The Best 10 Canned Dog Foods Without Guar Gum

By: Andrew
Time to read: 13 min.

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Preventing your dog’s stomach problems starts by choosing the best canned dog foods that omit harmful ingredients, such as Guar gum. Frequently used during food processing to bind together ingredients, Guar gum can lead to long-term indigestion and bowel issues in many dogs. To better optimize your dog’s health, consider switching to canned dog food that contains wholesome ingredients and won’t upset your dog’s tummy.

The best canned dog foods without Guar gum consist of natural and hearty ingredients that amplify your dog’s wellbeing and promote healthy digestion. Foods that include fresh and robust proteins, nourishing fats, and organic carbohydrates, contribute to and improve dogs’ overall health.

Guar gum provides little nutritional value to dogs and can leave behind lasting effects on their digestive tracts and impact general health. To find out about the downfalls of Guar gum, how it’s used in canned dog food processing, and which canned dog foods you can safely opt for instead, read on.

Table of Contents

What Is Guar Gum?

Guar gum is a thickening agent used in food processing techniques to congeal and enhance food’s texture. Found in both human and dog foods, the substance is naturally sourced through legumes and provides a desired consistency for many types of snacks, pre-prepared ingredients, and frozen meals. As the name suggests, Guar gum helps food keep its shape longer to make it more appealing.

Guar gum has an earthy smell and taste in its purest form but loses its flavor and color when mixed with other substances. It appears as a white and dusty powder and is used in similar baking methods to cornstarch.

Although readily available as a safe alternative in most human diets, scientists and vets alike are skeptical about the benefits of Guar gum. They are concerned about the long-term effects on dogs’ health. However, if Guar gum is an organic product, how could it possibly be bad for dogs?

While Guar gum was never intended to be dangerous to a dog’s diet, the gelling agent is used as a filler to expand and congeal wet dog foods and effectively serves as a filler product. When consumed regularly and in high amounts, it can result in your dog’s discomfort.

Why Is Guar Gum Harmful to Dogs?

Remember, dogs are natural predators and require a diet of high protein, fats, and carbohydrates, such as meat, fish, and vegetables. Since Guar gum is produced as a filler to bind foods together, it offers no substance or nourishment to your dog’s diet. Ultimately, the large percentages of fiber in Guar gum mean that too much of the substance can provoke digestive problems.

Sensitive Stomach

Like humans, dogs can also have sensitivities and allergies regarding certain ingredients found in their dinners. Guar gum’s fiber contents induce rapid digestion and further aggravate existing sensitivities, and can cause diarrhea, excessive gas, and bloating. Over time, you should analyze what your dog’s stomach reacts to most, so you can help ease his sensitivities.

You will have to be careful when choosing a new food for your dog’s sensitive stomach to ensure you are not picking one that contains any ingredients that can lead to pain or illness.

Digestion Problems

Too much of anything can be detrimental to a dog’s diet, and Guar gum’s impact is no different. Due to its high fiber composite, Guar gum can be hazardous to dogs’ digestion and overall well being. So, even if your dog isn’t prone to a sensitive stomach, eating foods that have excessive amounts of Guar gum can cause indigestion, runny or loose stool, as well as bad gas, ongoing bloating, and prolonged stomach aches.

Recurring digestion issues can also lead to rectal pains, vomiting, dental and gum problems, and dehydration. If you suspect that your dog is currently or has already suffered from these side effects due to ingesting Guar gum, speak with your vet as soon as possible and refrain from feeding your dog more foods containing the substance.

For most digestive problems, vets will recommend feeding your dog some rice and boiled but unseasoned chicken as it helps calm his stomach and reduce inflammation. If your dog likes this combination, you might consider choosing a canned dog food with the same core ingredients moving forward.

Long-Term Side Effects

Lastly, the long-term side effects of Guar gum are less-than-favorable for your dog’s health. They can include lethargy, digestive tract upset, and consistent or ongoing discomfort after eating. Transitioning to a more wholesome food for your dog can prevent the long-term side effects left behind by a poor diet of combined fillers, additives, and overly-processed ingredients.

Tips for Safely Altering Your Dog’s Diet

If you’re now convinced that Guar gum is causing your dog health problems and you’re ready to make the switch, you’ll first need to consider a few factors regarding your dog’s current foods, characteristics, and lifestyle, to make the diet shift safe, smooth, and comfortable.

Give Him a Dog Food Overhaul

For starters, it’s not just canned dog foods that contain Guar gum, as it’s also been found in dog treats, chews, and some dried kibbles. To avoid merely redistributing your dog’s Guar gum intake, have a read through the ingredients on any other food items you give your dog.

You can then consider dehydrated meats, all-natural chews, and organic kibbles as safer alternatives if mixing them into your dog’s diet to reduce Guar gum consumption.

Plan Around His Breed, Age, and Weight

Every dog breed requires different dietary intakes due to their breed-specific characteristics, age, and weight. Puppies and younger dogs need a greater protein intake than adults or senior dogs to help them grow to full capacity.

Smaller breeds need lower amounts of daily calories, while bigger breeds can consume larger quantities to maintain a healthy weight. Failing to adjust your dog’s diet based on his breed, age, and weight can result in lower energy levels, malnutrition, and even obesity problems.

It is also not uncommon to change your dog’s diet as they age to accommodate their different life stages, so take care when adjusting your dog’s diet at any age or weight to prevent dietary deficiencies.

Think About His Lifestyle

Before making the switch to a new food, think about your dog’s lifestyle and how much exercise he gets regularly. Some dogs may only receive minimal exercise per day, while others are extremely active and require more calories to supplement their activity levels.

If your dog is a working dog, he may also need more frequent feedings than an apartment dog who is relatively sedentary. These lifestyle factors contribute to your dog’s dietary needs by ensuring they’re receiving enough fuel to manage their energy levels. Without the right amounts of food, you may notice more sluggishness in your dog, sleeping longer than usual, or potential weight gain.

Remember His Allergies

While it may seem daunting to navigate all of the ingredients in dog food products, it’s vital to keep in mind any pre-existing allergies your dog has. Even if not explicitly stated on the ingredients list, having minor traces of an ingredient your dog is severely sensitive to can sometimes be enough to set off an allergic reaction. Always look for any notices that indicate if the food has potential traces of such items and research any ingredients you aren’t familiar with.

Get Your Vet’s Approval

Any time you’re thinking of adding or removing items from your dog’s diet, always consult with your vet beforehand to ensure the change is healthy and harmless. Your vet can instruct you how to safely transition the foods and give you signs to look out for in case of an allergic reaction to the new food.

Along with professional approval, your vet can also advise on feeding instructions relevant to your dog’s dietary needs and review the new food’s ingredients while ensuring he receives the right amount of nutrients and vitamins essential to maintaining a healthy diet.

Furthermore, your vet can recommend seeing your dog again for a checkup after consuming the new food for a while to analyze how it’s helping to progress your dog’s health. Keep track of any changes in your dog’s feces, energy levels, sleep habits, and eating habits, and report back to your vet with concerns.

Knowing how to maximize your dog’s diet, let’s delve into our favorite canned dog foods without Guar gum.

Tender and True Organic Chicken and Liver Recipe

The Tender and True Organic Chicken and Liver Recipe offer your pup organic, free-range chicken that’s been shredded and combined with chicken broth and salmon oil to give your dog a shiny and smooth coat. In fact, the first three ingredients are organic chicken, chicken broth, and chicken liver, so you know this canned dog food is packed with protein!

It is a suitable option for your dog who loves the taste of fresh chicken and contains all of the daily requirements of vitamins for your dog’s health. You can even use this food as a healthy snack throughout the day in smaller portions.

Only Natural Pet Stovetop Stews Grain-Free Premium Wet Food Chicken and Liver Stew

Dogs love the natural, wholesome flavors that are packed into the Only Natural Pet Stovetop Stews. Not only are they filled with fresh ingredients and tons of vitamins, but they’re suitable for picky eaters who would rather eat your food than their own. They mirror any homemade stew we’d cook for ourselves and give your dog a full tummy with lots of nutrients.

Once you let your dog try the Only Natural Pet Stovetop Stews, they’ll be convinced they’re eating the same dinner as you!

Weruva Paw Lickin Chicken in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

The Weruva formula consists of pure and fresh shredded chicken with added minerals and vitamins for your dog’s health. It’s tasty on its own or as a food topping for dogs who are less than enthusiastic about their daily kibble.

It’s great for dogs that require lots of protein to keep them going throughout the day and is even ideal for puppies looking to grow strong and healthy. It is an all-around fantastic canned food for daily feedings to give your dog the essential nutrients they need for everyday activities.

Canidae All Life Stages Less Active Chicken Lamb and Fish Formula

The Canidae All Life Stages formula is suitable for senior dogs that require extra health support and are less active due to their age. Just because they don’t move like they used to doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a fulfilling diet of fresh meat, vegetables, and complete vitamins.

It’s also packed with antioxidants that boost your dog’s immune system and give your dog the energy it needs to keep tackling all of his daily adventures.

Hill’s Science Diet Wet Food Adult 7+ for Senior Dogs Beef & Barley Entree

Hill’s Science Diet has been a go-to for vets and dog-owners over the years. The brand has earned a reputation as a quality and wholesome dog food for overweight dogs that need a little help managing those extra pounds. This canned food works well for controlling weight in older dogs and, when combined with regular exercise, can keep your dog in healthy condition, regardless of his age.

It’s preferred and prescribed to older dogs to accommodate their health needs as they age while also keeping them healthy in their later life stages.

Buckley Liberty Canned Wet Food for Dogs Chicken Flavor

Remember that rice and boiled home-remedy for when your dog has an upset tummy? Well, if you find your dog is having those regularly due to his current diet, this is a scrumptious alternative that helps balance out indigestion and gives your dog a full range of vitamins and minerals. It’s packed with high-protein chicken and is fantastic for a dog of any breed, age, or weight.

If your dog gobbles up your rice and chicken cure-all, it’ll be easy to incorporate this food into their daily intake while also providing all of the much-needed fats and carbohydrates they need as well.

Blackwood Pet Grain-Free Wet Dog Food Chicken & Chicken Liver With Pumpkin Recipe

Another high-protein, all-natural canned food, Blackwood offers this balanced wet food for your dog’s complete nutrition. It’s grain-free and an excellent solution for dogs that suffer from any grain allergies. Along with the critical nutrients it provides, the company makes this dog food in small batches, adding to the freshness and precision in their recipe.

This food can also reduce inflammation and existing stomach discomfort your dog suffers from due to previous food allergies or Guar gum.

Nature’s Logic Canine Feast

Nature’s Logic Canine Feast is about as organic as you’ll get when it comes to canned dog foods. With a minimal list of ingredients, this food packs a punch and delivers high-quality flavors your dog will love. It combines fresh beef, beef broth, and fats from sardines and herring oil to ensure your dog has beautiful fur and skin and healthy joints.

It’s also filled with blueberries and cranberries, enhancing your dog’s immune system, improving their strength and energy, and satisfying their appetite in the meantime.

Zignature Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

To expand your dog’s palate, try this Zignature Limited Ingredient Formula is a yummy alternative to traditional chicken and beef. Dogs enjoy fresh game meat, and it’s an exciting way to switch up their meat intake to something less popular but equally nutritious.

It also consists of the vitamin Biotin, which helps your dog’s hair, skin, and nails grow strong and increases elasticity as well.

Tiki Dog Gourmet Whole Foods With Real Shredded Meat and Seafood With Kale & Brown Rice

For another tasty twist on a classic meal, the Tiki Dog Gourmet Whole Foods offers enticing chicken, brown rice, and sweet potatoes mixed into a consommé that your dog will lick the bowl for. It contains savory chunks of fresh meat and vegetables that fulfill your dog’s daily calorie intake and provides the necessary vitamins and minerals for health and wellbeing.

This canned dog food also contains eggs, which serve as a source of amino and fatty acids to complement your dog’s nutritional intake.

Safe Switching

Whenever you change or alter your dog’s food, it’s usually recommended to do so gradually. Even if your dog doesn’t have a sensitive stomach or you’re switching to a similar food, abruptly changing his food to anything new can cause stomach aches and indigestion.

It’s suggested to transition to new foods slowly by mixing the old food with the new and eventually lowering the old food ratios until you’ve completely converted. If you notice a positive result in your dog’s appetite, energy, and overall health, then they’ve successfully transferred to the new food with ease.

Follow Feeding Plans

Regardless if it’s coming from your vet or the packaging’s feeding instructions, be sure you’re following the suggested serving sizes accordingly to avoid under or over-feeding your dog. Your vet can give you detailed information on a feeding schedule, while the canned food’s packaging will offer standard suggestions based on the food’s calories and your dog’s weight.

Read the Ingredients List

To stay informed on which dog food items, canned or otherwise, contain Guar gum, give the ingredients list a quick review before purchasing or feeding your dog. Manufacturers lay out their ingredients lists differently and place Guar gum as a top ingredient or lower down.

It should also be noted that not all brands or flavors are Guar gum-free. Some brands may create specific flavors free from Guar gum but have others containing it for binding purposes. Check the labels carefully or stick to a particular flavor that you know doesn’t have Guar gum as an additive.

Watch Your Dog’s Reactions

Changing your dog’s diet can sometimes result in a series of health and behavior reactions, some of which could be cause for concern if they’re ongoing. For example, your dog might get excited to try new food and consume it quicker than usual, leaving him with an upset stomach.

It doesn’t always indicate that the new food is bad for him, but that he has eaten too fast. Should the new food continue to give your dog stomach problems, then there are likely digestive issues present.

It is essential you pay close attention to any adverse reactions or side effects, such as regular sickness, low stool quality, or even excessive biting, itching, and grooming after eating. If your dog exhibits these symptoms due to the new food, discontinue feeding immediately and consult with your vet.

Conclusion

Although Guar gum is a convenient filler for most wet dog foods to maintain their shape and texture, it’s not necessarily a healthy one and can even provoke more dog health problems than before.

With a range of brands and flavors that don’t contain the added Guar gum, you’re now well-equipped with all of the essential information to deliver more wholesome nutrition for your dog’s diet and long-term wellbeing. Not only will your dog love trying out new flavors, but he’ll thank you for contributing to his good health. So, bone-appétit!

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Sources

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