Whole Grains
carb · base score 0.7 · also listed as wholegrains, whole grain
What is it?
Whole Grains is a carbohydrate (starch/filler) ingredient. Graded good: a real, recognisable ingredient that adds nutritional value, so it lifts a product’s score.
At a glance
- Category
- carb
- Grade
- good
- Base score
- 0.7 (from −1 to 1; higher is better)
- Found in
- 37 products
- Also listed as
- wholegrains, whole grain
Common questions about whole grains
Is Whole Grains good for dogs?
Yes, we grade it as a good ingredient: recognisable and nutritionally useful, so it lifts a product’s score. Bear in mind that no single ingredient decides quality; the whole recipe and its balance matter more.
How many UK dog foods contain whole grains?
37 UK products list whole grains as an ingredient in our database. The full list is shown below, sorted by rating.
What else is whole grains called on labels?
Manufacturers list it under several names: wholegrains, whole grain. We match all of these to the same glossary entry when we read a label.
How does Open Dog Food grade whole grains?
We grade it good, our highest grade, reserved for recognisable ingredients that add real nutritional value. Every ingredient is converted to its dry-matter share and scored from our glossary before a recipe gets its 1-100 rating; the full method is on our methodology page.
What are whole grains in dog food?
Whole grains are cereal ingredients that include the bran, germ, and endosperm of the seed, providing fibre, B vitamins, and energy. Common examples in UK dog foods include brown rice, oats, barley, and whole wheat. They are a recognisable carbohydrate source and can contribute to the overall nutritional balance of a diet.
Do dogs benefit from whole grains?
Many dogs digest whole grains well and benefit from the fibre and nutrients they provide. Some dogs are sensitive to specific grains, so speak to your vet if you notice itching, digestive upset, or other concerns after starting a food containing whole grains.
