01/02/2026
"Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the second most common heart disease in dogs. In recent years, concerns have been raised regarding a potential association between grain-free dog foods and the development of DCM.
To evaluate this possible connection, this study randomized healthy adult dogs to one of four complete and balanced diets, each formulated with different ingredients, to assess their impact on cardiac function and overall health over an 18-month period.
The diets included:
A grain-free diet with potatoes and peas
A grain-inclusive diet with peas and pea fiber
A grain-inclusive diet without peas or potatoes
A grain-free diet with potatoes
No changes in cardiac function were observed between the grain-free and grain-inclusive groups, and taurine levels remained unaffected by diet.
These results show that foods designed to provide similar nutritional profiles—regardless of specific ingredients—supported heart health in healthy adult dogs. This study highlights the importance of balanced, high-quality nutrition in maintaining canine heart health."
