Carbohydrates in Dog Nutrition: Energy, Fiber & Myths Explained
Carbohydrates have become one of the most debated components of a dog’s diet. From grain-free marketing to raw food philosophies, many pet parents are left wondering: do dogs really need carbs? And if so, what kind?
In this article, we’ll explore the science behind carbohydrates in canine nutrition—what they do, where they come from, how they affect health, and how a holistic feeding plan can balance them wisely.
What Are Carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of sugars, starches, and fiber. They are classified into three main types:
- Simple sugars (glucose, fructose)
- Complex starches (potatoes, rice, oats)
- Dietary fiber (from vegetables, legumes, whole grains)
In a balanced canine diet, carbs can provide energy, promote digestive health, and even support gut flora through fermentable fibers like inulin or beet pulp.
Do Dogs Need Carbohydrates?
Technically, no. Dogs can survive on a diet without carbs because their bodies can convert protein and fat into glucose (a process called gluconeogenesis). But “survive” is not the same as “thrive.”
According to the National Research Council’s 2006 Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, carbohydrates are not considered essential nutrients, but moderate inclusion can offer several benefits:
- Efficient energy source for active dogs
- Improved stool quality with fermentable fiber
- Lower protein requirements (by sparing amino acids)
The Benefits of Complex Carbohydrates
When sourced from whole, minimally processed ingredients, complex carbohydrates can be a valuable part of a holistic dog diet. Benefits include:
- Energy production: Complex carbs break down slowly, providing steady fuel without spiking blood sugar.
- Gut health: Oats, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin contain prebiotic fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria.
- Satiety: Fiber and complex carbs help dogs feel full and can assist in weight management.
Good vs. Bad Carbohydrates in Dog Food
Not all carbs are created equal. The source, processing method, and nutrient content matter.
Quality Carbohydrate Sources:
- Sweet potatoes
- Butternut squash
- Brown rice (in small amounts)
- Oats
- Quinoa
- Pumpkin
Carbohydrates to Limit or Avoid:
- Corn gluten meal
- Wheat middlings
- Soy flour
- Modified corn starch
- Artificial colors or sweeteners (like corn syrup)
Many low-quality commercial foods use carbs as cheap fillers, replacing animal proteins and adding bulk. Holistic brands instead use whole plant-based carbs as part of a complete meal—not as the base.
Carbs in Grain-Free and Grain-Inclusive Diets
Grain-free doesn’t mean carb-free. In fact, many grain-free diets rely on carb-heavy alternatives like peas, lentils, and potatoes. When these are overused, they may contribute to health issues—including potential links to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).
Some grains—such as oats, brown rice, and barley—are easier to digest and offer fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. The key is not "grain vs. grain-free," but whole vs. processed, moderate vs. excessive.
How Carbohydrates Impact Blood Sugar and Behavior
Rapidly digestible carbs can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes. This may contribute to hyperactivity, food-seeking behavior, and even long-term insulin resistance. Using slow-burning, low-glycemic carbs like lentils, squash, and barley helps maintain stable energy.
A study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that dogs on high-glycemic diets had higher postprandial glucose levels and more weight gain than those on moderate-carb diets with complex sources.
When Low-Carb or No-Carb Diets Make Sense
Some dogs may benefit from ultra-low or carb-free diets:
- Dogs with epilepsy (keto-style therapeutic diets)
- Dogs with diabetes (under supervision)
- Dogs with cancer (metabolic diets may help slow tumor growth)
In these cases, work with a veterinary nutritionist or holistic vet to design a balanced meal plan.
Carbs and the Rotational Feeding Model
Holistic feeding often involves rotation: alternating proteins, fats, and carb sources. This reduces the risk of nutrient excesses or deficiencies and supports microbial diversity in the gut.
One week you might use oats or rice, the next week squash or quinoa. This mirrors nature and promotes balance. Learn more in our post on Rotational Feeding.
Practical Tips for Including Carbs in a Holistic Diet
- Limit carbs to no more than 30–40% of your dog’s diet (ideally closer to 20% for most healthy dogs)
- Use whole-food sources, not refined flours or meal byproducts
- Cook or steam starchy vegetables to improve digestibility
- Pair with proteins and fats to slow glucose absorption
- Watch for symptoms like bloating, gas, or loose stools—signs the carb may not be well tolerated
Scientific References
- PMC – Role of carbohydrates in dog diets
- Frontiers in Veterinary Science – Fiber and digestion
- British Journal of Nutrition – Glycemic response in dogs
Final Thoughts
Carbohydrates are not villains—they’re tools. When used appropriately, carbs can fuel energy, improve digestion, and support your dog’s health. In a holistic plan, they are balanced alongside high-quality proteins and fats, whole food sources, and regular rotation.
Focus less on carb "elimination" and more on carb quality and proportion. When in doubt, feed real, whole ingredients and let your dog’s body tell you what works best.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your holistic or integrative vet when making major dietary changes.
Explore the next article in our “7 Essentials of Canine Nutrition” series:
I cook for my dogs and use a recipe from a board-certified nutritionist. It does include carbs. I think our dogs evolved at man's side to eat "our" food, and that includes carbohydrates.
ReplyDeleteMy dogs have been eating home-cooked for a few years and are doing pretty good on it. They're 12, 13 and 14 now.
I remember when the hype first started around grain free diets, and how everyone jumped on the bandwagon. Then of course came talk about heart risks etc... Sounds very similar to the situation with humans. We need them, paying attention to the quality and frequency. I always say dog nutrition is such a minefield with "experts" convincing us they're right, in direct conflict to the next expert. I say do your research and this article is a great place to start.
ReplyDeleteVery informative! I remember having a conversation with my vet about the right type of diet for Henry. He immediately said, "Whatever you select do not give him a grain-free diet!" We recently re-visited the food conversation about raw food. He reminded me that raw food is much like the grain free early bandwagon. There is no evidence on it. So, we could find out in a few years that it creates some other awful health issue like grain-free creates heart disease. I think any talk about food for your furry buddy needs to include your vet. They stay up-to-date on studies (or lack of them) and can advise you what's good for your pup at various points in his/her life. For Henry, he LOVE his pumpkin carbs daily and it helps to keep his tummy balanced. I agree with Hindy, your article is a great starting point to become educated on nutrition for our pups. Well done, Victoria! I'm sharing with all my dog parents.
ReplyDeleteWOW such interesting information especially as I am trying to figure out the proper balanced diet for Nili so she will lose the extra pounds, what an eye opener, thank you so so much
ReplyDeleteExcellent article! I, too, remember when all the hullabaloo was buzzing about grain-free diets, but I, too, spoke with my vet and continued on with the diet I knew was best for my Huskies, which was definitely protein-based with some healthy carbs. Like Tail Wag Wisdom's Henry, my pups liked the pumpkin and I did add in to their foods each day, which kept their tummies well-balanced. Also, having an epileptic dog, a Keto-"ish" diet certainly can help! I like how you pointed out it's really about healthy proportions.This is such a well-researched article, and one I'm sharing with my followers (and Pinning for future reference)!
ReplyDelete