Could You Be Feeding Your Dog Too Much Sugar?

Did you know that some so-called "healthy" dog foods might be secretly sabotaging your pup's health with hidden sugars and unnecessary carbohydrates?

Why Are Hidden Sugars in Dog Food a Problem?

Dogs thrive on a diet rich in animal protein and healthy fats, not excessive carbohydrates. Unlike humans, our canine companions have no biological need for carbs. Yet, many commercial dog foods contain high levels of starch and sugar that can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and inflammation in dogs.

How Can You Spot Hidden Sugars on Ingredient Labels?

Pet food brands often use misleading terms to disguise sugar and high-carb fillers. Here are some common culprits to watch for:

1. Molasses, honey, and cane sugar
2. Brown rice, white rice, and potatoes
3. Corn syrup, fructose, and dextrose
4. Peas, lentils, and chickpeas
5. Wheat, barley, and oats
6. Carrots and pumpkin

Even seemingly ‘safe’ ingredients can pose hidden dangers. Xylitol, often found in sugar-free treats, is one of the most dangerous sweeteners for dogs. Learn how to spot and avoid it in our previous article.

Marketing Tricks: Don't Be Fooled!

Terms like "grain-free" or "natural" don't necessarily mean low-carb or sugar-free. Even some "high-protein" formulas can contain significant amounts of starch and sugar. Be wary of ingredient splitting, where companies break down high-carb ingredients into smaller portions on the list to make them seem less prominent.

The Dangers of High-Carb Diets for Dogs

A diet too rich in carbohydrates can lead to various health problems, including:

• Obesity and difficulty maintaining a healthy weight
• Increased risk of diabetes
• Chronic inflammation, leading to joint pain and skin issues
• Energy crashes and decreased activity levels

What Should You Feed Instead?

Consider:

1. Raw or fresh meat-based diets
2. Low-carb, high-protein dog food
3. Keto-friendly dog food options

Healthier Alternatives for Your Furry Friend

Many dog foods claim to be healthy but still contain hidden starches, fillers, and unnecessary sugars. The good news? You don’t have to compromise on quality or worry about decoding ingredient labels—you can choose truly species-appropriate nutrition.

At Visionary Pet, we take the guesswork out of feeding your dog the right way. Our low-carb, high-protein formulas mimic the ancestral diet dogs are meant to eat—without the carb-heavy fillers that many brands sneak into their formulas.

Here’s how our carefully crafted options support your pup’s health:

• Beef Meat Spread – Made from 100% grass-fed beef tallow, this pure protein and fat blend gives your dog long-lasting energy without blood sugar spikes. No unnecessary carbs, just real nutrition.
• Salmon Meat Spread – Packed with omega-3s for a shiny coat and healthy skin, this carb-free, protein-rich option supports overall well-being.
• Chicken Meat Spread – A lean and digestible protein source that’s easy on sensitive stomachs—without the grain-based fillers found in many chicken-based pet foods.
• Lamb Meat Spread – An excellent novel protein alternative for dogs with food sensitivities, giving them the nutrients they need—without the high-carb grains and starches.

Our meat spreads contain just two ingredients: real meat and healthy fats. No grains, no fillers, no hidden sugars—just pure, species-appropriate nutrition.

By making the switch to truly low-carb dog food, you’re giving your pup the fuel they need to thrive.

Author's Bio
Paul Raybould is the Co-Founder and CEO of KetoPet and Visionary Pet Foods. Paul is an experienced dog dad and a passionate advocate for dogs everywhere. He has a deep understanding of dogs' dietary needs and the importance of providing them with the best nutrition possible. When not working helping dogs everywhere have a long, healthy life, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife Susan and two rescue standard poodles, Freya and Coconut.

Disclaimer
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns about your dog, please consult a qualified veterinarian.