Have you heard about the rising popularity of gluten-free and grain-free diets? Many people are trying them, and now some dog owners are curious whether these diets could benefit their pups, too. If you're considering gluten and grain-free dog treats for your pet, it's useful to understand the differences and similarities between them.
What Is Gluten?
Gluten is a name for barley, wheat, and rye proteins. It acts as a binder in dog food, helping it keep its shape. So, gluten-free dog treats mean avoiding these grains.
Most dog food and treats contain a high proportion of gluten, often used as a cheaper ingredient in mass-produced brands.
Is Gluten Bad For Dogs?
Usually not. Most dogs are okay with gluten, and allergies are rare (about 1% of dogs). However, gluten can cause problems for those with allergies or sensitivities, possibly damaging their intestines or causing other health issues.
They might experience gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, gas, skin or ear infections, excessive itching, and dull coat or hair loss.
What Is Grain?
Grains are the seeds of grasses like oats, soy, wheat, rice, corn, sorghum, millet, rye, and barley. They are a huge part of the human diet worldwide, providing almost half our calories. We also use them to feed animals and make cooking oils and fuels. Grains are plants that grow, produce seeds, and die within a year.
Grain-free dog treats mean no grains at all – that's rice, wheat, barley, oats, and rye.
Are Grains Bad for Dogs?
Generally, no. Unless your dog has a rare grain allergy, grains are nutritious and beneficial. It's a myth that grains cause allergies in most dogs. In fact, most dogs can easily digest and get good things from grain-based food.
Even though it's uncommon, you might feel better feeding grain-free dog treats. That's perfectly fine because grains are the main starch source in dog food. A little starch is fine, as it provides energy, but too much can lead to weight gain and digestive problems.
Gluten-Free and Grain-Free Dog Treats Might Improve Skin and Coat
Gluten and grain-free diets often have more animal protein than those with grains. Since animal protein provides all the essential amino acids dogs need for healthy skin and a shiny coat, gluten and grain-free dog treats may improve your dog's coat and skin.
Reducing Inflammation With Gluten and Grain-Free Dog Treats
Another benefit of gluten-free and grain-free dog treats is that they can help manage inflammation. Diets high in grains can increase insulin production, which can cause inflammation and make it harder for your dog to maintain a healthy weight – potentially leading to diabetes and other issues.
Reducing grains may mean less need for medication like steroids or antibiotics often used to treat allergy symptoms.
5 Best-Selling Gluten-Free & Grain-Free Dog Treats
#1 Premium Beef Tails
Our best-selling chews are a hit for a reason! Made from 100% dried beef tail – nothing artificial added – these all-natural chews are long-lasting, crunchy, and chewy thanks to the natural cartilage. They're perfect for keeping teeth and gums clean for puppies aged 12 weeks and older.
Chewing is natural for dogs, and these beef tails help exercise their jaws, clean their teeth, and provide mental stimulation – a great way to prevent destructive chewing.
#2 Pure Meat Sticks
Spoil your pup with these delicious, soft, pure meat sticks! Made with 100% responsibly sourced prime meat – venison, salmon, turkey, lamb, chicken, beef, or ostrich – these grain and gluten-free dog treats are completely additive and preservative-free.
Naturally hypoallergenic and omega-rich, these dog treats are full of protein to support muscle and tissue repair. They are easily digestible and perfect for even the most sensitive tummies. These healthy dog treats are ideal rewards or enrichment snacks, suitable for puppies from four weeks old and all breeds and sizes.
Buy two packs (2x50g) of your favourite Pure Meat Sticks and save!
#3 Himalayan Yak Bar
We often overlook how differently dogs' stomachs react to various foods. That's why these Himalayan Yak chews are a great choice. They're entirely grain and gluten-free, handmade with simple, natural ingredients that are gentle on sensitive digestive systems and highly palatable for dogs.
Himalayan Yak chews offer hours of entertainment and chewing activity. It's hard not to smile while watching your pooch happily gnaw away on these grain-free and gluten-free chews!
Veterinarians and dog lovers alike praise these treats for their ability to remove plaque and promote excellent oral hygiene. This helps maintain healthy teeth as your dog ages and even improves breath by cleaning those hard-to-reach areas around the teeth.
#4 Pure Meat Coins
These healthy treats are made from delicious, air-dried protein pâté and use only the finest cuts of human-grade meat sourced from the UK and Europe. Pure Meat Coins are gluten and grain-free dog treats; they're rich in protein from 100% fresh meat, making them easily digestible and perfect for even the most sensitive pups.
Naturally hypoallergenic, these nutritious treats are ideal as reward snacks and suitable for puppies from four weeks old and all breeds and sizes. No additives or preservatives are used – you can relax knowing your dog is getting the best.
#5 Buffalo Hooves
Buffalo Hooves are completely additive—and preservative-free, perfect for satisfying your dog's natural chewing instincts and promoting healthy teeth and gums. They are also 100% gluten—and grain-free, and they are suitable for puppies aged twelve weeks and older.
They're tough enough even for heavy chewers! For added fun, try stuffing the hollow centre with pure pâté or peanut butter.
With Buffalo Hooves, you get excellent dental care and long-lasting chewing fun that releases endorphins, creating a positive mood for your canine companion.
Are Gluten and Grain-Free Dog Treats Good for My Pet?
It depends on your dog's age, activity level, and special needs. Puppies, adults, and senior dogs all have different nutritional requirements, such as weight, breed size, and skin sensitivity. Other health factors also play a role.
Most grain-free dog treats avoid gluten-containing ingredients like wheat, barley, rye, and oats. However, it's always best to double-check.
If you choose gluten-free and grain-free dog treats, ensure they're all-natural, complete, and balanced. Ultimately, it's your decision, but make sure it's informed by facts and your dog's needs.
But you don't have to worry about checking labels with our selection—they're all-natural, 100% gluten-free, and grain-free! We've done the hard work for you.
