5 things most pet owners get wrong about their dog's diet
I've been researching pet nutrition for years and the same myths keep circulating. Here are the five I see most often — and what the actual science says.
1. "Grain-free is always healthier"
Not true. The FDA flagged a possible link between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs. Unless your vet has identified a grain allergy, there's no reason to go grain-free.
2. "Raw meat diets are safer than kibble"
Raw diets carry real bacterial risks — Salmonella and E. coli — not just for your pet, but for your household. Controlled studies don't show a clear health advantage over quality cooked food.
3. "Supplements are always beneficial"
Over-supplementing calcium in large-breed puppies can cause bone deformities. More isn't better. If your vet hasn't flagged a deficiency, you're likely wasting money.
4. "Dogs need variety in their meals like humans do"
Dogs thrive on consistency. Frequent food changes are one of the leading causes of GI upset. If something works, stick with it.
5. "Table scraps are fine in moderation"
Depends entirely on what the scraps are. Onions, grapes, xylitol — common kitchen items — are toxic to dogs. "Moderation" doesn't make them safe.
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This is the kind of stuff I break down every week in Paw Post — a weekly newsletter for pet owners who want real information, not just content.