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Benefits of Gluten-Free Dog Treats

Pet parents all want the best for their furry friends - the best toys, the best gear, the best exercises. Most importantly, they want their dogs to have the best health. What they eat contributes a lot to that.

Your choice of food for your dog matters a lot. That’s why you likely feed your dog the highest-quality dog food available. The question is - is it gluten-free? Or is this the first time you hear about a gluten-free dog diet?

In this article, we’re going to discuss why gluten can be harmful to dogs and why you should eliminate it from your pet’s diet:

Why Gluten Is Harmful to Dogs

Before we get into why gluten is bad for dogs, let’s talk about what it actually is.

Gluten is a combination of proteins in wheat, barley, and rye that give dough its elasticity and shape. Humans cannot digest gluten. This is why those with gluten-related diseases, such as celiac disease, suffer from diarrhoea, pain, fatigue, and anaemia.

Gluten isn’t just harmful to humans. Dogs can also suffer from gluten-related symptoms.

Signs of Gluten Sensitivity

Signs of gluten sensitivity differ from dog to dog. Dogs can experience a number of symptoms and issues due to gluten consumption. These include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Obesity
  • Lack of energy
  • Reduced muscle mass
  • Reduced bone density
  • Respiratory problems
  • Infertility
  • Anaemia
  • Eye diseases
  • Skin problems
  • Dry, flaky skin
  • Pruritus (itchy skin)

The symptoms can be mild and only occur a few times a year. They can also be severe, occurring multiple times a week.

Benefits of Eliminating Gluten from Your Dog’s Diet

Once your dog has stopped eating gluten, many of its symptoms will subside. It is highly recommended that you talk to your vet about it but here are the main benefits:

Fewer Skin Problems

Gluten can cause dry, flaky skin. If your dog is suffering from itchy or flaky skin, it’s likely due to gluten. Removing gluten from your dog's diet can significantly improve their skin condition.

Fewer Digestive Issues

Dogs who experience vomiting and diarrhoea are likely gluten-sensitive. Gluten can cause massive damage to the digestive tract. It can also adversely affect their system. Remove gluten and their tummy will thank you.

Reduced Obesity

Obesity is a big problem in dogs, especially in the United States. It can cause many issues and diseases, especially if it occurs in puppies. Feeding your pup a gluten-free diet can help prevent or reverse obesity. Less sensitivity to gluten leads to less obesity and weight gain.

Improved Bone Health

Dogs develop a condition called osteoporosis as they age. This condition is characterised by loss of bone tissue, especially in the spine. Gluten affects the bones of your dog, making them brittle and prone to breakage. When they stop eating gluten, their bones will become stronger and more durable.

A better diet and reduced inflammation can help dogs with bone health.

Reduced Inflammation

When your dog has inflammation, their immune system responds by sending white blood cells to the affected area. This is a good thing, except when it happens in their digestive tract, where the blood cells can destroy the healthy tissue. Gluten sensitivity causes inflammation in the dog’s gut, thereby causing a lot of distress. By removing gluten from your dog's diet, you can reduce the inflammation and thereby reduce their pain.

Reducing inflammation can have massive benefits for your dog’s overall health. Many allergy symptoms are caused by inflammation.

Conclusion

As we've seen, gluten is harmful to dogs. It can make them sick, which is the last thing any dog owner wants. By removing gluten from their diet, you can make their overall health much better. Next time you get dog food for your beloved pet, make sure to check if they’re gluten-free.

Feedwell is one of the best dog food manufacturers that make gluten-free dog food that is rich in natural Omega 3 and 6 for a healthier coat and the right protein levels to ensure your dog enjoys an active life. Check out our different varieties of dog food and choose one that fits your beloved pet the best!

 

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