Grain-free diets and DCM

The reason we chose to develop a grain-free food despite recent popular backlash is to avoid common allergens (including grains, dairy, eggs, soy, chicken, and more) and therefore make our food suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, intolerances or allergies.

Regarding the anecdotal link between grain-free recipes and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), the most probable cause put forward by many scientists at the forefront of the issue is the lack of taurine caused by the substitution of animal protein with legumes—not the legumes themselves. In order to ensure a proper nutrition and avoid any health issues linked with this lack, our formulation is supplemented with high-quality taurine at the required levels as indicated by the NRC (Nutrient Requirements for Adult Dogs), which suggest an inclusion level of 0.1%. With this added taurine, the bioavailability of that important nutrient is even superior to the one found naturally in certain ingredients, which maximizes its efficiency in your dog's body.

Moreover, as it relates to the current understanding of DCM in dogs, here is an excerpt from Dr. Collings, a board-certified nutritionist, which help summarize the current situation:

• “Everyone in the pet food industry is saddened that pets suffer from DCM and other illnesses. However, science has documented that DCM is genetically predisposed and related to improper pairings.
• Diseases are found in most breeds through inbreeding and improper genetics. New genetic kits are being developed that will aid proper selection of breeding pairs.
• If your pet has DCM or is a breed that is considered high-risk, keep them on a complete and balanced food and limit treating. Supplementing with taurine and/or L-carnitine could be prudent.
• It is easy to demonize peas and other legumes, but no science exists to directly link these high-quality pet food ingredients to the onset of DCM.” 

See full article here.