Is a pet dog an omnivore?

Answer 1

No, dogs are carnivores. The idea that they are omnivores comes from the fact that they are not an OBLIGATE carnivore, meaning they do not require a large percentage of taurine from animal flesh in their diet to survive, and so can get a large amount of nutrition from non-meat sources.

However, they have the teeth and G.I. tract of a carnivore, designed to efficiently process animal flesh. Omnivores and herbivores create an enzyme called amylase in their saliva. Carnivores do not. Dogs CAN produce amylase through the G.I. tract, though, so digestion of some starches and grains can happen. However, they are carnivores. Calling dogs omnivores is like declaring the human species to be herbivores simply because we can efficiently survive on such a diet. The fact of the matter is we are designed to eat meat and non-meat foods. Dogs are designed to eat meat, but because they do not have the dietary limitations of an obligate carnivore they technically can get by on an omnivore or vegetarian diet.

Answer 2

The domestic dog is carnivorous, although it can eat vegetables and fruits in small amounts. Unlike domestic cats, it is possible for a dog to survive on a vegetarian diet, although you should consult your veterinarian before trying this. A dog still needs meat to thrive.

Answer 3

Dogs have noticeable carnivorous traits. Their teeth, their digestive systems and their behavior clearly confirm this fact. Yet dogs must also be recognized for their significant omnivorous abilities.

In the wild, dogs are scavengers. They will eat just about anything, are very capable of thriving on a variety of foods. Though there are vegetarian dog foods these days, the best diet to feed a dog is one that is meat-based. Meat-based dog foods are closer to a dog's natural ancestral diet.

Answer 4

Dogs are natural carnivores in that they eat "meat"; however, many domesticated dogs will also eat fruits and vegetables and therefore are, by definition, omnivores.