How Do You Feel About The Vegan Dog Food Trend?

If you’re not sure about it, but want more information, you’ve come to the right place. A lot of people are wondering if the vegan and vegetarian diet would be good for their dogs.  

So, should you let your dog become a vegan or vegetarian? What should you consider before making a switch? Most importantly, what are the key information you should know about this diet?

Read on to learn more!

What Is A Vegan? And A Vegetarian?

First, let’s differentiate between vegan and vegetarian. Some people think that vegans and vegetarians are one and the same. 

A vegan diet is strictly not eating any meat products. On the other hand, a vegetarian diet is a little lenient as it allows its adherents to eat food products derived from animals. The most common would be dairy products and eggs.

There are actually various types of vegetarians. There are vegetarians who eat fish as well. So, this is something you need to consider when planning to make your dog a vegetarian.

Are Dogs Carnivorous or Omnivorous?

It is important to note that dogs aren’t carnivores. Like humans, they are omnivores meaning they can eat both plant- and animal-based products.

Of course, some people would like to debate whether dogs are true omnivores or not. There are some indisputable proofs that favor the argument that dogs are omnivorous.

• Their teeth can grind both meat and fibrous plants.
• They can digest carbohydrates.
• Dogs have a gastrointestinal system similar to that of other omnivores.
• Dogs have the ability to digest nutrients and turn them into useful chemicals essential to life.

With all these points, most experts would tell you that dogs are omnivorous. However, this does not stop a dog from eating a juicy and delicious cut of meat rather than a pile of fresh carrot.

Will Veggies Be Enough?

There is no question about it, dogs are meat lovers so will veggies be enough?  Generally speaking, veggies should be enough for your mutt. Because of their ability to break down vegetables into essential nutrients, they should be able to digest plant-based food.

The issue is whether you will become strictly vegan or a little tolerant like a vegetarian.

If you choose vegan, it can be a little trickier. You need to make sure that your dog will get enough proteins. Thankfully, there are plants that serve as a good source of protein. These include soy, whole grains, beans, and corn.

If you choose vegetarian,  your dog can eat eggs, which is a perfect source of protein and amino acid.

Once your dog becomes a vegan or vegetarian, there’s a wide range of food to try. These may include broccoli, carrots, rice, lentils, quinoa, beans, dark and leafy green vegetables, and others.

Before your dog goes vegan or vegetarian

Eating the right type and amount of food is vital to your dog. Thus, deciding what to feed him is a major decision. Speak to your vet. Your vet can take into consideration the whole health condition of your pet and provide you with a more personalized recommendation.