Let’s face it, we are all food lovers in some way. And when it comes to our dogs, we want to give them the best. They say, “You are what you eat”. If that’s true, it’s no wonder why we spend so much time researching the best diets for our canine companions! You’ve probably heard of the grain-free diet craze for dogs and wonder if your bouncy Bichon can join the bandwagon.
Here is a surprising fact, our canine friends broke bread with our ancestors. According to a team of Swedish researchers, dogs were domesticated up to 40,000 years ago and adapted to survive on a diet similar to that of their human companions. That diet contained more than just meat—it included grains!
You know your Bichon Frise is not like every other dog out there, don’t you? Right from its snowball-like appearance, playful demeanor, to its special dietary needs – the Bichon Frise is truly unique. So, what about grains? Can they form part of this adorable breed’s diet?
Follow me on this enlightening journey as we explore whether it’s ideal for your Bichon Frise to hop on the grain-free diet train or to munch on grain-filled delicacies. There’s more. We’ll look at the valuable tips to help you choose the healthiest food for your furry friend. Buckle up, and let’s get started!
Grains have taken heat over the past few years due to the rise in grain-free diets for dogs, more so among the Bichon Frise species. This was spurred on by the increase in pet food allergies, which made pet parents think of grains as the scapegoat. But, being the Sherlock Holmes of your Bichon’s dietary matters, you need some proven facts before switching up their meal plan, right? After all, switching diets is not a simple “roll-over” trick.
Here’s the scoop: contrary to the widespread belief, grain allergies in dogs are extremely rare. Boom! Surprised? A study by Tufts University found that out of all food allergies in dogs, only 10 percent are attributed to grains. The most common culprits are, in fact, beef and dairy! There goes the belief that grains are to blame for all our dogs’ allergy woes!
Moreover, whole grains can offer incredible health benefits to your Bichon. They are a brilliant source of fiber that aids digestion and gives the ‘feeling full’ sensation. Beyond tickling the taste buds of your jumpy Bichon, grains like brown rice, oatmeal, or quinoa, can reduce the risk of obesity, a common concern when it comes to this breed.
“Wait, if grains are not bad, then why the hype about grain-free diets?” you might have just mused. Allow me to let you in on this. The grain-free diet became popular due to a belief that a dog should eat what its ancestors, the wolves, ate. That is, a high-protein, low-carb diet mostly comprised of meat. But let’s be clear. Your Bichon is not a wolf! Although sharing 98.8 percent of their DNA, your Bichon has different nutritional needs, digestive systems, and life patterns that make it uniquely a Bichon!
There’s no denying that grain-free diets can be beneficial to some dogs. For instance, a diet devoid of grains can help manage weight, control blood sugar levels, and be an excellent choice for dogs with specific dietary allergies. But, it isn’t a one-size-fits-all. The grain-free diet isn’t inherently healthier unless your vet recommends it due to specific health issues in your Bichon.
As a loving pet parent who craves the best for your Bichon Frise, here’s the key takeaway: making sensible and informed decisions about your dog’s diet is critical. This entails consulting with your trusted vet or professional dietitian before drastically altering your Bichon’s dinner bowl.
In essence, should your Bichon Frise eat grain-free? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. It depends on your specific Bichon. Some may do well on grain-inclusive diets, touting happily and healthily, while others may require grain-free diets due to specific health requisites. As pet owners, we play a vital role in examining and understanding what works best for our individual dogs’ needs, and our Bichons are no exception!
Friends, feeding your Bichon isn’t just about filling their bellies, it’s about nourishing their bodies. Whether it’s grain-free or grain-inclusive, the best diet is the one that keeps your furry friend healthy, content, and ready for yet another day of boundless Bichon energy! Go forth, and may the food pan be with you!
