Veterinarians observed a rising number of dogs developing signs of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition where the heart muscles weaken and struggle to pump blood efficiently. Interestingly, these dogs weren’t from breeds typically prone to DCM, but they all shared a common factor—they were being fed grain-free or "boutique" diets, often containing unusual ingredients or high amounts of legumes instead of grains.

Many grain-free diets contain high levels of legumes, which some dogs may be sensitive to, leading to serious heart issues. For your pet's health, it’s recommended to avoid foods where peas or other legumes are listed in the top ten ingredients.

How can you protect your dog? Start by discussing your dog’s diet and any concerns about DCM with your veterinarian. Research suggests avoiding foods where legumes are listed among the first ten ingredients or where multiple legumes are present. Also, make sure the food label indicates it meets the standards of the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and is classified as a “Complete and Balanced” diet.

If your dog develops DCM, consider consulting your veterinarian or a veterinary cardiologist about adjusting the diet. In some breeds, DCM may have a strong genetic link, while in others, diet could be a more significant factor. Be sure to report any cases to the FDA to support ongoing investigations.