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Choosing the right food for your dog is essential for their overall health and wellbeing, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to know what’s best.
One of the biggest trends in dog nutrition over recent years has been grain free dog food, which eliminates grains like wheat, corn, and rice in favour of alternative carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes and lentils.
Some owners switch to grain-free diets to help with digestive issues, allergies, or skin conditions, while others believe it better mimics a dog’s natural, meat-based diet.
However, not all dogs need grain-free food, and it’s important to understand whether this type of diet is truly beneficial for your pet.
In this guide, we’ll explore what grain-free dog food is, the potential benefits and drawbacks, and whether it’s the right choice for your furry friend.
We’ll also look at vet recommendations and the best grain-free dog food brands available in the UK. 🐶🍽️
What Is Grain Free Dog Food?
Grain-free dog food is a type of pet food formulated without grains such as wheat, corn, barley, or rice. Instead, it uses alternative sources of carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, lentils, peas, or chickpeas. Many dog owners choose grain-free diets due to potential benefits such as better digestion, reduced allergies, and improved skin and coat health.
Grain-free diets have gained popularity as more owners look for natural, high-meat-content foods that mimic a dog’s ancestral diet. However, it’s essential to understand whether this diet is necessary or beneficial for your dog before making the switch.
Examples Of Grain Free Foods
Grain-free dog foods substitute traditional grains with other nutrient-dense ingredients. Some common grain-free alternatives include:
🥔 Sweet Potatoes – A great source of fibre, vitamins, and slow-release energy.
🍎 Fruits & Berries – Blueberries, apples, and cranberries provide antioxidants and vitamins.
🥦 Vegetables – Carrots, peas, and spinach supply essential nutrients.
🌰 Lentils & Chickpeas – High in protein and fibre, supporting digestion.
🐟 Fish & Meat – The primary protein source in grain-free diets, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Some types of raw dog food diets use a lot of these foods, as well as processed forms found in dry food and wet food too.
Why Might Grain Free Dog Food Be Better?
Many dogs thrive on grain-free diets, particularly those with grain sensitivities. Some benefits of feeding grain-free include:
- Easier Digestion – Dogs with grain intolerances may suffer from bloating, diarrhoea, or upset stomachs when consuming wheat or corn.
- Stronger Joints & Muscles – Higher meat content supports muscle development and joint health.
- Fewer Allergies & Skin Issues – Some dogs react poorly to grains, leading to itchy skin, ear infections, or excessive scratching.
- Healthier Coat & Skin – Grain-free diets often contain more Omega-3 fatty acids, leading to shinier coats and reduced dryness.
- More Energy – Since grain-free foods tend to be high in protein and healthy fats, they provide long-lasting energy.
How Do I Know If My Dog Needs Grain Free Food?
Not all dogs require a grain-free diet, but certain signs may indicate that switching could be beneficial.
Chronic digestive problems, such as frequent diarrhoea, bloating, or vomiting, may suggest an intolerance to grains.
Some dogs also suffer from persistent itching, skin redness, or recurrent ear infections, which could be linked to an underlying food sensitivity.
Dogs that produce excessive gas or struggle with maintaining energy levels might also benefit from a grain-free diet, especially if they show signs of discomfort after eating grain-based food.
However, before making any dietary changes, it’s important to consult a vet to determine whether grains are the actual cause of these issues or if another underlying health concern needs to be addressed.
This guide from PetMD is also useful on the question.
Is Grain Free Dog Food Better? An Overview
The Good
🥩 High Meat Content – More protein means stronger muscles and better overall health.
🦠 Easier Digestion – Many dogs find grain-free diets gentler on their stomachs.
✨ Better Coat & Skin – Omega-rich ingredients promote shinier coats and healthier skin.
🌿 More Natural Ingredients – Many grain-free brands focus on whole foods and fewer artificial additives.
The Bad
💰 More Expensive – Grain-free diets tend to cost more due to high-quality ingredients.
📉 Potential Nutrient Deficiencies – Some grain-free diets lack essential fibres or vitamins, so it’s crucial to choose a well-balanced formula.
❤️ Not Necessary for Every Dog – Unless your dog has a specific intolerance or allergy, grains can be a healthy part of their diet.
Do Vets Recommend Grain-Free Dog Food?
Veterinary opinions on grain-free dog food vary. Some vets support grain-free diets for dogs with diagnosed grain allergies or intolerances, as removing grains can significantly improve symptoms. However, for dogs that digest grains well, vets often see no reason to eliminate them.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and other pet health organisations generally advise that any diet, grain-free or otherwise, should be complete and balanced to meet a dog’s nutritional needs.
Some concerns have been raised about potential links between grain-free diets and certain heart conditions, particularly in dogs that consume excessive legumes as a replacement for grains. Because of this, many vets recommend choosing high-quality, well-researched grain-free foods rather than switching based solely on trends or marketing claims.
What Is The Best Grain Free Dog Food?
Lily’s Kitchen
Lily's Kitchen offers a variety of grain-free recipes designed for dogs with sensitivities or those requiring a gluten-free diet. Their grain-free range includes both wet and dry foods made with high-quality meat, vegetables, and botanical herbs, ensuring balanced nutrition without artificial additives.
Canagan
Canagan specialises in grain-free, high-protein kibble that closely mimics a dog's ancestral diet. Their recipes combine freshly prepared meats with vegetables and botanicals, providing a balanced diet rich in nutrients without the inclusion of grains.
Forthglade
Forthglade offers gently steamed, grain-free wet food made with natural ingredients, including a high percentage of real meat and vegetables. Their grain-free range is designed to be gentle on sensitive stomachs while providing essential nutrients for overall health.
Akela
Akela provides an 80/20 high meat content dry food, ideal for active dogs requiring a protein-rich diet. Their grain-free formulas include a variety of meats combined with vegetables and botanicals, ensuring a balanced and natural diet without grains.
If you decide that a grain-free diet is right for your dog, selecting a high-quality brand is essential to ensure they receive proper nutrition.
Some of the best grain-free dog foods available in the UK include Lily’s Kitchen, Canagan, and Forthglade, all of which focus on natural ingredients with high meat content.
Akela and Carnilove also provide high-protein options with unique meat sources such as venison, duck, and salmon.
Choosing the best food for your dog depends on their individual needs, preferences, and overall health. Before making the switch, it’s always a good idea to discuss dietary changes with your vet to ensure your dog is getting everything they need for a healthy and happy life, especially if they suffer from allergies.
