Frequently asked questions

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General
Feeding & Preparation Guidelines
Ingredients/Contents
Transition Guidelines
Health Conditions
Packaging and Sustainability
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
Can I mix Planet Dog with wet or homemade food?
Feel free to mix Planet Dog with any complete and balanced dog food without limitation. Planet Dog can be a great base for any topper, and any portion of Planet Dog improves your pup’s environmental pawprint and animal welfare impact. The main consideration is calories - make sure you are properly accounting for the mixture to avoid over-feeding your dog. Overweight dogs live 5-10% shorter on average than healthy weight dogs.

If you mix in table scraps or homemade food, we do not recommend exceeding 10% of the total caloric value. We’ve carefully planned this diet to achieve the right balance of nutrients, and diluting it with nutritionally unbalanced foods can result in nutritional deficiencies.
Can dogs safely eat a vegan or vegetarian diet?
Yes, as long as they are formulated to be nutritionally complete and supplemented to account for any gaps in typical plant-based ingredients. Dogs (and humans) require nutrients rather than specific ingredients. There are many possible ingredient combinations that provide a healthy nutrient profile, and there are no essential nutrients provided by meat and animal-derived products that can’t be replaced by a plant-, fungi-, or synthesized version.
How digestible is your food?
The digestibility of our food has been validated through an in vitro digestibility test performed by a university laboratory. The test found that dogs digest ~80% of nutrients in our diet, including protein-specific digestibility of 80%. This digestibility result is similar to meat-inclusive formulas and provides peace of mind that dogs are able to derive more than enough protein and essential amino acids from our diet.
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Digestibility is not a stand-alone metric of nutrient quality, but an important factor to consider when formulating a diet to ensure you are providing enough bio-available forms of every nutrient.
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Factors like fiber levels can decrease protein digestibility, but that does not make diets with more fiber (like Planet Dog) less healthy as long as the dog is still absorbing sufficient amounts of protein. In fact, the additional dietary fiber brings a number of important metabolic benefits.
What ingredients do you use?
We select ingredients that have an important nutritional function and try to source them from the most sustainable provider, including certified organic farms when feasible. The entire list of ingredients for our Roasted Peanut Butter & Sweet Potato Flavor for adult dogs includes:

Organic chickpeas, potato protein, dried yeast, organic brown rice, pea protein, organic peanut butter (organic peanuts), organic sweet potato, organic flaxseeds, organic oats, organic peas, organic sunflower oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols and rosemary extract), peanut oil, brown rice syrup, organic carrots, ground grass, baking powder (sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium bicarbonate, corn starch, monocalcium phosphate, calcium sulphate), calcium carbonate, parsley, organic kelp meal, salt, marine microalgae, vitamins (vitamin E supplement, vitamin A supplement, niacin, d-calcium pantothenate, vitamin D2 supplement, riboflavin, thiamine mononitrate, vitamin B12 supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, folic acid), minerals (zinc sulfate, ferrous sulfate, copper sulfate, manganese sulfate, sodium selenite), turmeric, choline chloride, dl-methionine, cinnamon, allspice, taurine, potassium chloride, and ginger.
Where do dogs get protein if they don’t eat meat?
Each cup of Planet Dog has as much protein as a serving of steak.

Plants create most of the world’s protein, and an entirely plant-based ingredient list can provide more than enough protein to meet a dog’s nutritional needs. Diets designed for adult dogs without health issues should have 20-30% protein as a percentage of dry matter weight (i.e., if the food was fully dehydrated), or ~50-70 grams per 1000 kcal of food energy. For reference, 1000 kcal of chickpeas contains ~53 grams of protein and peanut butter is ~25% protein by dry matter weight.

Adding additional protein beyond a dog’s metabolic requirement is not healthier, as protein cannot be stored for later use. Excess protein is stripped of the amino acids, converted into energy (glycogen), and stored as fat tissue in the same way that energy from carbohydrates and fat is.

Amino acids are the fundamental ‘building blocks’ of proteins, and a dog’s diet also requires specific, “essential” amino acids that their bodies do not synthesize. Plants also create and provide all the essential amino acids in different ratios. We use a variety of plant-based protein sources in Petaluma, including brown rice, peas, chickpeas, and oats, to create a balanced amino acid profile that aligns with and complements a dog’s nutritional needs.
Is your food organic?
We support organic agriculture and the benefits it brings to the environment, farmworkers, and consumers by sourcing organic ingredients when feasible. Our adult dog formula contains over 50% organic-certified ingredients from farms and processors that engage in (and are audited for) organic farming practices. We will continue to add organic versions of ingredients to our recipe as we grow and exert more influence over the ingredient supply chain.

Our packaged food product is not certified organic because it is not made in an organic-certified facility and we have chosen to supplement it with a synthetic form of the amino acid taurine, which is not an exempt nutrient approved by the National Organic Program.

In light of the recent investigation into the heart condition dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and the possible link to taurine deficiency, we believe that offering a bio-available form of synthesized taurine in our diet is critical. The National Organic Program allows supplementation with many vitamins and minerals but has not added taurine to its approved list for adult dogs as the FDA’s animal feed organization continues to debates whether taurine is an essential supplement for adult dogs as it is for cats.
Is your food complete and balanced? What is the nutritional profile?
We have gone to great lengths to ensure that our diet is complete and balanced, which means that we provide all the essential nutrients that adult dogs need to thrive in the right proportions.

We conduct regular laboratory testing of our food batches to measure the amount of every nutrient (over 40 vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats) defined as essential by the panel of dog nutrition experts at AAFCO (the Association of American Feed Control Officials).
Is your food grain free?
No, Planet Dog is not a grain-free product. We include whole grains in our diets, including oats and brown rice, because they are rich in methionine and act as a good complementary proteins with legumes and potatoes to create a full amino acid profile. Beyond some limited allergies to grains, we follow evidence-based nutritional science which has consistently shown that grains are a healthy part of most dogs' diets. Additionally, whole grains are an excellent source of fiber.
Can dogs digest carbohydrates?
Yes. One of the largest genetic differences between domestic dogs and wolves is that they evolved to digest carbohydrates. Dogs developed many more genes that produce amylase enzymes to break down starches. It’s hypothesized that these adaptions occurred to digest a more omnivorous diets as they evolved alongside their human companions. Dogs also have pancreatic amylase (as well as other carbohydrate enzymes) which allow them to digest >95% of starches (similar to humans).
Can I transition my dog from a raw meat diet to Planet Dog?
Yes, but it may require a bit of patience. Transitioning from a largely raw meat diet to a baked food with a fair amount of dietary fiber (not present in meat) and plant protein can be a pretty significant change, as the two diets have very different optimal gut bacteria (microbiome) profiles that can take weeks or months to transition for some dogs. It would likely require a much slower transition (small amounts of Planet Dog added over weeks) to get your pups' digestive systems acclimated to the change.
Should I talk to my veterinarian before switching to Planet Dog?
Proper nutrition is a pillar of health and your veterinarian should be aware of your dog’s diet on your next routine visit. We recommend that you consult with your veterinarian when making significant changes to your dog’s diet, as you would with other decisions that may influence your dog’s health.

The most important aspect is to transition your pet from one food to Planet Dog over a 4-7 day period, slowly introducing Planet Dog over that time period as you decrease the amount of old food. If your dog has known health issues and/or your veterinarian has recommended therapeutic dog food for a specific health condition, it is particularly critical that you discuss any intended changes to their diet in detail. Our first Planet Dog recipe is not for every dog, and we do not recommend transitioning from a veterinarian-prescribed therapeutic diet without your veterinarian’s approval.
Why are my pup’s poops larger after we switched to Planet Dog? Is that normal?
As many human vegetarians will tell you, plant-based foods are rich in natural forms of fiber, whereas primarily animal-derived foods have very little fiber. There are two types of fiber that both provide benefits to your dog's digestion process as well as what passes through. The soluble fiber in Planet Dog slows the digestive process through your pet's GI system, which actually improves the efficiency of nutrient absorption, creates firmer (and easier to pick up) stool by giving the intestines more time to absorb water, and feeds beneficial gut bacteria (your dog's microbiome).  Planet Dog's insoluble fiber increases the bulk of the stool, which prevents straining and helps dogs naturally clear their anal glands and alleviate painful (and very unpleasant) leaks.

When you see slightly larger poops, you can know our food is working to make your dog even more healthy!
What does a Climate Neutral certification mean? How do you guarantee that Planet Dog offsets all greenhouse gas emissions?
We are proud that Planet Dog has achieved zero net carbon emissions since its founding through a combination of greenhouse gas emissions reduction and the purchase of carbon offset credits.

Carbon neutrality means having a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere. Worldwide carbon neutrality is needed by 2050 to limit the worst effects of climate change. We believe that companies need to take responsibility for the negative side effects of their operations, which includes the greenhouse gases they emit into the atmosphere.

We partnered with Climate Neutral to measure, offset, and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Climate Neutral is a non-profit organization that measures member company’s greenhouse gas emissions and sells validated carbon credits to fund projects that eliminate emissions. A carbon credit may be funding a reforestation initiative that sequesters (sucks up) CO2, or a project that replaces coal-fired electricity with solar electricity. We have gone to great efforts to limit the greenhouse gas emissions associated with growing, manufacturing, and shipping our products, but it is impossible to achieve zero emissions within our current system. Carbon credits are useful to neutralize the effects of emissions that can’t be avoided, either because it will take a long time, or we don’t have the technology.
How does Planet Dog's environmental impact compare to other brands?
We commissioned a life cycle assessment to objectively measure our own environmental impact and compare it to industry data about the “average” dog food. The analysis found that our diet - the Roasted Peanut Butter & Sweet Potato Flavor - produced 75% fewer greenhouse gas emissions, used 54% less freshwater, and resulted in 89% less land use impact than a traditional dog diet. The analysis considered the resource consumption involved in growing and manufacturing each ingredients used in the Planet Dog and average dog diet as well as the energy and resources used to manufacture, package, and transport the food. We relied on trusted third-party data sources like the greenhouse gas database from the University of Michigan Center for Sustainable Systems.
Is your packaging recyclable?
Our boxes and informational inserts are recyclable in all curbside recycling programs and are also made from recycled material.
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Our bags are not recyclable through curbside recycling programs and require special handling to reuse. We have designed our bags to use less plastic waste while working towards better options as packaging and recycling technology improves.

Shelf-stable food products like dog food require materials that block moisture and oxygen as well as provide enough strength to support 5+ pounds of food. Unfortunately plastic, aluminum, and glass are the only commercially-viable materials with these properties at the moment. We chose to use a plastic barrier layer in our bags because plastic offers energy and greenhouse gas emission savings compared to producing and shipping aluminum or glass. However, plastic (and particularly the plastic lamination used in flexible packaging) is more difficult to recycle and is not accepted by most curbside recycling companies.We significantly reduce plastic consumption in our packaging by using kraft paper rather than polyethylene as our outer layer. Paper is a renewable resource and reduces the use of petroleum-based plastic by ~40% compared to a traditional PET plastic pet food bag. We are also working with packaging companies to support the development of new technology to produce recyclable or compostable barrier materials from renewable resources.
General
Feeding & Preparation Guidelines
Ingredients / Contents
Transition Guidelines
Health Conditions
Packaging and Sustainability
General FAQ's
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
Seek Expert Advice
Feeding & Preparation Guidelines FAQ's
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
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Ingredients / Contents FAQ's
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
Seek Expert Advice
Transition Guidelines FAQ's
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
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Health Conditions FAQ's
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
Seek Expert Advice
Packaging and Sustainability FAQ's
I thought dogs were carnivores. How can they eat a meatless diet?
This is a common misconception, partially due to the confusing similarity of language used to describe species classification terminology (taxonomy) and descriptors of an animal’s nutritional requirements.

The dog species (Canis familiaris) is classified as part of the taxonomical order Carnivora, which includes 280 species (all called carivorans vs. carnivores) that have a broad range of dietary preferences. The carnivorans includes animals with diets described as obligate carnivores like wolves and domestic cats, omnivores like raccoons, and even herbivores like the Giant Panda. So the giant panda is a carnivoran with a primarily herbivorous diet.

Dogs’ nutritional requirements are omnivorous, meaning they can eat and derive nutrients from both plants and animals, and their nutritional requirements can be met without the need for animal-derived products. The feeding behavior of free-ranging dogs is classified as omnivorous opportunistic scavenging as they spend more time scavenging for scraps of plant, animal, and insect foods in trash piles than hunting down prey (i.e. more like a raccoon than a wolf). This is also supported by dogs’ physiology, including their genetic adaptation to produce enzymes that digest carbohydrates more efficiently and the development of molar teeth that have a flat surface for grinding.
Who formulates your diet?
Our diet is formulated by Dr. Blake Hawley, a veterinarian who has spent over 25 years developing scientific diets and pharmaceutical delivery products for dogs and cats, including formulas for many veterinary-prescribed foods.

He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from NC State University and conducted postdoctoral studies at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. He has developed deep nutritional expertise while designing hundreds of unique canine diets.

Our formula and nutritional profile has also been reviewed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists that are accredited diplomats of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition (ACVN).
Where is your food manufactured? Where are your ingredients sourced from?
Our food is manufactured at a pet food bakery in Illinois. The facility has a long history of baking high-quality food and treats and bakes products for a number of pet food brands with decades-long safety records.~75% of our ingredients (by volume) come from the United States and Canada. We also source certain products from international manufacturers such as our potato protein (Poland) and kelp (Iceland).
Does your food contain preservatives?
Yes. Our organic sunflower oil comes mixed with a natural preservative containing rosemary extract and vitamin E (mixed tocopherols).
What is your food's shelf life?
Shelf life refers to the maximum length of time before the nutrition degrades (typically the fat oxidizing) beyond an acceptable threshold. In sealed bags, our baked food has a similar shelf life to dry kibble, which is 15-18 months. However, our food is made in small batches that typically sell out within three months, so we are selling fresh food every quarter or so. We recommend storing your food in an airtight container to preserve freshness once opened/
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Health
Quality
Getting Started With Planet Dog
Product Usage and Benefits
Sustainabiliy
Health FAQ's
Why plant-based dog food?

Our furry friends are facing a health crisis! Obesity and allergies are like kryptonite to our dogs. The villain? Meat-heavy, unnatural pet food. Planet Dog’s plant-powered meals offer targeted nutrition without any crap, making dogs healthier, shinier, and happier! With more plants in their diet, your dog won't just survive but thrive, ensuring they lead a vibrant and joyful life.

Don't dogs need meat?

Dogs are omnivores, just like their human sidekicks! They’ve got special enzymes to digest plant starches. Our food provides all the protein and amino acids needed for muscle development, hormone production, and a strong immune system, without needing any meat.

Is plant-based dog food healthy for my dog?

Absolutely! As long as you choose a nutritionally complete and balanced food like Planet Dog, your canine companion will get all the super nutrients they need to be strong and energetic. Remember to transition slowly and keep an eye on their health to ensure they feel their best.

Do I need to turn my dog into a full-time veggie superhero?

Although we highly recommend that, it is not necessary! Our food is nutritionally complete, so you can feed your dog a fully plant-based diet with Planet Dog or mix it with their current food. We welcome all dogs, whether full-time plant-powered heroes or part-time plant enthusiasts.

Can I mix Planet Dog food with my dog’s current kibble?

Yes, you can! Our food’s texture and taste work perfectly when mixed with kibble or other dog foods. Just follow our feeding and transition guide to make sure your superhero gets the right amount.

How digestible is your food?

The ingredients in our food boast super digestibility, meaning your dog absorbs all the goodness packed inside. Not only that, we make sure that even the super-powers i.e. the nutrients that might take a toll while being baked are added back again making your dog benefit from every bite and stay fuller for longer.

Do your products contain vegan D3?

Yes, we use plant-powered vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol) from plant-based sources such as algae, approved by the EU Feed Additives Regulations and The Vegan Society. It’s 100% vegan and 100% awesome!

What does "nutritionally complete & balanced" mean?

It means our food meets all the superhero standards set by the European Pet Food Industry (FEDIAF) and National Research Council (NRC). Planet Dog food provides every essential amino acid and nutrient your dog needs to stay in tip-top superhero shape.

Is your food good for dogs with allergies?

Absolutely! Our Planet Dog food is like the superhero of meals – it’s crafted with high-quality, plant-based ingredients that are gentle on sensitive tummies. Whether your furry friend has allergies to common ingredients like wheat or soy, or if they have specific dietary sensitivities, our carefully formulated recipes are designed to be hypoallergenic and easy to digest. Plus, we steer clear of common allergens like artificial additives and fillers, so you can trust that every bite of Planet Dog food is safe and nutritious for your canine companion.

Can my diabetic dog eat Planet Dog food?

Always check with your vet before making dietary changes for a diabetic dog. Safety first, superheroes!

Can my dog get enough taurine on a plant-based diet?

Yes! Dogs can make taurine from other amino acids. Our food is packed with those building blocks and supplemented with extra methionine, taurine, and lysine to keep your superhero’s heart healthy and strong.

Why is my dog’s poop different after switching to Planet Dog food?

A change in diet can mean a change in poop. Our food has lots of healthy fiber, which might make their poop larger or more frequent. This is a sign of good gut health! Follow our transition guide to make the switch smooth. If you’re worried, slow down the transition or check with your vet.

What ingredients do you use?

Only the best for our superheroes! Our food is made with high-quality, 100% plant-based ingredients. Check out our product page for a full list of the awesome veggies, fruits, and superfoods we use.

Quality FAQ's
Who formulates your food?

Our team of nutrition superheroes includes animal nutritionists, food technologists, and food scientists. Together, they craft our recipes with the utmost care and expertise. Each formula is hand-crafted by chefs and baked to perfection, ensuring your dog gets the highest quality nutrition in every bite.

Is your food made in a factory that handles meat?

Nope! Our food is made in a dedicated plant-based factory. No meat allowed, ensuring our food is 100% plant-powered and free from any meat contamination.

Is your food human-grade?

While our food is made from human-grade ingredients, it’s specially formulated for your furry superhero. It smells delicious, but we don’t recommend tasting it!

Is your food grain-free?

No, our food includes wholesome grains like brown rice and quinoa to provide essential nutrients and energy for your dog.

Aren't grains harmful for dogs?

No way! The right grains can be super beneficial. We use top-notch grains like brown rice and quinoa that are packed with essential nutrients. Unlike sub-par ingredients such as corn and brewers rice, our chosen grains provide the perfect balance of energy and nutrition to keep your dog feeling fantastic.

Has your food been tested on any animals?

We’re proud to be certified cruelty-free by PETA. We conduct all our tests without using lab animals. Instead, we use simulations and home trials with happy pets living with their families.

Is your product Vegan Society approved?

Absolutely! Just like how superheroes earn their badges of honor, our Planet Dog food proudly carries the seal of approval from the Vegan Society. This means that every ingredient in our supercharged recipes is 100% plant-based and free from any animal-derived ingredients or by-products. So, whether you’re a committed vegan or just looking to reduce your carbon pawprint, you can trust that Planet Dog food has been vetted and approved by the experts at the Vegan Society. It’s like having the official stamp of approval from the guardians of all things vegan!

Do you regularly test your food for nutrient content?

Yes, we conduct regular animal-free laboratory tests to ensure our food is packed with all the nutrients your dog needs to stay strong and healthy.

Getting Started With Planet Dog FAQ's
What can I expect when I open a bag of Planet Dog food?

Prepare to be wowed! Our food is packed with nutritious veggies, and superfoods. It smells great and has a great consistency that’s perfect for mixing with kibble.

How much should I feed my dog and how do I transition their diet?

Check out our feeding and transition guide to make sure your superhero gets the right amount of food and a smooth dietary switch.

Can I mix Planet Dog food with kibble or other food?

Yes! Our food’s texture and flavor work perfectly with kibble and other dog foods.

Should I talk to my vet before switching to Planet Dog food?

Yes, always keep your vet in the loop when making significant changes to your dog’s diet. Proper nutrition is key to a healthy, happy superhero!

Product Usage and Benefits FAQ's
Can I use Planet Dog food for all sizes of dogs?

Just like how superheroes come in all shapes and sizes, our Planet Dog food is designed for adult dogs of different sizes. Whether your canine companion is a small sidekick, a medium-sized marvel, or a large hero, we’ve got a supercharged formula specially crafted to meet their unique needs. So, rest assured that there's a perfect Planet Dog food for your adult furry friend, tailored just right for small, medium, and large dogs!

Can I use Planet Dog food for all life stages of my dog?

Absolutely! Our regular Planet Dog food is perfect for adult dogs, providing the essential nutrition they need. For seniors and puppies, we offer specialized formulas tailored to their unique needs. Think of it as a superhero with different gear for each mission—our senior and puppy products ensure your furry friend gets the best care at every stage of their heroic journey. Brace yourselves we are coming out soon with our puppy & senior products soon.

How do I use Planet Dog food? Can I soak it in water?

Using Planet Dog food is as easy as unleashing your pup’s inner superhero! Simply serve it straight from the can or pouch for a quick and convenient meal. If your furry friend prefers a softer texture or if you want to add a splash of hydration, you can absolutely soak our food in water before serving. Just be sure to adjust the soaking time according to your dog’s preferences – some superheroes like it firm, while others prefer it mushy!

How much Planet Dog food should I feed my dog?

Finding the perfect portion size for your furry friend is key to keeping them fueled for their heroic adventures. Check out our feeding guidelines for recommendations based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. Remember, every superhero has their own unique metabolism, so feel free to adjust the portion size as needed to keep your canine companion in peak condition.

Can I mix Planet Dog food with other ingredients or supplements?

Absolutely! Just like how superheroes team up with allies to tackle tough challenges, you can mix Planet Dog food with other ingredients or supplements to create a customized meal for your furry sidekick. Whether you want to add some extra veggies for a nutritional boost or mix in a special supplement to target specific health concerns, our versatile formulas make it easy to create a meal that’s tailored to your dog’s needs.

What are the benefits of feeding my dog Planet Dog food?

By fueling your canine companion with Planet Dog food, you’re not just providing them with a meal – you’re giving them the power to unleash their inner superhero. Our nutritious recipes promote shiny coats, healthy skin, boundless energy, and a wagging tail that just won’t quit.

Sustainabiliy FAQ's
What is the relation between dog food and the environment?

Pet food produces 64 million tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, largely due to meat content. Our plant-based solution requires fewer resources, helping reduce the environmental impact.

How do we minimise our environmental footprint at Planet Dog?

Sustainability is a top priority for us. We use fully recyclable packaging, actively reduce food waste, and ensure our production process has a minimal carbon footprint. More importantly, we've carefully selected ingredients known for their low environmental impact, ensuring that every step we take is towards a greener planet.

Is your packaging recyclable?

Yes, all our packaging, including bags and boxes, is plastic-free and fully recyclable. Learn more about our sustainable practices on our website.