Studies Show Genetics, Evolution have Enabled Dogs to Thrive on Plant-Based Diets

Listen to this article

While it’s true all dogs share the wolf as a common ancestor, recent studies reveal that they no longer need to eat like one. In fact, dogs have evolved so much in their time as companions to humans that they are now classified as omnivores like humans and can flourish on a properly formulated plant-based diet. The reason, experts say, is genetics.

Throughout domesticated dog evolution, they’ve developed 10 genes that allow them to process starch-rich plant foods and thrive on omnivorous diets. What’s more, the longest and most comprehensive study about the health of plant-based diets for dogs was recently completed, and it found that dogs maintained excellent health markers after eating a plant-based diet for a year.

“We’ve always known dogs do well on a complete and balanced plant-based diet,” said Dr. Bob Goldstein, co-founder and head of veterinary product development at Earth Animal. “Over the years, we have seen friends and family raise healthy, happy, energetic, plant-based dogs. Now, the research has substantiated the evidence.”

Earth Animal, a Certified B Corporation, is a reducetarian entity committed to reducing its reliance on animal protein within five years. A major step is the launch of Dr. Bob Goldstein’s Wisdom From The Seed, an air-dried plant-based dog food.

Properly formulated plant-based foods have many health benefits for dogs. Most plant proteins are hypoallergenic, and new studies show they may also improve gut health and digestion, increase longevity, and improve overall health and well-being. All of the proteins and ingredients in the Wisdom From the Seed recipe are hypoallergenic.

Plant-based foods also have numerous environmental benefits. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, requiring large amounts of land and significant water use. Further, it contributes to water and air pollution through fertilizers, untreated animal waste, and pesticides.

“Pet parents can significantly reduce a dog’s carbon pawprint and help combat climate change simply by incorporating plant-based food into their diet one or even two days a week,” concluded Dr. Bob. “Pet parents can also play a positive role with regards to animal welfare for animals being raised for meat.”