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Why can't my dog digest produce? Should I puree it for digestion?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

If dogs are omnivores why do they have such a hard time digesting produce? I've always heard you should puree it for them to be able to fully digest it. Are they more carnivorous then omnivorous?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 17th, 2017

While dogs can eat plant material, they are carnivorous. This is show in the design of their teeth. They have sharp, blade like molars that are designed for slicing food rather than grinding it. Herbivores, like cows, have molars that are flatter and are made to grind up the plant material. In addition, their digestive system is designed to digest protein and fat, and due to that, they have trouble digesting produce. Produce should therefore be pureed to help them fully digest it.

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