left side of the heart and can result in enlargement of the ventricles to compensate for ineffective pumping and ultimately in congestive heart failure.
What diet should I feed my pet?
Veterinary cardiologists are recommending feeding your pet the brands that have board certified veterinary nutritionists on staff, brands that have years of research on their foods and brands that have substantial quality control of their ingredients.
The ‘big four’ are:
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Purina
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Hill’s
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Royal Canin
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Eukanuba