Why Insect Protein Dog Food?

As mentioned above, in 2019 The British Veterinary Association (BVA) noted that some insect-based foods may be better for pets than prime steak. (link here – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-49450935). We have been working with vets and veterinary nutritionists not just to create an insect-based dog food that is sustainable, but to create an insect-based dog food that allows your dog to thrive, not just survive, without sacrificing the planet.

Absolutely. In fact, in 2019 The British Veterinary Association (BVA) noted that some insect-based foods may be better for pets than prime steak. (link here – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-49450935). We have undertaken rigorous research and trials with some of the UK’s leading breeders to ensure the suitability, and superiority, of our food. You can read more about our trials with Glasgow University students here: https://www.tuggs.uk/blog/tuggs-better-than-raw-our-research-with-glasgow-university-students
In our trials, the students concluded that “overall, the puppies being fed the Tuggs insect protein diet had a better body condition score than those being fed a raw diet.”

We use Black Soldier Fly larvae. Black Soldier Fly is nutritionally comparable to beef, being high in protein and containing necessary vitamins, fats, and all essential amino acids required to let your pup thrive. They are also rich in antimicrobial, medium-chain fatty acids which have proven gut health benefits.
Read more about our insects and the research behind them here: https://www.tuggs.uk/blog/nutrition-and-digestibility-of-black-solider-fly

There are a few reasons why we include meat and fish with our insect to create our food. Firstly, there are considerations from a nutritional perspective: a dog’s diet needs a wide spectrum of amino acids, and as such offering one single protein source would not provide the required variety needed for optimal health for our pups. Feeding several different types of proteins ensures that our furry friends have a more balanced diet and it ensures that they are obtaining all the vital nutrients required to maintain their health. Similarly, we are cautious that many dogs can be fussy with their food, and varying their diet will help to stimulate their appetite and increase their interest in a wide variety of ingredients. From a health perspective, limiting a dog’s protein choices can result in food allergies: feeding one protein source over time is purported to increase the probability of dogs developing intolerances. [*] Although a variety of insects could be used instead of a fortification of meat and insects, currently there are limited insect farms, with only one producing fresh insects in the UK which makes it difficult to source suppliers. This may be addressed in the future as the insect market continues to grow.
[*] Olson, Lew. Raw and Natural Nutrition for Dogs. North Atlantic Books (2015) page 68