The issue of whether domestic dogs are carnivores or omnivores has been a source of contention for some time – but understanding the facts is essential to feed your furry family member well.
Let’s start by looking at the difference between the two.
- Carnivores are animals that must eat meat to thrive. Cats are said to be true carnivores. This doesn’t mean they won’t also eat some other foods, but meat is a must for health. True carnivores can’t efficiently digest plant-based foods.
- Omnivores can thrive off a diet that includes both meat and plant-based foods.
Modern dogs: what’s the truth?
The consensus on whether modern dogs are carnivores or omnivores has shifted somewhat over time and the water’s been muddied in part due to dog food marketing!
Most agree dogs would have been largely carnivorous in the wild, but domesticated dogs have adapted to be able to digest and uptake nutrition from plants and carbohydrates. It’s this adaptation that has many believe dogs are omnivores, but it’s more nuanced that that.
The evidence suggests dogs are actually scavenging (or facultative) carnivores, meaning they can survive on plant-based foods if they have no choice. However, to thrive, a scavenging carnivore needs a diet primarily comprised of meat, with some plant material included.
Digging into the details
- The relatively shorter digestive tract found in dogs supports the theory that they are scavenging This is because it takes less time to digest a largely meat-based diet.
- Dogs have teeth that can break down bones and plant matter.
- Dogs can convert beta-carotene found in plants into vitamin A for use by the body.
- Their system produces starch and sugar digesting enzymes (but a high-carb diet isn’t recommended).
- Dogs love foraging (scavenging) and working for food.
Nutri-Mate: The modern dog solution
For wellbeing, our fur babies need a complete, well-balanced diet consisting of predominantly meat.
Nutri-Mate’s fresh, affordable premium dog food rolls are compatible with scavenging carnivore diets as they’re packed with:
- Protein-rich meat sources: beef, kangaroo, salmon, chicken and lamb.
- West Australian rice, carrots and peas.
- Extra omega 3 (from fish oil), thiamine (vitamin B1) and the vital amino acid taurine.
Importantly, they don’t include any preservatives, additives, gums or seed oils.
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