The Latest on Grain-Free Diets and Dilated Cardiomyopathy

It was big news two years ago when the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) came out and said that there was new research to suggest that there was a definite link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). After that bombshell, everyone turned to the three sources they trusted to find out if this new information had cause for concern: their veterinarian, their pet food manufacturers and their pet food retailers.

In November 2020, the FDA very quietly issued a statement where they conceded that there was no scientific evidence that grain-free diets are dangerous. This is not to say that diet is not a factor in DCM diagnosis; on the contrary, factors such as breed, genetics, pre-existing health conditions, digestive issues and nutrition are all factors.

Jeff Johnston, senior vice president of research, innovation and product development at Champion Pet Foods (maker of Acana & Orijen pet foods), states that trusted “retailers play a key role in educating consumers about the best options for pets. They can assure consumers that if FDA had found a causal link between DCM and any pet food, it would be required by law to have those products removed from the market—which it has not done.”

Johnston adds that retailers should mention the complexities of DCM, highlighting that it impacts about one percent of the 77 million dogs in the U.S., whereas cancer will affect 25 percent of dogs, and obesity will impact 33 percent.

So where should you turn to for information on the latest research and pet foods on the market? According to the FDA, your veterinarian is a good source. But pet owners should be aware they’re not the only source of information on the market. The Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) puts very little training on nutrition in their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. On the contrary, retailers and suppliers have much more at stake when it comes to advising you about your pet’s health and nutrition choices, as it is their primary way of supporting their business.

At Muddy Paws, we have regularly had questions and discussions with our clients since this ‘new research’ came out. Most clients come in asking for a grain-based diet, stating that this FDA announcement warned them that grain-free diets would kill their pet. We have done our best to point to the facts and research from all of our suppliers that show the same data: there is no fact-based evidence that grain-free diet will cause DCM. However, diets that are poorly balanced can cause other health problems such as allergies, poor coat and skin condition, digestive upsets, poorly formed stool, reduced energy, smelly yeast production, ear infections, and brittle nails.

This is not to say that all grain-based diets are bad, either. The primary ingredients we have found that commonly result in minor (sometimes major) health issues are corn for it’s poor digestibility; wheat for its frequent cause of skin issues; and chicken, as it is the most common protein allergy. Additionally, poor quality ingredients in general can exacerbate health problems; animal by product (bone, skin, feathers, hooves), GMOs, artificial colours, flavours & preservatives, and food fillers (corn, wheat, soy meal).

Providing your dog for years with only one source of protein, carbs or fibre can lead to health problems. In fact, many dogs develop allergies later in life from this lifestyle. At Muddy Paws, we recommend following a rotational diet, varying your dog/cat’s protein, carbs, type of food and treats (dry, wet, freeze dried, baked and raw). This does not mean completely changing their diet every day, but gradually incorporating something new into your meal plan. Need help developing a meal plan? We’re more than happy to help!