What Is Canola Meal In Dog Food? Is It Safe For Your Dog?

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So, you’ve heard of canola oil, but what is a canola meal?

And is it safe for dogs to eat?

Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about canola meal in dog food!

What is Canola Meal

The word “canola” might have you thinking of tin cans, but it’s a reference to the Canadian oilseed trade.

Canola is a plant that produces seeds made up of different types of fats.

Canola meal comes from the rapeseed plant. It’s made by grinding the seeds into a fine powder and extracting the oil^[1].

The remaining residues are baked and broken down into a powder that’s called a canola meal.

According to the FDA ( Food and Drug Administration), the seed cake leftover after extracting oil from rapeseed contains protein, fiber, fat, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E^[2].

This makes it a popular ingredient in commercial dog food.

Why is it in Dog Food

Canola meal refers to the byproduct of canola oil production.

In addition to its protein content, Canola Meal also provides other nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids that can have health benefits for your dog.

It also adds fiber, which helps improve digestion.

Is Canola Meal Good for Dogs?

Yes, Canola Meal can be good for dogs.

It provides essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and is a source of crude protein and dietary fiber.

These nutrients can benefit a dog’s overall health and help prevent specific health problems.

Is Canola Meal Bad for Dogs?

No, Canola Meal isn’t bad for dogs unless they have allergies or sensitivities to it—and this type of allergy is rare.

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According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), some dogs may experience digestive upset if they’re fed large amounts of Canola Meal at one time^[3], but this is usually only a problem if the meal is used as the sole source of nutrition.

Sources of Canola Meal in Dog Food

Canola meal is found in all kinds of dog food, from dry kibble to raw food diets.

It’s typically listed as the fourth or fifth ingredient in dog food, behind ingredients like chicken or beef.

Canola meal is made from the crushed seeds of the canola plant.

The sources of canola meal in dog food can vary, but it’s most commonly found in commercial diets that are made for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to other ingredients.

How Much Canola Meal Do Dogs Need?

There is no set amount of canola meal that dogs need, and the amount that’s included in dog food can vary depending on the recipe.

According to the University of Illinois, in general, a diet that contains between 2-5% canola meal is considered safe for most dogs^[4].

Dog Foods with Canola Meal

If you’re looking for dog food that contains canola meal, these are some of our favorites:

Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food

Perfect for dogs with allergies or sensitivities, this product contains a single source of protein (lamb) and one type of carbohydrate (potatoes).

It’s a must-have on your shelf since the canola meal in this food adds essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Caught Salmon Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

Does your dog have a bit of a soft spot for seafood? Then, this salmon-based food is perfect.

Of course, it also contains canola meal, which adds essential nutrients and fiber to the diet.

Nutro Ultra Grain-Free Small Breed Chicken & Sweet Potato Formula Dry Dog Food

This is a grain-free, clean-feed dog food that has a crunchy texture smaller breeds will love.

The texture in this Nutro dog food helps to clean teeth as they eat and the added fiber aids digestion. No GMO ingredients to worry about, only the good stuff.

Orijen Regional Red Dog Food

Two-thirds of the ingredients in this Orijen dog food are either fresh or raw, helping your dog to eat the way nature intended, and the food is stuffed with a variety of meat for a welcome protein boost.

Ranch-raised beef is the first ingredient, and as you work your way down the list, you recognize the ingredients—no harmful chemicals or additives.

Nature’s Variety Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Duck Recipe

A limited ingredient diet is perfect for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities.

The primary protein source is duck, and the canola meal in this food helps to add essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

The easily digestible ingredients make the food suitable for small and large dogs.

Wellness Core Natural Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

This grain-free formula is perfect for all dogs.

It contains chicken, turkey, and whitefish as the primary protein sources, and canola meal helps to add essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.

Lean protein builds muscle, aiding in the development of your dog—an active dog is a happy dog.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food

This food is perfect for all adult dogs.

Chicken is the primary protein source in this Blue Buffalo dog food, great for building muscle mass, and added fruits and vegetables aid with digestion and bone development.

Young dogs love small kibble and will jump at the chance to boost their health and well-being.

Dog Foods without Canola Meal

If you’re looking for dog food that doesn’t contain a canola meal, these are some of our favorites:

Taste of the Wild High Prairie Puppy Dry Dog Food

Puppies love small kibble, and they will enjoy mealtimes with Taste of the Wild, but this food lasts well after they have eaten.

With live, active cultures, your dog’s digestion will be aided, and their immune system boosted.

This Taste of the Wild dog food helps in all-round growth and development.

Holistic Select Grain-Free Wet Dog Food

Prebiotic support and natural fiber help your dog to digest their food and extract the nutrient and minerals needed for a healthy life.

It is a natural food for a holistic life.

EVO Turkey & Duck Formula Dog Food

This dog food is high in protein for developing dogs or those who enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.

With over 80% animal products boosted by fruits and vegetables, you know exactly what your prized pet is eating.

Nature’s Variety Instinct Raw Boost Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

This is a high-protein kibble that has been freeze-dried for extra crunch.

Your dog will love the texture, but it is the high-quality animal ingredients that show how much you love your dog in its later years.

Acana Grasslands Dry Dog Food

Grass-fed, free-run, cage-free, and wild-caught—they all tell you the quality of this natural dog food.

This Acana dog food has been designed to mimic what they would eat in the wild.

Wellness Core Grain-Free Wet Dog Food

For any dog that needs a protein hit, Wellness Core is the way to go. With 95% animal product, your dog is getting exactly what they need to develop and grow.

Final Thoughts

Canola meal is a beneficial ingredient in dog food.

It’s a good source of protein and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which can promote healthy skin and coat, as well as overall health.

There are no known risks associated with feeding your dog food that contains canola meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few other common questions people ask.

What is Canola Meal Made From?

Canola meal is made from the crushed seeds of the canola plant. It’s a high-quality source of protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids.

What are The Benefits of Canola Meal in Dog Food?

Canola meal is a good source of protein and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. It also provides fiber, which can help to regulate digestion. Other benefits include improved joint health and reduced inflammation.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Feeding My Dog Food That Contains Canola Meal?

There are no known risks associated with feeding your dog food that contains canola meal. However, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s diet.

What is Canola Meal in Dog Food?