Wholemeal bread

What is wholemeal bread?

Wholemeal bread is bread that is baked from wholemeal flour. Wholemeal flour contains all the components of the grain kernel, i.e. the germ, the endosperm and the husk. This means that it contains more fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals than white flour, which only consists of the endosperm.

Wholemeal bread can be made from different types of grain, such as wheat, rye, spelt or barley. There is also gluten-free wholemeal bread made from rice, corn or buckwheat.

What are the benefits of wholemeal bread for dogs?

Whole grain bread can have some health benefits for dogs when fed in moderation. For example:

• Fiber: Whole grain bread contains more fiber than white bread. Fiber can aid digestion, regulate bowel movements and increase satiety.
• Nutrients: Wholemeal bread contains more nutrients than white bread. For example, iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium and B vitamins. These nutrients are important for the function of blood, bones, muscles and nerves.
• Secondary plant substances: Wholemeal bread contains more secondary plant substances than white bread. For example, antioxidants that can fight free radicals and strengthen the immune system.

What are the disadvantages of wholemeal bread for dogs?

Wholemeal bread can also have some disadvantages for dogs' health if it is fed too often or too much. For example:

• Carbohydrates: wholemeal bread contains more carbohydrates than meat or vegetables. While carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, they can also lead to obesity and fat accumulation if not consumed. Obesity can in turn lead to diabetes, cardiovascular disease and joint problems.
• Gluten: Whole grain breads contain gluten, a protein found in many grains. Some dogs cannot digest gluten or are allergic to it. This can lead to digestive problems, skin problems or inflammation.
• Yeast: Wholemeal bread often contains yeast or sourdough as a leavening agent. These can ferment in dogs' stomachs and lead to flatulence, abdominal pain or even stomach torsion.

How much wholemeal bread can a dog eat?

Wholemeal bread should only be used as an occasional snack or reward for dogs. It should not replace the main food or be fed in large quantities.

The exact amount of whole grain bread a dog may eat depends on various factors, such as the dog's size, weight, age and activity level. However, as a rule of thumb, no more than 10% of a dog's daily calorie intake should come from carbohydrates.

This means, for example, that a dog that weighs 20 kg and needs 800 kcal per day should not consume more than 80 kcal from carbohydrates. A slice of wholemeal bread has about 70 kcal, so this dog should not eat more than one slice per day.