Unlock the Ultimate Canine Cancer Diet: Expert Tips to Boost Your Dog’s Health and Fight Cancer Naturally!

A cancer diagnosis in dogs can be a challenging experience for both the pet and their owners. Nutritional support plays a vital role in managing the disease, improving the dog's quality of life, and optimizing their response to therapy. This article provides a detailed overview of dietary recommendations for dogs with cancer, incorporating expert opinions and research findings.

The Importance of Nutrition in Canine Cancer

Similar to human cancer patients, dogs with cancer often experience side effects from oncologic therapies. Nutritional support is crucial throughout the continuum of cancer survival, treatment, recovery, and living with advanced cancer. It has been shown that malnutrition can increase the risk of complications from therapy and decrease survival times in human patients with cancer. Improved quality of life and improved response to therapy are observed in those with good nutritional status. A nutrition support plan should be developed with defined goals in mind, and these goals should be individually defined for each pet. There is no published benefit to delaying nutrition assessment and support for the cancer patient.

Understanding Cancer Cachexia

The weight loss and loss of body condition associated with cancer is different than the weight loss seen in a dog who may be suffering from starvation. The weight loss seen in dogs with cancer is called “cancer cachexia.” During starvation, an animal first loses body fat. In cancer cachexia, the animal loses both fat and muscle at an equal rate.

Factors Contributing to Nutritional Challenges

Several factors can contribute to nutritional challenges in dogs with cancer:

Direct effects of the tumor: Some tumors, because of their location in the mouth, throat, or intestinal tract, may make eating, swallowing, or the digestion of food difficult.
Chemotherapy: Drugs used in chemotherapy can alter the sense of smell or taste, which leads to a decrease in interest in food. They can also cause nausea and even vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, dogs can develop a food aversion.
Radiation therapy: Radiation affects not only the tumor but normal areas of tissue around the tumor. Radiation of the head or neck can cause changes in the production of saliva, which makes eating and swallowing difficult. It can also cause inflammation of the mouth, tongue, and esophagus.
Changes in metabolism: Cancer can change the body’s metabolism. Cancer cells prefer to use simple carbohydrates like glucose as energy. They use a different pathway than normal cells, however, so the body needs to use even more calories to metabolize the breakdown products produced by the cancer cells.
Body’s response to the cancer: The body can produce substances in response to the cancer.

General Dietary Recommendations

The primary goals for feeding pets with cancer are to meet their calorie needs and ensure the diet is balanced. If your pet is maintaining weight and otherwise doing well, there is no reason that you have to change his or her diet. Providing a palatable diet that your pet will eat consistently is more important than providing a specialized diet.

Read also: Managing Canine Lymphoma with Diet

Here are some general dietary recommendations for dogs with cancer:

Energy dense: In general, foods with a higher caloric content are preferred. If your pet is not eating well, you should offer an energy dense diet that he/she likes. There are a few highly palatable, energy dense, ‘recovery diets’ that your dog may like including Hill’s Prescription Diet a/d, Iams Maximum Calorie, or Royal Canin Recovery RS. Other diets that may be considered include canned or dry kitten/ puppy foods and diets for active dogs. These diets should not be used for long periods of time. Once your pet is eating more consistently he/she should revert back to a regular type of food (i.e. adult maintenance, senior or active adult). It is important to discuss these changes in diet with your oncologist or primary care veterinarian.
High in fat: Tumor cells are much less likely to use fat for energy, whereas the dog’s normal cells find fats an excellent source.
Moderately high in protein: Since cancer cachexia is associated with a decrease in muscle mass, and muscle is high in protein, moderately high protein levels should be available to dogs with cancer, provided they have normal kidney and liver function.
Low in carbohydrates: Since tumor cells prefer carbohydrates, diets low in carbohydrates will theoretically give the tumor cells less to grow on.

Carbohydrate Considerations

Since cancer cells use glucose (carbs) as an energy source, there is a lot of worry about feeding carbs to cancer patients. The idea behind a cancer diet is low carb and high in quality proteins and fats. Remember: carbs are not all inherently bad; some sources contain many valuable vitamins and minerals. Although fruits and veggies are carbs, they also provide naturally occurring phytochemicals, flavonoids, and vitamins. The pet’s current clinical picture helps determine which CHO/fiber sources are most beneficial. Soluble CHO sources are more readily available sources of glucose compared with complex CHO counterparts. Soluble fibers are another complex CHO source in pet foods; in excess, fiber may decrease overall diet digestibility, but soluble fibers promote GI health.

Specific Nutrients and Supplements

Some dog foods are fortified with certain nutrients that can be beneficial to dogs with cancer.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oils. They may be very beneficial to dogs with cancer. It not only reduces cachexia, it may also have a direct effect on the tumor cells themselves. Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, serve as natural anti-inflammatories in cells by inhibiting cyclooxygenase. Their use has been studied in a variety of human diseases, including asthma, inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis. There is evidence in cancer patients that these fatty acids can help prevent or reverse cancer cachexia, especially in people with gastrointestinal cancers. Omega-3 fatty acids also may be able to kill cancer directly and have been shown to reduce cellular proliferation, angiogenesis and invasion, and increase programmed cell death. Despite their exciting potential, limited research exists on omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in veterinary cancer patients. One study evaluated the effects of a diet supplemented with high doses of omega-3 fatty acids in dogs with lymphoma. Improved outcome was seen in a subset of dogs receiving the diet, but not in all patients. Another study in dogs with nasal carcinoma undergoing radiation found lower levels of inflammatory mediators in dogs receiving fatty acid supplements, which might translate to fewer radiation side effects. Further research into potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in pets with cancer is needed to better define their role. The optimal doses of fatty acids necessary to benefit cancer patients also is not known, but may be higher than labeled doses at approximately 100 milligrams/kilograms per day. When adding fish oil to a diet with lower omega-3 concentrations, be sure to use a supplement that has been independently tested for quality control. and keep in mind the calories and fat that these supplements can add to the diet (fat is 10 calories per gram!). The type of omega-3s likely also matters - common plant-based sources of omega-3s (e.g. At VCSS, we recommend Nordic Naturals. Since some dog foods already contain increased amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, it is best to consult with your veterinarian before supplementing.
Arginine: Arginine is an important amino acid for dogs. Arginine can benefit the immune system and may influence tumor growth. Although the optimal amount of arginine for dogs with cancer has not been determined, a level of 2% of dry matter or higher is generally recommended.

The Antioxidant Controversy

There remains some controversy as to whether antioxidants should be given to dogs with cancer. There is concern that high levels of added antioxidants from concentrated supplements may help protect the cancer cells from radiation or chemotherapy (which often work by creating oxidative damage). Although they can be helpful, they may also alter the effectiveness of certain cancer therapies.

Other Supplements

Turkey tail mushroom: Turkey tail mushroom is a nutritional supplement that may inhibit cancer cell growth through cell cycle inhibition, immunomodulation and gene modulation. In veterinary medicine, a randomized clinical trial in dogs with splenic hemangiosarcoma was conducted using the brand I’m-Yunity. Dogs were treated with varying doses of the product after splenectomy. Results indicated that the herb is well tolerated, and dogs at a dose of 100 mg/kg per day had a longer time to cancer progression, though no difference in survival was found.
OncoSupport: OncoSupport is a nutritional supplement designed for pets with lowered immune systems due to cancer or illness. It features a natural blend of plant-based antioxidants, vitamins, and immune modulators including mushroom extract, spirulina, selenium, green tea extract, silymarin extract.
Yunan Bai Yao: This is a Chinese herb blend that has been used in veterinary medicine to reduce the risk for bleeding from hemangiosarcoma or for nose bleeds, when given orally. I’ve even sprinkled the powder on bleeding skin lesions to help stop bleeding. This product is imported from China and thus its contents are NOT regulated. Yunan Bai Yao has been used in people for over 114 years. Initially, it was used to curtail bleeding from combat injuries.
Probiotics: Probiotics have been defined as “live micro-organisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host” by the joint Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Proviable Forte is what we carry and recommend. This product helps reduce diarrhea and support normal stools and digestion in dogs and cats. It uses hydrated calcium aluminosilicate, a natural clay, to help absorb toxins and support the gastrointestinal tract and bowel function.
Avmaquin: Nutramax has data on dosing and benefits for dogs. Their product is called Avmaquin which is used to increase sulforaphane levels in dogs using the active ingredient found in broccoli and broccoli sprouts. Sulforaphane supports cellular detoxification by stimulating Nrf2 which causes production of certain Phase 2 enzymes. Nrf2 upregulates protective enzymes and proteins to help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Curcumin: Curcumin, the principal compound in turmeric, has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth in vitro by many mechanisms, including inhibition of cell-signaling pathways. Unfortunately, curcumin and its metabolites are poorly bioavailable and travel with minimal absorption through the GI tract. For this reason, most over-the-counter forms of the supplement are not expected to be clinically useful. Some suggest that adding black pepper to curcumin can increase absorption. There is no established dose for this supplement.

Despite the enthusiasm around some products, there is also little evidence to support the use of most supplements in pets with cancer. Moreover, there is little regulation with respect to safety or efficacy of supplements for people or animals prior to marketing. Some of these products may be harmful rather than helpful. Therefore, we are selective when it comes to recommending specific supplements.

Encouraging Your Dog to Eat

We can choose the appropriate food to feed a dog with cancer but that is only half of the battle. We also have to make sure the dog will eat it.

Increasing the moisture: For dogs who prefer foods with higher moisture, switch to a canned food or add water to the dry kibble.
Increasing the aroma: Warming canned food to body temperature can help increase the aroma of the food. If heating in a microwave, be very careful to mix it well afterwards to avoid any hot spots. Only warm the food to body temperature (around 100° F, not hotter). Heating foods so that they are warm to the touch can enhance the smell and may encourage food intake.
Assuring freshness: It is best to offer multiple small meals a day to assure the food is fresh.
Adding flavorings to the food: Dogs like the taste of sweetness and salt. If advised by your veterinarian, these can be added in small amounts to the dog food. You can offer a variety of foods such as cooked unsalted meats (roasted, boneless, skinless chicken; pan brown ground turkey or ground beef), cooked eggs (scrambled or hard boiled), cottage cheese, rice, bread, pasta, white or sweet potatoes, oatmeal, cereal crackers, baby food, or other foods. Some pets like sweet carbohydrates such as flavored oatmeal or sweet potatoes better than bland carbohydrates. Adding a small amount of yogurt, animal fat, oil, margarine, or grated cheese can enhance the flavor. Chicken or beef broth can be used as gravy; however, make sure that it does not have garlic or onion in it.
Avoiding the association of medications with food: Do not mix medications into food or water and it is best to not medicate immediately before or after a meal. Some medications need to be given with food, however, to avoid stomach upset.
Making eating easy: Be sure the food bowls are easily accessible. You may want to place multiple bowls around the house. Be sure your dog can access the food.
Avoiding feeding if the dog is nauseated: It is fine to try to hand feed your dog in an attempt to get her to eat. When a dog (or person) is nauseated, however, the last thing they want is food. Do not try to coax your dog to eat if she is obviously nauseated (drools at the sight of food, turns away, spits out food). This can lead to the development of food aversions.
Administering appetite stimulants: There are several drugs which may stimulate the appetite in dogs. If a dog will not eat on her own, a feeding tube can be used until the dog starts to feel better. Feeding tubes are the best way to provide nutrition to dogs with cancer cachexia who will not eat on their own. The feeding tubes are generally tolerated very well by dogs and make giving food and administering medications quite simple.

Addressing Specific Issues

Liver function: Liver function is important in the activation or metabolism of many chemotherapy drugs. Some chemotherapeutic agents also can be directly toxic to the liver, and CCNU is the most severe hepatotoxin used in veterinary oncology.
Diarrhea: When one of my patients gets diarrhea due to cancer, chemo, or medications (like antibiotics), I recommend boiled chicken and rice. A few days of rice is unlikely to significantly impact cancer, but will definitely impact diarrhea - in a good way.

Commercial vs. Homemade Diets

Pets with cancer can be fed home-cooked diets, commercial diets, or a combination. An alternative strategy could be to discuss with the owner their concerns with commercial pet foods, with the vast majority of owners using a commercial diet for part or all of their dog's foods.

Commercial Diets

Good commercial dog food labels have a statement from the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) on the label. (AAFCO is a non-profit organization that develops standards for animal-food nutritional adequacy). The AAFCO statement on the bag tells you that the food is complete and balanced for either all life stages or for adult maintenance.

Homemade Diets

Some people choose to prepare a homemade diet. The goal is wholesome, unprocessed foods. But you cannot just cook meat for your dog and call it a day. In my opinion, a homemade diet can be a lot of work. As a working mom, getting a homemade diet to the kitchen table for my family daily is a challenge.

Homemade diets can be specifically formulated to address the nutrient needs associated with single or multiple comorbidities when an appropriate commercial diet is not available for pets with cancer.

Read also: Diet for Seizures in Dogs

If you are considering cooking at home for your dog, choose your recipes carefully. While there are plenty of recipes available online, many are not nutritionally adequate. “I think balanced, home-cooked diets, formulated by a veterinary nutritionist, can be beneficial for pets that are not used to eating a balanced, formulated commercial diet,” says Hume. An even better choice is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to come up with recipes that are tailored to your dog’s specific needs and preferences.

Raw Diets: Proceed with Caution

Some sources strongly recommend raw diets for pets with cancer but these diets could be very dangerous to your pet. It is important to avoid feeding raw diets or treats to pets with cancer. There have been numerous recalls of commercial raw pet foods due to pathogenic bacteria despite the use of high-pressure pasteurization, freezing, freeze-drying, and other techniques by some manufacturers. However, there are also frequent safety recalls due to contamination of raw meat from supermarkets, so foods intended for humans are not necessarily safer. Given the lack of any documented nutritional advantages and the strongly documented risks, we do not recommend feeding raw diets to dogs and cats. Raw meat, eggs, and milk carry high risk of bacterial contamination with Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, Campylobacter, and other potentially dangerous bacteria. Freezing or freeze-drying do not make raw diets safe. While these bacteria can infect healthy pets (and people in the household), pets with cancer may be at greater risk due to alterations in their immune systems. Pets undergoing common types of chemotherapy are particularly at risk as many drugs used for chemotherapy reduce the white blood cells, sometimes dramatically, that are used to fight infections.

What to Avoid

Never feed your dog raisins, grapes, garlic, onion, chocolate, or artificial sweeteners (xylitol), since these can be toxic.

Survey Results on Owner Dietary Changes

A survey of dog owners who brought their dogs to the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital's Oncology Service for the first time after a cancer diagnosis revealed that 54.8% of owners altered diets or supplements or both. The most common informational resource for dog diets was veterinarians (53.9%). Usage of home-prepared foods significantly increased after a cancer diagnosis (P = .03). There was no significant difference in commercial diet usage before or after a diagnosis (P = .25). The informational resource most widely used for both diets and supplements was veterinarians. Among owners who changed their dog's diet (n = 61), the most common reason was loss of appetite (n = 22, 36%), followed by veterinarian recommendation (n = 17, 28%), and felt old diet was unhealthy (n = 14, 23%). Before diagnosis (n = 128), 72.7% (n = 93) of dogs were fed commercial diets exclusively, 3.1% (n = 4) of dogs were fed home-prepared diets exclusively, and 24.2% (n = 31) were fed a combination of commercial and home-prepared diets. After diagnosis, 59.4% (n = 76) of dogs were fed commercial diets exclusively, 7.0% (n = 9) of dogs were fed home-prepared diets exclusively, and 33.6% (n = 43) were fed a combination of commercial and home-prepared diets. There was a significant increase in proportion of dogs fed at least some home-prepared foods as part of their diet after the cancer diagnosis (27.3%‐40.6%, P = .03). However, there was no significant difference in the proportion of dogs fed any portion of their intake from a commercial diet after the cancer diagnosis (96.9% vs 93.0%, P = .25). The most common recipe source for those making home-prepared diets, both before and after a cancer diagnosis, was self-formulation. The most common special diet category fed before diagnosis was grain-free diets, and the most common after diagnosis was diets for a medical condition.

The Importance of Veterinary Guidance

It is important to discuss these changes in diet with your oncologist or primary care veterinarian. Always make changes to your dog’s diet slowly. If you need to make a change in your dog’s diet, do so gradually over the course of several days. A rapid diet change can make things difficult for your dog’s veterinarian. If your dog is eating an unbalanced diet for a prolonged period of time (greater than 2 weeks), vitamin/mineral supplementation is recommended.

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