Brenda Khan
The term BEG diet refers to a diet that is 'boutique, exotic, and grain-free. The acronym was coined by veterinary nutrition specialist Dr. Lisa Freeman. The diets are typically marketed as healthier or more natural and are often targeted at dogs with allergies. However, there is no scientific support for these claims, and BEG diets have been linked to an increased incidence of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. DCM is a heart condition that can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias, syncope, and sudden death. While the exact cause of DCM is unknown, it is believed that nutritional factors, such as taurine deficiency, may play a role. As a result, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been investigating the potential link between BEG diets and DCM since 2018.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Boutique, Exotic, Grain-free |
| Other Names | BEG pet food, BEG foods |
| Associated With | Canine heart disease, Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) |
| Protein Sources | Chicken, Lamb, Fish, Kangaroo, Bison, Duck, etc. |
| Starch Sources | Lentils, Tapioca, Chickpeas |
| Recommended Action | Consult a veterinarian, Switch to a standard maintenance diet |
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What You'll Learn
BEG diets are associated with heart disease in dogs
BEG diets, or diets that are boutique, exotic, and grain-free, have been associated with an increased incidence of canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a type of heart disease in dogs. DCM is a cardiac disease that affects the heart muscle function by decreasing the heart's ability to pump blood, leading to congestive heart failure and, in some cases, sudden death. While the specific connection between certain diets and DCM is not yet fully understood, it is believed that multiple factors are at play, including the levels of nutrients such as dietary fiber, soluble fiber, resistant starch, cysteine, methionine, and taurine.
In July 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced an investigation into the potential link between diet and canine heart disease, specifically examining the role of BEG diets. This investigation was prompted by a suspicious number of cases of DCM in dogs consuming these diets. The FDA's update in June 2019 provided information on the animals in reported cases, including breed, age, sex, foods consumed, and diagnosis.
While not all dogs on BEG diets develop DCM, and some dogs can develop DCM while eating grain-inclusive foods, the association between these diets and heart disease in dogs is concerning. Golden retrievers, Cocker spaniels, Newfoundlands, Irish wolfhounds, and Saint Bernards are among the breeds that appear to be at a higher risk of developing diet-associated DCM when fed BEG diets.
Veterinarians and pet owners are advised to monitor dogs on BEG diets closely for any signs or symptoms of heart disease, such as a heart murmur, arrhythmia, syncope, exercise intolerance, or coughing. If clinical signs or symptoms of heart disease are present, a diet change is recommended to one that meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) or the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Committee Guidelines.
While the exact cause of diet-associated DCM in dogs remains unknown, ongoing research is dedicated to uncovering the relationship between BEG diets and heart disease in dogs, with the goal of providing evidence-based recommendations for canine nutrition.
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The B in BEG stands for boutique companies
The term "BEG diet" was coined by board-certified veterinary nutrition specialist Dr. Lisa Freeman to refer to diets that consist of food from boutique companies, exotic ingredients, and grain-free diets. The "B" in BEG, which stands for "boutique", refers to food made to be sold in specialty stores or boutiques.
In July 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced an investigation into the potential connection between diet and canine heart disease, specifically dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). DCM is a heart condition in dogs where the heart becomes enlarged and its function decreases, leading to congestive heart failure. The investigation was prompted by reports of increased rates of DCM in dogs eating grain-free diets, with many dogs showing improvement when the diet was changed.
The focus of the investigation was on the potential link between BEG diets and DCM, as these diets were found to be collectively implicated in the reported cases. It is important to note that the majority of brands named in the report were not boutique brands and could be found in large pet specialty, grocery, and mass-market stores. This led some to argue that the "B" in BEG is inaccurate and a misnomer.
While the exact cause of DCM in dogs has not been conclusively determined, research has suggested a possible link to the amino acid taurine. Dogs with DCM who were eating BEG diets showed improvement when their diet was changed, indicating that the underlying problem may not be solely due to taurine deficiency. Veterinary cardiologists have also found that grain-free diets are associated with more severe signs of heart disease.
Until more definitive research is conducted, pet owners are advised to seek professional advice and guidance from veterinarians regarding their dogs' diets. It is recommended that dogs with DCM who are eating BEG diets should be switched to diets that contain standard ingredients that meet AAFCO standards.
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The E in BEG stands for exotic ingredients
BEG diets are boutique, exotic, and grain-free diets that have been linked to an increased incidence of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. DCM is a heart condition characterised by an enlarged and flabby heart, which results in worsening cardiac function and, ultimately, heart failure. Veterinary cardiologists have observed a rise in the number of dogs suffering from DCM and being fed grain-free, boutique, or exotic-protein foods.
The exotic ingredients in question include atypical animal protein sources such as kangaroo, bison, duck, buffalo, salmon, ostrich, wild boar, and alligator. These ingredients are often used in place of grains and are marketed as "healthier" or "more natural" options, especially for dogs with allergies. However, the veterinary community has cautioned against the mindset that grains are unhealthy for dogs. In reality, grains provide a wholesome source of essential nutrients, and food allergies are generally rare in pets.
The exact cause of the link between BEG diets and DCM is still under investigation. While some studies have found that taurine deficiency may play a role, others have found that many dogs with DCM who are fed BEG diets are not taurine deficient. Other possible factors include nutritional imbalances or the inadvertent inclusion of toxic dietary components.
Until more is known about the relationship between BEG diets and DCM, pet owners are advised to seek professional guidance from veterinarians about their dogs' diets.
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The G in BEG stands for grain-free diets
Proponents of grain-free diets argue that they offer various health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and better blood sugar management. For example, a grain-free diet may be beneficial for people with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting around 1% of the Western population. Celiac disease causes the body to attack itself in response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, leading to gut inflammation and potential nutrient deficiencies.
Additionally, grain-free diets are said to reduce cravings for non-nutritious, high-carbohydrate foods. According to research, grain-free foods have a lower glycemic index, which may help train the brain to crave healthier options. This can be especially beneficial for people with food addiction, a common issue in Western nations, who routinely overeat unhealthy meals.
However, it's important to note that grain-free diets may also have drawbacks and may not be suitable for everyone. While they are not strictly low-carb diets, they can impact carbohydrate intake by eliminating grains, which are a staple in most traditional diets. It is recommended to consume complex carbohydrates from sources like potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkin in moderation.
Furthermore, proponents of grain-free diets advise paying attention to biofeedback and avoiding any additional food categories that may harm one's health. While grain-free diets do not restrict the consumption of meat, fish, eggs, legumes, or dairy products, they may require giving up some favourite foods and recipes.
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There is no proven cause of DCM in dogs linked to diet
In July 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it was investigating a connection between diet and canine heart disease, specifically, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs eating certain pet foods. DCM is a serious disease of the heart muscle that can ultimately lead to death. It occurs more often in large breeds, and in some breeds, it’s thought to have a genetic component. The diets in question were labelled as \"grain-free\" and contained a high proportion of peas, lentils, other legume seeds (pulses), and/or potatoes.
Following the FDA's announcement, board-certified veterinary nutrition specialist Dr. Lisa Freeman referred to these diets as "BEG diets", or boutique, exotic ingredient and grain-free diets. However, it's important to note that the "B" in BEG has been criticised as a misnomer, as the majority of brands named in the report are not boutique brands and can be found in large pet specialty, grocery and mass market stores.
While the investigation is still ongoing, there is currently no proven cause of DCM in dogs linked to diet. The FDA has stated that the potential association between diet and DCM in dogs is a complex scientific issue that may involve multiple factors, including genetics, underlying medical conditions, and nutritional makeup. The veterinary community should be aware of the potential role of nutrients like total dietary fibre, soluble fibre, resistant starch, cysteine, methionine and taurine, and their availability.
Until more is known about the potential link between diet and DCM, pet owners should seek the advice of veterinarians about their dogs' diets. For dogs requiring special diets due to various health conditions, they should be fed diets that meet standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). For healthy dogs, it is recommended to feed them commercial diets with standard ingredients like chicken, beef, rice, wheat, and corn.
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Frequently asked questions
BEG stands for boutique companies, exotic ingredients, and grain-free diets.
Some examples of the BEG diet include kangaroo, duck, buffalo, salmon, lamb, bison, lentils, peas, fava beans, tapioca, barley, and chickpeas.
The BEG diet has been linked to an increased risk of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, which can lead to heart enlargement and failure. However, there is ongoing research to understand the exact cause, and there is no proven link between diet and DCM.
