Groundbreaking study proves vegan diets deliver superior health for dogs!

THE LATEST GROUNDBREAKING STUDY: WHAT DID IT FIND?

Dr. Andrew Knight, a leading veterinary professor specialising in animal welfare, along with his team, has conducted the most comprehensive study to date on the health effects of plant-based diets in dogs. This new research analysed 2,536 dogs, including 336 that had been fed a vegan diet for at least a year, to determine whether vegan diets offer measurable health benefits.

The study controlled for various factors that impact canine health, such as age, sex, neutering status, breed size, and exercise level, ensuring the results were accurate and reliable. Here’s a breakdown of what they found:

SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED ILLNESS RATES

Dogs on vegan diets showed remarkable reductions in general illness indicators. Compared to those on conventional meat-based diets, these dogs were between 14% and 51% less likely to experience health problems, such as needing medication, specialised medical diets, or frequent veterinary visits.

LOWER RISK OF COMMON HEALTH DISORDERS

The study found that dogs fed a plant-based diet had between 50% and 61% lower odds of suffering from six specific health disorders. These included some of the most common issues like body weight problems, ear infections, and musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal conditions, which can cause lameness, diarrhoea, and other discomforts.

BETTER OVERALL HEALTH RATINGS

Not only were these dogs less likely to suffer from specific health problems, but they were also more likely to be rated as healthy by both their owners and veterinarians. This aligns with previous studies showing that dogs on vegan diets tend to have better overall health outcomes.

Among the 22 most common health disorders identified in a 2022 study of the same dogs, the data was clear: 49% of dogs fed conventional meat were unwell, compared to 43% on raw meat and just 36% on vegan diets. This significant reduction underscores the substantial health benefits of a vegan diet.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR DOG OWNERS?

This study is more than just another piece of research; it’s a validation of what many dog owners and veterinarians have been experiencing for years. A well-formulated vegan diet can help reduce the risk of common health issues, support a strong immune system, and promote overall well-being.

As Dr. Knight stated, “Dogs fed vegan diets clearly had the best health outcomes in this very large-scale study, and these results are consistent with prior studies in this field. Nutritionally-sound vegan diets offer extremely large environmental benefits, so this is very good news for dog owners who want to protect the environment while also maximising their dogs’ health.”

HOW HERBIE WILDE ALIGNS WITH THESE PRINCIPALS

At Herbie Wilde, we’re dedicated to providing plant-based dog food that isn’t just an alternative but a superior choice for your pet’s health. We’ve built our recipes on the same principles highlighted in Dr. Knight’s study, using functional ingredients specifically chosen for their health benefits. Here’s how we ensure our food aligns with these findings:

• Nutritionally Complete and Balanced: Our recipes are carefully crafted to provide all the essential nutrients your dog needs for a happy, active life. We use a variety of high-quality plant-based proteins, including lentils and chickpeas, to support muscle development and overall health.
• Superfoods for Immune Support: We include superfoods like blueberries, spinach, and sweet potatoes that are rich in antioxidants and vitamins to boost your dog’s immune system and support their health from the inside out.
• Support for Healthy Weight and Digestion: Our blend includes ingredients like brown rice and pumpkin, which are high in fibre to aid digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related conditions.
• Joint and Musculoskeletal Health: Ingredients like turmeric and glucosamine are added to help reduce inflammation and support joint health, keeping your dog active and comfortable as they age.

REAL-LIFE RESULTS: HEALTHIER, HAPPIER DOGS WITH HERBIE WILDE

We’ve seen incredible transformations in so many dogs who’ve made the switch to Herbie Wilde. From shinier coats to increased energy levels, our customers regularly share stories of their dogs thriving on our plant-based formulas. And it’s not just the stories — it’s backed by science.

Our commitment to using functional ingredients for their specific health benefits mirrors the findings of this groundbreaking study. When you choose Herbie Wilde, you’re choosing a diet designed to improve your dog’s health and longevity while also being kinder to the planet.

MAKE THE SWITCH TODAY

The evidence is overwhelming: plant-based diets offer significant health benefits for dogs. With 13 peer-reviewed studies now supporting this approach, including Dr. Knight’s latest comprehensive research, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. At Herbie Wilde, we’re proud to be part of this movement, helping pet owners provide the very best for their furry companions.

Are you ready to see the difference a plant-based diet can make for your dog?  Try Herbie Wilde today and join the growing community of dog parents who are choosing a healthier, happier life for their dogs and a better future for our planet.

For more details on the study, you can read the full research https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S240584402411609X