Whippets, those sleek and agile creatures bounding with energy are always ready to dash towards new adventures! Belonging to the sighthound breed, these dogs have a certain elegance and agility that set them apart from other breeds. But while much is known about their athleticism and appearance, many Whippet owners find themselves scratching their heads over the menu their furry friend should be dining on. One question, in particular, that haunts many Whippet owners is – should Whippets eat grain-free?
Before we dive in, let’s quickly address what the ‘grain-free’ hype is all about. For those not in the know, grain-free dog food simply means the absence of any grains such as wheat, corn, rice, soy, barley, and oats. This diet trend that took the pet world by storm a few years ago is largely influenced by the inclination towards ancestral or natural diet for dogs, which mirrors a wolf’s regimen – mainly proteins and fats, with very limited carbohydrates.
Grain-free food also gained traction as a remedy for dogs suffering from allergies and digestive issues. The problem? Not all dogs are intolerant to grains! And contrary to popular belief, allergies due to grains are not as common as meat allergies in dogs.
That’s not to say that Whippets, or any dogs for that matter, cannot benefit from a grain-free diet: it just needs careful consideration and monitoring.
Let’s dig deeper.
For our Whippets, their powerful lean muscles and high metabolic rate mean that quality nutrition is key! Whippets are hunting dogs and their history traces back to the early hunters in the Middle Kingdom of Ancient Egypt, nearly 4000 years ago. Now, imagine our four-legged friends taking down prey and feasting on a meal of pure protein. Their digestive systems are designed for such a diet- which doesn’t naturally include grains.
However, it’s essential to remember that dogs have evolved considerably since those days and are now more omnivorous creatures. Their diet, therefore, can include a healthy balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Some grains, like brown rice and oats, contain important nutrients and can be easily digested by dogs.
Deciding whether your Whippet should go grain-free largely depends on specific considerations unique to your furry companion’s needs.
One of these considerations is your Whippet’s age. Puppies generally thrive on a balanced diet that includes quality grains due to their growth and developmental needs. They require more carbohydrates, which can be derived from well-cooked and digestible grains. On the other hand, for adult and older Whippets, if they show signs of intolerance to grains like indigestion, constant itching, or food refusal, it might be worthwhile considering a grain-free diet.
Next, we need to consider their activity level. Whippets being a high-energy breed, perform their very best on a diet high in proteins and fats. Owing to their genetics, they rip through calories at an incredible speed. If your Whippet is a real go-getter and you have trouble keeping up with its energy levels, you might want to experiment with a grain-free diet, but remember, carbohydrates aren’t evil! They can provide the quick source of energy your Whippet might need.
Lastly, keep an eye on that shiny coat! Coat condition can tell you a lot about your dog’s health, particularly digestion. Should you notice an unusual dull coat, persistent skin issues, or ‘hot spots,’ an allergy to certain food substances could be an underlying reason. If everything else in your Whippet’s life remains the same, and you’ve tried grain-free food as an option, a shiny coat and healthy skin recovery can be an excellent indicator that your Whippet fares better without grains.
But proceed with caution. Not all grain-free dog foods are created equal. Many substitute grains with legumes such as peas and lentils, or alternative sources of carbohydrates like potatoes. Some recent studies revealed a correlation between such ‘grain-free’ diets and heart diseases in dogs. So, if you do choose to go grain-free, ensure you select a brand that meets the complete nutritional requirements of your Whippet, and perhaps avoid those with high legume or potato content.
The grain-free thesis can be quite a conundrum, can’t it? It’s about knowing your Whippet, understanding their needs, and watching how their bodies respond to their diet.
Bottom line – Balanced nutrition is the cornerstone for a healthy Whippet. Whether or not that includes grains differs from one dog to the next. If your Whippet thrives on a grain-inclusive diet, wonderful! If not, there are plenty of grain-free choices to explore. Always remember, any change to a dog’s diet must be done gradually to avoid upsetting their sensitive stomach, and it is always best to consult with your veterinarian when making significant changes to your pet’s diet.
You see, feeding our Whippets boils down to love. We want them to be happy, healthy and live the best life possible. Your Whippet’s diet might just be the secret ingredient to their speed, verve, and vivacity. Let’s make every meal count!
