Amaranth in Dog Food

Amaranth often appears on ingredients lists among the grains, yet it is not a grain at all, but a so-called pseudo-grain. For dogs whose food is deliberately put together grain-free, this fine distinction does make a real difference. In grain-free recipes in particular, it therefore plays a special role as a gentle carbohydrate source. We explain what amaranth actually is, why it can be interesting for dogs and where you find it at NANDOO.

What is amaranth?

Botanically, amaranth is not a true grass and therefore not a real grain, but belongs to the amaranth family. The small, grain-like seeds are processed in a similar way to classic grain, which is why amaranth is colloquially called a pseudo-grain. For dog food it is usually used finely ground or puffed, which allows it to be worked into the recipe without complications.

Because amaranth is naturally gluten-free, it is often used specifically in recipes for grain-free or low-gluten dry food. This makes it an alternative for dogs whose food should do without classic grain. In human nutrition, amaranth has long been known; in canine nutrition it has only established itself as a raw material in recent years.

Why amaranth for dogs?

Besides carbohydrates, amaranth also brings plant protein, iron, magnesium and fibre. This combination makes it a well-rounded addition in grain-free recipes, where the energy would otherwise have to come predominantly from other sources. The fibre it contains is also part of balanced digestion, as it contributes to regular passage through the gut.

Compared with classic grain, amaranth is considered well tolerated and is handled well by many dogs, particularly those who react sensitively to classic wheat or maize. In combination with animal protein, it complements the recipe without dominating it, remaining a plant-based supporting role in the bowl.

Amaranth at NANDOO

At NANDOO, we use amaranth specifically in selected dry food recipes, where a gentle, grain-free carbohydrate source is called for. Openly declared, so you can follow exactly what else ends up in the bowl alongside the meat and in what proportion the ingredients stand to one another. You can find an overview of our dry food recipes in our dry food category.

Amaranth shows that good carbohydrate sources do not always have to be grain. You can find further raw materials and their significance for canine nutrition in our raw materials glossary.