Best Dog Food to Avoid DCM: Top Picks for a Healthy Diet

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart disease that affects dogs and can lead to heart failure. Recently, there has been a link between certain types of dog food and DCM, causing concern among pet owners. As a result, many are looking for the best dog food to avoid DCM.

When it comes to choosing dog food, there are various factors to consider, such as the dog’s age, breed, and activity level. However, for those concerned about DCM, the critical thing to pay attention to is the ingredients. Some dog foods contain high levels of peas, lentils, legumes, and potatoes, which have been linked to DCM in some dogs. Therefore, it’s essential to choose dog food that is low in these ingredients.

We have researched and tested several types of dog food to identify the ones that are best for avoiding DCM. Our goal is to help pet owners make an informed decision about what to feed their furry friends.

Best Dog Food to Avoid DCM

We understand that choosing the right dog food can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to avoiding Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). As responsible pet owners, we want to ensure that our furry friends receive the best nutrition possible to maintain their overall health and well-being. To help you make an informed decision, we have compiled a list of the best dog foods that are free from ingredients that may contribute to the development of DCM. These products have been thoroughly researched and tested to ensure that they meet our high standards for quality and safety. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best dog food to avoid DCM.

SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish

If you’re looking for a low-fat dog food that is suitable for dogs with pancreatitis, we highly recommend the SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish.

Pros

• A premium alternative to low-fat veterinary diets at a great value without the need for a prescription.
• Veterinarian-formulated low-fat formula for dogs that may have difficulties digesting fat, including dogs that may be prone to developing pancreatitis.
• Certified sustainable and wild-caught – The Pacific Cod and Ocean whitefish meal are sourced from fisheries that have been independently certified to the Marine Stewardship Council’s standard for being well-managed and sustainable.

Cons

• Some users have reported a strong smell.
• The calorie content may be overstated.
• May cause diarrhea in some dogs.

We were impressed by the SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish. It contains a proprietary dietary fiber blend which includes high-quality soluble and insoluble fiber sources, prebiotics, and probiotics to help support healthy digestion. The formula also includes crucial omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids including DHA -amp; EPA, which support healthy skin and a shiny coat, immune system health, and brain function.

The SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish is all-natural, with no chemical preservatives or fillers. It is made in the USA and contains no ingredients from China.

In terms of feeding instructions, the recommended feeding guidelines for adult dogs per day are:

• 2 to 10lbs………………… ¼ to ¾ cups
• 10 to 15lbs………………. ¾ to 1 cups
• 15 to 20lbs………………. 1 to 1-1/4 cups
• 20 to 30lbs………………. 1-1/4 to 1-3/4 cups
• 30 to 40lbs………………. 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 cups
• 40 to 50lbs………………. 2-1/4 to 2-3/4 cups
• 50 to 60lbs………………. 2-3/4 to 3 cups
• 60 to 70lbs………………. 3 to 3-1/4 cups
• 70 to 80lbs………………. 3-1/4 to 3-3/4 cups
• 80 to 90lbs………………. 3-3/4 to 4 cups
• 90 to 100lbs…………….. 4 to 4-1/2 cups

Overall, we believe the SquarePet Veterinarian Formulated Solutions Low Fat Content Lean Whitefish is an excellent choice for dogs with pancreatitis or those who may have difficulties digesting fat.

Fromm Weight Management Gold Premium Dry Dog Food – Weight Management Dog Food for Medium -amp; Small Breeds – Turkey Recipe – 30 lb Turkey 30 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend the Fromm Weight Management Gold Premium Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that helps manage their dog’s weight. This turkey recipe dog food is perfect for small and medium breeds and meets nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.

Pros

• The turkey liver in the dog kibble is a highly palatable source of protein that provides the amino acids required for maintaining muscle, tissue repair, hormone synthesis, and metabolic processes.
• The mix of whole grains in the dry food provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates, which can provide energy and fiber.
• Fromm is a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated pet food company based in Wisconsin that is dedicated to providing exceptional foods to pet families everywhere.

Cons

• The price of this dog food is on the higher side.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the turkey recipe.
• The bag does not come with a resealable closure.

This dog food is perfect for pet owners who are looking for a weight control dog food for small and medium breeds. The Fromm Weight Management Gold Premium Dry Dog Food is easy to feed and provides all the necessary nutrients required by your dog. We have noticed that our dog’s weight has been well-managed since we started using this dog food. The turkey recipe is highly palatable, and our dog loves the taste.

The Fromm family has been in the pet food industry for over a century, and their expertise is evident in the quality of their products. The dry food for dogs contains a mix of whole grains that provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates, which can provide energy and fiber. The dog kibble contains turkey liver, which is a highly digestible and palatable source of protein that provides the amino acids required for maintaining muscle, tissue repair, hormone synthesis, and metabolic processes.

In conclusion, we highly recommend the Fromm Weight Management Gold Premium Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that helps manage their dog’s weight. The turkey recipe dog food is perfect for small and medium breeds and meets nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 21 lb. Bag

If you want a high-quality dog food that is both protein-rich and grain-free, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Love Is Raw: Our Raw Coated dog food offers the protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve; each bite is coated in delicious and nutritious freeze-dried raw meat.
• Feed Your Dog’s Wild Side! Our Ocean Recipe includes six fish protein sources that your dog will sure love: trout, whitefish, salmon, cod, mackerel and herring — perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.
• Whole Prey Ingredients: Feeding your pet a diet similar to what their ancestors enjoyed in the wild helps your pet thrive; 86% of the recipe’s protein comes from animal muscle meat, cartilage and organ meat.

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some reviewers have reported that the kibble doesn’t really appear to be raw coated like the pictures advertise.
• Short expiry date.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for a few months now and we have seen a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and overall health. The protein-rich taste of the food is something that our dog loves and we have noticed that she has more energy and is more active than before.

The Whole Prey Ingredients are a great addition to the recipe as it helps our dog thrive and stay healthy. The absence of legumes, artificial colors, flavor or preservatives makes it a great choice for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.

However, we do acknowledge that the price of this dog food is on the higher side compared to other brands. Additionally, some reviewers have reported that the kibble doesn’t really appear to be raw coated like the pictures advertise. We also noticed that the expiry date of the product is relatively short.

Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food with excellent nutritional value and protein-rich taste, Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe is a great choice.

IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports digestive health and is made with real chicken, IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food might be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Contains essential nutrients for whole body health
• Supports regularity and healthy stools
• Made with real farm-raised chicken

Cons

• May contain trace amounts of wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives
• Some customers find the kibble size too large for small dogs
• Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies

We recently tried IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with real chicken for our furry friend and were impressed with the results. The kibble is highly digestible, which helped our dog maintain regular bowel movements and healthy stools. The fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics in the recipe also supported nutrient absorption, which is important for overall health.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it contains essential nutrients for whole body health. We were happy to see that it is 100% complete and balanced with 0% fillers. This means that our dog was getting all the nutrients he needed without any unnecessary additives.

We also appreciated that the kibble is made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient and is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors, or preservatives. However, it is important to note that trace amounts of these ingredients may be present due to potential cross-contact during manufacturing.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Advanced Health Adult Healthy Digestion Dry Dog Food with real chicken to pet owners looking for a dog food that supports digestive health and provides essential nutrients for whole body health.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

We highly recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement for pet owners who want to give their dogs a tasty and nutritious meal.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with 100% natural ingredients, from real chicken and duck to real vegetables.

Cons

• This product is a bit expensive compared to other dog food products available in the market.
• Not suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken or duck.
• Some customers reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this product.

We have tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. This natural dog food is made without grains and containing no chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*. We love that this product is made with real, recognizable ingredients that are easy to digest for our furry friends.

We also appreciate that this product is versatile and can be used as a mix-in, topper or snack. We mixed it with our dog’s favorite dry food and it added an extra layer of flavor that made him wag his tail with excitement. We also love that this product comes in a variety pack that includes chicken and chicken -amp; duck recipes in bone broth.

Overall, we highly recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement to pet owners who want to give their dogs a high-quality meal that is made with natural ingredients and provides added nutrition.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains for dogs who need a high-quality diet to avoid DCM. This dry dog kibble provides a balanced blend of natural fiber and prebiotics to support healthy digestion, 7 essential nutrients to help maintain a healthy heart, and antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system.

Pros

• Supports healthy digestion with a tailored blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
• Formulated to support whole-body health, including 7 essential nutrients to help support a healthy heart
• Enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May cause upset stomach if introduced too quickly
• More expensive than some other brands

Our experience with IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks has been excellent. Our dog loves the taste and has had no digestive issues since switching to this food. The small kibble size is perfect for smaller dogs and is easy for them to chew. We appreciate that IAMS offers a portfolio of wet and dry food for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs, providing tailored nutrition for every pet’s unique needs at every stage of life.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains for dogs who need a high-quality diet to avoid DCM. While it may be more expensive than some other brands, the health benefits make it worth the investment.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag

We highly recommend purchasing the Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe. This dog food is packed with responsibly sourced, animal-based protein from multiple meat sources and coated with freeze-dried raw meat, providing a protein-rich taste dogs crave with the nutrition they deserve.

Pros

• The recipe includes six fish protein sources that your dog will love, perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.
• The food is fortified with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, improving your dog’s entire well-being, with fiber and probiotics for digestive support and taurine for heart health.
• The recipe has no unnecessary fillers and only the finest ingredients, making it easy for dogs of all life stages to digest.

Cons

• The price of the food has doubled since the last time we tried it.
• The expiration date is not clearly stated in the product listing, and some customers have received bags with a short expiry date.
• Some customers have reported that the kibble does not appear to be raw coated like the pictures advertise.

We have been using Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for several months now, and our dogs absolutely love it. The recipe’s whole prey ingredients help our pets thrive, and the antioxidants from fruits and veggies help support a healthy immune system. Additionally, the omega fatty acids from chia and pumpkin seeds and salmon oil provide skin and coat support, making our dogs look and feel their best.

We appreciate that the recipe has no white potatoes, legumes, peas, lentils, or by-product meals, and never any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. We also love that the food is crafted in the USA with responsibly sourced, premium ingredients and a small-batch production process.

Overall, we highly recommend Stella -amp; Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Grain -amp; Legume Free Ocean Recipe for any dog owner looking for a nutritious, high-quality dog food to avoid DCM.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports your dog’s overall health, IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with real chicken as the first ingredient
• Enriched with antioxidants to support a strong immune system
• Omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• Contains some fillers

We’ve been using IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for our dog for several months now, and we’re impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste of the smaller kibble, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his coat’s condition. We appreciate that this dog food is complete and balanced, with no fillers, and supports our dog’s whole-body health.

We’re also happy that this dog food is enriched with antioxidants to support our dog’s immune system. We’ve noticed that our dog has been less susceptible to illness since we switched to this dog food. Additionally, the dog food’s Omega-6 fatty acids support healthy skin and a soft, shiny coat, which is a significant plus for us.

Overall, we highly recommend IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for dog owners looking for a high-quality dog food that supports their dog’s overall health.

SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula Special Needs Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports kidney health in dogs, SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Formulated for dogs with special needs
• Enriched with antioxidants including vitamins E -amp; C
• Essential omega 3 -amp; 6 fatty acids including DHA -amp; EPA

Cons

• May cause an upset stomach if your dog eats too fast
• Price can increase dramatically
• Contains more phosphorus than some RX brands

We have a 13-year-old dog with chronic kidney disease, and we’ve tried several different dog foods. After trying SquarePet VFS, we were impressed with the results. The targeted amounts of protein, phosphorus, and sodium provide the necessary nutrition to support kidney health in dogs. The high-quality USA raised cage-free turkey and whole eggs provide the necessary building blocks to support strong muscles. Taurine is an important amino acid for heart health, and L-Carnitine helps metabolize fatty acids for energy production.

We also appreciate that the formula is enriched with clinically proven antioxidants including vitamins E -amp; C to help support the immune system. The salmon oil supplies the crucial Omega-3 Fatty Acids DHA -amp; EPA to support the immune system and brain function. Our dog loves the taste, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in her overall health.

One downside is that the food may cause an upset stomach if your dog eats too fast. Additionally, the price can increase dramatically, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Finally, some RX brands contain less phosphorus than SquarePet VFS, which may be a concern for dogs with more advanced kidney disease.

Overall, we highly recommend SquarePet VFS Low Phosphorus Formula for dogs with special needs. It’s made with trusted ingredients and was developed by SquarePet’s team of certified veterinary nutritionists and veterinarian owner.

OPtimeal Small Breed Dog Food – Lamb -amp; Rice

We highly recommend the OPtimeal Small Breed Dog Food – Lamb -amp; Rice for small dogs who need a high-protein diet to support healthy digestion and joint health.

Pros

• Fresh lamb is the first ingredient, providing highly digestible quality protein and a taste that dogs love.
• Packed with wholesome grains to help improve your small adult pet’s vitality and energy levels.
• Supports healthy digestion with highly digestible protein, fiber, and prebiotic FOS.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble may be too small for larger small breeds.
• May be more expensive than other dog food brands.

We recently tried the OPtimeal Small Breed Dog Food – Lamb -amp; Rice for our small dog and were impressed with the results. The fresh lamb as the first ingredient provided a highly digestible quality protein that our dog loved. The wholesome grains in the formula helped improve our dog’s vitality and energy levels, while also providing essential nutrients and carbohydrates for healthy energy.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it supports healthy digestion with highly digestible protein, fiber, and prebiotic FOS. Our dog’s tiny tummy stayed healthy and happy, and we noticed a significant improvement in their overall digestive health.

Another benefit of the OPtimeal Small Breed Dog Food – Lamb -amp; Rice is that it supports healthy skin and a shiny coat with Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, Zinc, and Copper. Our dog’s coat was noticeably shinier and healthier after just a few weeks of eating this dog food.

While there are some cons to this product, such as the potential for some dogs not to like the taste of lamb and the kibble being too small for larger small breeds, we believe that the benefits of this dog food outweigh the drawbacks. Overall, we highly recommend the OPtimeal Small Breed Dog Food – Lamb -amp; Rice for small dogs who need a high-protein diet to support healthy digestion and joint health.

Buying Guide

When choosing a dog food to avoid DCM, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some things to consider when making your decision:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dog food is the ingredient list. Look for high-quality, whole food ingredients like chicken, beef, and fish. Avoid foods that list meat by-products or meat meals as the main ingredient, as these can be less nutritious and lower quality.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the food you choose is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s specific needs. Look for foods that meet the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

Brand Reputation

Choose a brand with a good reputation for quality and safety. Look for companies that have been in business for a while and have a history of producing high-quality dog food.

Grain-Free or Not?

There is some controversy around whether grain-free dog food is linked to DCM. While there is no definitive evidence either way, it may be worth considering a non-grain-free food to be safe.

Consult with Your Vet

It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet. They can help you determine the best food for your dog based on their individual needs and health concerns.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing a dog food that will help keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should we feed our dog to prevent dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)?

To prevent DCM, it is recommended to feed your dog a diet that contains a balanced amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It is also important to ensure that the food contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.

Which ingredients should be avoided in dog food to reduce the risk of DCM?

There is ongoing research on the link between certain ingredients and DCM in dogs. Some ingredients that have been associated with DCM include legumes (such as peas and lentils), potatoes, and certain types of meat. However, it is important to note that the exact cause of DCM is still unknown and further research is needed.

Are there any dog breeds that are more susceptible to developing DCM?

Yes, certain breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, and Great Danes have been found to be more susceptible to developing DCM. It is important to monitor these breeds closely and consult with a veterinarian on the best diet for their specific needs.

What dog foods have been linked to a lower incidence of heart disease in dogs?

Some dog foods that have been linked to a lower incidence of heart disease in dogs include those that contain high-quality sources of protein, such as chicken and fish. It is also important to choose foods that contain a variety of fruits and vegetables for added nutrients.

Is there an FDA-approved list of dog foods that are safe for dogs at risk of DCM?

No, there is currently no FDA-approved list of dog foods that are safe for dogs at risk of DCM. However, the FDA continues to investigate the link between DCM and certain ingredients in dog food.

How does grain-free dog food relate to the development of heart problems in dogs?

There is ongoing research on the link between grain-free dog food and the development of heart problems in dogs. Some studies have suggested that a lack of grains in a dog’s diet may lead to a deficiency in certain nutrients that are important for heart health. It is important to consult with a veterinarian on the best diet for your dog’s specific needs.