There's no single "safe" dog food, but diets not linked to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) are generally traditional, grain-inclusive formulas from well-established brands with balanced ingredients, avoiding "BEG" (Boutique, Exotic, Grain-Free) diets high in pulses (peas, lentils) and potatoes, which are implicated in DCM. The key is consulting your veterinarian to choose a complete, balanced diet (like Hill's Science Diet, Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan) with high-quality animal protein, potentially including omega-3s, that suits your dog's specific needs, rather than relying on grain-free trends.
There's no single "number 1" healthiest dog food, as the best choice depends on your dog's age, breed, and health; however, look for foods meeting AAFCO standards (Association of American Feed Control Officials), with real meat as the first ingredient, and vet-recommended brands like Hill's Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Royal Canin are often cited for balanced nutrition. Freshly prepared or raw diets can also be healthy but carry risks, so always consult your vet.
Managing congestive heart failure in dogs can be complex, but a heart-healthy diet can significantly help. Avoid high-sodium, high-fat foods and choose nutritious, low-sodium options to reduce heart strain and manage symptoms. A good diet supports heart function and overall well-being.
How to Prevent DCM
FDA names 16 brands of dog food linked to canine heart disease
Avoid cured, salted, smoked and other processed meats. Buy fewer frozen, canned and packaged foods which often contain a lot of sodium. Choose plain frozen vegetables without sauces or toppings. Look for foods labeled low sodium, reduced sodium or no added salt.
For dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF), a low-sodium diet can reduce fluid retention and ease the workload on the heart. A high-protein, low-fat diet maintains muscle mass to support heart function, while antioxidants can protect the heart from further damage.
The worst dog foods often contain cheap fillers like corn, wheat, and soy; unspecified "meat meals" or by-products; excessive sugar; and artificial colors/preservatives, with brands like Kibbles 'n Bits, Beneful, Gravy Train, and some Purina/Iams varieties frequently cited for low nutritional quality and questionable ingredients. Focus on avoiding poor-quality protein sources (unspecified meat meals), fillers, artificial additives, and dangerous human foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol.
There's no single cause of heart disease in dogs. Aging, obesity, breed, and nutrition can all play a role. Heart valve problems are the most common issue and typically affect small breed dogs that are five years or older. No matter what heart condition your dog has, it's important to spot the signs early.
Food That Is Toxic for Dogs
Based on Dr. Marty's advice, Oprah says she now feeds her dogs a mixed diet of chicken, beef, lamb, brown rice, potatoes and carrots. Dr. Marty says most people feed their dogs diets that go against their animal nature.
Top Dog Foods In The World: A Global Look At Nutrition, Pet Care, And Pet Therapeutics
Here are five key ways to promote heart health for your furry friend:
What dog food ingredients should I avoid?
Low-Sodium Foods for Dogs
Supermarket Dog Food Brands to Avoid
The 90/10 rule for dogs means that 90% of their daily calories should come from a complete and balanced dog food, while only 10% should come from treats, chews, and table scraps, preventing weight gain and ensuring proper nutrition. This guideline helps owners manage treat portions, preventing unbalanced diets and health issues like obesity, joint problems, and diabetes, as treats can be surprisingly high in calories, even healthy ones.
The best dog food brands are those with research-backed formulas developed with veterinary nutritionists that meet AAFCO nutritional guidelines for dogs of different life stage and health needs. Top picks include Hill's Science Diet, Purina Pro Plan, and Royal Canin.
A low-sodium diet is frequently recommended for dogs with severe congestive heart failure that does not respond well to conventional treatment. In dogs with mild to moderate congestive heart failure, severe sodium restriction is not needed, but diets high in salt and human foods ("table snacks") should be avoided.
Grain-free dog food has raised concerns due to possible links with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a traditionally genetic, breed-related disorder causing dilation and thinning of the chambers of the heart. This can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden death.
Acana, Taste of the Wild, 4health, Blue Buffalo and a dozen other pet food brands are in the hot seat. In the latest update to its yearlong investigation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on June 27, 2019, publicly identified 16 brands of pet food that may be linked to heart disease in dogs and cats.
Cardiologists generally advise avoiding processed meats, sugary drinks and sweets, and foods high in trans fats and sodium, like most fried foods and salty snacks, because they raise bad cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation, significantly increasing heart disease risk. Focusing on whole foods and limiting these culprits is key for heart health.
Choose foods that are low in salt.
Fresh fruits and vegetables, fresh meats, poultry, fish, dry and fresh legumes, eggs, milk and yogurt are all naturally low in salt. Plain rice, pasta and oatmeal are also good low-sodium choices.
Among foods that contribute to clogged arteries are: