Essential Dog Nutrition: A Vet’s guide to what your dog really needs

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER NUTRITION FOR DOGS

A balanced dog diet is the foundation for long-term canine health. Whether your dog eats a meat-based or plant-based diet, they require specific macronutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates) and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) to support muscle mass, immune function, organ health and longevity.  A well-formulated diet can reduce disease risk and enhance quality of life, regardless of whether it’s based on meat or plants.

Thanks to advancements in vegan dog food manufacturing and nutritional science, well-balanced plant-based dog food and can now meet and surpass AAFCO and FEDIAF standards, ensuring dogs thrive without meat.

PROTEIN: A FRAMEWORK FOR OPTIMAL CANINE HEALTH

Protein is one of the most crucial nutrients for dogs, playing a role in muscle repair, immune response, and hormone production. Without enough digestible protein, dogs can suffer from muscle loss, immune suppression, and a dull coat.

HOW MUCH PROTEIN DOES YOUR DOG NEED?

Many pet owners assume that higher protein means better health, but this isn’t always true. Studies suggest that most adult dogs thrive on 22-25% protein in their diet. Excess protein can strain kidney function and contribute to weight gain—a growing issue in overweight dogs.

RECOMMENDED PROTEIN LEVELS

Puppies: ~22–25% protein on a dry matter basis.
Adults: ~18–21%.
Seniors: ~20–23% (if kidney function is normal).

At Herbie Wilde, we conduct in-vitro testing to ensure our plant-based proteins have a 95% digestibility score, meaning your god gets maximum nutrient absorption from every bite!

PLANT-BASED VS. ANIMAL=BASED PROTEIN

Traditionally, meat has been considered the gold standard for canine protein. A review in Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology (2023) by Li and Wu discussed how plant proteins can meet the amino acid requirements of dogs, highlighting the importance of combining protein sources like peas, lentils, and soy for a complete amino acid profile. Dogs on well-balanced vegan diets displayed comparable protein status to those on meat-based diets in controlled feeding trials.

BEST SOURCES IN VEGAN DOG FOOD

Flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and certain oils provide Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Algal oil, derived from marine algae, contains EPA and DHA—two potent Omega-3s traditionally sourced from fish. Research published by Souza et al., (2019) indicated that algal oil is an effective source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, for dogs. This is crucial for vegan diets that rely on plant-based sources. Dogs receiving algae-based Omega-3 experienced improved coat quality and reduced inflammatory markers compared to controls.

VITAMINS AND MINERALS: WHAT EVERY DOG NEEDS

KEY VITAMINS FOR DOGS:

Vitamin A – Supports vision & immune function (found in sweet potatoes, carrots)
Vitamin D – Essential for bone health (fortified plant-based dog food)
Vitamin E – A powerful antioxidant (found in seeds, nuts, wheat germ)

KEY MINERALS FOR DOGS:

Calcium & Phosphorus – For strong bones (plant-based sources: calcium carbonate, seaweed)
Zinc – Aids immune function (found in pumpkin seeds, legumes)
Iron – Supports oxygen transport (boosted by vitamin C-rich plant foods)

FIBRE: AIDS DIGESTION AND WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

Fibre is beneficial for gut health, stool consistency, and weight control. Soluble fibre (in oats, legumes) slows digestion and supports stable blood sugar, while insoluble fibre (in whole grains, vegetables) adds bulk to stool. A 2023 study in the International Animal Health Journal discusses how fiber can help manage obesity in dogs by promoting satiety, reducing calorie intake, and improving gut health.

ANTIOXIDANTS: BOOSTING IMMUNE FUNCTION

NATURAL SOURCES

Fruits like blueberries and cranberries, along with leafy greens, are rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and support the immune system.

BENEFITS FOR AGING DOGS

Senior dogs benefit greatly from antioxidants, which may slow cognitive decline and reduce inflammation linked to arthritis. A study in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (2022) outlined how antioxidants in fruits and vegetables (such as blueberries, spinach, and kale) help reduce oxidative stress and improve immune function in dogs, which is beneficial for aging dogs and those on vegan diets

CONCLUSION: A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO CANINE NUTRITION

At Herbie Wilde, we’re dedicated to evolving the conversation around canine diets, including the growing evidence that vegan formulas can work when carefully crafted to meet established nutritional guidelines. Here’s what you should remember:

• Essential Nutrients
  • Protein: Must provide a complete amino acid profile.
  • Healthy Fats: Ensure balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 intake.
  • Vitamins & Minerals: Crucial for bone, immune, and organ health.
  • Fibre: Supports gut bacteria, improves stool quality, and aids in weight management.
  • Antioxidants: Enhance immunity and may slow age-related decline.
• Quality Matters
  • Look for diets formulated by experienced nutritionists and backed by feeding trials.
  • Consult your vet before switching diets, especially for dogs with health conditions.

Well-designed vegan dog foods offer a nutritionally balanced alternative—without animal-based ingredients—supported by reputable studies. By choosing evidence-based, complete and well-balanced formulations, many dogs can thrive on plant-powered nutrition. At Herbie Wild, we have combined quality ingredients, scientific formulation, and careful monitoring, so that you can align your dog’s diet with ethical, environmental, or health-based considerations.

References:

Coupe, P. (2023). Focusing on Fibre: Impact on Gastrointestinal Health and Clinical Uses in Dogs and Cats. International Animal Health Journal, 10(2).

Fritsch, D. A., Ahle, N. W., Jewell, D. E., Allen, T. A., Brejda, J., Leventhal, P. S., & Hahn, K. A. (2010). A High-Fiber Food Improves Weight Loss Compared to a High-Protein, High-Fat Food in Pet Dogs in a Home Setting. International Journal of Applied Research in Veterinary Medicine, 8(3).

Li, P., & Wu, G. (2023). Amino acid nutrition and metabolism in domestic cats and dogs. Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology, 14(1), 19.

McDougall, J. (2002). Plant foods have a complete amino acid composition. Circulation, 105(25), e197-e197.

Souza, C. M. M., de Lima, D. C., Bastos, T. S., de Oliveira, S. G., Beirão, B. C. B., & Félix, A. P. (2019). Microalgae Schizochytrium sp. as a source of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): Effects on diet digestibility, oxidation and palatability, and on immunity and inflammatory indices in dogs. Animal Science Journal, 90(12), 1567–1576. https://doi.org/10.1111/asj.13294

Tanprasertsuk, J., Tate, D. E., & Shmalberg, J. (2022). Roles of plant‐based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 106(3), 586-613.