Can our furry friends follow the trend toward plant-based diets that’s sweeping the human population? Many dog owners worry that their pups won’t get enough protein and other essential nutrients from a plant-based diet, since dogs have been fed meat for thousands of years. The truth? With the proper planning, a vegan diet can be incredibly beneficial for your dog’s health.
Protein and Dogs
Let’s start with protein, which is an important nutrient for dogs because it helps maintain and repair tissues in the body. It also helps build strong muscles and a healthy immune system. Dogs need a certain amount of protein in their food to stay healthy and strong, but how much they need depends on their age, how active they are, and their breed.
Amino acids can be thought of as the “bricks and mortar” of protein. There are 20 different amino acids, and dogs need 10 of them in their diets. These are called “essential amino acids” because the body needs them but can’t make them on its own.
Vegan Protein Sources for Dogs
Plant-based proteins, contrary to popular belief, can be just as high-quality as animal-based proteins. In fact, many vegan dog foods contain protein sources like soy, peas, lentils, and quinoa that are easy to digest and full of essential amino acids.
Some examples of plant-based proteins often found in vegan dog food include:
- Soy – All the necessary amino acids that dogs require are present in soy protein, which makes it an excellent protein source. Because of its minimal fat content, it’s a healthy option for overweight dogs.
- Peas – Pea protein is another high-quality protein source that is rich in amino acids. It also has a lot of fiber, which is good for dogs’ digestive systems.
- Lentils -Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and other important nutrients like iron and folate. They are also low in fat, which makes them a good choice for dogs that need to lose weight.
- Quinoa – Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is a complete protein source. This means that it contains all the essential amino acids that dogs need. It also contains a lot of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Brewer’s Dried Yeast – Brewer’s dried yeast is a byproduct of beer production that is high in protein, fiber, and other important nutrients such as B vitamins. It’s also high in antioxidants, which can help your dog’s immune system.
It’s important to remember that not all vegan dog foods are the same. Some may not have enough protein or the right balance of essential amino acids. For this reason, make sure to pick vegan dog food brands that have been formulated to meet a dog’s specific nutritional needs and use high-quality plant-based protein sources.
When choosing a vegan dog food, look for brands that list the protein sources on the ingredient label and make sure it has all the essential amino acids your dog needs. To guarantee your dog is getting the right mix of nutrients, it’s also a good idea to choose dog foods that suit their age and level of activity.
PawCo’s Plant-Based Dog Food
PawCo’s vegan dog food is complete and balanced, high-protein and low-fat, and contains all essential amino acids that dogs need. All our recipes are formulated by animal nutritionists and food scientists to ensure that they exceed AAFCO standards. Not only is our dog food nutritious, but it’s also really tasty and easy to digest, so we’re sure your dog will love it!
Making the Switch
If you want to switch your dog to a vegan diet, you should do it gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of vegan dog food into your dog’s regular food. Over time, you can increase the amount. This will help your dog get used to the new food and keep their stomach from getting upset. If you notice any issues or symptoms in your dog after changing their diet, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet. Does it feel overwhelming? Don’t worry—when you order your first PawCo subscription box, it comes with detailed feeding instructions! You can also read our guide to transitioning to vegan dog food here.
In conclusion, if done correctly, dogs can thrive on a vegan diet. Choosing a premium vegan dog food company like PawCo means your pet will get the protein and other nutrients it needs to stay happy and healthy. So why not give it a shot? Place your order here!