As dog parents, we’re always on the lookout for things that can improve the lives of our best friends.

That includes what we put in their bowl. One nutritious option for your dogs diet you may have heard about lately are called “ancient grains”.

Ancient grains have been quite popular among us people, so it’s only natural to wonder if they are good for dogs too.

They are, but of course you’ll want to know what ancient grains are before you start looking for them in your dog’s food. There are several key points that you should keep in mind regarding ancient grains, why they are healthy, and why they are good for your dog.

What Are Ancient Grains?

Ancient grains are a specific category of grains and cereals that are consumed in the same manner as grains (called pseudocereals) that have largely been the same during the past few thousand years. Even though numerous other grains have evolved during this time, ancient grains have remained basically the same.

As a result, ancient grains remain dietary staples in numerous parts of the world. A few examples include China, Africa, the Middle East, and India. Now, ancient grains are becoming more popular in the western world as well. Because ancient grains are not nearly as processed as modern grains, ancient grains tend to have more minerals, fiber, and vitamins than modern wheat, corn, and certain types of rice.

So let’s take a closer look at why there has been a trend among pet owners rotating ancient grains into their dogs’ diet.

What Are a Few Examples of Ancient Grains?

If you are wondering what ancient grains look like, there are several examples to know. A few of the most common types of ancient grains include:

• Quinoa: One of the most familiar of the ancient grains. Quinoa is incredibly nutritious and rich in iron, magnesium, and fiber. It’s also one of the only plant sources to contain all nine essential amino acids in significant amounts.
• Amaranth: Amaranth is a gluten-free grain that has been grown for more than 8,000 years. A lot of people like to use amaranth instead of couscous, rice, and quinoa.
• Millet: This is a common ingredient in birdseed. It is a staple of numerous diets throughout Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, and China. As a versatile, gluten-free option, A lot of people like to use it as a hot breakfast cereal.
• Sorghum: This is a grain that is consumed widely all over the world. It is high in numerous nutrients, is gluten-free, and is commonly ground into a flour that can be used in baking.

These are just a few of the most common types of ancient grains. If you are thinking about adding ancient grains to your dog’s food, it is important to take a closer look at a few of the health benefits as well.

What Are the Biggest Health Benefits of Ancient Grains?

There are a few general reasons why ancient grains can be beneficial for the health of your dog. These grains are incredibly high in protein and fiber, making them a great alternative to traditional grains such as wheat. Some of the biggest benefits of feeding ancient grains do your dog include:

• A Lack of Fillers: First, these grains do not contain any filler. Some of the most common fillers include soy, rice, and wheat. Instead, ancient grains only deliver nutritious food without any altered grains. Therefore, consider reaching for ancient grains instead of traditional fillers.
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Second, ancient grains are also incredibly high in omega-3 fatty acids. These are healthy fats that are going to keep your dog’s body feeling strong. Some of the main benefits of omega-3 fatty acids include lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, reduce cardiovascular disease, reduce chances of suffering a heart attack, and reduce atherosclerosis in the blood vessels.
• Slower Absorption: In particular, ancient grains are incredibly high on fiber. As a result, they are going to be much easier on the digestive tract of your dog. Because ancient grains are going to be absorbed more slowly into the bloodstream in your dog, it is going to reduce the chances of serious spikes in blood sugar. This can prevent the development of metabolic issues down the road.
• High in Minerals: Certain ancient grains are also high in specific minerals that your dog’s body may require. For example, Millet is particularly high in magnesium, which is an important factor in numerous enzymatic reactions. In addition, the magnesium in Millet is also important for making sure that your dog’s bones remain strong.

These are just a few of the main benefits that you should keep in mind if you are considering feeding ancient grains to your dog. There are numerous digestive benefits that your dog is going to enjoy if you decide to switch to ancient grains. Instead of providing your dog with a bunch of food that is just designed to fill up his or her tummy, go with food that is packed with nutrition that will keep your dog happy and healthy.

Are Ancient Grains Safe for Dog Nutrition?

Ancient grains are a healthy alternative to typical grains found commonly in most of today’s food. They provide your dog with a wide variety of vitamins and minerals needed to remain healthy.

If you are considering switching to ancient grains, then it is important to remember that your dog still requires a balanced diet. Even though ancient grains are far more nutritious than refined mass-produced grains, they are still almost entirely carbohydrates, and are only one part of a well-balanced diet. You dog also required other vitamins, proteins, and fatty acids to stay in the best health.

A great way to ensure your dog is getting complete nutrition is with Jiminy’s Dog Food. It’s has been Jiminy’s mission to create a nutritious sustainable food for our dogs, and we’ve done just that with Cricket Crave and Good Grub.

If you have any questions about a specific diet that your dog should be eating, be sure to reach out to a trained veterinary professional with any questions or concerns. Of course, ancient grains can be an important part of your dog’s diet, providing him or her with important building blocks. Therefore, consider making the switch from refined grains to ancient grains. They are far more nutritious, have not been as altered by mass production, and will provide your dog with the nutrients needed for long and happy lives.