While the numerous ethical, environmental and health benefits of a vegetarian diet have become widely recognized for human beings, it is not so well known that dogs, too, can live perfectly well as veggies. Even conventional dog food often contains cereals or vegetable flakes because of their nutritional value.
What is Vegetarian Dog Food?
A vegetarian diet excludes meat, meat products (such as sausages), meat by-products (such as brain, blood, bone, tissue and intestines) and fish. Everything else is allowed: Milk and milk products, eggs, soy, grains, pasta, rice, cooked lentils or beans, tofu, seeds, vegetables and fruits are all suitable dog food. (Vegetarian differs from vegan food which excludes all animal products including milk products and eggs).
Can Dogs be Vegetarians?
According to an article called “Vegetarian diet can be healthy for dogs” by Dr. Armaiti May (D.V.M., C.V.A.),dogs can thrive on a vegetarian diet, as long as all nutrient requirements are met. However, if a dog receives too little protein, calcium or vitamin D, his or her health could be jeopardized. Using well balanced packaged commercial vegetarian food and following the guidelines of a suitable book when preparing one’s own vegetarian dog food will help avoid diet-related problems. It might also be advisable to use appropriate supplements.
Health Benefits of Vegetarian Dog Food
Apart from its non-violent ethical implications, various health benefits are also attributed to vegetarian dog food, such as healthier skin and coat, improved digestion, better weight management and increased energy. A vegetarian diet helps with meat allergies and avoids contaminants often found in commercial non-vegetarian pet food which may include slaughterhouse wastes, rendered dogs and cats from animal shelters, supermarket rejects, hormone and antibiotic residues as well as dangerous preservatives. Veterinarian and animal advocateDr. Armaiti May associates these harmful ingredients with the increasing rates of cancer and kidney failure in dogs.
Guidelines for Veggie Dogs
Dr. May suggests to start adjustment to a vegetarian diet by mixing the vegetarian food in with the usual meals, gradually increasing the amount of vegetarian food to a 100 percent. Serving it warm or adding soy milk, yeast, olive oil or tomato sauce may quicken the dog’s appetite. Dr. May also advises to monitor dogs closely after the transition, watching for chronic gastrointestinal and skin problems and noting any new health problems. While most dogs thrive on a veggie diet, some may not do so.
Taurine and Carnitine Supplements for Dogs
Furthermore, Dr. May mentions certain dog breeds such as Doberman pinschers, boxers, "giant breeds" (Scottish deerhounds, Irish wolfhounds, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Afghan hounds), and cocker spaniels as being predisposed to DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy), a form of heart disease which may have to do with insufficient intake of taurine and/or carnitine, amino acids which are found in meat but have to be supplemented in a vegetarian diet. Suitable commercial supplements are readily available.
Talk to your Vet
While vegetarian dog food is likely to be much healthier than most commercial meat-based pet foods, it is best to talk to your vet when making the transition to a purely vegetarian diet. However, not all veterinarians may be well informed about the benefits and possible problems related to feeding your dog the vegetarian way.
Sources and Related Reading
Vegetarian diet can be healthy for dogs. Article by Dr. Armaiti May, D.V.M., C.V.A.
A list of companies selling vegetarian/vegan dog and cat food is provided by PETA (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals).
Vegetarian Dog Food Recipes. Article by Martin Bohn.
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