The U. S. 16 dog food brands have been identified by the Food and Drug Administration as potentially increasing the risk of canine heart disease.
The announcement follows an investigation that was launched in July 2018 following the identification of several cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) linked to the food.
Early reports, according to the FDA in 2018, show that dogs who regularly consume food with peas, lentils, other legume seeds, or potatoes as the main ingredients are more likely to develop health problems.
The food is frequently advertised as being “grain-free,” it was noted. But last year, the agency avoided mentioning specific brands.
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 were among the dog food brands mentioned in the recent release.
While the Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane, and Irish Wolfhound are known to have higher rates of heart disease than other breeds, research has shown that other breeds are also susceptible.
A wide variety of breeds, including popularly kept ones like French bulldogs, pugs, retrievers, shepherds, and others, were mentioned in the reports of heart-related illnesses.
However, the FDA cautioned that this does not necessarily mean pet owners should stop using the brands.
Before making dietary changes, the FDA urged pet owners to consult with their veterinarians, who may consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist, to get the best dietary advice for their pet’s unique needs.
In an interview with Global News after the 2018 FDA statement, Patricia Alderson of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association echoed the same sentiment.
“There’s no one diet that’s right for every breed. People should really talk to veterinarians,” Alderson said.
Several companies mentioned in the FDA investigation have released statements, and Global News has contacted other companies for comments.
How are BEG diets and DCM linked?
Although the connection between DCM and diets high in exotic meats and legumes is still unknown, research is constantly revealing new hypotheses. Here’s what is currently known:
Nature’s Variety said the company takes this issue “very seriously” and that it wants to do what it can “to help determine if there is a link between diet and DCM, and how we can be part of providing a solution that helps all of our pets have long, happy and healthy lives.”
While the Doberman Pinscher, Great Dane, and Irish Wolfhound are known to have higher rates of heart disease than other breeds, research has shown that other breeds are also susceptible.
Several companies mentioned in the FDA investigation have released statements, and Global News has contacted other companies for comments.
The food is frequently advertised as being “grain-free,” it was noted. But last year, the agency avoided mentioning specific brands.
In an interview with Global News after the 2018 FDA statement, Patricia Alderson of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association echoed the same sentiment.
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — More than 500 cases of canine heart disease connected to grain-free dog food have now been looked into by the Food and Drug Administration.
A whopping 93% of products reported to contain peas and/or lentils, and more than 90% of dog food products identified as being “grain-free”
The FDA also identified Minnesota’s NutriSource, which has at least 10 cases of dilated cardiomyopathy, as one of the most well-known brands. In her initial WCCO report, Cordero covered a number of brands, including that one. As of Thursday evening, NutriSource has not responded to our request for comment on the new report.
Marshall has always had a bit of a sensitive stomach, so before we learned about that, we only fed him grain-free food, Nascene said. “Since that came out, we are a little bit confused. Actually, we’re giving him a little bit of both mixtures. We just arent sure which way to go. “.
While this is a significant update, the investigation isnt complete. Consult your veterinarian about the ideal diet for your dog until the FDA makes a final determination.
FAQ
Does NutriSource cause heart disease?
The FDA also identified Minnesota’s NutriSource as one of the most well-known brands linked to dilated cardiomyopathy, with at least 10 cases.
What dog food is giving dogs heart problems?
- Acana (67 cases)
- Zignature (64 cases)
- Taste of the Wild (53 cases)
- 4Health (32 cases)
- Earthborn Holistic (32 cases)
- Blue Buffalo (31 cases)
- Nature’s Domain (29 cases)
- Fromm (24 cases)
Does NutriSource have any recalls?
Following notification from the product’s manufacturer of possibly elevated Vitamin D levels, Tuffy’s Pet Foods is recalling roughly 1,600 cases of NutriSource Pure Vita Salmon Entree Dog Food in a Tetrapak carton as of October 11, 2021.
Does NutriSource dog food contain taurine?
NutriSource® grain-free formulas stand out thanks to balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, as well as L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride, and DL Methionine supplementation to support heart health. For more information please visit your local independent pet retailer.