If the diet is well balanced, has adequate digestible protein, and no other factors that may affect absorption of protein (possibly high fiber or maybe certain bacteria in the gut or other causes), taurine should not be needed. It is a safe supplement, though, and can be added to the diet.
Common Grains Used in Dog Foods
Any dog food made without wheat, corn, rice and other grains is considered “grain free.” Dogs still need carbohydrates for energy, though. So no-grain dog foods use alternative sources of carbs like potatoes and pea flour.
Sorghum (milo) is a starchy cereal grain with a nutrient profile similar to corn. Since it is gluten-free and boasts a smoother blood sugar behavior than other grains, sorghum may be considered an acceptable non-meat ingredient. The fourth ingredient is rice bran, a healthy by-product of milling whole grain rice.
Ancient grains include millet, quinoa, spelt, amaranth and teff, to name a few. Contrary to what marketing tells us, nutritionally, ancient grains are like well-known grains such as corn, rice and oats.
Ancient grains like grain sorghum, millet, quinoa and chia seed are naturally high in fiber and rich in protein. Unchanged for thousands of years, different grains provide various nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and omega fatty acids.
“No one diet works for every single pet,” she explains. “It's great to have lots of different options.” No matter which grain you choose, both doctors agreed that whole grains, which contain all parts of the plant, are best.
Traditionally, wheat and corn have been the go-to grains for commercial dog food manufacturers. But in recent years, there's been an increase in what Adolphe calls “novel grains.” These include barley, oats and rye.
The following two grains, oatmeal and rice, are good choices to include in your dog's diet, especially if you are new to homemade dog food or incorporating healthy grains into their existing food. It is important to remember to not feed too much of a grain all at once to dogs.
Cons of Grain-Free Dog Treats & Food
Cons of Grain-Free Dog Treats & Food
How do grains benefit dogs? Dr. Venator says, “Grains are actually an excellent nutrient source.” Grains are packed with nutrients and provide carbohydrate, fat, and antioxidants. That means, the grains in dog food can support healthy, skin, and hair, plus support healthy immune systems and more.
Grain-free dog food can help your pup with getting less flaky skin, a shinier coat, and whiter teeth. Also, you can enjoy less-stinky dog kisses, as grain-free dog food can improve your pup's breath.
Here are just some of the health benefits that feeding your dog grain free food can produce.