“Properly formulated plant-based diets for dogs are healthy, studies show, because “dogs have nutrient requirements, not ingredient requirements,” and a revolutionary commercial diet is making it easy for pet parents to choose plant-based.
For a long time, the idea that dogs should eat a primitive diet mimicking that of their carnivorous wolf ancestors has dominated canine nutrition. But the truth is that modern dogs aren’t wolves—they’re dogs and omnivores. What’s more, recent studies demonstrate they can even thrive on a properly formulated plant-based diet. Let’s dive into plant-based diets for dogs!
Research Shows a Plant-Based Diet Can Be Healthy for Dogs
In the thousands of years dogs have lived with humans, their bodies have adapted—including their diets. For starters, dogs have ten genes that are lacking in wolves that enable them to survive on a diet rich in starch, a carbohydrate found in foods like grains, tubers, and legumes. In other words, plant-based foods.
A recent study followed 15 healthy dogs eating a commercially formulated plant-based diet for a year. At the end of the 12 months, all 15 dogs got clean bills of health based on physical exams and other clinical tests. This study is the longest and most comprehensive study of its kind, and it showed that not only can dogs survive on a plant-based diet—they can thrive!
“Dogs have nutrient requirements, not ingredient requirements,” explains Dr. Kelly Swanson, Professor of Animal and Nutritional Sciences at the University of Illinois. So, it doesn’t matter if a dog only eats plants as long as the diet contains the necessary nutrients they need.
Benefits of Plant-Based Diets for Dogs
Although most pet parents won’t think salad = dog food, plant-based diets actually have numerous benefits for our canine companions. For example, one study examining mildly cooked plant-based food showed that plant-based protein is as digestible as animal protein. The dogs also absorbed more fat from the plants, had lower cholesterol, and had better gut health.
Moreover, animal proteins like dairy, beef, chicken, and eggs are among the most common canine food allergy triggers. Switching an itchy pup to hypoallergenic plant proteins can make all the difference.
Incorporating Plant-Based Dog Food Just Once a Week Can Make a Difference!
Plant-based diets also have significant benefits for the planet. Animal agriculture has several detrimental effects on the environment because it:
- Contributes to greenhouse gas emissions
- Requires large amounts of land
- Uses significant quantities of water
- Contributes to water and air pollution
By contrast, plant-based diets have a lower carbon footprint, require less land and water, and generate less pollution.
Wisdom Air-Dried From the Seed: Making It Possible for Dog Parents to Choose Plant-Based
Pet parents who want the best for their dogs can rely on Wisdom air-dried From the Seed from Earth Animal. Vet-formulated by Dr. Bob Goldstein, From the Seed is a plant-based recipe that’s delicious, nutritious, healthy, and ethical. It features lentil protein, quinoa, sunflower seed protein, potato protein, and the highest-quality ingredients. It delivers complete and balanced nutrition: protein, healthy fats and fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and all the amino acids dogs require for optimal health and wellness.
From the Seed is a great food for all dogs (even ones with allergies and sensitivities). It’s great for environmentally conscious, vegan, and cruelty-free pet parents. It’s great for the planet. And it’s great for every precious Earth Animal. Learn more about how this simple change in your dog’s diet can have a huge impact.
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
