Did you know that commercially available dog food may not be as wholesome as you think? It can even prove troublesome for some dogs. So, what is the dangerous ingredient in dog food?
Let’s find out by exploring some unwanted ingredients that are commonly added to commercial dog food. We’ll also look at some tips to help ensure that your dog is safe and healthy.
Pull Quote: Topping the list of bad dog food ingredients are artificial preservatives. Preservatives like BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ethoxyquin can cause cancer as well as liver and kidney damage.
Dangers of Certain Ingredients in Commercial Dog Food
Artificial Preservatives
Topping the list of bad dog food ingredients are artificial preservatives. Many commercial dog foods contain artificial preservatives such as BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole), BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene), and ethoxyquin. These preservatives are responsible for a multitude of maladies ranging from cancer to liver and kidney damage.
Fillers
Some dog food brands use fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy to bulk up their products. While they aren’t always harmful, they are very low in nutritional value. The hollow calories they contain can cause weight gain and digestive issues in dogs — definitely among the ingredients to avoid in dog food.
Meat By-Products
Meat by-products refer to parts of a butchered animal that are not fit for human consumption. These parts include the organs, sinew, hide, and bones. Dogs love meat and bones so what is the dangerous ingredient in dog food that contains these by-products? Well, while they are not inherently harmful, they are not a good source of protein and may contain high concentrations of harmful substances such as steroids and growth hormones.
Pull Quote: Some ingredients, like meat by-products, aren’t inherently harmful but they have low nutritional value and may contain harmful substances like steroids and growth hormones.
Artificial Colors and Flavors
Some dog food brands use artificial colors and flavors to make their products more appealing. However, these additives may cause allergic reactions, gastric distress, and even neurological problems in dogs.
Carrageenan
Carrageenan is a common thickener and stabilizer in many commercial dog food.
Studies have shown that carrageenan is linked to gastrointestinal tract issues such as inflammation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in dogs. Research has also hinted at a possible link between carrageenan and an increased risk of cancer in canines.
Corn Syrup and Sugars
Some dog food brands add corn syrup and sugars to their products to enhance their taste. However, these ingredients can lead to obesity, dental issues, and diabetes in dogs. In any case, sugar is one of the main ingredients to avoid in dog treats.
Grains
Aren’t grains healthy? What is the dangerous ingredient in dog food containing grains? Whole grains such as rice, oats, and barley can be a healthy source of carbohydrates for dogs and some commercial dog foods use grains as a filler to replace meat-based protein. This can lead to an unbalanced diet and digestive issues for some dogs.
Soy
Soy is another common filler in many commercial dog foods. It has been linked to allergic reactions and digestive problems in some dogs.
Sodium
Many commercial dog foods contain high levels of salt as added salt or sodium-based additives. These substances lead to dehydration, high blood pressure, and kidney disease in dogs. Be sure to read the label and choose a brand with moderate levels of sodium. Healthy amounts are between 0.25 grams to 1.5 grams for every 100 grams of food.
Chemical Additives
Some dog food brands add chemical additives such as propylene glycol which is used to maintain moisture in kibble. It is important to read the label as propylene glycol is known to cause anemia and other health issues in dogs, making it one of the main dog food ingredients to avoid.
How To Keep Your Dog Safe and Healthy
Pull Quote: One of the easiest and best things you can do to ensure your dog has a healthy diet is to read dog food labels. Avoid feeding your pet dog food with artificial, low-quality, and vague-sounding ingredients.
Read the Label
Look for ingredients you recognize and avoid those that are artificial, of low quality, or vague-sounding. For example, fillers, binders, etc.
Choose High-quality Brands
Choose dog food brands that use high-quality ingredients and are transparent about their sourcing and production processes. Brands like Wild Earth Dog Food are made using high-protein superfoods.
But is Wild Earth Dog Food good? Yes, Wild Earth Dog Food is made using vet-developed recipes with minimal additives so your pet enjoys a wholesome, healthy meal.
Cook for Your Dog
Consider cooking simple and healthy meals for your dog at home. This will ensure that your dog gets a balanced and nutritious diet without harmful additives.
Exercise
Regular exercise is essential for keeping your dog in good health and undoing the damage caused by commercially available dog food. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles and bones, and provides mental stimulation.
Consult Your Vet
If you’re unsure about what to feed your dog, consult your veterinarian. They can offer personalized advice based on your dog’s age, breed, and health.
Conclusion
A healthy and balanced diet is critical for the overall health and well-being of dogs. It is preferable to go the extra mile and raise a healthy animal than spend countless hours nursing a sick puppy back to health.
By avoiding harmful ingredients and choosing high-quality dog food brands, you can help ensure that your furry friend will be happy and healthy for years to come.
