The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating a potential connection between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and dogs consuming specific grain-free diets. This ongoing investigation is of significant concern to pet owners, as diet plays a crucial role in a dog’s overall health and well-being.
Understanding the FDA’s Investigation into Grain-Free Dog Food
The FDA’s investigation stems from reports of DCM in dogs that had been on certain diets for extended periods. Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer of the AKC, explained that the diets of concern are those featuring legumes like peas or lentils, other legume seeds, or potatoes as primary ingredients.
Between January 1, 2014, and April 30, 2019, the FDA received 524 reports of DCM, affecting 515 dogs and 9 cats. The majority of these reports emerged after the FDA’s initial public alert in July 2018, indicating a notable increase in cases. It’s important to note that the total number of affected pets may be higher, as some reports covered multiple pets within a single household.
What is Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)?
Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a serious heart condition affecting the heart muscle in dogs. In dogs with DCM, the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively is diminished, often leading to congestive heart failure.
Certain breeds, particularly large and giant breeds, are genetically predisposed to DCM. These include Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds, and Saint Bernards. While less common in smaller breeds, English and American Cocker Spaniels also have a predisposition to this condition.
The FDA’s investigation noted that a significant number of DCM reports involved breeds not typically prone to the disease, such as Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Whippets, Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus. A common factor identified in these atypical cases was a diet that consistently included grain alternatives.
Should Dog Owners Be Concerned About Grain-Free Dog Food?
An update from the FDA in July 2019 revealed that over 90% of the dog food products implicated in DCM cases were grain-free. Furthermore, 93% of these foods contained peas and/or lentils, and 42% included potatoes or sweet potatoes.
While there is no definitive proof that these ingredients directly cause DCM in a wider range of dogs, pet owners are advised to be aware of the FDA’s alert. The agency is actively collaborating with veterinary cardiologists and nutritionists to gain a deeper understanding of the potential impact of grain-free diets on dogs.
The FDA’s July 2019 update also listed dog food brands that were mentioned 10 or more times in reports submitted up to April 30, 2019. These included brands like Acana, Zignature, Taste of the Wild, and Blue Buffalo, among others. While most reports involved dry dog food, raw, semi-moist, and wet food formulations were also represented.
Dr. Lisa M. Freeman, DVM, Ph.D., DACVN, further emphasized that the issue might not be solely with grain-free diets. She categorized suspected diets as “BEG” diets—those from boutique companies, featuring exotic ingredients, or being grain-free. Freeman suggested that ingredients used to replace grains, such as lentils and chickpeas, as well as other common components like exotic meats, vegetables, and fruits, could play a role. However, she stressed that while an association between BEG diets and DCM appears to exist, it has not been definitively proven, and other factors may be equally or more significant.
The FDA encourages pet owners to report any suspected cases of DCM in dogs and cats that they believe are linked to diet through their Safety Reporting Portal.
Prioritizing Your Dog’s Dietary Health
As a general guideline, the most effective approach to ensuring your dog’s dietary health is to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you evaluate the benefits and drawbacks of various diets, determine whether grain-inclusive or grain-free options are most suitable for your individual dog, and assist in monitoring for any signs of DCM. Choosing the right nutrition is key to supporting your dog’s long-term health.