Nutrient Guide
Carbs for Dogs: Are They Really Necessary?
Many think carbs are bad due to the grain-free trend. The truth is more complex. Learn why carbohydrates can be beneficial for your dog's diet.
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Carbs for Dogs: Are They Really Necessary?
Carbohydrates are not essential but are a useful nutrient in a dog's diet.
What Does "Non-Essential" Mean?
Dogs can synthesize glucose from other nutrients, meaning they can survive without dietary carbohydrates. However, this isn't always optimal.
Why Are Carbohydrates Useful?
- Energy: readily available fuel
- Fiber: aids digestion
- Protein-sparing: allows protein to be used for muscle building
- More affordable energy source
Carbohydrate Quantity
| Type | Carb % |
|---|---|
| Traditional Dry | 35-50% |
| High Protein | 25-35% |
| Grain-Free | 30-45% (with legumes) |
| Canned | 5-15% |
| BARF | 0-15% |
Complex vs. Simple Carbs
Complex (better): rice, sweet potato, barley, oats, pumpkin, peas.
Simple (to avoid): sugar, high-fructose syrup, large amounts of white wheat flour.
Glycemic Index
| Source | GI |
|---|---|
| White Rice | 70-90 (high) |
| Brown Rice | 50-60 |
| Sweet Potato | 50 |
| Oats | 50-60 |
| Peas, Lentils | 30-50 |
| Potato (baked) | 80+ |
Is Grain-Free Food Necessary?
Not necessarily. FDA reports suggest some grain-free diets may carry a risk of DCM. Dogs generally digest grains well.
When justified: confirmed grain sensitivity, veterinary nutritionist recommendation.
Carb-Sensitive Conditions
- Diabetes: low GI complex carbohydrates
- Pancreatitis: complex carbohydrates
- IBD: hydrolyzed protein + easily digestible carbohydrates
Low-Carb Dog Food
Under 25% carbohydrates, higher protein (35%+), higher fat (15%+).
Who benefits: active working/sporting dogs, diabetic dogs, some cancer cases.
Not necessary for the average adult dog.
Quality of Carbohydrate Sources
Good: rice, sweet potato, pumpkin, oats, barley, peas (in moderation).
Mixed: corn, wheat, potato.
To avoid: sugar, glucose syrup, caramel, unidentified grains.
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Enter weight and activity level — 10 seconds and you get the daily portion.
References
- 1.Axelsson E, Ratnakumar A, Arendt ML, et al. — The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starch-rich diet. Nature 495:360–364, 2013. https://doi.org/10.1038/nature11837 (accessed: 2026-09-10)
- 2.National Research Council (US), Committee on Animal Nutrition — Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006. https://doi.org/10.17226/10668 (accessed: 2026-09-10)
- 3.FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation) — Nutritional Guidelines for Complete and Complementary Pet Food for Cats and Dogs. FEDIAF, 2024. https://europeanpetfood.org/self-regulation/nutritional-guidelines/ (accessed: 2026-09-10)
This is general information and does not replace a veterinary diagnosis.
This guide was compiled based on the expert input of Reka Fazekas-Birizdo canine nutritionist.
Certified Canine Nutritionist