Canine Cancer and Diet

Canine Cancer and Diet
By Donna Middleton, ACCN

I've had several people contact me lately regarding their dogs being diagnosed with cancer, wondering what they can do to help—whether alongside or outside of traditional Western medicine.

Cancer in dogs is, unfortunately, on the rise. In the 1970s, it affected less than 10% of dogs. Today, it strikes 1 in every 1.6 dogs, with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) representing about 85% of those cases. This alarming rise underscores the importance of prevention, education, and holistic support.

Preventable Causes

According to Canine Nutrigenomics, 90–95% of all cancers are the result of lifestyle and environmental factors such as:

• Pollution and toxins
• Obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• Infections
• Chronic stress
• Poor diet

In The Dog Cancer Survival Guide by Dr. Demian Dressler, DVM, additional causes include:

• Carcinogens
• Chronic inflammation
• Genetic predispositions and poor breeding
• Early spaying/neutering
• Excessive sun exposure
• Viral infections
• Sleep disturbances
• Free radical damage (and the role of antioxidants)

Canine Nutrigenomics further states that 30–40% of all cancers can be prevented by implementing key dietary changes.

What to REMOVE From the Diet

Before adding supportive foods, first remove harmful ones:

High-Glycemic Foods

High-glycemic carbs promote obesity and insulin resistance, increasing cancer risk. Eliminate:

• Refined sugars
• White rice and flours
• Processed treats and baked goods

Fluoride Exposure

Fluoride accumulates in bones and is linked to osteosarcoma:

• The EWG (Environmental Working Group) found fluoride in 8 of 10 major dry dog food brands—up to 2.5x higher than the EPA’s legal limits.
• Avoid foods with bone meal or animal by-products.
• Use fluoride-free or low-fluoride bottled water.

Harmful Preservatives

According to Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, these are approved but concerning:

• Propylene Glycol – banned in cat food, still allowed in dog food
• Ethoxyquin – linked to liver and blood toxicity
• BHA & BHT – recognized carcinogens

While "safe" at legal levels, long-term accumulation raises cancer risk.

Artificial Colors and Dyes

One additive to be especially mindful of is Red Dye 40. This synthetic food dye has been linked to cancer in recent research. According to a 2023 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Red Dye 40 exhibits genotoxic effects and may contribute to tumor formation (PMC10502305).

Avoid any food or treat containing artificial coloring, particularly Red Dye 40.

Environmental Toxins

Don’t overlook your dog’s surroundings:

• Pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers (linked to bladder cancer)
• Toxic household cleaners
• Over-vaccination and pharmaceutical overload
• Secondhand smoke and poor air quality
• Flea & tick preventatives with chemical residues

Detox and Support: Mind, Body & Soul

Even if we can't eliminate every toxic exposure, we can:

• Switch to natural cleaning products
• Choose organic or grass-fed food sources
• Incorporate immune-supportive supplements (e.g., medicinal mushrooms, omega-3s, antioxidants)
• Promote mental and emotional wellness with play, affection, and routine
• Offer daily detox support (milk thistle, dandelion root, chlorella, etc.)

Coming Up Next:

Stay tuned for my next blog where I’ll explore what to ADD to a canine cancer-fighting diet: nutrient-dense foods, cancer-inhibiting herbs, and holistic supplements that make a difference.

Prevention is powerful. Empower yourself with knowledge and advocate for your dog’s long-term wellness—naturally.