Can Dogs Be Vegetarian or Vegan? The Honest Answer

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Many owners who choose vegetarian or vegan diets for themselves wonder whether their dogs can follow suit. The honest answer is nuanced: it is possible, but harder than most people think, and mistakes can harm health.

Dogs are omnivores, not carnivores

Dogs can digest starches and make use of plant ingredients, unlike cats, which are obligate carnivores. In theory, a dog's needs can be met with the right combination of plant proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. What dogs need are nutrients, not meat per se. But those nutrients must be provided in the right amounts and forms.

What the research says

Some studies, often surveys of owners, suggest dogs can do well on plant-based diets, while others raise concerns about deficiencies. The evidence is limited, and much of it is low quality, so firm conclusions are hard. A few commercial vegetarian and vegan foods have been tested in feeding trials, but the best data come from diets that are carefully formulated and monitored.

Nutrients to watch

• Protein. Dogs need essential amino acids. Plant proteins can supply them in combination, but quality and digestibility vary. See how much protein dogs need.
• Taurine and L-carnitine. Dogs can usually make taurine, but some diets and breeds are at risk of deficiency, which can contribute to heart problems. L-carnitine is often supplemented.
• Vitamin B12. Found in animal products, so it is usually added.
• Vitamin D. Dogs cannot make enough from sunlight, and plant sources are limited.
• Essential fatty acids. Particularly long-chain omega-3s such as EPA and DHA, which are in fish oil or algae supplements. See our guide to fats and omega fatty acids.
• Calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and others. Need careful balancing. See essential minerals.

See our guide to essential vitamins.

Commercial versus homemade

A commercial plant-based diet formulated to meet standards by a qualified nutritionist, and ideally tested, is the safest route. Homemade vegan diets are much riskier, because small errors can lead to deficiencies. If you want to cook, use a recipe from a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and a complete supplement. See our guide to home-cooked dog food.

Vegetarian versus vegan

Vegetarian diets that include eggs and dairy can be easier to balance than vegan diets, as these provide high-quality protein and some nutrients. But dairy may upset some dogs.

Who should not go plant-based without supervision

• Puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs
• Dogs with kidney, liver or digestive disease
• Dogs with a history of bladder stones, where urine pH and mineral balance matter
• Dogs that are underweight or have allergies

Monitor your dog

If you choose a plant-based diet:

1. Get a baseline checkup and bloodwork.
2. Recheck regularly, as your vet advises.
3. Weigh your dog and assess body condition. See the body condition score chart.
4. Watch coat, energy, stool and appetite.
5. Stop and consult your vet if your dog shows lethargy, weight loss, poor coat or any other concerns.

Ethical concerns

Many owners are motivated by animal welfare or environmental concerns. These are valid, but the responsibility is to ensure the dog is healthy. If you cannot meet its needs with a plant-based diet, an alternative such as a diet using responsibly sourced animal ingredients may be more appropriate.

The takeaway

A plant-based diet for a dog is not impossible, but it is demanding. Involve your vet, choose tested products and monitor closely.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.