Will Grain Free Dog Food Make My Dog Gain Weight?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

Despite the benefits for some dogs, there are downsides to feeding a grain-free dog food. Many people assume grain free means low carb, but that’s not the case. In fact, some dog foods without grains are higher in alternative carbohydrate sources like potatoes and peas. This could result in unintentional weight gain .

Does grain free help dogs lose weight?

Grain-free, multi-protein diet recipe

About: Nulo Weight-Management Cod and Lentil Recipe is a grain-free, multi-protein recipe designed to help overweight pups shed a few pounds . It will also serve as a great food for dogs who are prone to weight-gain, even if they’re still at a healthy body weight.

What dog food will put weight on my dog?

Best Weight Gain Dog Foods Rating 1. Crave — Real Chicken Protein Grain-Free Dog Food (Editor’s Choice) 4.9 2. Purina — Pro Plan 30/20 Sport High Protein 4.8 3. Earthborn — Holistic Coastal Catch Grain-Free 4.7 4. Nature’s Variety — Instinct Ultimate Protein Grain-Free Cage-Free Duck Recipe 4.7

Do vets recommend grain free dog food?

When it comes to the question of grain-free diets, veterinarians recommended that dogs be fed a grain-inclusive diet unless there is a reason that makes it unsuitable . One thing to always look out for when choosing a food is an adequacy statement on the label.

Should I switch from grain free dog food?

You should only switch your dog’s food to a grain-free diet if you have permission from your veterinarian . Above all else, your dog needs to eat pet food that does not trigger any allergies and also provides all their nutritional needs.

Should overweight dogs eat grain free?

While your dog needs carbohydrates to produce energy, too many of them can contribute to obesity, the wrong bacteria in the gut and a lack of energy. So, if a dog food is labeled “grain free” but the grains are replaced with other ingredients, it’s not necessarily a healthier option for your dog .

Does grain free cause weight gain?

Grain-free diets also enhance weight loss by keeping blood sugar levels down . The reason blood sugar affects weight loss is because most grains can be high in carbs while low on fiber, making them easily digestible, and so the body’s blood sugar levels will spike when the carbs in those grains are converted into sugar.

Does high protein dog food cause weight gain?

Protein is a calorie dense nutrient and many of the high protein diets are extremely high in calories and can quickly lead to weight gain . With over 50% of dogs in the U.S. considered overweight or obese, dog owners need to be aware of where those extra calories are hiding.

Will eggs help my dog gain weight?

Eggs can’t be the sole source of protein for your dog, as dog food contains other much-needed nutrients for any dog. Plus, since eggs are packed with protein, if your dog ingests too much it can lead to weight gain from too many calories consumed . In general, dogs shouldn’t eat more than one egg per day.

How can I make my dog fat and healthy?

  1. Talk to Your Veterinarian. ...
  2. Keep a Health Journal. ...
  3. Weigh Your Dog Regularly. ...
  4. Choose a High-Quality Dog Food. ...
  5. Feed Them Small Meals Often. ...
  6. Incorporate Exercise. ...
  7. Use Weight Gain Snacks.

What are the pros and cons of grain free dog food?

  • Easily Digestible. ...
  • It is Less Allergenic. ...
  • Helps Boost Health and Activity Level. ...
  • It’s Beneficial for Dogs with Diabetes and Cancer. ...
  • More Expensive. ...
  • Not Ideal for Less Active Dogs. ...
  • It Can Be Challenging for Picky Eaters. ...
  • High in Carbohydrate.

How do I know if my dog needs grain free food?

  1. Itchiness.
  2. Excessive hair loss.
  3. Bald patches.
  4. Inflamed skin.
  5. Sores and scabs.
  6. “Hot spots”

What are the benefits of grain free dog food?

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.

Is grain-free dog food bad for dogs 2020?

An ongoing theory touted by academic researchers and investigated by the FDA involving a potential link between canine heart disease, also known as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), and certain grain-free pet foods have been debunked , according to a far-reaching study recently released by a working group of veterinary ...

Should dogs have grains?

Dogs are just as likely to suffer from food intolerances as humans are, and grains are one of the most common allergies identified in canines . Therefore, regular dog food may exacerbate the symptoms associated with your pet’s intolerance and grain-free foods are almost certainly better for your canine friend.

Is grain-free dog food good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Watch out for grains

Corn and wheat can be hard for your pup to digest if they have a sensitive stomach. The best digestive dog food will usually either be grain-free or contain whole grains, oats or rice .

Is grain free dog food less filling?

So, the real difference between grain free dog food and regular dog food is that grain free dog food does not use any grains. Grain is not a “filler” nor is it a source of carbohydrates . Instead, these grain free dog foods often use potatoes, peas, chickpeas, or carrots as a source of carbohydrates.

Does grain free dog food have more protein?

The best grain-free dog foods typically contain more protein than those made with grain . But many are made with grain-substitutes that can upset the nutrient balance of the finished food.

What causes a dog to gain weight rapidly?

Like humans, dogs can gain weight for a number of reasons, including poor diet, inadequate exercise, changes in metabolism, and certain types of illness . Although certain breeds are somewhat predisposed to weight gain, any dog can become obese.

Is 30% protein too much for a dog?

Dogs are quite able to tolerate diets with protein levels higher than 30 percent on a dry weight basis .

What is the fastest way to put weight on a dog?

  1. Set goals and monitor weight gain. ...
  2. Consult the vet. ...
  3. Feed your dog high-calorie dog food. ...
  4. Increase feeding amount or frequency. ...
  5. Supplement with snacks. ...
  6. Add wet foods and fresh produce. ...
  7. Give him some exercise.

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.