The Tipsy Rabbit GSP TopDog Kennel

Understanding the Grain-Free Dog Food Debate

TTR’s Tips & Pointers Blog

What GSP Owners Need to Know About DCM

At The Tipsy Rabbit GSP TopDog, we’re committed to supporting not only the early development of our puppies, but their long-term health and well-being. One topic that continues to generate concern and confusion among dog owners is the potential link between grain-free diets and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)—a serious heart condition that weakens the heart muscle and can lead to congestive heart failure.


While the research is still ongoing, it’s important for GSP owners to stay informed. Here's what we know so far—and how you can make the best nutritional decisions for your four legged companion.

What Is DCM?


Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition in which the heart becomes enlarged and cannot pump blood efficiently. It's long been associated with genetic predispositions in breeds like Doberman Pinschers and Boxers—but in recent years, veterinarians began noticing an increase in DCM cases in breeds not typically prone to the disease, including Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and even some German Shorthaired Pointers.

Case Study

The Grain-Free Diet Connection


In 2018, the FDA launched an investigation into a potential connection between DCM and certain grain-free diets—especially those with high levels of peas, lentils, chickpeas, and potatoes. These ingredients are often used in place of traditional grains like rice, barley, or oats.
According to the FDA’s findings (as of their last update in December 2022), more than 1,300 cases of canine DCM were reported, many of which involved dogs eating boutique, exotic, or grain-free diets. Some dogs improved clinically after their diets were changed, which raised red flags about a possible dietary link.

Notable studies:

  • A 2018 Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association study described DCM cases in dogs who improved after diet change.
  • A 2021 Scientific Reports study found peas and legumes to be disproportionately common in the diets of affected dogs.

You can review the full FDA investigation here: FDA Investigation into Potential Link between Certain Diets and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy

What This Means for GSP Owners

German Shorthaired Pointers are not a breed traditionally associated with DCM, but their athleticism, drive, and energy demands mean they rely heavily on a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet to perform and recover.

At TTR, we always recommend:

  • Avoiding boutique or exotic ingredient diets unless prescribed by a veterinarian.
  • Choosing a food that has undergone AAFCO feeding trials.
  • Feeding brands that work with veterinary nutritionists.
  • Including grains unless there is a medically diagnosed reason to avoid them.

We encourage all of our puppy families to speak with their veterinarian about food choices, especially when considering grain-free or limited-ingredient diets.

Protecting Your Pup

If you're currently feeding a grain-free diet, here's what you can do:

  • Read your labels – If peas, lentils, or potatoes are among the first 5 ingredients, it may be worth reevaluating.
  • Monitor your dog for symptoms – These include coughing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and weakness.
  • Request a taurine test – Taurine deficiency has been linked to DCM in some cases, and testing can help guide decisions.
  • Consider a diet change – If your vet recommends it, transition slowly to a balanced food that includes grains and has veterinary nutrition backing. 

Final Thought    

As breeders, we take nutrition seriously because it impacts not only growth and structure—but the longevity and quality of life of our dogs. At The Tipsy Rabbit, we’re always here to share what we’re learning, support informed decisions, and help you raise the healthiest GSP possible.
Feeding your dog doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be thoughtful. When in doubt, talk to your vet. And if you ever have questions about what we feed our dogs or recommend for puppies, we’re just a message away.

Cheers to Happy Tails (and Healthy Hearts)

📸 Featured TopDog: TTR’s Shotgun Tex