What is Alfalfa Meal in Dog Food?

As the name suggests, alfalfa meal is the dried and ground up alfalfa plant.

Alfalfa pellets are often used as fertilizer and can be fed to rabbits and pet rodents. It’s often mixed in with fodder for horses, cows, and pigs.

Some people will take it to treat indigestion and lower cholesterol levels as it seems to prevent cholesterol absorption in the stomach.

But is it good for dogs? Keep reading and find out!

What is Alfalfa Meal in Dog Food?

According to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials), alfalfa meal is the above ground portion of the alfalfa plant that has been sun-cured and ground very finely.

It can contain anywhere from 14% to 23% protein (what is crude protein?) and 15% to 30% crude fiber.

Alfalfa meal also carries essential nutrients such as potassium, calcium, beta-carotene, and magnesium. It also carries the vitamins A, B12, C, D, E, and K.

Is Alfalfa Meal Good for Dogs?

That really depends. Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) has its ups and downs.

It might be good for growing puppies who need to put on a little extra weight.

Senior dogs with arthritis and low appetite may benefit from alfalfa meal. An alfalfa supplement can also help a dog who has kidney trouble.

Is Alfalfa Meal Bad for Dogs?

It should be pointed out that alfalfa is a source of coumarin, which can cause liver problems for dogs if served in large amounts.

Alfalfa also carries saponin, which can cause digestive troubles if served in large amounts. L-Canavanine is a dangerous chemical in alfalfa seeds.

However, most commercially available alfalfa will not contain the seeds. In any case, alfalfa should only be fed to a dog in moderation.

Of course, if the dog in question has an alfalfa allergy, they should not eat alfalfa meal at all.

Advantages of Alfalfa Meal

Alfalfa is often used as a medicinal herb in the treatment of inflammatory joint diseases.

The saponin mentioned before can also aid in the absorption of the fat-soluble nutrients found in the small intestine.

Alfalfa contains chlorophyll that can freshen Fido’s breath.

It has been known to aid in promoting kidney health while also reducing the risk of cancerous growths.

Disadvantages of Alfalfa Meal

Alfalfa is a plant based protein.

While this protein is often added to the overall nutritional value, it does not have all the amino acids a dog requires, particularly a growing puppy.

Plant estrogens such as phytoestrogens found in alfalfa are endocrine disrupters that can lead to immunity, developmental, brain, or reproductive issues.

Anemic dogs should not have anything containing vitamin K or coumarin.

Sources of Alfalfa Meal in Dog Food

Sun cured alfalfa in dog food is an important forage crop for livestock.

However, a carnivorous animal like a dog would do matter with meat based proteins than plant based.

While some alfalfa meal in dog food can do them good, it should be in moderation. It should not be in the first half of the ingredients listed on the dog food label.

How Much Alfalfa Meal Do Dogs Need?

It might be best if you take control over just how much alfalfa meal your furry friend consumes.

You can sprinkle a bit of dried alfalfa on your dog’s food.

Just a pinch for every ten pounds should do it. For big dogs, a teaspoon for every 50 pounds should do it.

If your dog’s health would benefit from alfalfa tea, you can make some by boiling a quart of water and adding four teaspoons of dried alfalfa.

Steep it for ten to twenty minutes. Fido would probably rather drink this tea after it cools down considerably.

Dog Foods with Alfalfa Meal

• Nature’s Logic – This brand has nearly equal amounts of carbs, fats, and proteins. It comes in many flavors dogs love including rabbit and venison.
• Zignature – This brand’s a little high on the carbs and low on the protein. It does have the odd distinction of offering kangaroo meat as an ingredient.
• Canidae – This brand is high in protein with equal amounts of carbs and fat. The bison, rabbit and guinea fowl flavors are formulated for dogs with food sensitivities.

Dog Foods without Alfalfa Meal

• Orijen – Orijen prides itself on making pet food close to what a wild dog would prey on, including the organs and bones. It’s very high in protein and rich in various nutrients.
• Nature’s Variety Instinct – This brand touts raw meat as the best food for dogs. If your dog is used to kibble, you might want to use some of this raw food as a nutrition boost,
• American Natural Premium – This brand uses oatmeal and rice but mostly chicken or turkey. Try the turkey with pumpkin for some extra vitamin E.

Final Thoughts

Many dog foods use fillers such as alfalfa, corn, soybeans, and peas as a cheap way to up the protein count.

That isn’t to say alfalfa is without any practical use. Discuss with your veterinarian if alfalfa meal or alfalfa supplements is right for your dog.

FAQs

Resources

1. https://www.redbudsoilcompany.com/blogs/the-redbud-blog/how-to-use-alfalfa-meal-as-a-soil-amendment-compost-activator
2. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-19/alfalfa
3. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/alfalfa-does-it-belong-in_b_5367466
4. https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/alfalfa-for-dogs/
5. https://www.easypetmd.com/dogfoodingredients/alfalfa