Dog Diet Myths vs Facts

Give it to me raw and wriggling

Gollum! Gollum said that! So stay with me here. It's gonna get much more controversial real quick as I will discuss myths and juxtapose them with facts about canine diets. You are what you feed your dog, you might say. I'm by no means advocating a vegan dog diet but I am all for being a lot more considerate of what you actually give your dog every day.

With Bea it is quite funny, how could it be any different. She is our first dog, so we talked and read a bunch about diets and different kinds of dog food and we thought we'd buy the best food for Bea: Regional Austrian brand, biodegradable packaging, locally sourced...the works. We were so proud of us for taking this road and Bea had one 12 kg bag of this particular dog food and decided not to eat one more pellet of it. Ever! Of course we freaking out thinking that it had to do with her cleft. But as it turns out, this dog food brand is so regional and its taste depends on the ingredients so much, that several dogs refused to eat it from one batch to the next. What?! We changed food and finally, a couple of weeks ago we arrived at this wonderful new brand Bugbell. If you want to know more, I've written an entire post on them, check it out here. Now we're very happy with them as our partners, but since every dog is different, lets find out more about some dog diet myths vs facts.

Bea got water from the attentive waiter.

The list

Myth: Dogs Need a Grain-Free Diet

• Fact: Grains are a good source of carbohydrates and nutrients. Only dogs with specific grain allergies or sensitivities need a grain-free diet. Just avoid buying the cheapest food available as it will most likely contain nothing but grain.

Myth: Raw Food Diets Are Best

• Fact: While some believe raw diets are more natural, they can pose risks of bacterial contamination and unbalanced nutrition. Commercial dog foods are formulated to be complete and balanced. With a little patience you will find the perfect brand for you.

Myth: Dogs Can Eat All Human Food

• Fact: Many human foods are harmful to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, onions, and caffeine. Always check if a food is safe before sharing it with your dog. The other day I saw a waiter serving a small plate with three slices of some kind of sausage to a poodle. And the owner said nothing. Wtf!? Instead you can make your own treats, check out my favorite recipes here.

Myth: High-Protein Diets Cause Kidney Damage

• Fact: Healthy dogs can process dietary protein efficiently. High-protein diets do not cause kidney damage unless the dog already has pre-existing kidney disease. Question is, does your dog need all this protein?

Myth: Table Scraps Are Fine for Dogs

• Fact: Table scraps can lead to obesity, digestive issues, and nutritional imbalances. Stick to dog-specific treats and food. Seriously! I know of a dog that is allowed to lick the plates that already are in the dishwasher. Get a grip!
  

Myth: Bones Are Safe for Dogs to Chew On

• Fact: Bones can splinter and cause choking, gastrointestinal blockages, or injuries. Opt for safer chew toys or dental treats. Your dog might die from chewing this chicken bone you just threw him!

Myth: Dogs Only Need Meat

• Fact: Dogs are omnivores and require a balanced diet that includes meat, vegetables, and grains to meet their nutritional needs. Balance is key, just like with us humans!
  

She's adorable.

Myth: Homemade Diets Are Better

• Fact: Homemade diets can be nutritionally imbalanced if not properly formulated. Consult a vet or a pet nutritionist before switching to homemade meals. With the right consultation you can do it, but don't just rely on the interwebs! Except for my blog, of course.

Myth: Feeding Once a Day is Enough

• Fact: Most dogs do better with two meals a day to maintain steady energy levels and prevent hunger-related issues. Bea would positively collapse with just one bowl (no matter it's size) a day.

Myth: Supplements Are Always Necessary

• Fact: A balanced commercial diet typically provides all the nutrients your dog needs. Supplements should only be given under veterinary advice. Of course you can sprinkle some salmon oil on the pellets or add a carrot or a little bit of broccoli, just don't fall for all the so called super food snake oil salesmen. There is no such thing as a super food.

Myth: Dogs Can’t Eat Vegetables

• Fact: Many vegetables are safe and beneficial for dogs, providing fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. However, some, like onions and garlic, are toxic. So are grapes. Bea loves carrots, broccoli, cucumber, potatoes, corn and also blueberries (just a couple!).

Myth: Dairy is Good for Dogs

• Fact: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy products can lead to digestive upset. Always introduce dairy cautiously and in small amounts. Observe closely how your dog reacts! Bea for example loves a dash of cow milk in her water. But we don't give it to her often, since we rarely have cow milk at home.

Did I bust a myth for you?

Do you have any other myths I didn't catch? Or do you even agree with what I wrote? Tell me in the comments below!