Benefits of Breed-Specific Diets

Just one visit to a local pet food store is sufficient for any pet owner to recognize there are hundreds of commercial diet options available for dogs and cats. You can find products formulated for different species, different life-stages, and different conditions, such as dental health or joint support. But what about diets that are indicated for individual breeds (breed-specific diets)?

What is a breed-specific diet?

A breed-specific diet is formulated to accommodate various breed predispositions. For example, the kibble structure may be adapted for the size and shape of the animal’s jaw, or the nutrient profile may be adapted to achieve desired targets for a certain breed (e.g., enriched in omega-3 fatty acids for dogs with a predisposition to joint disease).

What are the benefits of a breed-specific diet?

Dogs and cats come in many shapes and sizes. Consider the differences between a miniature poodle and a Great Dane, or a Maine coon cat and a Persian cat. A “one size fits all” philosophy does not apply to dogs and cats; rather, specific breeds often have unique differences and therefore may have individual needs. Recognizing and accommodating these differences in nutrition is the basis of breed-specific diets.

What are some examples of breed-specific diets?

Commercial pet food manufacturers have designed a variety of different canine and feline diets targeted for specific breeds. For example, diets designed for breeds with a genetic predisposition towards obesity may have lower energy density while maintaining adequate concentrations of essential vitamins, minerals, protein, fat, and fiber. Diets formulated for long-haired cat breeds may have adapted fiber and fatty acid levels to reduce the incidence of hairballs. Diets designed for breeds prone to heart disease may contain specific nutrients that support cardiac function.

Kibble shape can also differ. Breed-specific diets for brachycephalic pets (e.g., Persians and pugs with a “flat-faced” appearance; see Photo 1) may be tailored for optimal size and shape of kibble, to encourage prehension and chewing in a smaller jaw.

Other common modifications include increased palatability for “picky” breeds (e.g., improved aromas and flavors) and inclusion of specific nutrients for skin support and coat health for susceptible breeds.

Should I feed my pet a breed-specific diet?

A diet recommendation for any pet should be based on a combination of factors, including medical history, dietary history, and physical examination findings from your veterinary clinic. While it is possible that a breed-specific diet may benefit your pet, this decision should be made together with your veterinarian, who has knowledge of specific health concerns that may be present. Ultimately, dietary and medical decisions should be based on individual factors that are relevant to your individual pet. Talk to your veterinary healthcare team to assist you with a diet recommendation for your pet’s needs.

For further information on diet selection, go online to find the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Committee: Guidelines on Selecting Pet Foods.