Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive Pet Food: What Pet Owners Really Need to Know

When it comes to choosing the right food for your dog or cat, the debate between grain-free pet food and grain-inclusive pet food often comes up. Pet parents want the best nutrition, but headlines and online discussions can sometimes make the decision confusing—especially around heart health concerns like dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

The good news? The FDA has found no evidence that grain-free pet food causes DCM. Let’s break down what that means and how to choose the best diet for your pet.

What Is Grain-Free Pet Food?

Grain-free pet foods are formulated without common grains such as wheat, corn, barley, rice, or oats. Instead, they often use ingredients like sweet potatoes, peas, or lentils as carbohydrate sources.

Pet parents may choose grain-free diets if their pets have:

  • Food sensitivities or allergies to grains

  • Digestive issues where grains may be harder to process

  • A preference for diets that more closely resemble a pet’s ancestral diet

What Is Grain-Inclusive Pet Food?

Grain-inclusive pet foods contain healthy whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, or barley. These grains can be a valuable source of:

  • Energy from complex carbohydrates

  • Fiber for digestive health

  • Vitamins and minerals that support overall well-being

Many pets thrive on grain-inclusive diets, and they can be an affordable, balanced option for everyday feeding.

The FDA and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)

In 2018, the FDA began looking into a possible link between grain-free diets and cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition. This raised concerns among pet owners and veterinarians.

However, after years of research and collaboration with veterinary cardiologists, universities, and pet food companies, the FDA announced that:

👉 There is no scientific evidence proving that grain-free diets cause DCM.

In fact, the FDA closed its investigation without issuing recalls or warnings against grain-free diets. The consensus now is that DCM is a complex condition influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, breed predispositions, and overall diet formulation—not just the presence or absence of grains.

So, Should You Feed Grain-Free or Grain-Inclusive?

The best choice depends on your pet’s individual needs:

✅ If your pet has grain sensitivities, grain-free may be the best option.
 ✅ If your pet does well on whole grains, a grain-inclusive diet may provide great nutrition.
 ✅ What matters most is choosing a complete and balanced diet made with high-quality ingredients.

When shopping for food, always look for:

  • AAFCO-approved formulations (ensuring balanced nutrition)

  • High-quality protein sources (meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient)

  • Transparency from the brand (clear labeling and sourcing practices)

Final Thoughts

Both grain-free and grain-inclusive pet foods can be excellent choices. The key is understanding your pet’s unique needs and selecting a food that supports their overall health. And remember—the FDA has confirmed there’s no direct link between grain-free food and DCM, so you can feel confident choosing the option that works best for your furry friend.

Here at Perk Valley Pet, we carry a variety of grain-free and grain-inclusive pet food options and are happy to help you find the perfect diet for your dog or cat. Stop by and let us guide you in making the best choice for your pet’s health.