Some people strongly believe that dogs are strictly carnivores. The image of the dog chasing down game on the savannah in the wild can cloud our vision. In reality dogs lean toward being omnivores. Even dogs in the wild, eat plant materials when they consume the viscera of the plant-eating animals they hunt. There are a number of nutritional requirements needed by true carnivores such as cats. Dogs are able to create these nutrients from a more mixed diet. Even your dog’s biology supports an omnivore lifestyle. The molars are flat to grind bones but also plants. His digestive system manages nearly all of the carbohydrates eaten. And your dog’s system can convert beta-carotene from plants to vitamin A. However, meat should still comprise a majority of your dog’s diet. Read labels to make sure your dog is eating high-quality, nutritionally complete food. For more information, contact your Scottsdale, AZ veterinarian.