Can Dogs Be Vegan? Vet-Approved Answer & Research

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM.

Yes, dogs can thrive on a vegan diet—but it’s not as simple as swapping kibble for carrots. While plant-based diets can provide all the essential nutrients a dog needs, there are crucial factors to consider. Not all vegan dog foods are created equal, and improper formulation can lead to deficiencies in protein, vitamin B12, and essential amino acids like taurine. But what about a dog’s ancestral diet—aren’t they meant to eat meat? How do plant-based diets compare to traditional meat-based dog food in terms of longevity, energy levels, and overall health? And is a vegan diet truly ethical, or does it pose risks? This guide will explore the science behind vegan dog nutrition, potential benefits and drawbacks, and how to ensure your pup gets everything they need—without meat.

Dog Veganism

Dog veganism is a dietary and ethical choice that involves abstaining from feeding your dog any animal products or ingredients derived from animals. A vegan dog diet typically consists of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, vegetable oils, soy, and other plant-based foods. It is a stricter form of a vegetarian dog diet. Unlike vegetarian diets, which may still include dairy, eggs, or honey, a vegan dog diet strictly excludes all animal-derived ingredients. This means vegan dogs do not consume meat, fish, dairy, eggs, or honey.

Can Dogs Be Vegan?

​Yes, dogs can thrive on a vegan diet. Several scientific factors support this possibility:​

Is Vegan Food Good For Dogs?

Yes, vegan food can provide health benefits to your dog. These are the top benefits of vegan food according to research:

1. Improved coat, skin, stool, odor, and more. A recent study of 233 pet owners (174 dog and 59 cat owners) whose pets had been exclusively vegan for at least six months to nearly seven years reported that 38% of the pets developed healthier and shinier coats after transitioning to vegan diets. Some animals previously prone to scaly or oily coats no longer showed signs of dermatological issues. Sixteen owners also noted improved stool consistency and volume and reduced pet odors.^[7]

2. Fewer allergies. Plant-based diets are naturally allergy-friendly, allowing dogs to get their protein from plants without the risk of common food allergies typically found in meat-based kibble. Experts at the Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University reported that plant-based diets are less likely to trigger allergic reactions than animal proteins, making them a significant advantage over traditional dog food.^[8]

3. Increased lifespan and other benefits. Lindsay Rubin, vice president of V-Dog (a popular vegan dog food company), told USA Today, “We’ve seen dogs live into their 20s on our formula.” Rubin also highlighted additional benefits of vegan pet food, including “increased mobility, decreased allergies, better bowel movements, and excellent weight maintenance.”^[9]

4. Detox. Veterinarian and former President of the U.S. Humane Society, Dr. Michael Fox, says dogs can benefit from a vegan meal at least once a week to detox.^[10]

5. Reduces cancer risk. Dr. Richard Pitcain, DVM, notes that we may be putting our dogs at higher risk of cancer due to the bioaccumulation of toxins and chemicals found in the animal-derived diet that we most often feed them. Dr. Pitcain noticed an improvement in many of his cancer patients after switching to a nutritionally complete plant-based diet. Because veganism lacks the chemicals in bone and meat, it lowers cancer risk.^[11] Research suggests that consumption of certain vegetables may prevent or slow the development of Urothelial carcinoma, also known as transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) in Scottish Terriers.^[12]

6. Improves gut health. A study found that 90% of dogs suffering from gastrointestinal issues had improved stool consistency when switched to vegan dog food.

7. Dandruff relief. Research revealed that 77% of dogs with dandruff found relief from the skin condition after switching to a vegan diet.

8. Better coat. 49% of owners feeding their dogs a vegan diet reported an improvement in hair coat glossiness, with 26 (26.5%) reporting a slight increase in shine and 22 (22.4%) reporting a significant improvement in shine.^[13]

Do Veterinarians Recommend Vegan Dog Food?

Dr. Knight, Professor of Animal Welfare and Ethics and Director of the Centre for Animal Welfare at the University of Winchester, says dogs can thrive on vegan or vegetarian diets if they are nutritionally complete and reasonably balanced.^[14] While dogs can survive on a vegan diet, whether it is a “good” option depends on individual circumstances and should be approached with careful planning and ongoing veterinary supervision to ensure it meets all dietary needs. This approach helps minimize health risks and supports the dog’s overall well-being.

Risks & Considerations of Vegan Dog Diets

While a balanced vegan diet can be safe for dogs, feeding unbalanced plant-based meals may pose risks.

1. Nutrient Deficiencies: Plant-based diets may lack essential nutrients vital for a dog’s health:​

• Protein quality: Plant proteins often lack certain amino acids crucial for dogs. An imbalance can lead to health issues.
• Taurine and L-Carnitine: These amino acids are abundant in animal tissues but scarce in plants. Deficiencies can result in heart problems. ​
• Vitamin B12: Primarily found in animal products, inadequate levels can cause anemia and neurological issues.
• Calcium and phosphorus: Essential for bone health, these minerals are abundant in animal bones but less so in plant sources.

2. Challenges with homemade diets: Creating a balanced vegan diet at home is complex:​

• Formulation errors: Homemade recipes often lack necessary nutrients, leading to deficiencies.
• Toxic ingredients: Some plant-based foods, like onions and garlic, are toxic to dogs and must be avoided.

3. Nutritional adequacy of commercial vegan diets: Some commercial vegan diets may lack essential nutrients or have imbalances. A study on the labeling accuracy and nutrient concentrations of 24 commercial vegetarian dog food formulas found that six of the 24 diets (25%) did not meet the minimum amino acid requirements. However, the study only tested two samples per brand, meaning the margin of error is wide. Additionally, 15% of traditional (non-vegan) dog kibble also failed to meet these nutritional standards, according to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (DATCP).^[15],[16]

Where to Buy Vegan Dog Food That’s Safe & Balanced

If you’re concerned about the potential risks associated with commercial or homemade vegan dog foods, our comprehensive article on the best vegan dog food brands offers in-depth reviews and formula recommendations that meet or surpass AAFCO nutrient profile for dogs. We highlight nutritionally balanced options to prevent deficiencies, ensuring your canine companion receives all essential nutrients for optimal health. For those who plan to make vegan dog food at home, read our homemade dog vegan guide to ensure your dog’s meals are balanced. And if you are looking for plant-based snacks? Check out our best vegan dog treats guide for healthy, delicious, and nutrient-packed treats your pup will love!

Are Dogs Allergic to Vegan Ingredients?

Dogs can develop allergies to certain vegan ingredients, just as they can with meat-based diets. Common plant-based allergens include soy, wheat, corn, and certain legumes like lentils or peas. Symptoms of food allergies in dogs include itchy skin, ear infections, gastrointestinal issues, and excessive licking or chewing. If your dog is experiencing these symptoms on a vegan diet, it’s essential to identify the root cause.

To ensure your dog’s diet supports their health, consider using an at-home dog allergy test to pinpoint potential food sensitivities. Additionally, a dog gut health test can provide deeper insights into your pet’s digestive health and how well they process plant-based foods. These tests can help you tailor your dog’s diet for optimal health and well-being.

Are Dogs on Vegan Diets Healthier & Live Longer?

While research on vegan diets for dogs is still limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that dogs on plant-based diets may live longer and have better health than their meat-eating counterparts.

One notable example is Bramble, a vegan Collie from the United Kingdom who lived to 25 years old and is recognized in the Guinness Book of World Records as one of the world’s longest-living dogs. Bramble’s owner, Anne Heritage, credited her dog’s longevity to a carefully planned vegan diet consisting of brown rice, lentils, textured vegetable protein, herbs, and yeast extract. Anne also reported that she raised seven other vegan dogs—three of whom lived to 19 years old, while one reached 20.^{[17] [18]}

Furthermore, a peer-reviewed scientific study analyzing 2,500 dogs found that those on vegan diets visited the vet less frequently and required fewer medications than dogs on a traditional meat-based diet. According to the study, 49% of dogs on a meat-based diet suffered from health disorders, compared to only 36% of vegan dogs.^[19] This evidence suggests that a nutritionally balanced vegan diet may promote better health and longevity in dogs.

Research published by Cambridge University Press observed the health of 12 sprint-racing Siberian Huskies over a 16-week period, including 10 weeks of competitive racing. Six dogs were fed a commercial meat-based diet recommended for active dogs, while the other six were given a nutritionally complete meat-free diet. At the end of the study, all dogs were assessed to be in excellent physical condition, with no signs of anemia or other detectable health issues.^[20]

Lastly, The University of Vienna studied the consequences of a vegan diet on 20 dogs for over six months and found the diet change did not negatively impact the dogs’ health.^[7]

Where Does the Protein in a Vegan Dog Food Diet Come From?

Protein in vegan dog food comes from high-quality plant-based sources that provide essential amino acids necessary for a dog’s health. Some of the best protein sources in a vegan diet include:

✅ Legumes – Lentils, chickpeas, and peas are excellent sources of plant-based protein and essential amino acids.

✅ Soy – One of the most complete plant-based proteins, soy provides all essential amino acids dogs need for muscle maintenance and energy.

✅ Quinoa – A nutrient-dense, gluten-free grain that contains a complete protein profile.

✅ Potatoes & Sweet Potatoes – While not high in protein, they provide essential amino acids and work well with other plant-based proteins.

✅ Nutritional Yeast & Algae – These sources provide protein and essential B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids to support overall health.

Can Puppies Be Vegan?

​Feeding puppies a vegan diet is a topic of considerable debate. While adult dogs have demonstrated the ability to thrive on well-formulated vegan diets, extending this practice to puppies needs careful consideration due to their unique nutritional requirements during growth. Puppies require higher levels of certain nutrients, such as proteins, specific amino acids (e.g., taurine and L-carnitine), vitamins like B12, and minerals including calcium and phosphorus, to support their rapid development. These nutrients are abundantly found in animal-based ingredients, making replicating their bioavailability in a plant-based diet challenging. Given these challenges, many experts advise against feeding puppies a vegan diet without strict veterinary supervision. If considering a vegan diet for your puppy, it is crucial to work closely with a veterinary professional to ensure all nutritional requirements are adequately addressed during this critical growth phase.​

Is Making Your Dog Vegan Animal Abuse?

According to the official definition of animal cruelty—which includes neglect or intentional harm to animals—feeding a dog a vegan diet is not considered animal abuse. Providing a well-researched, nutritionally balanced vegan diet does not fall under this category, as confirmed by PETA. Animal cruelty is generally divided into two types: intentional cruelty and neglect. Intentional cruelty involves deliberate acts of harm, such as dog fighting or physical abuse, while neglect refers to failing to provide essential needs like food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Commercially available vegan dog food offers a solution for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a nutritionally complete, cruelty-free diet made entirely from plant-based sources. As long as it meets all essential dietary requirements, a properly formulated vegan diet supports a dog’s health and well-being—making it far from animal abuse.

Other Benefits of Vegan Dog Diets

Vegan or vegetarian dog food also offers ethical and environmental benefits, providing additional reasons for dog owners to transition their pets to a plant-based diet. Vegan diets have the lowest environmental impact and are considered a more sustainable dog food to traditional meat-based kibble. This is because plant-based dog food requires less land and water and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than meat production. More importantly, it helps reduce the exploitation and cruelty of animals commonly associated with the meat industry, aligning with ethical choices for compassionate pet owners.

What People on Reddit Say

Here are the top thread discussions real people are having on Reddit on vegan dogs.

Dog Eating Vegan

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Can dogs be vegan? Based on our research and third-party research analysis, dogs can be vegan only if their vegan food is nutritionally complete and balanced and meets their specific dietary needs. We recommend commercially available vegan dog foods as your first option to switch your dog to a vegan diet. They are a safe option formulated to meet a dog’s nutritional requirements.

Pet owners must consult a veterinarian and a licensed veterinary nutritionist before making any drastic changes to their dog’s diet, especially if they plan to make a vegan diet at home. A vegan dog diet requires careful attention to protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. When considering any dietary changes for your pup, veterinary advice should be considered before putting them onto any new diet. It is essential to prioritize the health and well-being of our dogs when it comes to feeding them before any ethical or personal beliefs you may have.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Heredity
2. NPR
3. Tuffs
4. Hill’s Pet
5. Research Gate
6. Daily Mail
7. NCBI
8. Cummings Veterinary Medical Center
9. USA Today
10. CNN
11. Vegan Dog Lifespan
12. Evaluation of Dietary Vegetable: TTC
13. Fortune Journal
14. V-Dog
15. PubMed
16. DATCP
17. Bramble the Collie
18. Wired
19. Journal PLOS
20. British Journal of Nutrition
21. University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna