If you are a pet parent searching for a healthier alternative to store-bought dog food, homemade vegan dog food recipes might be a great option for you and your furry friend.
By making your own vegan dog food at home, you can control the quality and freshness of the ingredients and tailor the recipe to your dog’s specific needs and tastes. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to bond with your pet and show them some extra love through cooking.
This article will delve into the benefits of a vegan diet for dogs, provide tips for creating balanced homemade vegan dog food recipes, and share some delicious and nutritious recipe ideas to get you started.
Key Takeaways
- Check with your vet before feeding your dog a vegan diet.
- Ensure adequate protein, calcium, and vitamin B12 with balanced recipes.
- Use a variety of ingredients, including lentils, brown rice, veggies, and supplements.
- Avoid toxic foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes.
- Monitor your dog’s health and behavior for success.
- Some dogs may not handle a vegan diet, especially those with health issues.
- Homemade vegan dog food can be good for dogs with food allergies.
- Be cautious with soy and wheat, which can cause digestive issues.
- Supplements like vitamin D and iron may be necessary.
- Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overfeeding.
- Homemade vegan dog food can be cost-effective, but requires time and effort.
- Consider working with a veterinary nutritionist for a suitable recipe.
Understanding Veganism for Dogs: Can Dogs Be Vegan?
We’ve all heard the phrase, “You are what you eat.” But how does this apply to our beloved four-legged friends? Is a vegetarian or vegan diet suitable for dogs?
As it turns out, dogs are omnivores, which means they can consume both meat and plant-based foods. However, the British Veterinary Association recommends against feeding a dog a vegetarian or vegan diet, as it can be challenging to achieve the proper balance of essential nutrients.
But fear not, with the right nutrition and care, dogs can indeed thrive on a vegan or vegetarian diet. Before embarking on this path, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to ensure that your dog’s dietary needs are being met. They can recommend a balanced vegan dog food or a vegetarian dog food recipe that meets your dog’s unique needs.
Creating a balanced vegan dog food requires careful attention to amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Some essential nutrients, such as taurine, may be lacking in a plant-based diet, so it’s crucial to ensure that your dog is getting everything they need to stay healthy. If you choose to prepare homemade meals, you can consult a veterinary nutritionist or check with your vet for guidance on the appropriate types and amounts of food and supplements to provide your dog.
Alternatively, there are many commercial vegetarian diets available for dogs that are formulated to provide all the necessary nutrients. These balanced vegan dog food options can alleviate concerns about dietary imbalances and ensure that your dog’s diet needs are being met.
Homemade Vegan Dog Food Basics

Below is a detailed and professional data table providing key information on Vegan Homemade Food Basics, including nutritional requirements, ingredients, preparation, feeding guidelines, benefits, and risks.
Topic | Description |
Nutritional Requirements | Dogs require certain nutrients, such as protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. A vegan diet can provide these nutrients through sources like legumes, grains, vegetables, and supplements. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet is balanced and meets your dog’s individual needs. |
Ingredients | Some common ingredients in homemade vegan dog food include cooked legumes (such as lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans), grains (such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats), vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens), and supplements (such as vitamin B12, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids). It is important to avoid certain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, grapes, and chocolate. |
Preparation | Homemade vegan dog food can be prepared by cooking the ingredients and mixing them together in the appropriate proportions. Some recipes may also include plant-based oils or seasonings for flavor. It is important to follow recipes or consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the food is properly balanced and meets your dog’s nutritional needs. |
Feeding Guidelines | The amount of homemade vegan dog food to feed your dog will depend on factors such as their weight, age, and activity level. It is important to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their food intake as needed. It is also important to provide fresh water at all times. |
Benefits | A homemade vegan diet can provide numerous health benefits for dogs, such as improved digestion, decreased risk of obesity, and reduced risk of certain diseases. Additionally, it can be a more environmentally sustainable and ethical choice for pet owners who do not want to feed their dogs animal products. |
Risks | A poorly balanced homemade vegan diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which can cause health problems for dogs. It is important to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure the diet is properly balanced and meets your dog’s individual needs. Additionally, some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain plant-based ingredients, so it is important to monitor your dog’s reactions to new foods. |
Vegan Dog Food Ingredients
As more and more pet owners adopt a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, there’s an increasing demand for vegan dry dog food and other plant-based options. However, some pet owners may have concerns about whether a vegan or vegetarian diet can provide adequate nutrition for their dogs.
That’s why understanding the nutritional value and benefits of various vegan dog food ingredients is crucial for ensuring that our furry friends get all the nutrients they need to thrive.
In this section, we’ll explore some of the best vegan dog food ingredients and their nutritional benefits, to help you make informed decisions about your dog’s nutrition on a plant-based diet.
Ingredient | Nutritional Value | Potential Benefits |
Lentils | High in protein and fiber | Promotes satiety, aids digestion, and supports muscle development |
Chickpeas | Rich in protein and complex carbs | Helps maintain healthy weight, supports energy levels |
Peanuts | High in protein and healthy fats | Promotes heart health, helps maintain healthy weight |
Almonds | Rich in healthy fats and protein | Supports heart health and helps maintain healthy weight |
Spirulina | High in protein, vitamins, and minerals | Boosts immune system, supports digestion and energy levels |
Quinoa | High in protein and essential amino acids | Supports muscle development and healthy skin/coat |
Chia seeds | Rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants | Helps reduce inflammation, supports digestive health and energy levels |
Hemp seeds | High in protein and essential fatty acids | Supports heart health and healthy skin/coat |
Beans | Rich in protein and complex carbs | Helps maintain healthy weight, supports energy levels |
Soybeans | Rich in protein and essential amino acids | Supports muscle development and healthy skin/coat |
Barley | Rich in fiber and complex carbs | Helps maintain healthy weight, supports digestive health |
Millet | High in protein and essential amino acids | Supports muscle development and healthy skin/coat |
Brown rice | Rich in fiber and essential nutrients | Helps maintain healthy weight and supports digestive health |
Potatoes | Rich in complex carbs and potassium | Supports energy levels and heart health |
Sweet potatoes | Rich in fiber and vitamin A | Supports digestive health and immune system |
Rice | Rich in carbohydrates and essential nutrients | Supports energy levels and digestive health |
Oats | High in fiber and essential nutrients | Helps maintain healthy weight and supports digestive health |
Wheat | Rich in fiber and essential nutrients | Helps maintain healthy weight and supports digestive health |
Cucumbers | Low in calories and high in water content | Promotes hydration and supports digestive health |
Broccoli | Rich in fiber and essential nutrients | Supports healthy immune system and digestion |
Dark, leafy greens (kale, spinach) | Rich in vitamins and minerals | Supports overall health and immune system |
Carrots | Rich in fiber and vitamin A | Supports healthy eyesight and immune system |
Corn | Rich in carbohydrates and essential nutrients | Supports energy levels and digestive health |
Artichokes | Rich in fiber and antioxidants | Supports digestive health and liver function |
Cauliflower | Rich in fiber and vitamin C | Supports healthy immune system and digestion |
Asparagus | Rich in fiber and essential nutrients | Supports digestive health and kidney function |
Zucchini | Low in calories and high in water content | Promotes hydration and supports digestive health |
Pumpkin | Rich in fiber and essential nutrients | Supports digestive health and immune system |
Sunflower seeds | High in protein and healthy fats | Promotes heart health and helps maintain healthy weight |
Fruits | High in vitamins and antioxidants | Supports overall health and immune system |
Bananas | Rich in potassium and fiber | Promotes healthy digestion and supports heart health |
Blueberries | High in antioxidants and fiber | Supports healthy immune system and cognitive function |
No more stinky dog breath! V-dog vegan breathbones work to not only improve dental health, they give your pup fresh, cinnamon-y breath. With healthy ingredients you can actually pronounce like sweet potato, pumpkin and chia seed, v-dog breathbones are packed with yummy superfoods that'll keep your pup happy and healthy.
Benefits of a Vegan Diet for Your Dog

Feeding your dog a vegan diet can be beneficial in many ways. Not only is it healthier and more sustainable, but it also has several health benefits.
The main advantage of a vegetarian or vegan diet for dogs is that it eliminates the need for animal-based foods, which often contain hormones, antibiotics, and other chemicals.
Moreover, plant-based diets are naturally lower in fat and cholesterol than animal-based diets, which helps reduce the risk of obesity and heart disease in dogs.
Additionally, vegan dog food recipes can provide all the essential nutrients for a balanced diet, including proteins from nuts, seeds, and legumes; healthy fats from
Vegan diets offer several health benefits for dogs:
- Improved Digestion: A vegan diet is high in fiber, which can help your dog maintain healthy bowel movements and improve digestion. Plus, vegan diets are usually free from common allergens like dairy and wheat, which can be difficult for some dogs to digest.
- Increased Energy: The plant-based proteins found in vegan dog food can boost your pup’s energy levels, allowing them to run and play more. Plant-based proteins are easier to digest and convert into energy than animal-based proteins.
- Better Weight Management: Vegan dog food is typically lower in calories and higher in nutrients than traditional dog food, making it an excellent choice for overweight or obese dogs. Plant-based proteins are more satiating than animal-based ones, so your dog is likely to feel fuller and more satisfied after meals.
- Healthier Coat and Skin: The fatty acids found in plant-based dog food can nourish skin cells and improve coat condition, resulting in fewer skin problems like dryness or irritation and a shinier coat.
- Reduced Allergies: Plant-based foods are less likely to cause allergies in dogs because they don’t contain common triggers like dairy or eggs, two common allergens in pets.
- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: A vegan diet has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases in humans, and the same may be true for dogs. Studies indicate that vegan diets can help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and even prevent cancer in some cases.
In addition to these health benefits, feeding your pet a plant-based diet is an ethical choice that aligns with your own values around animal welfare. By opting for a vegan dog food recipe instead of traditional animal-based options, you’re reducing your pet’s impact on the environment while still providing them with all the nutrients they need for optimal health!
Risks of Homemade Vegan Dog Food

While a vegan diet for dogs may have some benefits, there are also risks associated with homemade vegan dog food. It’s important to consider these potential risks before making any changes to your dog’s diet.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Dogs require specific nutrients to maintain optimal health, including protein, vitamins, and minerals. Vegan diets can be deficient in certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12, which is essential for neurological function, and taurine, which is necessary for heart health. It can be challenging to ensure that your homemade vegan dog food contains all the necessary nutrients in the right amounts, which can put your dog’s health at risk.
- Digestive Problems: Dogs have a shorter digestive tract than humans, which makes it difficult for them to digest plant-based foods. A sudden change in diet can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating. Additionally, some dogs may be allergic or intolerant to certain plant-based ingredients, such as soy or wheat.
- Inappropriate Macronutrient Balance: Dogs require a specific balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates in their diet to maintain optimal health. Vegan diets may be too high in carbohydrates and low in protein and fat, which can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and muscle loss.
- Toxicity: Some plant-based foods can be toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, grapes, and avocado. It’s important to be aware of which ingredients are safe for your dog to consume and which ones to avoid.
- Increased Risk of Nutritional Imbalances: Homemade vegan dog food may be more prone to nutrient imbalances than commercial vegan dog foods. Commercial dog foods are formulated to meet the nutrient requirements of dogs and are typically fortified with additional vitamins and minerals.
Preparing a vegan diet for your dog is like walking a tightrope – one misstep and you could be in for a world of trouble. While many pet owners choose to make their own vegan recipes for their four-legged friend, it’s important to check with your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist first to ensure that all the dietary needs of your pup are met.
It’s also important to remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to feeding a vegan diet to your dog; what works for one pup may not necessarily work for another. For this reason, consulting an expert is key.
It can be tempting to feed our furry friends what we think they should eat, but taking the time to research nutritional guidelines and seek professional advice beforehand can save them (and us) from a world of hurt down the road. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to ensuring our pets’ health and well being!
8 Homemade Vegan Dog Food Recipes: 100% Plant-Based

As a dog owner, you may be thinking about switching your pet’s diet to vegan dog food. The good news is that it’s possible to make homemade vegan dog food for your pup. With the right ingredients and recipes, you can provide your canine companion with all the nutrition they need without sacrificing taste.
Now that we’ve discussed some of the fantastic benefits associated with vegan dog food, let’s cover some high quality recipes!
Homemade Vegan (Whole Foods Plant-Based) Dog Food Recipe
If you’re looking for a healthy, plant-based option for your furry friend, this homemade vegan dog food recipe is a great option. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients that will help keep your dog healthy and happy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry organic brown rice
- ½ cup dry lentils
- 1 cup garbanzo beans (measured after being soaked) or 1 1/2 cups cooked
- 1 cup great northern or navy beans (measured after being soaked) or 1 1/2 cups cooked (replace with 1 cup of oats if your dog is over the age of 7)
- 1 lb bag organic frozen spinach (NOT thawed)
- 1 lb bag organic frozen peas (thawed)
- 1 lb bag organic frozen green beans (thawed)
- 1 lb bag of frozen broccoli or cauliflower (optional but healthy and will extend the food)
- 1 lb organic carrots shredded in food processor or chopped small (you can also buy them pre-shredded)
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseed
- 7 cups water
- 1 15-oz can of organic pumpkin (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked sweet potatoes (optional – you can add more if you need to increase calories)
Preparation:
- Shred carrots in a food processor or chop into tiny dice by hand. Transfer to a pressure cooker. This will be at the bottom of the pressure cooker to prevent burning.
- Change to an S-blade and process cooked or soaked beans to a medium coarseness.
- Add the ingredients to the pressure cooker in the following order: beans, rice, lentils, oats (for dogs over 7 years old, if using), peas, green beans, broccoli, and spinach plus water.
- Cook for 12 minutes with natural release. It can take almost 45 minutes for the pressure to come down and release. Remove the pressure cooker lid and stir in chia seeds and ground flaxseed. If adding, stir in 1 can of organic pumpkin and 2 or 3 cooked sweet potatoes.
- Cool and put into individual containers with tight lids and freeze for future use.
Chickpea Stew
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of chickpeas (cooked)
- 3 tablespoon of organic or vegetable oil
- 4 tablespoon of natural or organic peanut butter
- 3 cups of vegetable stock low in sodium or salt
- 1 diced carrot
- 1 chopped celery stalk
- sliced
Preparation:
- First of all mash the chickpeas well in a large bowl.
- Now make a mixture of oil, peanut butter and one cup of the stock or water.
- In a blender add the remaining stock, celery, carrot, and beet and blend well for 30 seconds on medium speed.
- Mix all the mixture into the chickpeas and serve.
Homemade Meatles Dog Food Recipe
This meatless dog food recipe is a nutritious and delicious option for your furry friend.
Ingredients:
- 3 sweet potatoes, cubed
- 3 cups creamy or crunchy peanut butter
- 6 cups water
- 1/2 cup brown rice
- 1/2 cup quinoa
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup 100% cranberry juice
- 1/2 cup
coconut oil
Preparation:
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add sweet potatoes, rice, quinoa, and lentils. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add peanut butter, apple cider vinegar, cranberry juice, and
coconut oil . The heat from the food will melt the peanut butter andcoconut oil , making it easy to mix everything thoroughly. - Allow the dog food to cool, then serve according to your dog’s recommended serving size.
Your dog will love this tasty and healthy vegan meal!
Rice and Millet With Vegetables
Ingredients:
- One cup of brown rice (cooked)
- One cup millet (cooked)
- 3 cups of a variety of vegetables (you can use leftovers too)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons of natural or organic oil
- ½ cup of vegetable stock or water low or no slat.
Preparation:
- In a large bowl mix millet, rice, stock or water and oil,
- Next blend all the vegetables in the blender and blend well to make a thick creamy like paste.
- Add this paste to the stock mixture, warm it up just a little bit and serve.
Halo's vegan adult dog food is a holistic blend of protein-rich, non-GMO fruits and veggies, naturally balanced so that your dog gets all the essential vitamins and minerals they would traditionally get from meat. Free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, this plant-based dog food is ideal for environmentally minded pet-owners. Also, the Halo Garden of Vegan recipe is the perfect dietary replacement for protein-sensitive dogs, as no meat, dairy, corn or wheat is used.
Vegetable Fusion for Little Pups
Ingredients:
- ½ cup of vegetable stock or water with low or no salt
- 2 diced carrots
- 2 diced celery stalks
- 1 zucchini of medium size
- 2 tablespoon of organic peanut butter
- 2 teaspoon of wheat germ
Preparation:
- Blend the entire ingredients in a blender on medium speed for two to three minutes or until well combined.
- Transfer to your dog’s bowl and serve. Very Easy right?
Barley and Lentil Loaf Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of vegetable stock or water with less salt
- ½ cup washed and dried lentils
- ¼ cup of barley
- ½ celery, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon of sea kelp
Preparation:
- Bring the water or stock to boil, add in lentils and barley, turn the heat to medium and cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes or until tender.
- Blend celery in little water.
- Add celery mixture and sea kelp to the lentil and barley stock,
- let it cool and serve.
Meatless Dog Cookie
Ingredients:
- 9 cups of wholemeal flour
- 3 cups of water
- 1 cup of yeast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 tablespoon chopped basil and mint
Preparation:
- Mix all the ingredients and then add 3 cups of water in it knead well to make the dough.
- Make different sizes & shapes and bake it for 10 to 15 minutes in the oven.
- Let it cool and serve it to your dog
Sweet Potato and Peanut Butter Delight
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of boiled water
- ½ cup of rice (whole grain)
- ½ cup of quinoa either black or white
- 1 cup lentils assortments
- 1 cup of organic or natural peanut butter
- 2 tablespoon of flaxseed oil
- 250 grams of cranberry extract
- 3 Medium diced and cubed sweet potatoes
Preparation:
- Boil water and add in rice, quinoa, lentils, and sweet potatoes,
- Reduce heat to medium, let it simmer and cover the pot for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until everything is tender.
- Once cooled, mash the ingredients and add in peanut butter.
- It makes about 3 to 4 servings and you can distribute in different bowls and refrigerate.
- Just when you are about to serve warm it u a little bit and add flaxseed oil and cranberry extract over it.
How to Transition Your Dog to a Vegan Diet: Step-By-Step

If you’re thinking about transitioning your furry friend to a vegan diet, there are some important things to consider before making the switch. As with any dietary change, it’s important to ensure that your dog is receiving all the nutrients they need to maintain optimal health.
Step 1: Consult With Your Veterinarian
Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can help assess your dog’s overall health and determine if a vegan diet is appropriate for them. They can also provide guidance on the types of nutrients your dog needs and the best vegan food options to meet those needs.
Step 2: Gradually Introduce Vegan Food
It’s important to gradually introduce your dog to a vegan diet, as a sudden change can upset their stomach and cause digestive issues. Start by replacing a small portion of their current food with a vegan option and gradually increase the amount over several days or weeks.
Step 3: Monitor Your Dog’s Health
As you transition your dog to a vegan diet, it’s important to monitor their health closely. Keep an eye out for any changes in their energy levels, coat quality, and overall well-being. If you notice any negative changes, consult with your veterinarian to adjust their diet accordingly.
Step 4: Ensure Proper Nutrient Intake
Dogs require a balanced diet that provides all the essential nutrients they need, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. When transitioning to a vegan diet, it’s important to ensure that your dog is receiving all the necessary nutrients. You can achieve this by selecting high-quality vegan dog food options or supplementing their diet with appropriate vitamins and minerals.
Nutritional Guidelines for a Vegan Dog Food Diet

When it comes to feeding your pup a vegan diet, the most important thing is to ensure that they are getting all the necessary nutrients. Plant-based diets can provide all the essential vitamins and minerals your dog needs, but there are some specific nutritional guidelines you should follow when preparing homemade vegan dog food recipes.
To help ensure that your dog is receiving all the necessary nutrients, refer to the following table:
Nutrient | Daily Requirement |
Protein | 1 gram per pound of body weight |
Fat | 5-10% of daily caloric intake |
Carbohydrates | Adequate for energy needs |
Calcium | 100 mg per kg of body weight |
Iron | 1-3 mg per kg of body weight |
Zinc | 15 mg per kg of body weight |
Vitamin D | 10 IU per kg of body weight |
Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg per kg of body weight |
By following these steps and ensuring your dog is receiving all the necessary nutrients, you can successfully transition them to a vegan diet. Remember to consult with your veterinarian and monitor your dog’s health closely throughout the transition process. With patience and care, you can provide your furry friend with a healthy and sustainable diet that aligns with your values.
Tips for Making Homemade Vegan and Plant-based Recipes
Preparing vegan dog food for your furry friend can be a rewarding experience! With a few simple steps and some creative recipes, you can ensure that your pup gets a healthy and delicious homemade meal.
Here are some helpful tips to get you started:
- Research the best vegan dog food ingredients for your pup, such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
- Choose organic ingredients that are free from additives or preservatives.
- Look for nutritious whole grains and proteins that provide essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
- Add herbs and spices like basil, oregano, or turmeric for extra flavor.
- Gather all necessary equipment, such as a blender or food processor, before starting to cook.
- Preheat the oven or stovetop according to the instructions on the ingredients.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl until they form a uniform mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe dish or pot and bake or simmer according to the instructions.
- Allow the food to cool before serving it to your pup.
With a little planning and creativity, you can create a nutritious and tasty homemade vegan dog food recipe that will keep your pup happy and healthy for years to come!
Best Dry Vegan Dog Food Brands
Moving on from homemade vegan dog food recipes, let’s look at the best vegan dog food brands. While there are a number of vegan dog foods available on the market today, finding one that is both nutritious and palatable for your pet can be difficult.
Luckily, there are a few brands that stand above the rest when it comes to providing quality vegan nutrition for your pup:
- V-dog is a popular vegan dog food brand that offers a variety of dry kibble, wet food, and treats made with high-quality, plant-based ingredients. Their products are free from wheat, corn, soy, and gluten.
- Wild Earthhttps://store.thecollienois.com/p/bhxb/r offers a range of plant-based dog food options that are made with high-quality, sustainable ingredients such as oats, chickpeas, and sweet potato. Their products are rich in protein and other essential nutrients, and are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- Halo is a well-known brand that offers a range of vegan and vegetarian dog food options. Their products are made with non-GMO fruits and vegetables, and are free from meat, dairy, and artificial ingredients.
- Natural Balance is another popular brand that offers vegan dog food options. Their products are made with a mix of plant-based proteins such as peas, garbanzo beans, and potatoes, and are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
- Ami is a vegan dog food brand that offers a range of dry kibble, wet food, and treats made with non-GMO ingredients. Their products are free from wheat, corn, and soy, and are fortified with essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals to ensure your dog receives a complete and balanced diet.
When selecting a vegan dog food brand, you want to make sure that it has adequate amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins & minerals as well as other important nutrients such as omega fatty acids and probiotics. Additionally, you’ll want to check out reviews from other pet owners who have tried different brands to get an idea of which ones have worked best for them! With these six vegan dog food recipes plus some popular brands available on the market today, you’re sure to find something that suits your pup’s needs!
Supplements for Homemade Dog Food
Supplementing your homemade vegan dog food recipe with the right vitamins and minerals is essential to ensure that your furry friend is getting all the necessary nutrients they need for optimal health. Here are some of the best supplements to consider for homemade vegan dog food:
Supplement | Benefits | Food Sources | Dosage |
Iron | Supports healthy blood cell production and energy levels | Fortified cereals, legumes, leafy greens | 1 mg per pound of body weight per day |
Calcium | Essential for healthy bone and teeth development | Fortified plant milks, leafy greens, tofu | 500-1000 mg per day |
Vitamin E | Antioxidant that supports immune function and healthy skin and coat | Sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach | 2-4 IU per pound of body weight per day |
Vitamin A | Supports healthy vision and immune function | Sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach | 1000-5000 IU per day |
Selenium | Antioxidant that supports healthy immune function | Brazil nuts, legumes, whole grains | 0.1-0.2 mg per day |
B12 | Supports nerve function and healthy blood cell production | Fortified plant milks, nutritional yeast, fortified cereals | 2.4 mcg per day |
Zinc | Supports healthy immune function and skin health | Legumes, whole grains, nuts | 15-20 mg per day |
Copper | Essential for healthy bone and connective tissue development | Legumes, nuts, whole grains | 1-2 mg per day |
Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Supports healthy skin and coat, and may have anti-inflammatory properties | Flaxseed oil, chia seeds, algae supplements | 1000 mg per day |
Probiotics | Promotes healthy gut bacteria and supports immune function | Fermented foods (such as sauerkraut and kimchi), probiotic supplements | Follow dosage instructions on supplement packaging |
Manganese | Supports healthy bone development and antioxidant activity | Nuts, legumes, whole grains | 1-2 mg per day |
Iodine | Essential for healthy thyroid function | Seaweed, iodized salt, fortified plant milks | 150 mcg per day |
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) | Supports healthy nervous system function | Fortified cereals, legumes, whole grains | 1-2 mg per day |
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | Supports healthy growth and development | Fortified cereals, mushrooms, leafy greens | 2-4 mg per day |
Niacin (Vitamin B3) | Supports healthy energy metabolism and nervous system function | Fortified cereals, legumes, nuts | 12-16 mg per day |
Homemade Vegan Food Cost

Some people may think that making homemade vegan dog food is too expensive, but that doesn’t have to be the case. The cost of vegan dog food really depends on the ingredients you choose.
To help illustrate this, here is a table comparing the cost of store-bought vegan dog food to ingredients for one recipe of homemade vegan dog food:
Store Bought Vegan Dog Food | Homemade Vegan Dog Food Recipe |
$3 – $5 per pound | $1 – $2 per pound |
N/A | 2 cups cooked brown rice |
N/A | 1 cup cooked black beans |
N/A | 1 cup cooked lentils |
N/A | 1 tablespoon olive oil or |
N/A | 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes or powder |
As you can see, a single recipe of homemade vegan dog food makes enough for multiple servings and costs much less than store bought. Plus, with homemade vegan dog food, you know exactly what goes into your dog’s diet and can adjust it to their needs as needed.
Furthermore, making your own vegan dog food is often healthier than store bought because there are no preservatives or additives in it. All in all, making your own vega dog food can be a great way to save money and provide your pup with a healthier diet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Dog Diet

Conclusion

In conclusion, homemade vegan dog food recipes can provide excellent nutrition for your furry friend. By selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients and customizing the recipe to your dog’s needs, you can give them a balanced and healthy diet that promotes their well-being. Here are some key takeaways to remember:
- Vegan diets can be a healthy and sustainable option for dogs if properly balanced.
- Homemade dog food enables you to regulate ingredient quality and freshness, and customize according to your dog’s unique needs and preferences.
- Before starting a homemade vegan diet for your dog, consult with your veterinarian and conduct appropriate research.
If you’re interested in a vegan diet for your dog but lack the time or resources to make homemade food, you can opt for high-quality vegan dry dog food products on the market.
One such option is Wild Earth, which features plant-based ingredients and excludes artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. By choosing a vegan diet for your dog, you promote their health and well-being while supporting a more sustainable food system.
Sources and references:
- Cummings Veterinary School: Vegan Dogs – A Healthy Lifestyle or Going Against Nature?
- Nature: Diet Adaptation in Dogs
- Research Gate: Omnivorous Dog Traits Revisited
- National Academies Press: Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- NPR: In Order to Live with People, Canines Evolved to Love Starchy Foods
- Hill’s Pet: Are Dogs Carnivores or Omnivores?
- Vegetarian and vegan dog diet
- food to avoid feeding your pets
- 27 year old dog