Do dogs need carbohydrates? Dr Conor Brady

Dr. Conor Brady, an expert in canine nutrition, is a strong advocate for a species-appropriate, biologically suitable diet for dogs. In his work, including his book "Feeding Dogs: The Science Behind the Dry Versus Raw Debate," Dr. Brady argues that dogs do not require carbohydrates in their diet.

1. Evolutionary Perspective:

Carnivorous Ancestry: Dogs are descendants of wolves, which are primarily carnivorous. Their ancestors thrived on a diet rich in protein and fat, with very little to no carbohydrates.
Anatomical Features: Dogs have sharp teeth designed for tearing meat, a shorter digestive tract optimized for digesting animal proteins, and a lack of specific enzymes in their saliva (like amylase) to break down carbohydrates efficiently.

2. Carbohydrates in Commercial Dog Food:

Dr. Brady is critical of the heavy reliance on carbohydrates in many commercial dog foods, particularly kibble, which often contains a significant amount of grains, starches, and plant-based fillers.
He argues that these carbohydrates are primarily used as inexpensive fillers and binders rather than as a nutritional necessity for dogs.

3. Health Concerns:

According to Dr. Brady, high-carbohydrate diets can contribute to various health issues in dogs, such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory conditions.
He emphasizes the importance of feeding dogs a diet that closely resembles their natural prey, which would be rich in animal-based proteins and fats and low in carbohydrates.

4. Energy Needs:

While carbohydrates can be a quick source of energy, Dr. Brady believes that dogs are metabolically better suited to derive their energy from fats and proteins, which provide more stable and sustained energy release.

In essence, Dr. Conor Brady argues that dogs do not need carbohydrates and that a diet focused on animal proteins and fats is more aligned with their biological needs. This perspective challenges the high-carbohydrate content found in many commercial dog foods and promotes a more natural, species-appropriate diet for optimal canine health.