Once upon a time, long before dogs were bred for their talent to fetch tennis balls or relay slippers, they were companions of formidable Norse seafarers. Among the observers of the Viking conquests and journeys was the Norwegian Elkhound, a hardworking and versatile dog breed known for its hunting prowess, particularly in hunting moose or “elk,” hence the name. These canine Vikings have an astoundingly strong sense of smell, trailing scents even in the harshest climates.
Over their thousand-year history, Norwegian Elkhounds’ dietary habits have evolved quite a bit since their ancient Viking journeys. They’ve gone from a diet of whatever was hunted and gathered to a modern menu of commercial dog food overflowing with diverse ingredients, some beneficial, others possibly harmful. One ingredient-type causing quite a storm within pet-food circles is the staple we all know and love, grains—wheat, rice, oats, barley, and so on. To answer the question of whether Norwegian Elkhounds should eat grain-free, we need to take a deep dive into doggie nutrition, especially tailored for this fantastic breed.
Let’s embark on a journey, just as those old Viking seafarers did. But instead of hunting elks, we’re hunting answers.
First off, you might be asking, what’s with all the fuss about grains? The grain-free trend, in human diets, hailed as the solution for weight loss and better health, has spilled over into the pet food world. Marketers in the pet industry have promoted grain-free diets as a healthier choice for dogs, associating them with a range of benefits, from allergy relief to shinier coats. Still, the fact remains, grains are not inherently bad for dogs.
Grains have been a part of commercial dog food for decades, providing a valuable source of necessary nutrients like protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids. However, not all dogs, including Norwegian Elkhounds, may be able to tolerate grains. In these cases, what stands as healthy nutrition for some dogs may trigger allergic reactions or digestive problems in others.
Understanding specifically where your dog stands in this spectrum is best discussed with your veterinarian who knows your pet’s medical history and is skilled in nutrition. Besides, the breed properties of Norwegian Elkhounds also equip them well for certain types of diet.
Historically, Norwegian Elkhounds were bred to withstand harsh, cold climates and energically hunt over vast spaces. This suggests they were sustained on a high protein diet, primarily from the meat of their hunted prey. Today, this translates into the need for a nutrient-dense diet packed with high-quality protein sources, which not only provide energy but also support their dense double coat, muscular development, and overall health.
However, protein can come in various forms, including from certain grains like quinoa or whole grain sorghum. Simultaneously, some grain-free foods might have a larger proportion of protein from legumes like peas and lentils or potatoes—which are linked to a canine heart condition called Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) as per FDA reports.
Knowing this, should you eliminate grains altogether? Not necessarily. It all comes back to the issue of ‘intolerance’ and ‘balance.’ Some Norwegian Elkhounds might exhibit intolerance to grains. Symptoms might include chronic gastrointestinal problems like diarrhoea or vomiting, skin issues like excessive scratching or redness, or more subtle signs like excessive gas, frequent ear infections, or changes in behavior. If such symptoms arise after eating grain-inclusive diets, a check-up with your vet can help identify if grains are indeed the culprit.
Balancing your Norwegian Elkhound’s intake of nutrients—protein, carbohydrates (grains or no grains), fats, minerals, and vitamins—is crucial for their health. Norwegian Elkhounds are prone towards gaining weight, so, while they need a high protein diet, they also need a diet balanced in other nutrient content, including dietary fibers to keep them feeling satiated. Some grains, like brown rice or oatmeal, can assist in providing necessary fiber while keeping calorie intake in check.
To conclude, to grain or not to grain isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; it really depends on your Norwegian Elkhound. As you sail along with your Elkhound, trust your capable guide, your vet, while navigating through the murky waters of dog nutrition. A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet that caters to the individual health needs of your Norweigian Elkhound is the treasure you’re after. Grain-free or grain-inclusive, choose what best suits your furry Viking while ensuring it is balanced, nutrient-enriched, and capable of sailing them towards a wholesome life. Happy hunting—err—feeding!
