FAQs
Health, Allergies & Veterinary Research
Common pet health issues like itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive upset are frequently linked to inflammatory ingredients in standard diets. In this section, Dr Arielle Griffiths (MRCVS) explains how our 100% soya-free, vet-formulated nutrition eliminates these common triggers. Learn why shifting to a clean, plant-based diet is often the most effective way to soothe 'the itch' and restore your pet's gut health without the use of GMOs or animal byproducts.
How quickly will I see a difference in my dog's itchy skin?
While every dog is unique, most owners notice a significant reduction in scratching and redness within 2 to 4 weeks of a 100% transition to Just Be Kind and use of our Omega 3 Daily Algae oil to enhance the skin barrier. Skin cells take time to regenerate, and the body needs to clear out inflammation caused by previous allergens. For chronic issues, you may see continued improvement in coat quality and skin health for up to 12 weeks. Consistency is key—even small 'treats' containing meat or soya during this period can trigger a flare-up and reset the clock.
Why is being 'Soya-Free' better for dogs with allergies?
Soya is one of the most common allergens in the pet food industry, often used as a cheap filler in both meat-based and vegan foods (and veterinary prescription diets). Many dogs with digestive upsets are actually reacting to the GMO nature of mass-produced soya. By being 100% soya-free, Just Be Kind eliminates this major trigger entirely. We use hypoallergenic alternatives like Faba bean protein, quinoa, sweet potato, and innovative fermentation protein, ensuring your dog gets high-quality amino acids without the inflammatory response associated with soya.
Is a plant-based diet safe for dogs long-term?
Yes. Research shows that well-formulated plant-based diets are safe for dogs long-term when they meet recognised nutritional standards such as FEDIAF. Dogs require specific nutrients, not meat, and these nutrients can come from a variety of plant and microbial sources when carefully balanced. Multiple studies, including comprehensive surveys by Prof Andrew Knight, report that dogs maintained on complete plant-based diets show outcomes comparable to, and in many cases better than, those fed conventional meat-based foods. As with any diet, the key factor is nutritional completeness and the quality of the formulation.
In 2022, a landmark study of more than 2,500 dogs compared health outcomes across vegan, conventional, and raw diets (typically comprising meat, organs, and bone). Dogs fed a nutritionally complete vegan diet showed outcomes that were comparable to, and in some areas better than, dogs fed conventional diets. Guardians reported lower frequencies of illness and veterinary assessments suggested there were no increased risks when the vegan diet had been professionally formulated.
In the same year, another study (this time, of 1,201 dogs) found that:
1. Dog guardians reported no adverse health outcomes attributable to being fed a plant-based diet during the research period.
2. Fewer ocular (eye) or gastrointestinal and liver disorders were reported in dogs fed plant-based diets
3. Longevity was reported to be longer in dogs fed plant-based by up to 18 months!
In 2024, researchers in California conducted a study of 15 dogs who were fed commercially available plant-based food containing pea protein for 12 months. Twelve of the dogs maintained a normal body condition score, while the remaining three saw their score improve.
Seven of the dogs entered the same study with insufficient vitamin D levels, which had normalised after a year of an exclusively plant-based diet. There was even some evidence that the heart health of several of the dogs had improved!
Most recently, the University of Nottingham conducted an analysis of 31 commercially-available dry dog foods, including six plant-based varieties. The study concluded that, “when properly formulated”, plant-based foods can be a “healthy and viable alternative to meat-based options”. They highlighted that plant-based dog foods would need to be correctly supplemented with iodine and B vitamins to be nutritionally adequate.
This isn’t exclusive to vegan dog foods; 66% of the veterinary diets in the trial (eg renal (kidney) diets with low crude protein) were found to be deficient in one or more essential amino acids, meaning dogs would need to take additional supplements on those diets too.
At Just Be Kind, we have taken into consideration the results of those studies and we have produced a cold-pressed dry dog food with extra Vit B and Iodine to safeguard against these deficiencies. Our wet foods have also been properly formulated to ensure sufficient Vit B and Iodine and amino acids are added to the foods.
Can this food replace the 'Prescription Diets' recommended by my local vet?
Many prescription 'Hypoallergenic' diets use hydrolysed animal proteins (chemically broken down proteins such as chicken feathers in Royal Canin Anallergenic and fish oils or hydrolysed soya in Purina HA). Just Be Kind offers a clean, wholefood alternative that achieves the same goal—removing the offending allergen—but with superior, plant-based ingredients. While we always recommend consulting your vet before switching if your dog has a specific medical condition like kidney or bladder stones, many of our customers have successfully transitioned from brands like Royal Canin, Purina HA or Hills to our vet-formulated range with excellent health improvements. (See success stories here)
What is Fermentation Protein and why is it better than soya?
Fermentation protein is a nutritional breakthrough in pet health. Unlike soya, which is a common allergen and often genetically modified; fermentation protein is created through a natural process similar to making yogurt or sourdough. This process breaks down the protein into a highly 'bio-available' form, meaning it is incredibly gentle on the gut and easy for your dog to absorb. It provides a complete amino acid profile without the inflammatory allergens found in mass-produced non-GMO soya, making it the gold standard for dogs with allergies or sensitive skin. Readmore about bacterial fermentation protein here.
Is fermentation protein easier to digest than meat?
Yes. Traditional meat proteins can be heavy on a dog’s digestive system, especially those with sensitivities. Our Bio-Fermentation Protein is a 'bio-available' superfood. Because it is created through a natural fermentation process (similar to how yoghurt or kombucha is made), the protein is already partially broken down, making it incredibly gentle on the gut. It boasts a higher digestibility score than fishmeal, insect protein and even pea protein, meaning your dog absorbs more nutrients and has ahealthier digestion.
Where do your vitamins and minerals come from?
To ensure every meal is 'Complete and Balanced' to FEDIAF standards, we use a precision-blended premix of essential vitamins and minerals alongside our whole-food ingredients. While our vegetables and grains provide natural nutrients, we supplement with vital elements like Taurine, L-Carnitine, and Vitamin B12—which are critical for heart health and energy—to ensure your pet thrives long-term. Every recipe is vet-checked to ensure it meets the rigorous nutritional requirements of dogs and cats at every life stage. The same supplements are used in our foods as are used in all meat-based diets made mainly by precision fermentation.
What is the difference between Cold-Pressed and standard dry dog food?
Most standard dry dog food is 'extruded,' meaning it is cooked at an intense high heat and pressure, which can destroy delicate vitamins and natural oils. Cold-pressed food is different; the ingredients are gently mixed and pressed at much lower temperatures. This preserves the nutritional integrity of the proteins and enzymes. Furthermore, cold-pressed food dissolves from the outside-in rather than swelling in the stomach, which aids digestion and helps prevent the 'bloat' or heaviness often seen after a meal of traditional kibble.
How do plant-based proteins compare to animal proteins for dogs?
Plant-based proteins can provide all the essential amino acids dogs need, as long as the recipe is formulated to recognised nutritional guidelines supplied by FEDIAF. Different plant proteins contribute different amino acids, so combining sources like lentils, peas, sweet potato and microbial protein creates a complete and balanced profile. The bioavailability of nutrients in both plant and animal proteins varies, which is why the overall formulation matters far more than the ingredient source. Research, includingstudies by Prof Andrew Knight, shows that dogs can thrive on well-formulated plant-based diets, with guardians reporting good overall health, digestion and coat quality. What matters most is nutritional completeness, digestibility and the balance of amino acids, not whether the protein comes from plants or animals.
Why does Just Be Kind combine multiple plant proteins instead of using just one?
Different plant proteins contain different levels of essential amino acids, so combining several sources creates a more complete and balanced amino acid profile. Ingredients such as Faba beans, quinoa, sweet potato and microbial protein complement each other by supplying amino acids that may be lower in one ingredient but higher in another. This approach improves overall protein quality, supports digestibility and helps the recipe meet recognised nutritional guidelines provided by FEDIAF. Using a blend of proteins is a common practice in both plant-based and meat-based dog foods, and it ensures that dogs and cats receiveallthe essential nutrients they need.
Is your food compliant with FEDIAF guidelines?
As Dr Arielle wants these foods for her own dog Ruff, we only stock foods that follow recognised nutritional guidelines for dogs, such as those set by FEDIAF. These guidelines outline the minimum and maximum levels of essential nutrients required for a diet to be considered complete and balanced. Our wet food trays and our own BioBuddy™ cold-pressed recipe has been formulated by a vetanda canine nutritionist specialist to meet these standards and provide all essential nutrients for all life stages. Full nutritional details for every product are available on each product page.
What does ‘complete & balanced’ mean for dogs?
Complete and balanced’ means a dog food provides every essential nutrient a dog needs, in the correct amounts and ratios, for daily health. This includes proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and key amino acids such as taurine and methionine. Complete foods must meet recognised nutritional guidelines such as those set by FEDIAF, which outline the minimum and maximum levels of each nutrient for different life stages. Whether the recipe is plant-based or meat-based, it can only be labelled ‘complete and balanced’ if it meets these standards.
Why are B vitamins added to dog food, and why is B12 specifically important?
B vitamins play essential roles in energy metabolism, digestion, nerve function and overall health. They are added to all complete dog foods because processing and cooking can reduce their natural levels. Vitamin B12 is especially important because it supports healthy nerve function, red blood cell formation and normal digestion. While some B vitamins occur naturally in plant ingredients, B12 must be added because it is not reliably present in plants. Adding a stable, bioavailable form of B12 ensures the diet meets recognised nutritional guidelines such as FEDIAF and provides dogs with the levels they need for everyday health. It is not a requirement to state the amount of Vit B on dog food packaging, but we have included all the available levels of Vit B on our website.
Why is Vitamin D3 added, and is it vegan?
Vitamin D3 is added to dog food because it is essential for bone health, immune function and overall metabolism. FEDIAF nutritional guidelines require all complete dog foods to include Vitamin D3 at specific levels. Even in meat-based diets, D3 must be added because natural levels are not sufficient after processing and cooking (it is added to meat-based pet foods as lanolin or sheep's wool). In vegan formulations, Vitamin D3 is derived from algae or lichen so it remains fully plant-based while still meeting these nutritional requirements. Our Omega 3 Daily Algae oil provides the necessary Vit D3 if choosing to home cook wholefoods for your dog with our home cooking supplement.
Why do plant-based dog foods add amino acids like taurine and methionine?
Amino acids such as taurine, DL-methionine, L-carnitine and L-tryptophan are added to ensure the food provides a complete amino acid profile in line with recognised nutritional guidelines from FEDIAF.
While plant ingredients supply many essential amino acids, the levels can vary, so adding specific amino acids ensures dogs receive the correct amounts for heart and urinary tract health, metabolism, muscle maintenance and overall wellbeing.
Methionine and Cysteine also help the body produce Taurine and L-Carnitine, which is why both are included in well-formulated plant-based diets. Adding these sulphur amino acids ensures the food remains complete and balanced for all life stages.
Why is L-carnitine included in dog food?
L-carnitine is a naturally occurring compound that helps the body convert fat into usable energy. It plays an important role in healthy metabolism, muscle function and overall vitality.
Because levels in ingredients can vary, many complete dog foods include added L-carnitine to ensure the diet meets recognised nutritional guidelines and provides a reliable supply of this supportive nutrient. Its inclusion helps maintain a balanced nutritional profile and is common in both meat-based and plant-based diets.
We have even added it to our Gold Dust Joint and Heart Supplement for its additional fat-burning effect to support weight loss and thus help joint pain.
How many calories do dogs need?
A dog’s daily calorie needs depend on factors such as age, ideal weight, activity level and individual metabolism. Feeding guides on each product are based on a dog’s target weight and provide a suitable range to begin with. Different foods vary in calorie density depending on their ingredients and how they are made, which is why portion sizes can differ between brands or recipes. The most important thing is to feed according to your dog’s ideal weight and maintain a healthy body condition over time.
Why do calorie levels differ between brands or recipes?
Calorie levels vary between different dog foods because each recipe uses its own combination of ingredients, cooking methods and nutritional targets. Some ingredients are naturally more energy-dense than others, and different production processes can affect the final calorie content. This is why portion sizes can differ between brands or recipes, even when feeding the same dog. Feeding guides are based on a dog’s ideal weight and take into account the calorie density of each specific food.
Transitioning & Feeding Guides
Switching your pet to a plant-based diet is a journey, not a sprint. To ensure a happy tummy and a smooth adjustment, it’s vital to introduce new plant proteins gradually. In this section, we provide Dr Arielle’s clinical transition protocols, tips for encouraging picky eaters, and clear guidance on portion sizes.
How do I transition my dog from meat-based to Just Be Kind?
We recommend a 7 to 10-day gradual transition to allow your dog’s digestive enzymes and gut microbiome to adjust. Start by mixing 25% Just Be Kind with 75% of their old food for the first 3 days. Slowly increase the ratio to 50/50 for the next 3 days, then 75/25, until they are enjoying a 100% plant-based bowl. For dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs, extending this process to 14 days is perfectly fine—slow and steady wins the race for long-term gut health.
Can I mix this with my dog’s current food?
Absolutely. Many of our customers use Just Be Kind as a 'Nutritional Topper' to add high-quality, soya-free protein to a meat-based diet. This is a fantastic way to introduce the benefits of fermentation protein and plant-based antioxidants without a total lifestyle change. Just remember to adjust the portions of their base food to account for the extra calories, ensuring your pet maintains a healthy, lean weight.
Can I switch my dog from a raw food diet to a plant-based diet?
Yes, but it’s important to transition gradually. Dogs moving from raw food to a cooked or plant-based diet may need a slower and more managed switch, as the textures, ingredients and processing methods differ. Start by adding a small amount of the new food to the raw diet and increase it gradually over 10–14 days, or longer if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Monitor stools, appetite and general comfort during the transition. Feeding guides are based on ideal weight, so once fully transitioned, follow the guide for the food you’re using. If your dog has a medical history or you are unsure how quickly to transition, a consultation with Arielle can help tailor the process.
What should I watch for when switching my dog to a plant-based diet?
During the switch, monitor stools, appetite and energy levels. Mild changes in stool consistency are normal in the early stages. Feed according to your dog’s ideal weight and follow the feeding guide on the product. If your dog has a complex medical history or known sensitivities, a consultation with Arielle can help tailor the transition.
My dog is a picky eater; which product should I start with?
If your dog is hesitant with new textures, we highly recommend starting with 'Give a Dog a Bean.' Because it is a moist, savoury wet food, it has a highly enticing aroma that appeals to a dog's natural instincts. You can mix a spoonful into their current kibble to act as an 'appetiser.' Once they are excited by the flavour of our wholefood ingredients, introducing ourdry complete foodsor fermentation range becomes much easier.
How much should I feed my dog?
Feeding amounts vary based on your dog’s age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, a highly active Spaniel will require more calories than a sedentary senior dog. We provide a detailed feeding chart on every product page to act as a starting point. We always suggest monitoring your dog’s weight and 'body condition score'—if they are gaining too much, slightly reduce the portion; if they are too lean, increase it. Adding in extra vegetables helps with satiety and adds fullness while being low in calories. Just no onions, leeks or chives but feed the rainbow.
If too lean, add in extra calories with our pure Omega 3 Daily added to each meal.
Subscriptions & My Account
Our flexible plans are designed to ensure you never run out of Dr Arielle’s vet-formulated premium nutrition while giving you total control over your deliveries. Whether you need to delay a shipment, swap a product, or update your details, our customer portal puts the power in your hands—no long-term contracts, just consistent health for your pet.
How do I pause, skip, or cancel my subscription?
Managing your subscription is simple and can be done at any time through your Customer Portal by logging into your account. Once logged in, you can 'Skip' your next delivery if you still have plenty of stock, or 'Pause' your subscription if you are going away. If you need to cancel, you can do so with just a few clicks—no hidden fees and pleasecontact usif you have any difficulties. We are always available and happy to help and will reply within 24 hours.
Can I change the frequency of my deliveries?
Yes! We know every pet eats at a different pace. You can easily adjust your delivery frequency (eg, from every 4 weeks to every 6 weeks or even every 28 days) within your account settings. If you find you’re receiving food too quickly or not fast enough, simply log in and select the 'Change Frequency' option to align with your pet's actual appetite.
How do I add or swap products in my existing subscription?
If you want to try a new flavour or add a bag of treats to your next scheduled delivery, you can do this directly in your portal. Select 'Manage Subscription' and use the 'Add Product' or 'Swap' feature. This allows you to keep your existing discount while rotating between our Soya-Free recipes or adding additional important supplements to your order.
Is there a discount for subscribers?
Absolutely. Subscribers are the heartbeat of the Just Be Kind community. When you choose to subscribe, you automatically unlock a 10% discount with the first order, reducing to 5% discount with recurring orders. This ensures your pet gets premium, vet-led nutrition at the best possible price, with the added peace of mind that their favourite meals are reserved for them in our inventory.
Shipping, Orders & International
We are only UK based as Dr Arielle is passionate about helping all her UK customers and do not ship outside of the UK - so sorry!
Do you ship to the USA or internationally?
At this time, Just Be Kind ships exclusively to UK addresses. We are aware of the huge demand from our community in the USA, Australia and Europe, and we are working behind the scenes on the complex logistics required to bring our vet-formulated foods to Europe and Ireland very soon.
If in the US, we recommend these foods - Pawco products, fresh foods from Bramble pets, and supplement from Opal pets. If in Australia, we advise V-Planet and VeganPet and a SPD Pea and Algae rolls.
How long does UK delivery take?
Most orders are delivered within 1–2 working days via DPD. Please place orders before 2pm on a Thursday if you need the food before the weekend. Delivery times may vary slightly based on your location and stock availability, but we do our best to stay fully stocked as we know how much your dogs and cats rely on their healthy food. Orders to the Highlands and Northern Ireland usually take 2–4 days.
Do you offer any free samples?
Yes. If you live in the UK and would like a sample sent of any of our dry or tinned foods,please contact us here with the request and details about your dog. We also offer a generous sample box of our top foods, treats and Omega 3 oilvia this formfor only £22.50.
My order hasn't arrived; how do I track it?
Once your order is dispatched, you will receive a shipping confirmation email containing a unique tracking link. You can click this at any time to see the real-time status of your delivery. If your tracking hasn't updated or your package is more than 2 days overdue within the UK, pleasereach out to our team herewith your order number, and we will investigate immediately.
How do I cancel my order?
To cancel an order, please contact us as soon as possible or complete the contact form on our website chatbot so the team can help you. If the order has already been dispatched, we will advise you on the next steps.
Do you offer refunds?
We offer refunds for items that arrive damaged or faulty. Please contact us within 2 days of receiving your order, include photos, and we will replace the items or refund you, including postage where applicable. For all other cases, including change of mind, ordering by accident, or forgetting to cancel a subscription, we are unfortunately unable to offer refunds. All products must remain unopened to be eligible.
Do you offer trade pricing?
Yes, we offer trade pricing for approved and select stockists. Please contact us with your business name,website, location and the products you are interested in, and we will send you the latest trade price list.