Research Shows Plant-Based Dog Foods Nutritionally Viable

Govind Tekale

New research finds plant-based dog foods only missing two essential nutrients, challenging the belief that dogs must eat meat.

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University of Nottingham study examined 31 dry dog foods and discovered a surprising truth about what your pet really needs.

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"As long as they're getting all of the essential nutrients from those ingredients, then the dogs are going to thrive," says lead researcher Rebecca Brociek.

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Both plant and meat-based kibbles contained acceptable levels of protein and essential amino acids—what's missing might shock you.

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The nutritional gaps in plant-based foods centered around iodine and B vitamins, which can be easily addressed through supplements.

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Despite packaging claims, the study found compliance rates were just 55% for amino acids and 16% for minerals across ALL dog foods tested.

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"Consumers are expecting that if products are labeled as being nutritionally sound, that will be true, but clearly it's not true," says Andrew Knight of Murdoch University.

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Environmental impact matters too—U.S. dogs and cats account for 25–30% of the environmental impact of U.S. meat consumption.

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Vegan pet owners face an ethical dilemma when choosing between their values and traditional feeding practices.

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Before switching your dog to plant-based food, consult with veterinarians—puppies and breeding dogs have different nutritional requirements.

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