Not so tasty: the hidden dangers in dog food

Toxins in food – no thanks!

Anyone who pays attention to a healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle naturally also wants their four-legged friend to be well. Nevertheless, the issue often goes unnoticed when it comes to our pets. The bitter truth is that many dog food products contain harmful ingredients that can affect your dog’s health in the long term. That’s why we took a closer look and researched what’s actually in dog treats.

Dog food advertising does not deliver what it so powerfully promises

The colorful world of the dog food industry is not always as harmless as it seems. Some ingredients can cause more harm than good. From animal by-products to artificial additives, there are many dangers hidden behind the labels.

Animal by-products: A hidden risk

Animal by-products sound harmless, but they are often nothing more than slaughterhouse waste. This includes parts such as hooves, feathers and offal that are unsuitable for human consumption. While some of these ingredients may be harmless to dogs, there is still uncertainty as to exactly which ones are contained in the food. This lack of transparency can lead to intolerances if your dog is sensitive to certain scraps.

The meaning of the declaration “in food quality”

If the packaging does not say “food grade”, you should be careful. Without this proof, there is a possibility that inferior ingredients have been used. Dogs can process many things that are not suitable for us humans – every dog owner who walks their furry friend knows this – but the long-term effects on their health are unclear. The declaration offers some assurance that the products used are of a higher quality.

The unknowns among animal by-products

Anything can be hidden under the term “animal by-products”. Without clear labeling, it remains a mystery as to what is actually in the food. This uncertainty is problematic, because without precise information it is impossible to identify possible allergens or incompatible ingredients. A conscious approach to ingredients can help to avoid health problems.

Flavor enhancer: fine, fine, fine

Flavor enhancers can be found in many types of dog food to intensify the taste. Their sole purpose is to make your pet’s food taste particularly good – but unfortunately they don’t get it. These substances are anything but harmless.

E-numbers and their potential dangers

The E numbers E 620 to E 637, which are often found on packaging, stand for various flavor enhancers. These include glutamates, which are suspected of causing digestive problems in dogs. Studies show that excessive consumption of these substances can have a negative impact on your dog’s health.

Digestive problems due to glutamates

Glutamates are known to enhance flavor, but they can also have side effects. In some dogs, they cause digestive problems such as bloating or diarrhea. In the long term, this can affect your dog’s intestinal health and should therefore be avoided.

Colorants: for the eye only

You eat with your eyes. This wisdom applies less to dogs than to owners who only want the best for their dogs. Colorants make food more attractive for us humans, but they are completely unnecessary for dogs.

The most common dyes and their risks

Dyes such as E127, E123 and E101 contribute nothing to the nutrient supply and can even trigger allergies. It is suspected that they can lead to allergic reactions in dogs, just as they do in humans. It is advisable to avoid food that is colored with these artificial additives.

Sugar and other sweeteners: sweet poison

Sugar and its alternatives such as molasses or fructose are hidden in many types of dog food and pose considerable risks.

The effects of sugar on your dog’s health

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity in dogs, which in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Sugar can also lead to dental diseases such as tooth decay, just like in humans. A balanced diet should therefore be as free of sugar and its derivatives as possible.

Soy and wheat: Inexpensive fillers with consequences

Often used as inexpensive fillers, soy and wheat can lead to intolerances in some dogs.

Allergies and intolerances due to plant-based fillers

Soy is a common substitute for animal protein, but can cause digestive problems in some dogs. Similarly, wheat, although well tolerated by many dogs, can cause severe gastrointestinal problems in dogs with allergies. It is important to consider your dog’s individual needs and choose alternative carbohydrate sources if necessary.

The right diet for your dog: tips and tricks

A balanced diet is the key to a long and healthy dog’s life. Transparency in the ingredients and avoiding harmful substances are crucial.

The importance of a transparent list of ingredients

A clear and detailed list of ingredients will help you to better assess the quality of the food. Look for food that discloses all ingredients and doesn’t use vague terms like “animal by-products”. This way you can ensure that your dog only gets the best.

Ingredient	Potential risks	Alternative
Animal by-products	Intolerances, allergies	Meat in food quality
Flavor enhancer (E 620-E 637)	Digestive problems	Natural flavors
Colorants (E127, E123, E101)	Allergies	Natural colors
Sugar, molasses	Overweight, tooth decay	Without added sugar
Soy, wheat	Allergies, digestive problems	Gluten-free options

Conclusion: Healthy feeding for a happy dog’s life

Choosing the right dog food is crucial for your dog’s health and well-being. By paying attention to harmful ingredients in dog food and choosing high-quality alternatives, you can actively contribute to the health of your four-legged friend. Your dog will thank you with a long, happy life.

By the way:

Attentive readers will have noticed. It doesn’t look much better for us humans in processed foods – with all the additives that trick our senses and harm our organism!