Carbohydrates – how good are they for the dog?

Ready-made feeds often contain a large proportion of carbohydrates. We look at the question of how good these actually are for the dog. To do so, you have to keep in mind that the dog is not a pure carnivore but a prey eater. Carbohydrates, which mostly occur in the form of starch and sugar, are important energy providers. The dog's body uses them to release energy. However, the dog's digestion cannot process large quantities. So an animal can react with diarrhoea to too much starch, which is the most important form of energy in plants.

Using carbohydrates sensibly in dog nutrition

When carbohydrates are fed in small amounts, the dog's body stores them as complex sugars, and excessive amounts are laid down as fat. Carbohydrates are contained in grains, vegetables, fruit and dietary fibre. Grain provides the largest proportion of starch but, in our view, should not be fed as the main component. Pseudocereals such as amaranth or buckwheat are, however, fine in small amounts. There are, though, reasons why feeding carbohydrates should be avoided, such as in the case of existing allergies. Types of grain are also frequently involved in the development of various chronic illnesses.

The often excessive proportion of carbohydrates in ready-made products

For many dogs, the amount in conventional food is too high. We have analysed various types of grain and their effects. Wheat has the highest gluten content and is thus the number 1 allergy trigger. Rye is energy-rich but also hard to digest and can promote allergies. Maize contains a proportion of minerals, trace elements and vitamins, but can likewise trigger allergic reactions. Oats have the highest fat content of all grains and can be used in moderation for recovery after illness or in the case of inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

• Rice as a pH-neutral grain with important amino acids
• Spelt with a high content of silicic acid for coat and skin
• Barley as a provider of calcium, iron and B vitamins
• Millet as a nutrient-rich means of supporting the organs

Rice should always be given very well cooked and almost mushy. Spelt is important for skin function, the coat and the brain, but can also trigger allergies. Thanks to its high silicic acid content, millet has a positive effect on allergy-plagued dogs, provided it is given in moderation. Unfortunately, grain is often used in feeds as a cheap filler to reach the sale weight. It is not to be rejected outright, but does not belong on the nutrition list in large quantities. Wholegrain rice, millet, amaranth and buckwheat are acceptable in moderate amounts.

The optimal preparation of fruit and vegetables

The dog can only digest all types of fruit and vegetable, and absorb their nutrients, in pureed or briefly steamed form. We recommend using vegetables more often than fruit, in order to keep the burden from fruit acid low. The potato, for example, has about 15 per cent starch. It absolutely must be cooked, and green spots are to be removed beforehand. As starch turns into sugar, it should not be on the menu constantly. Now and then it is fine in moderation, but does not necessarily have to be part of the diet.

This article serves as general information and as a holistic consideration of healthy dog nutrition.