Can Dogs Eat Grits? Are Grits Safe For Dogs?

I think we are the same. Because while I was planning to feed Grits to my dogs, I searched on Google and Reddit for the best answers. And now I have been feeding Grits to my Golden Mountain Doodle, Chihuahuas, and Shiloh Shepherd for four years without having any major issues. I am happy to see you caring for every single thing for your dog. Your dog has a responsible, caring, and loving owner. In this blog, I will give you a detailed answer about “Can Dogs Eat Grits? Are Grits Safe for Dogs?”. But before going to elaborate, if you don’t have time. The Short answer is “YES! Dogs can Eat Grits, and Grits are Safe for Dogs”.

What are the Ingredients of Grits?

To understand the answer, you first have to know what are the ingredients of Grits. Grits typically made with Ground Corn, less sweet and Creamy. 

Benefits of Feeding Grits to Dogs

There are numerous health benefits associated with Grit because of its low sugar, fiber, and Corn. Let’s explore some health benefits of feeding Grits:

1. Good Source Of Energy

If you have energetic dog breeds such as Golden Mountain Doodle, Chihuahuas or Shiloh Shepherd, Grits will be beneficial to your dogs as they are good source of energy. Because, Grits contains Carbohydrates and we all know that Carbohydrates are the high energy source for dogs. As dogs do plenty of physical activities during everyday, they will be get benefited from Grits. 

2. Low Fat Content

Grits are a fantastic choice for dogs who have excessive weight and calorie restrictions. Because Corn is not rich in calories, feeding in moderation would be best to maintain your dog’s overall weight and well-being. 

3. Hydration 

If your dog is energetic, does lots of physical activities and drink less water than requirements. You should choose Grits because Grits are awesome source of liquid and may help to make your dog remain hydrated all day. 

Health Risks of Feeding Grits to Dogs 

Though Grits are majorly safe for dogs but sometimes it can be prone to health issues. So, go through all of the health issues to make yourself concious. 

1. Pancreatitis 

Though the chance is very low yes, your dog may suffer from pancreatitis if the Grit contains some harmful contents such as Butter and Cheese, which are also high fat contents. If any of the following symtoms are seen in your dog, immediately seek help from your veterinary. It is a must.  

Symptoms: Vomiting, Abdominal Pain, Lethargy, and Loss of Appetite.

2. Allergic Reactions 

The major ingredient of Grits is Corns. Which is a common allergens for Dogs. Therefore, if your dog has sensitive stomach and allergic to some foods, you should feed in small portion and also can ignore Grits. Not every dog is allergic but those who are allergic may show following symptoms. 

Symptoms: Itching, Skin Irritation, or Digestive Disturbances.

3. Salt Toxicity 

Grits are salty food item. So, it’s a great source of Sodium-ions. Though Sodium’s are necessary for dogs to maintain their well-being, but overfeeding may lead to Sodium-ion poisoning or Salt Toxicity.

Symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, Excessive Thirst.

4. Obesity 

Grits are a good source of calories. However, overfeeding may lead to calorie intake. Feeding Grits frequently can lead to weight gain and obesity. So, Feed in moderation.

Symptoms: Increased Sweating, Difficult Breathing, and Tired Feelings. 

5. Gastrointestinal upset

There is a potential risk of Digestive issues or Gastrointestinal Upset if you feed Grits that having toxic ingredients such as Butter, Sauce or Spices. Also, feeding frequently also can expose your dog to Gastrointestinal Upset. 

Symptoms: Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Abdominal discomfort.

How to Safely Feed Grits to Dogs 

After exploring both the potential health issues and benefits, the question may arise in your mind “How to Safely Feed Grits?”. So, I follow the following tips while feeding Grits to my furry friends, and I recommend that you follow these if possible. 

1. Feed-in Moderation 

You should feed Grits to your dog in moderation by considering their size, breed, activities and health conditions. However, Don’t feed Grits quite frequently because it may cause some health issues such as Pancreatitis and Obesity. Therefore, to avoid any kind of risks, you have to feed in moderation but if your dog is eating without having problems, you may increase the amount. 

2. Feed Home-made Grits

Restaurant Grits may contain harmful ingredients such as Salts, Butter, Cheese, or different spices, which can lead to numerous health risks, as I have already mentioned above. 

Therefore, the safest option is make Grits in your own hands. The best you can do is avoid every extra ingredients. In this way it will be safe for you dog. 

3. Monitor After Feeding

No matter what food you have introduced to your dog for the first time, you should be watchful after feeding. Every dog is different from the others, even if they are of the same breed; genetics varies. So, some dogs may not have any issues after eating grits, but some can. Therefore, you should monitor after feeding and have to look for any sort of issues like Allergic Reactions or Obesity. If any symptoms show, then do not feed Grits anymore. Also, seek a veterinarian if required. 

4. Seek your Veterinarian’s Help

It is always advisable that you should seek a veterinarian before feeding any food for the first time for more personalized and effective advice.

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Conclusion

After discussing the adobe three sections, we can easily say that, Grits are undoubtedly safe for dogs. You should feed Grits to your dogs by following the advice. Pads Of Paw team wishes you all the best and happy parenting.