CAN DOGS BE VEGAN?

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Written By Audrey A

So you’ve been enjoying your life being vegan or following a plant-based diet. You're getting ready to prepare dinner for you and your furry friend, but you can’t help but wonder, can he also be vegan?

With veganism growing in popularity each passing year, more people are asking this question: Can dogs be vegan? In 2024 there are over 59 million households in the US with dogs as pets alone. Pair that number with over 13 million vegans, and you get a lot of vegan pet homes! So if you’re one of the many vegans in the world who also has a dog, would you let yours be vegan? Is it even possible? Let’s find out!

NUTRITIONAL NEEDS FOR DOGS

Dogs are naturally carnivorous animals; they have a natural affinity for meat as a protein. However, they also need a balanced diet like we do, accompanied with fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. As we know, protein can come in many different forms and can simply be swapped for an alternative. For example, if you wanted to take a burger patty and make it plant-based, you could use kidney beans or lentils as the protein base. Or you could use a meatless manufactured meat. If you’d like to read more about meat alternatives, you can read more here.

Similar methods could apply to your dog’s meals; however, there are other factors that apply, such as your dog’s life stage and activity levels, as well as their specific needs. If you’re going to swap protein, they also need to be getting the minimum levels each day with the alternatives. They also require some essential nutrients. Without these nutrients, your dog may not be receiving a fully balanced diet to support them.

Essential Vitamins for Dogs

  • Amino Acids

  • B Vitamins

  • Vitamin A

  • Vitamin D

  • Vitamin E

  • Vitamin K

  • Omega 3

  • Omega 6

Examples of Plant Proteins Dogs Can Eat

  • Chickpeas

  • Lentils

  • Quinoa

  • Peas

  • Oats

  • Sweet Potato

  • Seaweed

  • Flaxseeds

HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT IT?

If you want to start feeding your dog plant-based meals and you’re not sure about it, always talk to your vet first. But you can always start by purchasing your dog food from brands that are already creating amazing plant-based meals for dogs. Whether it’s fresh dog food or bagged, there are quite a few vegan options to choose from, so check what’s available in your area. The benefit of purchasing pre-made dog food is that you don’t have to worry about nutritional requirements you might miss out on if you made it from scratch.

With the right preparation, however, making your own meals for your dog at home is also an option. Whatever you choose for your pup, feeding them a plant-based diet can not only be beneficial, but it’s also something that is possible!

Audrey A
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VEGAN MEAT ALTERNATIVES