A practical, evidence-based guide to feeding dogs insect-based protein (black soldier fly, cricket). Covers nutrition, feeding amounts, sample plans, signs of success and red flags.

Nutritional Snapshot

• Primary insect ingredients: black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) meal and cricket meal
• Typical crude protein (dry matter): BSFL 35–45% (meal) to 40–60% (defatted meal); crickets 55–70% (DM)
• Typical crude fat: BSFL 15–35%; crickets 10–20%
• Caloric density (dry insect kibble): commonly ~350–450 kcal/100 g (varies by formulation)
• Fiber / chitin: adds insoluble fiber (chitin) — may affect digestibility
• Key micronutrients to watch: calcium, phosphorus, omega-3 (EPA/DHA), taurine, zinc, copper, B vitamins
• Suitability: promising for adult maintenance, hypoallergenic elimination diets in some cases (emerging evidence)

Introduction

Insect-based proteins (notably black soldier fly larvae and crickets) are growing in popularity as protein sources for dogs. They offer concentrated protein, a smaller environmental footprint than many traditional livestock sources, and may be useful in dogs with food sensitivities. This guide is a practical, evidence-based overview covering nutrition, feeding calculations, palatability, commercial choices, and how to transition safely.

Why consider insect protein?

• Sustainability: insects require less land, water, and feed and produce fewer greenhouse gases per kg protein than beef or pork. Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) is produced at scale as an ingredient by several processors.
• Nutrient density: insect meals can deliver high-quality protein and beneficial fats.
• Allergy-friendly potential: because insects are novel proteins for most dogs, they can be used in elimination trials; cross-reactivity is possible but thought to be lower for common food-allergic dogs.
• Palatability: many dogs accept insect-based foods — fats and amino acids in insects provide favorable taste cues.

Nutritional profile — BSFL vs. crickets (typical ranges, dry matter basis)

• Black soldier fly larvae (whole or full-fat meal): protein 35–45% DM; fat 20–35% DM; ash 8–12%; caloric density of whole larvae is higher because of fat.
• BSFL defatted meal (ingredient for kibble): protein 45–60% DM; fat 8–15% DM.
• Cricket meal: protein 55–70% DM; fat 10–20% DM; chitin contributes to insoluble fiber.

How insect diets meet AAFCO / NRC requirements

AAFCO sets nutrient minimums for complete and balanced commercial pet foods (e.g., adult dog maintenance minimum crude protein 18% on an as-fed basis for standard dry diets; puppy growth 22%). The National Research Council (NRC) provides energy and nutrient reference values for formulation. Commercial insect-based diets should be formulated to meet AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for the intended life stage (or be verified by feeding trials).

When selecting an insect-based commercial product, look for an AAFCO statement such as “formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance (or growth).”

Energy and daily calorie guidance

Start with Resting Energy Requirement (RER):

• RER (kcal/day) = 70 × (body weight in kg)^0.75

• Neutered adult dog: MER ≈ 1.4 × RER
• Intact/active dog: MER ≈ 1.6–2.0 × RER
• Weight loss target: feed at 80% of MER or use veterinary guidance

• Small dog 8 kg: RER = 70 × 8^0.75 ≈ 311 kcal → MER ≈ 435 kcal/day
• Medium dog 20 kg: RER ≈ 700 kcal → MER ≈ 980 kcal/day
• Large dog 35 kg: RER ≈ 1,140 kcal → MER ≈ 1,600 kcal/day

Always confirm the exact kcal content shown on the product label and adjust for age, neuter status, activity and body condition.

Macronutrient breakdown to aim for (typical commercial targets)

• Protein: 18–30% (as-fed) for adult maintenance; many insect kibbles are 20–30% as-fed
• Fat: 8–20% as-fed (BSFL-based diets can be higher in fat unless defatted meal is used)
• Carbohydrates: formulated to energy needs — dogs do well on a wide range of carb levels when other nutrients are balanced
• Fiber (including chitin): 1.5–6% (may increase stool bulk; chitin may affect digestibility)

Key micronutrients and supplements to watch

• Calcium and phosphorus: insects can be low in calcium relative to phosphorus; balanced inclusion of bone or mineral supplements is often required to meet AAFCO ratios (Ca:P ~1.0–1.8:1 for maintenance).
• Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA): insect lipids are rich in medium-chain fatty acids (BSFL) and may be low in long-chain marine omega-3s; consider fish oil or algal DHA/EPA if low.
• Zinc, copper, iron: insects contain minerals but levels vary — rely on complete formulation rather than insect ingredient alone.
• Taurine: most adult dogs meet taurine needs via adequate methionine/cysteine and overall protein; some diets (especially grain-free) and certain breeds may benefit from taurine assessment and supplementation.
• Digestive enzymes / probiotics: sometimes added to improve digestibility due to chitin content.

Recommended feeding schedule

• Adult dogs: 2 meals per day (divide daily kcal into two equal portions)
• Puppies: 3–4 meals per day depending on age (gradually transition to 2 meals by adulthood)
• Senior dogs: 2 smaller meals may help digestion and glycemic control

Foods to include and avoid

Include:

• Commercial complete insect-based kibbles or canned diets labeled AAFCO-complete
• Fresh vegetables and fruit as appropriate (small portions, not replacing balanced diet)
• Veterinarian-approved supplements (omega-3s, calcium if indicated)

• Homemade insect-only diets unless formulated by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (risk of mineral/vitamin imbalance)
• Raw insect meals or untested home-harvested insects (parasites, contaminants)
• Giving only treats made of insects while the main diet lacks balanced nutrients

Current commercial options and availability

Commercial offerings vary by region and are expanding rapidly. Typical product types:

• Insect-based dry kibble (BSFL or cricket as primary protein source)
• Wet/canned insect formulas (less common)
• Freeze-dried insect treats or whole-insect snacks (crickets, mealworms)

• Jiminy’s (cricket-based treats and dry foods)
• Yora (UK brand using insect protein in dog food)
• Brands using BSFL meal as an ingredient (regional ingredient suppliers like Protix supply meal to pet food manufacturers)

Sample meal plan / feeding guidelines (using an example kibble at 380 kcal/100 g)

1) 8 kg small adult dog — MER ≈ 435 kcal/day - Food: insect-based dry kibble at 380 kcal/100 g → ~114 g/day (split into 2 meals ≈ 57 g each)

2) 20 kg adult dog — MER ≈ 980 kcal/day - Food: 980 ÷ 3.8 = ~258 g/day → two meals ≈ 129 g each

3) 35 kg adult dog — MER ≈ 1,600 kcal/day - Food: 1,600 ÷ 3.8 = ~421 g/day → two meals ≈ 210 g each

Adjust for body condition: reduce calories by 10–20% for weight loss under veterinary guidance.

Transitioning to an insect-based diet

• Go slow: switch over 7–14 days. Example schedule:

• For dogs with sensitive stomachs or prior GI issues, extend the transition to 2–3 weeks and consider a probiotic.
• Monitor stool quality and appetite closely during the transition.

Palatability and acceptance

Most dogs accept insect-based foods. Palatability depends on flavor enhancers, fat level, and texture. If your dog refuses, try mixing a small amount of warm water or a trusted topper and increase insect-food proportion gradually.

Allergy-friendly properties

• Insect proteins are “novel” for many dogs, so they can be used in elimination diets when testing for food allergies.
• Cross-reactivity between insect proteins and conventional meat proteins appears limited but is not zero — there are case reports of insect allergies in humans and possible cross-reactivity with shellfish (due to shared chitin and tropomyosin proteins).
• For strict food trials, follow veterinary elimination diet protocols and use only one protein source (insect) and a single carbohydrate for the trial period (typically 8–12 weeks).

Signs your diet is working

• Stable or improving body condition score (BCS) and target weight
• Consistent energy and activity levels
• Glossy coat and healthy skin
• Firm, formed stools once dietary transition is complete
• No vomiting or recurrent diarrhea

Red flags — when to adjust or stop the diet

• Acute or persistent vomiting or diarrhea lasting >48 hours
• Rapid weight loss or muscle wasting
• New or worsening skin lesions, licking, or itching (possible allergic reaction)
• Lethargy, inappetence, or other systemic signs
• Persistent loose stools despite gradual transition (may indicate poor digestibility or intolerance)

Practical tips for owners

• Always choose commercial insect-based diets that carry an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for your dog’s life stage.
• Keep a feeding log for the first 2–3 weeks (food amounts, stools, energy, skin changes).
• If using insect foods to manage suspected food allergies, work with your veterinarian for a controlled elimination trial.
• For homemade insect-based recipes, consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist — insect ingredients alone will not guarantee a balanced diet.

Bottom line

Insect protein (BSFL and cricket) offers a sustainable, nutrient-dense alternative protein for dogs and shows promise as a novel protein for elimination diets. Use complete, AAFCO-formulated commercial diets or veterinary-formulated home diets. Monitor calories, essential nutrients (calcium, EPA/DHA, taurine precursors), and your dog’s clinical response.

Consult your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist for personalized dietary recommendations.

References and further reading

• World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) Global Nutrition Toolkit and guidelines
• Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Dog Food Nutrient Profiles
• National Research Council (NRC), Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
• Hand MS, Thatcher CD, Remillard RL, Roudebush P. Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, 5th ed. (textbook covering nutrient requirements and diet formulation)

Frequently Asked Questions