Can Grain Free Dog Food Help Prevent Obesity?

Have you seen dogs that look like fluffy furballs stumbling about on four small legs? Their cuteness will definitely have you squealing.

Unfortunately, not all dogs that look fluffy and squishy are cute. They may actually be overweight and suffer from a health problem. And when their weight is not managed, it can lead to serious complications.

And yes, obesity in dogs is real. In fact, it is very common.

Thankfully, diet modification, such as eating grain free dog food, and exercise can help your overweight pets lose excess weight and become healthy and fit once more.

But can grain-free food really help dogs lose weight? How?

Grain Free Dog Food

As the name suggests, grain-free dog food does not contain grains, such as wheat, corn and oats, which are a source of complex carbohydrates. Instead, substitutes like potatoes, lentils and peas are used to provide the carbohydrates that dogs need.

Thus, contrary to what many people think, grain-free food does not equate to carb-free food. And, although there is a higher proportion of meat in this kind of food, it does not mean an all-meat diet, either.

Additionally, grain-free food may also be gluten-free like hypoallergenic dog food, and it is recommended for dogs with allergies to grains. It can also be the choice diet for dogs with gluten-sensitive enteropathy.

How does a grain free diet help prevent obesity?

Dog obesity is quite common but easily preventable.

Unfortunately, when a dog becomes obese, its lifespan shortens. And this is due to it being vulnerable to certain diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, hypertension and more.

Thankfully, there are many ways of combatting obesity. And one of these ways is through a grain-free diet.

While some people question the effects of grain-free pet food on dogs’ health, its benefits cannot be denied, especially where obesity is concerned.

And here are some reasons behind it:

• Your dog gets more protein with a grain-free diet. Protein is easily digested and converted into energy, which your dog can readily use anytime to stay active and fit.
• Grain-free food does not contain complex carbohydrates that are hard to digest. However, the simple carbs it contains are lesser compared to regular dog food and can be digested with no trouble. To learn more about specific types of dog food and their benefits, click here.
• Grain-free food gives your dogs the nutrients they need, which is necessary for building and repairing muscles, minus the worry of having hard to digest substances turning into stored fats.
• It is dense and nutrient-packed, leaving your furballs feeling fuller for longer. Thus, they eat lesser but still get the vitamins and minerals they require daily.
• Moreover, consuming grain-free pet food, which is high in Omega 3 fatty acids, results in your pup’s healthy skin and hair.

Grains may be considered the villain in your dog’s journey to a healthy and fit body. However, research and a visit to your vet is necessary before letting your canine buddies enjoy grain free dog food.

And remember, when your dogs consume a grain-free diet, it doesn’t mean you can feed them all you want. If you do, they might just be on their way to being obese instead of shedding excess weight.

And don’t forget their dose of daily exercise even when they’re on a grain-free diet.

Your dogs’ ancestors thrived on high-protein and grain-free food, so your fur buddies can, too. The most important thing to remember is to keep your dogs happy, healthy and safe. And visit the vet regularly, too!