Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart condition characterized by the enlargement and weakening of the heart muscle, making it less efficient at pumping blood. This progressive disease can lead to congestive heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, and sudden death. While some breeds have a genetic predisposition, a potential link exists between DCM and specific dietary choices. This article explores the connection between diet and DCM, offering guidance on food selections.
The Dietary Link to Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Veterinary cardiologists and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are investigating a link between certain dog foods and DCM, especially in breeds not typically prone to the condition. This concern often centers on “Boutique, Exotic Ingredient, and Grain-Free” (BEG) diets. The FDA began investigating reports in July 2018, noting many implicated foods were “grain-free” and contained high proportions of peas, lentils, other legumes, or potatoes as main ingredients.
While the precise mechanism linking these diets to DCM is still under investigation, a strong correlation exists. Some diet-associated DCM cases are linked to taurine deficiency, an amino acid vital for heart function. However, DCM can also occur in dogs with normal taurine levels, suggesting other dietary factors, such as interference with nutrient absorption or metabolism, also contribute. The issue is complex and involves multiple factors beyond just the absence of grains.
Common Ingredients of Concern
Ingredients frequently found in BEG diets are often linked to diet-associated DCM. Legumes, such as peas, lentils, and chickpeas, are common alternatives to traditional grains like corn, rice, or wheat in grain-free formulations. When present in high proportions, especially within the first 10 ingredients on a food label, these have been noted in many DCM cases.
Potatoes, including sweet potatoes, are another common ingredient identified in diets linked to DCM, often appearing alongside legumes. While not legumes, their prominent inclusion in grain-free diets as a carbohydrate source is a concern. Exotic protein sources like kangaroo, duck, bison, and venison, when serving as the primary protein, are also cited in some diet-associated DCM cases. These ingredients can interfere with nutrient bioavailability or metabolism, contributing to cardiac issues.
Selecting a Safe and Balanced Diet
To promote heart health and overall well-being, dog owners should prioritize diets formulated by reputable companies. These companies often employ board-certified veterinary nutritionists who oversee diet formulation and conduct feeding trials. Choosing diets that adhere to Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional guidelines, especially those substantiated by AAFCO feeding trials, ensures nutritional adequacy.
Opt for diets with traditional ingredients and well-established protein sources like chicken, beef, or lamb, including grains such as corn, rice, or wheat. Unless a veterinarian advises a grain-free diet for a specific medical reason, avoid them given ongoing concerns. Foods from companies that invest in scientific research and quality control offer a more balanced and safer option for most dogs.
When to Consult Your Veterinarian
Consulting your veterinarian is essential for any dietary changes or concerns about your dog’s heart health. They can assess your dog’s individual needs, considering breed predispositions and existing health conditions. If DCM is suspected, a veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests, such as an echocardiogram to evaluate heart structure and function, and blood tests to check taurine levels.
Your veterinarian can recommend appropriate dietary adjustments, including switching food formulations or considering taurine supplementation if a deficiency is identified. This information serves as general awareness, but professional medical advice from a qualified veterinarian is essential for your dog’s health.