Dogs are omnivores, so plant-based feeding can be nutritionally complete
Let’s explore how to feed dogs sustainably and healthily!
Thriving on Plants: Our Rescue Dogs' Journey to Vibrant Health in Costa Rica
Our three rescue dogs, ranging in age from two to five years, are living proof that a whole food, plant-based diet can lead to vibrant health for canines. Here in Costa Rica, nourished by an abundance of local produce and our own garden's bounty, their immediate switch to plant powered foods has been nothing short of remarkable.
What began as a heartfelt commitment to their well-being has blossomed into a testament to the power of plants. We've discovered a beautiful rhythm to their eating habits, perfectly suited to the tropical climate. Mornings often begin with a joyful scramble for nature's candies – ripe papayas, sweet bananas, and juicy mangos, offered as a delightful breakfast or a healthy snack throughout the day. Their enthusiasm for these vibrant fruits is infectious, a constant reminder of the simple pleasures that whole foods provide.
As the day progresses, their appetites turn towards heartier fare. Our afternoon meals are a rotating feast of local abundance: creamy pumpkin, nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, and wholesome lentils form the base, with an ever-changing variety of seasonal vegetables and seeds mixed in. We believe in offering a wide spectrum of nutrients, ensuring they receive the full array of vitamins, minerals and amino acids needed for optimal health.
But we don't stop there. Our dogs also benefit from a daily dose of "superfoods." Ground flax seeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds provide essential omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Nori, a type of seaweed, offers trace minerals, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds B vitamins and a cheesy flavor they adore. It's a culinary adventure that keeps their tails wagging and their bodies humming with vitality.
The Science is Clear: Plant-Powered Dogs Thrive
The remarkable health of our dogs isn't just anecdotal; the science strongly supports the benefits of a plant-based diet for canines. A growing body of research indicates that these diets can lead to superior health outcomes. Studies have shown that dogs fed plant-based diets live an average of 1.5 years longer than those on conventional meat-based kibble, and even longer than those on raw meat-based diets. Furthermore, these plant-powered pooches exhibit significantly less disease. This is a profound finding, challenging long-held beliefs about canine nutrition and opening doors to a healthier future for our furry friends.
One of the key advantages of a plant-based diet for dogs is the avoidance of common allergens. It's well-established that the top three allergens for dogs are beef, dairy, and chicken. By eliminating these common culprits, we've found that our dogs don't experience digestive issues, skin irritations, and other allergy-related ailments. For dog guardians, this presents a clear choice: either commit to providing home-prepared plant-based meals, or, at a minimum, switch to a plant-based kibble for their companion's health and safety.
Our experience here in Costa Rica with our four rescue dogs is a living testament to the power of plants. Their soft smooth coats, boundless energy, and zest for life are daily affirmations that a whole food, plant-based diet can unlock a level of health and well-being that we once thought unattainable. It's a joyous journey, fueled by local bounty and a deep commitment to their vibrant future.
If you'd like to join an evidence based community for Plant Powered Dogs, please check out: https://t.me/plantpowereddogs.
To your companion's health!
Our three rescue dogs, ranging in age from two to five years, are living proof that a whole food, plant-based diet can lead to vibrant health for canines. Here in Costa Rica, nourished by an abundance of local produce and our own garden's bounty, their immediate switch to plant powered foods has been nothing short of remarkable.
What began as a heartfelt commitment to their well-being has blossomed into a testament to the power of plants. We've discovered a beautiful rhythm to their eating habits, perfectly suited to the tropical climate. Mornings often begin with a joyful scramble for nature's candies – ripe papayas, sweet bananas, and juicy mangos, offered as a delightful breakfast or a healthy snack throughout the day. Their enthusiasm for these vibrant fruits is infectious, a constant reminder of the simple pleasures that whole foods provide.
As the day progresses, their appetites turn towards heartier fare. Our afternoon meals are a rotating feast of local abundance: creamy pumpkin, nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, and wholesome lentils form the base, with an ever-changing variety of seasonal vegetables and seeds mixed in. We believe in offering a wide spectrum of nutrients, ensuring they receive the full array of vitamins, minerals and amino acids needed for optimal health.
But we don't stop there. Our dogs also benefit from a daily dose of "superfoods." Ground flax seeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds provide essential omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Nori, a type of seaweed, offers trace minerals, and a sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds B vitamins and a cheesy flavor they adore. It's a culinary adventure that keeps their tails wagging and their bodies humming with vitality.
The Science is Clear: Plant-Powered Dogs Thrive
The remarkable health of our dogs isn't just anecdotal; the science strongly supports the benefits of a plant-based diet for canines. A growing body of research indicates that these diets can lead to superior health outcomes. Studies have shown that dogs fed plant-based diets live an average of 1.5 years longer than those on conventional meat-based kibble, and even longer than those on raw meat-based diets. Furthermore, these plant-powered pooches exhibit significantly less disease. This is a profound finding, challenging long-held beliefs about canine nutrition and opening doors to a healthier future for our furry friends.
One of the key advantages of a plant-based diet for dogs is the avoidance of common allergens. It's well-established that the top three allergens for dogs are beef, dairy, and chicken. By eliminating these common culprits, we've found that our dogs don't experience digestive issues, skin irritations, and other allergy-related ailments. For dog guardians, this presents a clear choice: either commit to providing home-prepared plant-based meals, or, at a minimum, switch to a plant-based kibble for their companion's health and safety.
Our experience here in Costa Rica with our four rescue dogs is a living testament to the power of plants. Their soft smooth coats, boundless energy, and zest for life are daily affirmations that a whole food, plant-based diet can unlock a level of health and well-being that we once thought unattainable. It's a joyous journey, fueled by local bounty and a deep commitment to their vibrant future.
If you'd like to join an evidence based community for Plant Powered Dogs, please check out: https://t.me/plantpowereddogs.
To your companion's health!
Our German Shepherd loves a variety of plant-based food, fruits and steamed veggies.
The largest study published to date, including dogs fed raw meat diets, reveals that the healthiest and least hazardous dietary choices for dogs are nutritionally sound plant based diets.
Knight A, Huang E, Rai N, Brown H (2022) Vegan versus meat-based dog food: Guardian-reported indicators of health. PLOS ONE 17(4): e0265662.
Dogs fed plant-based diets live an average of 1.5 years longer than those on meat-based diets.
These plant-fed dogs also experience fewer health issues, including skin and hormone disorders, digestive and liver diseases, neurological and eye conditions, and kidney disease.
Additionally, they display better overall wellness, with less anxiety, fewer instances of vomiting, inactivity, and contact avoidance.
Owner perception of health of North American dogs fed meat- or plant-based diets
Author links open overlay panel Sarah Dodd, Deep Khosa, Cate Dewey, Adronie Verbrugghe
Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
Knight A, Huang E, Rai N, Brown H (2022) Vegan versus meat-based dog food: Guardian-reported indicators of health. PLOS ONE 17(4): e0265662.
Dogs fed plant-based diets live an average of 1.5 years longer than those on meat-based diets.
These plant-fed dogs also experience fewer health issues, including skin and hormone disorders, digestive and liver diseases, neurological and eye conditions, and kidney disease.
Additionally, they display better overall wellness, with less anxiety, fewer instances of vomiting, inactivity, and contact avoidance.
Owner perception of health of North American dogs fed meat- or plant-based diets
Author links open overlay panel Sarah Dodd, Deep Khosa, Cate Dewey, Adronie Verbrugghe
Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
Department of Clinical Studies, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road E, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada