Does the thought of feeding your beloved dog bugs sound a little…unusual? You are not alone! Many dog owners feel hesitant when they first hear about insect-based dog food. We all want the best for our furry friends, but navigating the world of dog food ingredients can feel overwhelming. You worry about allergies, sustainability, and whether these tiny critters actually offer good nutrition.
The truth is, insects are becoming a powerhouse ingredient in pet nutrition. They pack a serious protein punch and offer amazing benefits for sensitive stomachs. However, switching to this new food can bring questions: Are the insects safe? Is it truly better for the planet? We understand these concerns, and we are here to clear up the confusion surrounding this exciting, modern pet food option.
By the end of this post, you will understand exactly why crickets and mealworms are making waves in the dog food industry. We will break down the surprising health benefits, address the common myths, and give you the confidence to choose the best insect-based option for your pup. Get ready to explore a nutritious and eco-friendly future for your dog’s dinner bowl!
Top Insect Based Dog Food Recommendations
- HIGHLY DIGESTIBLE: Our unique holistic formula with organic sprouted seeds helps maintain microbiome and gut health. Plus it's the perfect size for small and large adult dogs
- POWERFUL PROTEIN SOURCES: Includes protein-rich dried crickets and black soldier fly larvae. Great for dogs with food allergies and rotational feeding. This low carbon footprint food is also great for the planet
- TASTE & TEXTURE DOGS LOVE: Our gentle air-drying process creates a jerky-like texture and retains the perfect amount of moisture to lock in a natural savory taste that dogs love
- SUPERIOR NUTRITIONAL VARIETY: Combines premium, novel ingredients including insect-based proteins, ancient grains, fruits & vegetables, and vitamins & minerals. Gently air-dried to retain high nutrient density making it a great alternative to processed kibble
- MADE WITH INTEGRITY: Earth Animal, a trusted B Corp, uses the Earth's finest ingredients, the best cooking processes, and the most stringent safety controls to make premium nutrition that can be easily scooped and served. Made in the USA
- IMPROVES GUT HEALTH – Our novel cricket protein is prebiotic, and because it’s a prebiotic, it feeds your dog’s healthy gut bacteria including probiotics. Gut health is key to overall health in our dogs. Fiber in the cricket protein helps your dog’s gut in many ways, less farting (hallelujah!) and it helps form solid stool for easy pickup. Goodbye, gross poops!
- CRICKETS ARE A SUPERFOOD - A complete protein, high in omegas, fiber, iron, and vitamins. Crickets are also a natural source of taurine and pre-biotic for improved gut health. Insects are a natural source of protein for dogs and a key component of wild dogs’ diets, so dogs are biologically wired to be able to digest them easily.
- NUTRIENT DENSE – Our Cricket, Sweet Potato and Quinoa recipe is loaded with our alternative animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce without antibiotics, GMOs, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- GREAT FOR DOGS WITH ALLERGIES - Jiminy’s Cravin’ Cricket Dog food is made with a novel protein higher in B-vitamins, amino acids, medium-chain fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidants than traditional forms of protein. Our alternative insect protein hasn’t been overused so it’s great for dogs with food allergies, and our food is free from common allergens (no chicken, wheat, corn, or soy).
- ABOUT JIMINY'S - Jiminy’s is a woman-owned, founder-led business with a mission to nourish our pets, and our planet. We make sustainable dog food and treats with insect protein (crickets and grubs). Insect protein requires less land, water and generates fewer greenhouse gases. Our products are made with only the best ingredients — carefully chosen for their low impact, and for your dog’s health and happiness.
- GREAT FOR DOGS WITH ALLERGIES - Jiminy’s Good Grub Dog food is made with a novel protein higher in B-vitamins, amino acids, medium-chain fatty acids, minerals, antimicrobial peptides, lauric acid, and antioxidants than traditional forms of protein — boosting brain health, joint health, and immunity. Our alternative insect protein hasn’t been overused, and our food is free from common allergens.
- MAINTAINS A HEALTHY SKIN & COAT – Insect protein supports a healthy skin & coat. The medium-chain fatty acids help your dog’s skin retain moisture, which means softer, shinier fur and less hot spots, itchy ears, goopy eyes, and constant licking or scratching.
- IMPROVES ORAL HEALTH - The antimicrobial properties of lauric acid and AMPs in insect protein help keep the oral microbiome in check and reduce inflammation in your dog’s mouth. Scientifically proven to reduce the bad bacteria in your dog’s mouth, increase the good bacteria and reduce breath odor.
- MADE WITH DIGESTABLE PROTEIN - Insects are a natural source of protein for dogs and a key component of wild dogs’ diets, so dogs are biologically wired to be able to digest them easily! And because they’re a prebiotic, they actually feed your dog’s healthy gut bacteria including probiotics.
- ABOUT JIMINY'S - Jiminy’s is a woman-owned, founder-led business with a mission to nourish our pets, and our planet. We make sustainable dog food and treats with insect protein (crickets and grubs). Insect protein requires less land, water and generates fewer greenhouse gases. Our products are made with only the best ingredients — carefully chosen for their low impact, and for your dog’s health and happiness.
- IMPROVES GUT HEALTH – Our novel cricket protein is prebiotic, and because it’s a prebiotic, it feeds your dog’s healthy gut bacteria including probiotics. Gut health is key to overall health in our dogs. Fiber in the cricket protein helps your dog’s gut in many ways, less farting (hallelujah!) and it helps form solid stool for easy pickup. Goodbye, gross poops!
- CRICKETS ARE A SUPERFOOD - A complete protein, high in omegas, fiber, iron, and vitamins. Crickets are also a natural source of taurine and pre-biotic for improved gut health. Insects are a natural source of protein for dogs and a key component of wild dogs’ diets, so dogs are biologically wired to be able to digest them easily.
- NUTRIENT DENSE – Our Cricket, Sweet Potato and Quinoa recipe is loaded with our alternative animal protein, whole ancient grains, and fresh locally sourced produce without antibiotics, GMOs, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- GREAT FOR DOGS WITH ALLERGIES - Jiminy’s Cravin’ Cricket Dog food is made with a novel protein higher in B-vitamins, amino acids, medium-chain fatty acids, minerals, and antioxidants than traditional forms of protein. Our alternative insect protein hasn’t been overused so it’s great for dogs with food allergies, and our food is free from common allergens (no chicken, wheat, corn, or soy).
- ABOUT JIMINY'S - Jiminy’s is a woman-owned, founder-led business with a mission to nourish our pets, and our planet. We make sustainable dog food and treats with insect protein (crickets and grubs). Insect protein requires less land, water and generates fewer greenhouse gases. Our products are made with only the best ingredients — carefully chosen for their low impact, and for your dog’s health and happiness.
- Triple support for stomach, skin and immune system health
- Highly digestible formula with prebiotic fiber that is gentle on the stomach for optimal nutrient absorption
- Enriched with Vitamin E and Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids, for healthy skin and a lustrous coat
- Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, for a healthy immune system
- 27 key nutrients, including essential vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs’ health
- UNIQUE, PREMIUM RECIPE: Made with our Exclusive Protein Blend of sustainably sourced protein-rich dried crickets and black soldier fly larvae to deliver superior nutrition & taste. Enriched with quinoa, an ancient grain
- THOUGHTFULLY CRAFTED: Made in the USA in small batches with real, traceable ingredients and no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavoring. Contains no vegetable glycerin, corn, wheat gluten, or soy. No added sugar or cane molasses
- AIR-DRIED TO PERFECTION: We air-dry low & slow to lock in moisture and natural, savory flavor dogs crave. The unique soft & chewy texture is cut into strips that can be broken into high value training treats. Great for picky dogs of all sizes & ages
- A FAMILY OF GREAT CHOICES: Complete & balanced premium air-dried dog food that's scoop & serve, shake & pour toppers that add flavor & nutrition to dog food, and delicious jerky great for training treats - all made with the same premium ingredients.
- MADE WITH INTEGRITY: Earth Animal, a trusted B Corp, uses the Earth's finest ingredients, the best cooking processes, and the most stringent safety controls to make a premium treat that dogs love
- Allergen-Friendly, Insect-Powered Nutrition: This chicken-free recipe introduces dried black soldier fly larvae as the #1 ingredient and an extremely novel source of sustainable, high-quality protein with a delicious nutty flavor dogs love
- Limited Ingredients for Food Allergies & Sensitivities: Formulated by pet nutrition experts using as few key ingredients as possible to support the needs of pets with food sensitivities and limit exposure to food intolerance triggers
- Supports Healthy Digestion: Expertly crafted to support your dog's sensitive stomach with prebiotic fiber from dried chicory root for healthy gut bacteria and good digestion
- A Sustainable Alternative to Meat: Insect protein is one of the most sustainable alternative protein sources to meat, using far less land and water when compared to livestock—90% less when compared to chicken
- Grain-Free & Gluten-Free Recipe: Crafted without any grains or gluten to help limit exposure to common food intolerance triggers while providing easy-to-digest ingredients to support healthy energy levels
- Supports Tear Stain Prevention: Formulated dog food for small dogs to help maintain clear tear and saliva composition, reducing brown stains around the eyes, mouth and paws while keeping white coats clean and bright
- Insect Protein as #1 Ingredient: Our healthy dog food features a sustainable, highly digestible source of nutrients that supports digestion, skin, and coat - ideal for sensitive skin dog food needs in picky small breed eaters
- Gentle on Digestion: Our dog food grain free and gluten free recipe is perfect for dog food for allergies and itching concerns, supporting gut health while avoiding allergens like chicken, beef, dairy, and soy
- Small-Breed Kibble Texture: The crunchy dog kibble is optimized for small breed dog food, supporting chewing and dental care; ideal for breeds like Maltese, Spitz, Bichon Frise, needing quality small dog food
- Portion-Controlled Packaging: Comes in one (1) 3.3 lb bag of dry dog food small breed crafted in the EU. A great choice for adult dog food needs focused on maintaining coat brightness and digestive comfort
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Insect-Based Dog Food
Insect-based dog food is a new, exciting option for pet owners. It uses edible insects, like black soldier fly larvae, as a main protein source. This food is often better for the planet and can be great for dogs with allergies. This guide helps you choose the best insect dog food for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When buying insect dog food, check these important things:
1. Protein Source and Level
- Main Ingredient: Look for insect meal or whole insects listed near the top of the ingredients list. Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) is a popular, high-quality source.
- Protein Percentage: Check the guaranteed analysis. Good quality insect food usually has 25% to 35% crude protein or higher.
2. Complete and Balanced Nutrition
The food must meet standards set by the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials). This means it has all the vitamins and minerals your dog needs for every life stage (puppy, adult, or all life stages).
3. Digestibility
Insects are very digestible. Look for brands that mention how easily their food breaks down. High digestibility means your dog gets more nutrients from less food.
Important Ingredients and Materials
What else is in the bag matters just as much as the bugs!
Carbohydrates and Fillers
- Good Carbs: Healthy options include sweet potatoes, peas, or lentils. These provide energy.
- Avoid Excess Fillers: Be careful of foods loaded with cheap fillers like corn or soy, especially if your dog has sensitivities.
Fats and Omegas
Insects naturally contain healthy fats. Good brands often add beneficial oils, like flaxseed or fish oil, to boost Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These support shiny coats and healthy joints.
Hypoallergenic Qualities
Insect protein is novel, meaning most dogs have never eaten it before. This makes it a fantastic option for dogs allergic to common proteins like chicken or beef.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The way the food is made greatly affects its quality.
Quality Indicators (Improve Quality)
- Whole Food Ingredients: Foods using recognizable vegetables and whole insect sources are usually better.
- Added Prebiotics/Probiotics: These support good gut health, which helps your dog absorb nutrients better.
Quality Reducers (Reduce Quality)
Avoid foods with artificial colors, flavors, or chemical preservatives (like BHA or BHT). These offer no nutritional value.
If the insect ingredient is listed vaguely (e.g., “animal by-products”) instead of specifying the insect type, the quality might be lower.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do dog owners find insect food works in real life?
Transitioning Your Dog
Start slowly when switching your dog to a new food. Mix a small amount of the insect food with their old food for about a week. This prevents stomach upset.
Best Use Cases
- Sensitive Stomachs: Dogs that frequently have itching or digestive issues often respond well to novel protein diets like insect food.
- Eco-Conscious Owners: Insect farming uses significantly less water and land compared to traditional livestock farming.
- Allergy Management: If your vet suggests avoiding common proteins, insect food is a great alternative protein source.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Insect-Based Dog Food
Q: Is insect dog food safe for my dog?
A: Yes. When made by reputable companies and meeting AAFCO standards, insect food is perfectly safe and nutritious.
Q: Are the insects safe? Are they processed well?
A: The insects are raised specifically for pet food under strict safety guidelines. They are usually cooked and ground into a highly digestible meal.
Q: Does insect food smell bad?
A: Most owners report the smell is similar to standard high-quality kibble, not unpleasant. The smell comes mostly from the other ingredients.
Q: Will my dog like the taste?
A: Most dogs readily accept insect protein. It is a very palatable, high-protein food source.
Q: Is insect food expensive?
A: It can sometimes cost slightly more than basic kibble because the specialized farming and processing methods are newer.
Q: Can puppies eat insect-based food?
A: Yes, if the bag clearly states it is formulated for “All Life Stages” or specifically for “Growth and Reproduction” (puppies).
Q: What is the main insect used?
A: Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) is the most commonly used and well-researched insect protein source in dog food.
Q: Is this food good for dogs with chicken allergies?
A: Absolutely. Since the protein is completely different, it bypasses common chicken allergies.
Q: How does insect protein compare to beef protein?
A: Insect protein is often comparable to or higher than beef in terms of essential amino acid content, making it a complete protein.
Q: Where does the insect meal come from?
A: Reputable companies source their insects from specialized farms that maintain clean, controlled environments.