5 myths about vegan dog nutrition – what's really true?

Hund liegt neben Vutter! Trockenfutter auf einer Bank

Soy protein has been successfully used as a plant-based protein source for many years and is primarily used as a base for meat and dairy substitutes. Soy also plays an important role in vegan dog nutrition, ensuring that dogs receive a balanced and nutritionally appropriate diet.

Myth 1: "Dogs are carnivores and need meat"

This myth often refers to the dog's descent from the wolf. However, the typical image of the carnivorous wolf can no longer be directly applied to our four-legged housemates. When humans began domesticating dogs, they evolved into our best friends and most loyal companions. Along the way, dogs were no longer fed exclusively meat. Various vegetables and carbohydrates have always been a staple of their diet. The dog we know today has, over the years, transformed from a pure carnivore into a versatile omnivore.

 A 2013 study also indicates that our four-legged friends have developed genetic adaptations that allow them to switch to a starch-rich diet. Researchers found that enzymes necessary for breaking down starch are present in greater quantities in our canine companions than in wolves. This evolutionary process lays the foundation for dogs to digest starchy foods more effectively and to transition from a meat-based to a plant-based diet.

Myth 2: "Vegan dog food does not contain all the important nutrients"

Vutter's plant-based dog food provides a complete and balanced source of nutrients, offering your four-legged friend everything they need to stay fit and healthy. Even without supplements, you don't need to worry about anything.
Thinking about your dog's health.

Vutter! is a complete food and therefore fully meets your dog's nutritional needs. This means that everything your four-legged friend needs in terms of vitamins, essential amino acids, and minerals is already included in all our wet and dry food varieties. You don't have to compromise; you get a high-quality alternative that offers your dog the same nutritional value as conventional food.

Myth 3: "Vegan dogs are weaker and sicker"

A large study from 2022 showed that, on average, vegan dogs had fewer health problems than meat-fed dogs. This study considered health factors such as an unusually high number of veterinary visits, medication use, and the veterinarian's assessment of the dog's health status. This information ultimately led to the conclusion that, on average, vegan dogs live healthier lives and are less frequently ill.

Plant-based dog food is particularly suitable for dogs suffering from allergies and intolerances to certain foods. Animal proteins such as beef or chicken, as well as dairy products and eggs, trigger food allergies in many dogs, leading to distressing symptoms such as digestive and skin problems or chronic ear infections.

Myth 4: "Vegan dog food doesn't taste good to dogs"

Our extensive food acceptance studies have proven the opposite!

For four days, 50 dogs were offered each variety of Vutter! wet food and a comparable meat-based food by their owners. The result is clear: Compared to a corresponding meat-based alternative, there was no significant difference in acceptance and preference between the two foods. This means that the pampered dogs ate Vutter! at least as readily as conventional dog food.

Thanks to the unique consistency of our wet food products, as well as a smell and taste strongly reminiscent of meat, Vutter! elicits open mouths and wagging tails with delight. But just like with us humans, tastes vary and are entirely individual. That's why the Vutter! range consists of a wide variety of different flavors. There's sure to be something for even the pickiest of furry friends.

Myth 5: “Vegan dog food is banned in England”

Dog owners in the UK are legally required to ensure their pets receive a balanced and nutritious diet. Therefore, there is no ban on vegan dog food. A plant-based diet for dogs can be a responsible choice if implemented correctly and is a complete food. It is crucial that pet owners are well-informed and understand their dog's needs to ensure a healthy diet.

A vegan diet for your four-legged friend is therefore neither illegal nor impossible – it simply requires special care and responsibility on the part of the dog owners.

Here you can find more information about vegan dog food in Great Britain.

All the important information at a glance

  • Dogs are not pure carnivores, but omnivores.
  • Vutter! is a complete feed, fully meeting all nutritional needs and containing all the nutrients your dog requires.
  • Dogs fed vegan food have, on average, fewer health problems than dogs fed a meat-based diet.
  • Acceptance tests show that Vutter! tastes just as good to your dog as meat-based foods.
  • Vegan dog food is not banned in Great Britain.

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