Are Vegetarian Dog Treats Better for Your Dog?
Treats are an important part of any dog’s routine, training, and diet, and have become a massive market in the pet products industry. With such variety in treat offerings, it can be difficult to know what the best choice is for your pup. You might be surprised to learn that there are many health benefits to choosing vegetarian dog treats to spoil your dog.
The American Kennel Club recommends that treats make up about 10% of a healthy dog’s diet, which means that a small portion can make a big difference. Vegetarian treats are a great way to maximize that 10%, offering natural, plant-based nutrients that support your dog’s energy, vitality, and long-term health in a more sustainable way.
So, what exactly makes vegetarian treats different from standard dog treats with meat content or flavorings? Vegetarian treats are made without animal-derived ingredients like meat and fish, and often exclude dairy product ingredients as well. So what makes vegetarian treats beneficial, and why should you consider switching your dog’s treats to plant-based? Here are 5 reasons to switch your dog to vegetarian treat options.
1. Provides essential nutrients and phytonutrients that your pup may be lacking
While there is a common misconception that plant-based options can’t provide enough nutrients, the opposite is true. A study conducted by the National Institute of Health found that canines on strictly carnivore diets were missing essential nutrients and phytonutrients in their diets that plant-based treats can provide. Much like a human diet, a healthy canine diet is all about balance. Vegetarian treats can provide the dietary balance that helps your pet thrive, adding the vitamins and nutrients that meat products lack.
2. Offers digestive health benefits
Vegetarian treats are often lower in fat and higher in fiber, which can potentially aid in weight management and improve digestive health and canine bowel movements. According to Veterinary Centers of America Animal Hospitals, the fiber in plant-based dog treats can be beneficial to the large intestine microbiome, and some plants contain phytonutrients that provide healthy antioxidants.
3. Benefits your dog’s coat and skin health
Not only are vegetarian treats beneficial for digestive health, but the inclusion of vegetarian ingredients in canine diets has been found to improve pet coat quality and skin health. According to a Fortune Journal research article, 100 dog owners who switched to vegan dog food found that most owners saw improvements in coat shine and observed decreases in itchiness, redness, and dandruff on the skin. The National Institutes of Health additionally reported that clinical studies found that dogs on vegan diets maintained “ideal body condition” and “healthy coats.”
4. Improves oral health
Vegetarian treats can boost your pup’s dental/oral health as well. Plant-based ingredients in vegetarian dog treats are less likely to create plaque and tartar buildup on teeth than animal-based protein and fat ingredients. Additionally, vegetarian ingredients can foster a more alkaline environment in the canine mouth, discouraging the growth of bacteria, according to an article in the Journal of Veterinary Dentistry. Project Hive Pet Company’s HiveChews and Hive Chew Sticks are made with vegetarian ingredients and designed with cleaning ridges to keep your pup’s oral health in tip-top shape.
5. Is better for the planet
Because of the nature of ingredient production, vegetarian dog treats naturally have a smaller environmental impact than meat-based alternatives. Compared to meat products, plant-based ingredients are produced using far less water, land, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. (You can read more about how Project Hive calculates its carbon footprint in this blog post and the 2024 Impact Report.) As a Certified B corporation, Project Hive Pet Company is committed to serving all stakeholders and meeting high standards in social and environmental impact.
Overall, research recommends a balanced diet of meat and vegetarian products for canines without dietary restrictions, making vegetarian treats the perfect way to incorporate variety and essential nutrients into your pup’s diet. Investing in your pet’s health has never been easier—explore Project Hive’s vegetarian treat selection. Packed with canine health benefits like pea protein and made by a company donating 1% of their profits to bee-saving initiatives, these treats are a win for your dog, the planet, and the bees.
