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CANINE DIET RELATED DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY
There is a lot of confusion surrounding Canine Diet Related Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). This is a heart disease that is found in dogs fed a boutique, exotic protein, or grain-free (BEG) diet. This form of the disease occurs in dogs of all ages and breeds, with Golden Retrievers and Labradors being overly represented. Their heart muscle becomes dilated and thin decreasing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. These dogs develop heart failure which causes fluid build-up in the lungs. Dogs with DCM typically are lethargic and cough.
The confusion with Diet Related DCM is due to the fact that researchers have yet to identify the exact components of the diets that lead to DCM. A deficiency of taurine in the foods is suspected. Another theory is that legumes compete with absorption of taurine in the gut. Unfortunately, the mechanism is not known. The good news is that researchers at veterinary colleges are working diligently to find the cause and protect pets from this terrible disease.
Currently, it is recommended that if your pet is on a boutique, exotic protein, or grain-free (BEG) diet you contact the manufacturer of the food to see if they have a board certified veterinary nutritionist that is on their staff. If not, it is advised that you change your dog's food to a brand that employs a nutritionist. It is also advised that the food has undergone a feeding trial.
Here are some useful links to help you determine if your dog's diet is nutritionally complete and for more information about diet related DCM: