Once upon a time in the lush, sweeping meadows of France, a majestic breed of dog with flowing locks and soulful eyes protected flocks of sheep from sly, sneaky wolves. This brightly intelligent, fearless guardian is known as the Briard. Fast forward to today, and the Briard, still with that sharp wit and guardian spirit, spends more days playing fetch in the backyard than herding sheep. Yet, the nutrition that fuels their spirited bodies continues to be a topic of much discussion among pet owners. One of the key debates in the canine culinary world is about grain-free diets—should a Briard or any dog for that matter partake in this modern feeding trend?
The answer is more complex than a simple “oui” or “non,” and it requires us to dig into the history of domesticated dog diets. Wild dogs ate a variety of food that they hunted or scavenged, which might occasionally have included grains, but their diets were primarily composed of meat. As dogs became human companions, their diets changed to include more grains and cereals, as these were staple parts of human diets, especially in agrarian societies.
The grain-free movement in dog nutrition is a relatively new one, believed by some to be better aligned with the ancestral diet of dogs. Proponents argue that many dogs have allergies or sensitivities to grains that can lead to health issues such as digestive problems, itching, and poor coat quality. Others suggest that a diet rich in animal proteins is essential for a dog’s health and well-being, advocating that grains are unnecessary fillers that offer little nutritional benefit to a canine.
For the Briard, a breed known for its luxurious, woolly coat and hard-working nature, the right diet is particularly important. This lively breed requires a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to maintain its energy levels and support a healthy coat and skin. But does removing grains from their diet benefit them?
Let’s examine some research. Findings in veterinary science haven’t shown a definitive need for all dogs to have grain-free diets but have acknowledged that some dogs do better without grains due to allergies or intolerances. However, these cases do not represent the majority of the canine population. In fact, when it comes to the Briard, there is no widespread evidence to suggest that this breed should avoid grains, unless an individual dog shows signs of an allergy or intolerance, such as excessive scratching after consuming a grain-inclusive meal.
Another factor to consider is the 2018 alert by the FDA on a potential link between grain-free diets high in legumes, lentils, or potatoes and a heart condition called canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. While not conclusively linked to grain-free diets, it’s a cause for concern for many dog owners. These diets often substitute grains with these ingredients, which might be associated with taurine deficiency, a nutrient crucial for heart health in dogs. This is an important aspect for Briard owners to consider since maintaining a strong, healthy heart is vital for this active breed.
Now, about the Briard’s nutritional needs—aside from potential allergies or specific health concerns that may require a tailored diet plan. The Briard, with its high energy levels and intelligent mind, needs high-quality nutrition to keep body and brain in peak condition. This includes high-quality proteins (which are abundant in meats) for muscle support, healthy fats (like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in fish oils) for a glossy coat and skin, and, yes, carbohydrates for that long-lasting energy.
Grains such as rice, barley, and oats can be excellent sources of those necessary carbohydrates, as well as some essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can promote digestive health. It is important, however, to select whole grains rather than processed ones as they are more nutrient-dense and less likely to cause a blood sugar spike.
As a Briard owner, the most crucial step you can take is to monitor your dog closely. Pay attention to their energy levels, the condition of their coat, any itchiness or skin irritations, and their overall health and happiness. If your Briard is thriving on a grain-inclusive diet and shows no signs of allergies, there might not be a reason to switch. If you do notice negative reactions that could be diet-related, consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes. Veterinarians can provide testing for allergies and guidance on selecting the best diet for your pup, with or without grains.
So, should your Briard go grain-free? It’s not a necessity for every Briard, but it can be a beneficial choice for those with specific dietary needs. As a responsible Briard guardian, it’s your job to be as loyal to your furry friend’s health as they are to protecting you. Understand the needs of your individual dog, offer them a high-quality diet that supports all aspects of their health, and you’ll have a cheerful, energetic, four-legged friend bounding through those backyard meadows for years to come.
In summary, while the allure of following a trend can be strong, it’s imperative that we consider the unique needs of each Briard and consult veterinary professionals when deciding whether to go grain-free. Often, the answer lays not within the grains themselves but within the individual health and happiness of our beloved pets. After all, every dog, like every French fable, is unique—full of character, personality, and dietary needs as individual as their own paw prints in the sand.
