Corn in dog food

Some places on the internet say that corn is just a cheap filler for dog food, or that it doesn't belong in a dog's bowl at all. But some high-quality dog food contains corn. So what's the truth about corn?

All grains are generally divided into two groups - with gluten and gluten-free. Those with gluten commonly found in dog food include wheat, oats, barley and rye. Gluten is a protein that causes adverse reactions in dogs just as in humans, both autoimmune (Crohn's disease) and allergies.

The second, gluten-free group of grains is much better tolerated and it includes corn, as well as millet, rice and sorghum. Corn is therefore a valuable and nutritious component in pet food. 

In addition to highly digestible carbohydrates, it also contains proteins, essential amino acids, Omega 6 fatty acids, starches, fats and other beneficial substances such as vitamin A, B-complex and fiber. It also contains antioxidants beta-carotene, vitamin E, lutein and others, as well as minerals such as zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, selenium, copper and manganese.

Many authors have already shown that corn causes allergies as often as rice. This is why corn and rice can be found in hypoallergenic feed. However, this doesn't mean that it cannot cause an adverse reaction. Just as different people may be hypersensitive to different foods, some dogs may not tolerate rice or corn well. However, this is very unlikely. 

Some may argue that dogs cannot digest the amount of starch found in corn, but we must not forget that today's dogs are much different from wolves, and this also applies to their digestive tract. They produce more enzymes that break down starch.

As you can see, corn is an important source of energy for dogs, and it's full of nutrients needed for their healthy life. It should therefore not be considered a mere filler. What's your experience with corn? Does the kibble you give your pets contain corn?

Related articles

Tips for Games Played Together with a Cat

Cuddling and caressing is not everything. Cats also enjoy time spent together playing a game and moreover, this activity leads to strengthening your relationship. Your furry friend will let off some steam and will be definitely grateful that you spent...

Three Crucial Trends in Dog Nutrition

What are the newest trends in dog nutrition? And what is the opinion of experts and dog owners themselves? I have made a summary for you about what hot topics have been discussed in pet nutrition recently, both at home and abroad.

Abandoned Semi-captive Cats

Even though animal protection associations try hard, the number of semi-captive animals has been rising in the Czech Republic recently. Cat colonies are to be blamed for that as the cats reproduce there uncontrollably.

10 tips how to take proper care of a ferret

Are you planning to get a ferret and don’t know how to take care of this pet? Ferrets love freedom and movement, therefore it needs a lot of space as well as your attention. That’s why I come with 10 tips how to take care of this little beast. :)

Get in shape in the new year with your dog

If one of your New Year resolutions was to lose some weight you gained during Christmas and get fit, your dog companion may help you with that. Also, dog obesity is one of the issues vets have to deal with the most in recent years. What to do for a...

Catnip: Why are cats mad about it?

While Catnip is a herb with medicinal effect for people, it has different and much stronger effects on cats. Why does this undemanding perennial plant have an intoxicating effect on cats?