The FDA is currently investigating a possible connection between canine heart disease and diet, specifically grain-free dog food. This has understandably raised concerns among dog owners who prioritize their pet’s health and well-being. Let’s delve into the details of this ongoing investigation to better understand the issue.
Why the FDA Is Investigating Grain-Free Dog Food
Any FDA announcement regarding pet food can trigger alarm. We all want our dogs to be healthy, and we know diet plays a crucial role. The FDA’s investigation focuses on a potential link between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and dogs consuming specific grain-free dog foods. These foods often contain legumes (peas, lentils, other legume seeds) or potatoes as primary ingredients. The FDA initiated this investigation following reports of DCM in dogs that had been on these diets for months or even years. While DCM isn’t uncommon in dogs, the unusual aspect was its occurrence in breeds not typically prone to the disease.
Between January 1, 2014, and April 30, 2019, the FDA received 524 DCM reports (515 dogs, 9 cats), primarily after their initial public alert in July 2018. The actual number of affected pets is higher than 524, as some reports included multiple pets from the same household.
What is Canine Heart Disease (Dilated Cardiomyopathy – DCM)?
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a canine heart disease affecting the heart muscle’s ability to pump blood efficiently. This can lead to congestive heart failure. Certain breeds have a predisposition to DCM, especially large and giant breeds like Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds, and Saint Bernards. While less common in medium and small breeds, English and American Cocker Spaniels are also predisposed.
The FDA reports covered a wide range of breeds, including many without a known genetic predisposition. The FDA took notice when early reports from veterinary cardiologists indicated atypical DCM cases in breeds like Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Whippets, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus, all consistently consuming diets with grain alternatives.
Should You Be Concerned About Grain-Free Dog Food for Your Dog?
In the FDA’s July 2019 update on diet and canine heart disease, they analyzed labels of dog food products linked to DCM cases. They assessed whether the foods were “grain-free” (lacking corn, soy, wheat, rice, barley, or other grains) and contained peas, lentils, chickpeas, beans, or potatoes (including sweet potatoes). The report revealed that over 90% of reported foods in DCM cases were grain-free, 93% contained peas and/or lentils, and 42% contained potatoes/sweet potatoes.
It’s important to remember that, at this time, there’s no definitive proof that these ingredients directly cause DCM in a broader range of dogs. However, dog owners should be aware of the FDA’s alert. The FDA continues to collaborate with veterinary cardiologists and nutritionists to gain a better understanding of the potential effects of grain-free diets on dogs.
The FDA’s July 2019 update included the names of dog food brands that appeared in at least 10 reports submitted through April 30, 2019. The majority of reports involved dry dog food, but raw, semi-moist, and wet foods were also represented. Brands mentioned include Acana, Zignature, Taste of the Wild, 4Health, Earthborn Holistic, Blue Buffalo, Nature’s Domain, Fromm, Merrick, California Natural, Natural Balance, Orijen, Nature’s Variety, Nutrisource, Nutro, and Rachael Ray Nutrish.
In the Dec. 1 issue of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, Lisa M. Freeman, DVM, Ph.D., DACVN, provided an update on DCM research, emphasizing that the issue extends beyond just grain-free diets. She refers to the suspected diets as “BEG” diets (boutique companies, exotic ingredients, or grain-free diets).
Freeman suggests the potential link between BEG diets and DCM could stem from ingredients replacing grains in grain-free diets, such as lentils or chickpeas. However, other common ingredients in BEG diets, like exotic meats, vegetables, and fruits, could also play a role.
Freeman stresses that while an association exists between DCM and BEG diets, the relationship remains unproven, and other factors may be equally or more significant.
The FDA encourages pet owners to report suspected diet-related DCM cases in dogs and cats through the Safety Reporting Portal.
Conclusion: Consult Your Veterinarian for the Best Dietary Advice
Ultimately, the most prudent approach to your dog’s dietary health is to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of your dog’s current diet, determine if grain-inclusive or grain-free options are appropriate, and monitor your dog for any signs of DCM if necessary. Working with your vet is crucial for making the best decisions for your dog’s long-term health and well-being.
