The gluten-free diet, originally intended for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, has turned into a trend rather than a necessity. Currently, about 20% of Americans choose to follow a gluten-free diet, while medical issues related to gluten affect only 6% of the population.

While gluten is often seen as unhealthy, it’s important to realize that whole grains containing gluten provide essential fiber, B vitamins, and minerals, according to NYU Langone.

But how does this apply to dogs? Are gluten-containing foods harmful for them?

Is gluten safe for dogs?

For most dogs, gluten is not harmful. However, similar to humans, some dogs can have sensitivities that cause discomfort. Celiac disease is quite rare in dogs, affecting less than 1%, according to Purina.

Gluten exists in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, frequently used in pet foods as a cost-effective means to boost protein content, explains Claudio Salem, a member of the veterinary council at the gluten-free dog food brand PawFoods.

It’s advisable to consult your veterinarian before making your dog switch to a grain-free diet. The FDA started an investigation in 2018 regarding cases of canine dilated cardiomyopathy linked to grain-free diets. Generally, properly regulated dog food provides sufficient nutrition for your pet, experts have noted to YSL News.

Identifying gluten sensitivity in dogs

Signs of gluten sensitivity in dogs can include consistently loose or soft stool, diarrhea with mucus, and general lethargy, according to Salem. If you suspect your dog may be sensitive to gluten, a discussion with your vet is warranted. They might suggest transitioning your dog to a gluten-free food brand.

“Since we feed our dogs the same food daily, they don’t get a break from gluten if that’s present in their food, receiving it multiple times a day, which can lead to increasing gut inflammation,” states Salem.

Dogs with gluten sensitivities over time may struggle to absorb vital nutrients because of their body’s reaction to gluten. When their digestive system detects something harmful, it produces antibodies that may inflame the intestines, Salem explains.

“Consequently, in the long term, this could lead to nutrient malabsorption, which impacts not only the gluten but also other essential nutrients,” warns Salem.

Are certain dog breeds more likely to be gluten-sensitive?

Some studies indicate that Irish Setters might have a genetic predisposition to a condition known as “Gluten-sensitive enteropathy”. Nonetheless, Salem argues that there isn’t enough evidence to definitively identify which breeds are more likely to be affected.