7 Best Dog Foods for Avoiding DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy) 2024

Dilated Cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a serious heart condition that can affect dogs. While the exact causes of DCM are not fully understood, research has shown that certain types of dog food may increase the risk of developing this condition. As pet owners, it is our responsibility to ensure that our furry friends are receiving the best possible nutrition to keep them healthy and happy.

In this article, we have researched and tested various types of dog food to identify the best options for avoiding DCM in dogs. We understand that choosing the right dog food can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available on the market. However, by paying attention to certain factors, such as the ingredients and nutritional value of the food, we can make an informed decision that will benefit our pets in the long run.

When looking for dog food that can help prevent DCM, it is important to consider the type of protein used in the food. Research has shown that diets high in peas, lentils, and potatoes may increase the risk of DCM in dogs. Therefore, we have focused on dog foods that use high-quality animal protein sources, such as chicken, beef, and fish.

After extensive research and testing, we have identified the best dog foods for avoiding DCM. By incorporating these foods into your dog’s diet, you can help reduce their risk of developing this serious heart condition.

Best Dog Foods for Avoiding DCM

We understand that choosing the right food for your furry friend can be a daunting task, especially with the recent concerns regarding Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. DCM is a serious heart condition that affects a dog’s ability to pump blood effectively. While the exact cause of DCM is still unknown, studies have shown that certain dog food ingredients may be linked to an increased risk of DCM. As pet lovers ourselves, we have researched and compiled a list of the best dog foods that can help reduce the risk of DCM in your furry friend. Below are our top picks for the best dog foods for avoiding DCM.

#1 – Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food Raw Coated High Protein Wholesome Grains Red Meat Recipe, 3.5 lb. Bag Red Meat Recipe 3.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s packed with protein and perfect for avoiding DCM, then you should definitely consider Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food. Our dogs loved it, and we were impressed with the high-quality ingredients and the fact that it’s made in the USA.

Pros

• Our dogs loved the taste and texture of the food, and we were happy to see them enjoying something that was also healthy for them.
• The recipe includes six animal protein sources, which makes it perfect for dogs with poultry allergies.
• The wholesome grains in the recipe make it easy to digest, and we noticed a significant improvement in our dogs’ overall health and well-being.

Cons

• The price may be a bit high for some pet owners, but we think it’s worth it for the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits.
• The bag size may not be suitable for larger dogs or those who eat a lot, but there are larger sizes available.
• Some picky eaters may not enjoy the taste or texture of the food, but we found that most dogs loved it.

We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients in Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Dry Dog Food, and we noticed a significant improvement in our dogs’ overall health and well-being after switching to this food. The recipe includes six animal protein sources, which makes it perfect for dogs with poultry allergies, and the wholesome grains make it easy to digest. Overall, we highly recommend this dog food to anyone looking for a high-quality, healthy option for their furry friend.

#2 – Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food, Natural Ingredients, Made in USA with Real Freeze-Dried Meat (Adult, Small Breed, 4 lbs) Turkey Small Breed 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help avoid DCM, the Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The kibble is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for small breed dogs.
• The freeze-dried turkey pieces add a savory flavor that dogs love.
• The food contains probiotics that help support digestive health and glucosamine that aids in joint health.

Cons

• The food is a bit pricey compared to other brands.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the freeze-dried turkey pieces.

We’ve been using this dog food for a few months now, and our small breed dog seems to love it. The kibble is small enough for her to chew easily, and the freeze-dried turkey pieces add a nice crunch that she enjoys.

One thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality, all-natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. It’s also grain-free, which is important for dogs that may be sensitive to grains.

We’ve noticed that our dog’s coat seems shinier and healthier since we switched to this food, and she seems to have plenty of energy throughout the day. We also like that the food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients and is manufactured in a state-of-the-art facility.

Overall, we think the Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Dry Small Dog Food is a great choice for small breed dogs that need a high-protein, nutrient-dense diet. While it may be a bit pricey, we think the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the investment.

#3 – WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help prevent DCM, WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Real meat is the first ingredient, with sustainably raised American salmon
• Contains no by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Vet-formulated with help from veterinarians and pet nutritionists

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• May cause digestive issues in some dogs
• Packaging may vary from the picture

We tried WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food for our dog who had been experiencing digestive issues with other brands. The real meat as the first ingredient and lack of fillers made us feel confident that we were feeding our dog a quality product. Our dog seemed to enjoy the taste and had no issues with the transition period. We also appreciated that the product was vet-formulated.

However, we did notice that the kibble was a bit larger than other brands, which may not be ideal for small dogs or dogs with dental issues. Additionally, we did experience some digestive issues with our dog after a few weeks on the food, which may be a concern for some pet owners.

Overall, we recommend WAG Salmon and Brown Rice Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that can help prevent DCM. However, as with any new food, it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

#4 – Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) Salmon & Sweet Potato 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend this Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe, 4 Pound (Pack of 1) for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Pros

• The salmon is the first animal protein source that provides essential protein and amino acids to help maintain strong muscles.
• The sweet potatoes are included as a grain-free source of fiber to help support digestive health.
• It is made with a single animal protein source and no added grain, soy, gluten, or artificial colors or flavors.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon.
• It may be more expensive than other dog food brands.
• It may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs.

We have been using this dog food for our small breed dog for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his coat, skin, and digestive system. The kibble is small and easy for him to eat, and he loves the flavor. We appreciate that it is specially formulated for small dogs and that it is complete and balanced to help meet his nutritional needs.

We also appreciate that Natural Balance’s ‘Feed with Confidence’ program tests every batch of food from start to finish, ensuring safety with every bite. We highly recommend this dog food for anyone looking for a high-quality, limited ingredient dog food for their furry friend.

#5 – ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help avoid DCM, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been nothing but positive, and we highly recommend it.

Pros

• The air-dried method naturally preserves food without artificial fillers while retaining nutrients and maximizing flavor.
• Recipes made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods including green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe.
• 100% ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafoods from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• It is expensive compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
• The variability in shape, size, color, texture, and odor may be off-putting to some pet owners.

We’ve found that our dogs love the taste of ZIWI Peak, and we appreciate the fact that it contains only high-quality, natural ingredients. The air-dried method used to preserve the food ensures that it retains its nutritional value while maximizing flavor. We’ve also noticed that our dogs have had fewer digestive issues since we switched to ZIWI Peak.

One downside to this product is that it is more expensive than other dog foods on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it worth the extra cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may take some time to transition them to this new food.

Overall, we highly recommend ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-quality, natural ingredients that can help avoid DCM.

#6 – BIXBI Rawbble Dry Dog Food, Lamb, 4 lbs

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help avoid DCM (Dilated Cardiomyopathy), BIXBI Rawbble Dry Dog Food is a great option. With fresh meat and carbohydrates from whole ingredients, this freeze-dried raw coated dry dog food delivers optimal protein levels and healthy fats for every dog.

Pros

• Made with fresh meat, no meat meal
• Grain-free, gluten-free, and made with no corn, soy, or wheat
• Minimally processed for superior digestibility

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb
• A bit pricier than other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies

We love BIXBI Rawbble Dry Dog Food because it’s made with fresh meat and no meat meal, which maximizes protein absorption and offers balanced fiber levels. Plus, it’s grain-free, gluten-free, and made with no corn, soy, or wheat, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities. Additionally, BIXBI Rawbble is minimally processed, which means it delivers more bioavailable nutrients than rendered meal powders.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb, which is the main protein source in this dog food. Additionally, BIXBI Rawbble is a bit pricier than other dog foods, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget. Finally, if your dog has certain food allergies, you’ll want to double-check the ingredients to make sure this dog food is suitable for them.

Overall, we highly recommend BIXBI Rawbble Dry Dog Food for anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that can help avoid DCM and promote overall health and wellness.

#7 – Lucy Pet Products Dog Food Rolls

If you’re looking for a convenient and healthy dog food option that can be used as a full feed or a treat, Lucy Pet Products Dog Food Rolls might be the perfect fit for your furry friend.

Pros

• The semi-moist, meaty beef formula is perfect for picky eaters, senior or convalescing dogs, and even weaning puppies.
• The rolls are complete and balanced for all life stages from puppies to adults, making it a versatile option for any dog.
• With biotin to support healthy skin and coat, and added taurine for heart and eye health, this dog food roll is formulated for optimum nutrition.

Cons

• While the rolls are easy to use and don’t require refrigeration until opened, they can be a bit dry.
• The rolls contain sugar, which might not be ideal for dogs with dietary restrictions.
• Some dogs may not find the taste of the rolls appealing.

We recently tried Lucy Pet Products Dog Food Rolls with our own furry friends and were impressed with the convenience and versatility of the product. The rolls are easy to slice or chop and can be used as a full feed or a treat, making them perfect for training or travel.

While the rolls are a bit dry, we found that adding a bit of water or bone broth helped to make them more appealing to our dogs. Additionally, the rolls contain sugar, which isn’t ideal for dogs with dietary restrictions, but we didn’t notice any negative effects on our dogs’ health.

Overall, if you’re looking for a convenient and healthy dog food option, Lucy Pet Products Dog Food Rolls are definitely worth considering.

Dog Foods for Avoiding DCM Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for avoiding DCM, there are a few key features to look for. Here are some factors to consider when making your purchase:

Protein Sources

Protein is essential for your dog’s health, but not all protein sources are created equal. Look for dog foods that contain high-quality protein sources such as chicken, turkey, fish, and lamb. Avoid dog foods that contain plant-based proteins such as soy or peas as the primary protein source.

Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive

There has been a lot of debate about whether grain-free dog foods are better for dogs. While some dogs may benefit from a grain-free diet, it’s important to note that the FDA has linked some grain-free dog foods to DCM. If you choose to feed your dog a grain-free diet, make sure it contains other sources of carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Added Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid that is essential for heart health in dogs. Some dog foods may not contain enough taurine, so it’s important to look for dog foods that have added taurine. You can also supplement your dog’s diet with taurine-rich foods such as chicken hearts or beef liver.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are important for heart health in dogs. Look for dog foods that contain sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as fish oil or flaxseed. You can also supplement your dog’s diet with fish oil capsules.

By considering these factors when choosing a dog food, you can help reduce your dog’s risk of developing DCM. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.