Breaking: Research Reveals Plant-Based Diets Are Healthy for Dogs

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 in.

Research Shows a Plant-Based Diet Can Be Healthy for Dogs 

In the thousands of years dogs have lived with humans, their bodies and diets have adapted. For starters, dogs have 10 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 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, 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 Earth Animal’s award-winning Wisdom Air-Dried From the Seed. 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 ideal for all dogs, even those with allergies and sensitivities, making it a perfect choice for pet owners – especially those who are environmentally conscious. Choosing From the Seed benefits your dog, the planet, and every Earth Animal. Explore how this simple dietary change can make a big difference.