Imagine if you could speak fluently with your beloved Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Lulu or Buster. Just think about the conversations you could have! You might ask about their dreams, discuss their opinion on squirrels, or delve deeper into the age-old mystery of “Who’s a good boy?” Or, maybe you’d ask a pressing question that most Corgi owners have in mind: What kind of food do you prefer? While we can’t communicate with dogs like we do with humans yet, science and canine nutrition offer some insight into this particularly pressing culinary canine question: Should Cardigan Welsh Corgis eat grain-free?
So, why grain-free for a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, you may ask? It’s a topic that’s certainly causing quite a stir among Corgi owners, pet experts, and vets alike. Grain-free diets have become increasingly popular among human diets. We see it everywhere, gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and the list goes on, but it might leave you wondering if our little four-legged friends should jump on this health trend bandwagon too.
Some believe that because their ancestors (a breed crafted by nature and farmers to be masterful herders) had no Interac cards to swipe at the local pet store. Thus, their diet consisted mainly of meat and some incorporation of fruits and vegetables, but grains were typically not included. On the other hand, those against the grain-free movement argue that domestic dogs have evolved alongside humans and are perfectly capable of digesting and benefiting from grains, making them a key part of a balanced diet.
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this controversy and shed some light on whether your Cardigan Welsh Corgi should go grain-free or not.
Firstly, it’s essential to know that not all grains are created equally, and in fact, the quality of the grain is more important than their presence in your dog’s diet. Grains like wheat or corn may not be as beneficial than whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and oatmeal. These whole grains are packed with valuable nutrients like fiber, protein, and vitamins that your Corgi might miss out on if they’re on a grain-free diet.
However, just as some humans may be intolerant to certain types of foods, the same applies to man’s best friend. Some Corgis may have a sensitivity or allergy to certain grains, which can cause skin issues, gastrointestinal discomfort, and ill health. In these cases, a grain-free diet might be the healthier option.
But, there’s a noteworthy difference between grain-free and gluten-free. Gluten, a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, is usually the culprit behind grain allergies in dogs. So, if your Corgi has a documented allergy to gluten specifically, there’s no obligatory reason to remove rice, corn, or oatmeal from their diet.
Interestingly, a study conducted by the FDA has raised a potential link between grain-free diets and a heart disease called Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Nonetheless, this link isn’t entirely definitive, and research is ongoing. However, it has caused a stir within the grain-free community and further emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet.
So, what’s the final verdict? Should your Cardigan Welsh Corgi go grain-free? It primarily depends on your individual dog. If your Corgi has been diagnosed by a vet with an allergy to a specific type of grain, by all means, adjust the diet accordingly. Diets should always be tailored to the individual, not based on what’s currently trendy.
However, if your Corgi is currently happy, healthy, and barking with glee on a diet that contains grains, there’s no concrete evidence to suggest that you should change their diet. As with any diet, the focus should be on balance, ensuring that your good boy or girl receives the right amount of protein, carbohydrates, and essential fats they need to lead a healthy life.
Here’s an interesting fact to end on: Queen Elizabeth II is known for her love of Corgis, and she reportedly feeds her furry friends a diet that includes (but is not limited to) fish, rabbit, and… yes, you guessed it, grains.
As always, before making significant changes to your pet’s diet, consult with a professional pet nutritionist or vet. After all, your Cardigan Welsh Corgi’s health should always come first, much like their innate ability to herd anything and everything, including you, if you stand still long enough. Grains or no grains, your Corgi will continue to love you unconditionally, the way only a dog can.
