Can a Dog Have a Seizure After Eating Pedigree?

Many dogs eat Pedigree because it’s a well-known dog food. However, some owners are concerned about whether it can cause seizures in dogs. So what’s the deal?

There are no ingredients in Pedigree that may actively cause seizures or cause allergic reactions. Dog health is a mix of breed, genetics, and environment – dog food is only one part. There are many other reasons why your dog might get a seizure.

Is Pedigree Dog Food Healthy for Your Dog?

Many Pedigree products offer a nutritionally complete diet that meets AAFCO standards and WSAVA’s. Pedigree is not connected to any DCM issues and is a popular food with numerous breeders that have seen no adverse effects over many generations.

With that in mind, Pedigree dog food is an excellent choice. I know many breeders who have fed it to their dogs for generations, and they have all grown and developed into beautiful dogs.

Pedigree may not be the best food, but it does the job – it just may not have the ingredient list you desire. However, you shouldn’t judge pet food simply on an ingredient list. And because it is marketed as a complete food, Pedigree meets your dog’s basic nutritional needs.

Unless your dog ate an unknown brand of food, there’s a minimal chance a reputable dog food caused a seizure. However, only a veterinarian can confirm your dog’s allergies, health condition, and whether there are any issues you should be aware of.

It’s crucial to check the specific Pedigree product’s ingredients list, as dogs can develop intolerances or sensitivities to individual components, which are not the usual culprits for allergies.

Can You Feed Your Dog Pedigree Every Day?

Pedigree dog food can satisfy your dog’s basic nutritional needs. Therefore, if your dog is otherwise healthy and that’s all you can afford, feeding your dog Pedigree daily is fine. However, the occasional whole food may be a welcome addition.

I personally know several people who fed their dogs low-cost Pedigree, and the dogs lived for up to 17 years. Granted, they added a few other home-cooked meals every once in a while, which is what I suggest you try to do. Make sure you introduce it slowly, just in case of allergies.

Pedigree is beneficial in that it is nutritionally complete. However, you could replace 20–30% of it with whole foods that might be better for your dogs, such as unsalted sardines, meat trimmings, and inexpensive vegetables. Your dog will thank you for it.

Rotating protein sources within the food can also be beneficial as it exposes your dog to various nutrients and reduces the risk of developing allergies or intolerances.

Do Vets Recommend Pedigree Dog Food?

Vets will often recommend Pedigree depending on the dog’s needs, health, and your budget. Your veterinarian will always recommend the best option for your pet and your current situation.

Is there anything better than Pedigree? Yes. Will giving your dog Wellness instead of Pedigree cause them to live five years longer? Not really. So don’t worry too much about it. However, if you want the best for your dog, try to research the best dog foods and consult your vet about your dog’s diet.

Moreover, always keep a lookout for any changes in your dog’s behavior or physical health after switching foods. Sudden scratching, loss of appetite, or lethargy can indicate a food-related issue.

Has Pedigree Ever Been Recalled?

Pedigree dog food products have been recalled a few times, the most recent being in 2014, when only 22 bags were recalled in a few states due to metal fragment contamination, with some 55-pound bags being recalled five days later. There haven’t been any Pedigree dog food recalls since then.

These metal fragments were not embedded in the food but may have been floating around in the bag and posed a risk if consumed. Since 2014, many other companies have recalled their products but not Pedigree dog foods, making it somewhat successful.

Final Thoughts

Pedigree dog food is decently healthy dog food, whether wet or dry. Millions of dogs live on Pedigree and continue to do so daily, and most of them like their dog food.

However, substituting Pedigree occasionally with whole foods and home cooking might benefit your dog. There is a wide range of home-cooked foods you can give to your dog.

Depending on your financial status, even vets may recommend Pedigree if that’s all you can afford. And if your dog got a seizure after eating Pedigree, there may be many causes, and phoning the vet after the attack is always a good and necessary call.

FAQs

What can cause a seizure in a dog?

Seizures in dogs can be caused by many things, such as medications, low blood sugar, a brain tumor, toxicity, or can even be of an idiopathic (unidentifiable) cause. A lot of these will depend on the dog’s age, as well as their breed and health.

What foods can trigger seizures in dogs?

According to ASPCA, the most common foods that can cause seizures include Xylitol, Caffeine, Ethanol, and Dark chocolate. In addition, many dogs are allergic to chicken, mushrooms, molds, and even rosemary extract.

What to do if a dog has a seizure?

Remain calm, mark the time, cushion their head, and do not grab their tongue. Always call your veterinarian after a seizure, even if your dog seems alright. After the episode, don’t force them to eat or drink, but let them do so if they can generally stand without seeming confused.