You cannot really argue with someone who follows a vegan diet. But that applies to humans. However, it is not the same for dogs. Vegan dog food is a topic of dispute. Although you may have heard that a vegan diet reduces the risks of heart diseases, diabetes, obesity, it is different for dogs.
When you ask about vegan dog food being ideal for dogs, the common answer would be that it depends. And yes, certain factors would influence the perspective of whether or not a dog is comfortable with a vegan diet. However, there are several benefits of the same.
Read through this page to find out the benefits and why today many dog-owners resort to vegan diets for their dog.
Why Do Dogs Go Vegan?
Veterinarians and experts have discussed the importance of a vegan diet for dogs. They have jotted down two primary reasons for switching to a vegan diet among dogs. The reasons are enlisted here.
- Personal ethics of the dog owner
- Food allergies of particular dogs
Dogs who have food allergies are sensitive to certain types of animal proteins. Therefore, they need to eliminate animal products from their diet. It implies that they need to replace it with a healthy diet that helps them get the essential nutrients.
In one of the interviews, veterinarian and president of the U.S. Humane Society, Dr. Michael Fox, said that there are dogs who can adapt to a proper and well-balanced vegan diet. However, most dogs usually need a variety in their diet.
They require animal fats and protein. But Dr. Fox also mentioned that every dog could do well with a vegan meal at least once every week.
Benefits of Vegan Dog Food
Though not the preferred kind of food for all dogs, a vegan diet is beneficial to some of them out there in quite many ways. Here are some of the critical benefits of dogs following a vegan diet.
Vegan Food is Anti-inflammatory
Plant-based food is natural and hence, anti-inflammatory compared to animal-based foods. This means that they can help dogs relieve joint pains and arthritis if they have such conditions. Dogs that switch to a vegan diet have better mobility.
This is because veganism helps strengthen their muscles, enables long walks, and more endurance at the park.
Easily Digestible
A vegan diet helps dogs that have food allergies. This implies that dogs with digestion problems can better digest vegan food. A vegan diet helps dogs suffering conditions like loose stool, constipation, or gas.
Meat-based foods are usually hard on the digestive system. This is because of the acidifying and inflammatory effects in animal protein. Plant-based foods are free from digestion and irritating allergens. Dogs with even a sensitive system can undergo huge benefits from switching to a vegan diet.
Weight Management
Plant-based foods include lean and easily digestible ingredients. These are an ideal choice for dogs that need to maintain a proper weight. Overweight dogs could use a vegan diet to shed the excess pounds. This would easily help them stay lean and live a longer life.
Improves Energy Levels
A vegan diet helps the dogs regain their puppy-like energy. This is because they are clean and include readily available nutrition. They have no adverse effects like meat-based products. Dogs following a plant-based diet often get boundless energy that contributes to a higher quality of life.
Summing Up
It is upon the condition of the dog and the beliefs of the dog owner as to which diet they let the dog follow. Vegan dog food comes with several benefits. And the ones who follow this diet have comparatively more energy and freshness.
“Author Name: Zoya Maryam”