Dogs are classified as members of the family Canidae and the order Carnivora, but this does not necessarily translate to behavior, anatomy or feeding preferences.
Judge for yourself
Some animals may look like carnivores or act like carnivores. But, are they really true carnivores? You be the judge.
- Wolves attack plant-eating animals, but one of the first parts they consume is the stomach contents and the viscera of those animals.1
- Coyotes eat a variety of foodstuffs including small mammals, amphibians, birds, fruits and herbivore feces.
- Panda bears are also members of the order Carnivora, but they are herbivores who primarily consume bamboo leaves.
The acid test
Key points
- The term "opportunivore" may best describe the dog's natural desire to eat whatever is available — plants as well as animals.
Strict or true carnivores, such as cats, have a higher nutritional requirement for taurine (an amino acid), arachidonic acid (a fatty acid), and certain vitamins (niacin, pyridoxine, vitamin A), which are readily available in animal protein and fat sources.
Omnivores, such as dogs and people, don't have higher requirements for taurine and certain vitamins and can create their own arachidonic acid from vegetable oils.
Tasty Tips
Omnivore qualities
There are other nutritional, behavioral and physical factors that separate the omnivore and carnivore worlds:
- Dogs have teeth (molars) with relatively flat surfaces designed to grind up bones as well as fibrous plant material.
- Dogs can digest almost 100% of the carbohydrates they consume.2
- Dogs have a small intestine that occupies about 23 percent of the total gastrointestinal volume, which is consistent with other omnivores; the small intestine of cats occupies only 15 percent.3,4
- Dogs can create vitamin A from betacarotene found in plants.
Confusion in their conclusion
Some folks have come to the erroneous conclusion that dogs must be carnivores because they fall under the order Carnivora. A close look at the anatomy, behavior and feeding preferences of dogs shows that they are actually omnivorous — able to eat and remain healthy with both animal and plant foodstuffs.
1 Lewis L, Morris M, Hand M. Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, Ed. 4. Topeka, KS, Mark Morris Institute, 2000;294-303,216-219.
2 Walker J, Harmon D, Gross K, Collings G. Evaluation of nutrient utilization in the canine using the ileal cannulation technique. J Nutr. 1994; 124:2672S-2676S.
3 Morris JG, Rogers QR. Comparative aspects of nutrition and metabolism of dogs and cats, in: Nutrition of the dog and cat, eds. Burger IH, Rivers JPW, Cambridge, UK, Cambridge University Press, 1989;35-66.
4 Ruckebusch Y, Phaneuf L-Ph, Dunlop R. Feeding behavior in: Physiology of small and large animals, B.C. Decker, Inc. Philadelphia, PA, 1991;209-219.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the faster metabolism of Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Beef & Zucchini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Related articles
Is it Safe to Feed My Dog a Banana?
Are bananas good or bad for dogs? Find out if it's safe too feed him a banana treat and what to do if he's eaten a whole one, peel and all.
Running with Your Dog: How to Get Started
Learn why running with your dog can be a healthy and enjoyable activity, as well as a great way for you both to stay fit and active.
Recognizing Dog Obesity, Causes and Signs
Do you think you might have an overweight dog? Learn the signs of dog obesity, as well as causes, potential effects and tips for prevention.
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?
Can Dogs Eat Pumpkin?
Recognizing Common Signs of Aging in Your Dog
Aging is a part of life, and it is no different in dogs. Learn to detect the signs of aging in your dog, so you can be prepared to help ease the transition.
Albino Dogs: Understanding a Rare Condition
Are all dogs with white fur considered albino? Learn the characteristics of albino dogs, along with considerations if you're interested in adopting one.
Is My Dog Mad at Me?
Learn the truth about dogs and anger, common behaviors that are mistaken as anger, and how to better interpret and respond to times when they act out.
Gastrointestinal & Digestive Disorders in Dogs: Types & Causes
Learn about the warning signs, symptoms, and treatments of Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and diseases that affect a dog.
Washing Your Dog from Ear to Paw: Eight Supplies to Make It Easy
Use this dog washing supply checklist to help you get all the materials needed, making bathing your dog at home a fun and easy experience.
Characteristics of a Healthy Puppy
To help ensure your puppy is in healthy, read about the different signs of good puppy health, and talking to your veterinarian about any abnormalities.
Why Science Matters in Your Dog's Food
Learn why scientific research is important in formulating quality dog food, especially for things like taste, size, texture and nutritional ingredients.
Why Is My Dog Itching?
Learn about the many causes of your dog's itching, from fleas and ticks to allergies. Explore how you can prevent and address these problems in your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Quinoa? (and Is It Safe?)
Learn the pros & cons of feeding quinoa to your dog, including ingredients that are healthy for dogs, but also why you should be careful before feeding it.
Is My Dog Sick? How Can I Tell?
If your dog is behaving strangely and you suspect something is wrong, learn some common behaviors they may be exhibiting to show they're not feeling well.
Caring for Your Dog: Common Myths & Realities
With all the misinformation available online about dogs, it's time you got the true canine facts. Learn about some common dog myths you may have heard.
Reducing That Wet Dog Smell in Cars
Learn what causes that wet dog smell, and what you can do to help reduce it overtaking your car, as well as how to get rid of it.
When is a Puppy an Adult Dog?
By one year old, you puppy will be an adult dog – some behaviors may not change any time soon, but his needs in many areas have changed.
Why Is My Dog Eating Dirt?
Dogs eating dirt: it can be a random occurrence or a regular thing, so learn what to do if you notice this behavior and if you should visit the vet.
'Made in the USA' Dog Food: What You Need to Know
Do you know where your dog food of choice comes from? Is it truly Made in the USA? Learn about, label products as Made in the USA.
Knowing the Life Stages of Your Large Dog
Determine the human year equivalent of your large or giant breed dog as their size plays a much larger role in their aging than smaller dogs.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.