Paleo diet can have many benefits for both you and your canine. If you’re reading this article, then chances are you are aware of the benefits of going grain and gluten-free. Furthermore, you must know at least one person who is going grain and gluten-free.
We’ve all seen how restaurants and grocery stores are stockpiling on gluten and grain-free products. It is an increasing trend that has its own benefits. But what does going gluten and grain-free mean for our dogs?
In this article, we are going to tell you the reasons why you should choose the grain and gluten-free dog foods. Visit The Petite Pets for more information and advice.
Why should your dog go grain and gluten-free?
Gluten and grain foods have been found to cause allergic reactions in canines. This is because those types of foods contain difficult to digest fibers that can harm your dog.
There are a few ways you can notice if your dog has allergic reactions to grain and gluten foods, and those are:
- Excessive flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Skin irritations and rashes
- Chronically lickings, chewing and biting to relieve the itching
- Vomiting
- Ear infection
These are some of the symptoms associated with allergic reactions to grain and gluten foods in dogs. However, some breeds are at higher risk of developing food allergies than others. Those breeds are:
- Retriever
- Boxer
- Dalmatian
- Lhasa Apso
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Springer Spaniel
- West Highland White Terrier
- Wheaton Terrier
- Daschund
- Cocker Spaniel
So, from this list, we can see that a lot of dog breeds can develop allergic reactions to grain and gluten foods. You can find the best dog food for picky eaters here.
What are the benefits of going grain and gluten-free?
Grain and gluten-free dog foods contain far more proteins and animal fats which are essential for canines. When thinking about the potential benefits of going grain-free, the best grain-free dog food in 2019 has some amazing benefits for you to read about.
- Grain-free foods help keep your dog full for a longer period of time. This can be quite beneficial because your dog will eat less frequently and it is also a cost-effective option.
- Grain-free foods have been found by studies to reduce the appearance of food allergies in canines.
- Grain-free foods provide more energy, healthier skin, and a shinier coat to your dog.
- Grain-free foods will reduce the shedding of your dog, it will improve his/her breathe smell, and reduce flatulence.
Tips for going grain and gluten-free
If you do decide to switch from a normal diet to a grain and gluten-free one for your dog, the first thing you should do is consult with your veterinarian. When you start the diet, make sure to slowly introduce the grain and gluten-free food by mixing it with its current diet. With time, start increasing the grain and gluten-free food more and more and lower the amount of normal food. You are doing this because your dog’s digestive system needs to adjust to the current type of food. Be careful as there have been reported cases where the canine can suffer from diarrhea because of the switch. But that’s nothing to worry about since it is only natural. If you do spot any other major concerns during the switch, such as itching, lack of interest in eating, hair loss, etc, make sure to contact your vet.
