Mary Allen
Introduction: The Link Between Dog Food and Heart Disease
For many pet owners, their furry companions are considered family members. As such, they want to ensure that their dogs are receiving the best possible food to keep them healthy and happy. However, recent studies have shown that some brands of dog food may be linked to heart disease. This has understandably caused concern and confusion among pet owners. In this article, we will examine the brands of dog food that have been linked to heart disease and explore what pet owners can do to ensure their dogs are safe and healthy.
The FDA Investigation: What We Know So Far
In 2018, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched an investigation into a potential link between certain brands of dog food and heart disease in dogs. The investigation was prompted by reports of dogs developing dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that causes the heart to enlarge and makes it difficult to pump blood effectively. The FDA has since identified a list of 16 brands of dog food that have been linked to DCM. Pet owners are advised to be aware of these brands and to take steps to ensure their dogs are not consuming them.
Grain-Free Dog Foods: A Potential Culprit?
One of the common factors among the brands of dog food linked to heart disease is that they are marketed as grain-free. Grain-free dog foods have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many pet owners opting for these foods because they believe they are more natural and healthier for their dogs. However, some experts believe that the high levels of peas, lentils, and potatoes found in many grain-free dog foods may be contributing to the development of DCM. Pet owners are advised to speak to their veterinarian about the best type of food to give their dogs, particularly if they have been feeding a grain-free diet.
The 16 Brands of Dog Food Linked to Heart Disease
The FDA has identified 16 brands of dog food that have been linked to heart disease in dogs. These brands are:
- 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
- Rachael Ray Nutrish
These brands have all been linked to cases of DCM in dogs, although it’s important to note that not all dogs who consume these brands will develop the condition.
Brand #1: What You Need to Know
Acana is one of the brands of dog food that has been linked to DCM in dogs. The brand is marketed as a high-protein, grain-free dog food, and is manufactured by Champion Petfoods. The FDA has received reports of both dogs and cats developing DCM after consuming Acana pet food. Pet owners who are concerned about their dogs should speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Brand #2: What You Need to Know
Zignature is another brand of dog food that has been linked to heart disease in dogs. The brand is marketed as a limited-ingredient dog food, and is manufactured by Pets Global Inc. The FDA has received reports of dogs developing DCM after consuming Zignature pet food. Pet owners are advised to speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Brand #3: What You Need to Know
Taste of the Wild is a popular brand of dog food that has also been linked to heart disease in dogs. The brand is marketed as a grain-free, high-protein dog food, and is manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods. The FDA has received reports of both dogs and cats developing DCM after consuming Taste of the Wild pet food. Pet owners should speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Brand #4: What You Need to Know
4Health is a brand of dog food that is sold exclusively at Tractor Supply Company stores. The brand is marketed as a high-protein, grain-free dog food, and is manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods. The FDA has received reports of dogs developing DCM after consuming 4Health pet food. Pet owners who are concerned about their dogs should speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Brand #5: What You Need to Know
Earthborn Holistic is another brand of dog food that has been linked to heart disease in dogs. The brand is marketed as a grain-free, high-protein dog food, and is manufactured by Midwestern Pet Foods. The FDA has received reports of both dogs and cats developing DCM after consuming Earthborn Holistic pet food. Pet owners are advised to speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Brand #6: What You Need to Know
Blue Buffalo is a well-known brand of dog food that has also been linked to heart disease in dogs. The brand is marketed as a natural, high-quality dog food, and is manufactured by Blue Buffalo Co. Ltd. The FDA has received reports of both dogs and cats developing DCM after consuming Blue Buffalo pet food. Pet owners should speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Brand #7: What You Need to Know
Nature’s Domain is a brand of dog food that is sold exclusively at Costco stores. The brand is marketed as a grain-free, high-protein dog food, and is manufactured by Diamond Pet Foods. The FDA has received reports of dogs developing DCM after consuming Nature’s Domain pet food. Pet owners who are concerned about their dogs should speak to their veterinarian about alternative food options.
Conclusion: Choosing Safe and Nutritious Dog Food
Choosing the right food for your dog is an important part of keeping them healthy and happy. With the recent concerns regarding certain brands of dog food and heart disease, pet owners are understandably worried. It’s important to be aware of the brands that have been linked to heart disease and to speak to your veterinarian about alternative food options. Additionally, pet owners should consider the nutritional needs of their dogs and choose a high-quality, balanced diet that meets those needs. By taking these steps, pet owners can help ensure that their dogs are safe, healthy, and happy.