Benefits of Fish Oil for Dogs

Is your dog's coat looking a little dull? Is the shedding getting a little out of control? It might be time to consider adding fish to their dinner. Learn all about the benefits of fish oil for dogs and check out our best fish oil supplements for dogs (and cats).

Is Fish Oil Good for Dogs?

A soft, lustrous coat is often the first sign of a healthy dog. If your dog’s coat looks dull and brittle or has dry, flaky skin, they might lack essential fatty acids in their diet. That’s where fish oil for pets comes in.

Fish oil is a popular supplement for dogs because it is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, immune function, and many more health-impacting systems.

Adding fish oil supplements to dog or cat food is a great way to treat common pet health issues and support better overall health.

Here are a few reasons that fish oil for dogs and cats is such a popular nutritional aid:

- Fish oil is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
- Supports skin, coat, and overall health in pets.
- Consult your veterinarian to ensure safe use.

Remember that supplements are meant to complement a complete and balanced pet diet—not replace it. There are no benefits to over-supplementation, and in fact, getting too much of a nutrient could harm your pet.

What are Omega Fatty Acids for Dogs?

Omega fatty acids are unsaturated fats that play essential roles in cell structure and overall health. They are crucial for immune function, cognitive health, and circulatory health.

The two primary types, Omega-3 and Omega-6, support various systems in your dog’s body and help maintain balance.

Understanding the different types and the role they play in your dog's health can help you when reading pet food labels, managing health issues, and choosing the right supplements to your pet's diet.

Types of Fatty Acids for Pets

There are many different Omega fatty acids supplements for pets, but knowing which ones you may need to add to your pet's diet is important.

Omega fatty acids for dogs can be considered either essential or non-essential.

Non-essential fatty acids: Produced naturally in your pet’s body.
Essential fatty acids: Must be obtained through diet.

Though non-essential fatty acids can be made by converting other nutrients into fatty acids, the conversion rate is sometimes not as high as your pet may need to reach optimal health. This means that even some non-essential fatty acids can be supplements with fish or plant oils.

Most dog diets contain moderate levels of essential and non-essential fatty acids, but pets dealing with skin and coat issues, digestion, or allergy issues, can benefit from the addition of one of fish oil supplements for dogs.

Benefits of Omega Fatty Acids for Dogs

Fatty acids, both essential and non-essential, play a significant role in your pet's overall health. From healthy cell structure to immune function and digestion, the right balance of omega fatty acids is an important part of a complete and balanced pet food diet.

Here are some of the top benefits of Omega fatty acids for dogs:

- - - Promote healthy immune function.
    - Improve skin and coat health.
    - Support cognitive and circulatory systems.

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for dogs can be sourced from a variety of food ingredients, but the most popular, and the most abundant sources are fish. Many pet owners trust fish oil for dogs because it can be an effective tool for managing symptoms of a wide variety of common issues.

What is Omega 3 for Dogs?

salmon-omega-fatty-acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your pet’s health, and fortunately, they can be found abundantly in fish oils and some plant oils.

When choosing an omega 3 supplement for dogs, make sure you know what kinds of Omega 3's are offered. To maximize the benefits of omega 3 for pets, look for options that offer EPA, DHA, and ALA.

1. Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)

EPA is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce inflammation in cells and tissues, supports cardiovascular health, and promotes skin and coat health.

2. Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)

DHA plays a vital role in brain health and cognitive function. It is especially important during puppy development and helps prevent cognitive decline in senior dogs.

Both EPA and DHA are best sourced from fish oil. There are very few viable plant sources of EPA and DHA, which is why fish oils are the most common choice in the pet industry.

3. Alpha Linolenic Acid (ALA)

ALA supports heart health and is primarily found in plant oils like flaxseed. While dogs can convert ALA into EPA and DHA, the conversion rate is low, so direct dietary sources of EPA and DHA (like fish oil) are often recommended. Unlike APA and DHA, ALA is very easy to source from plant oils such as flaxseed,

Benefits of Omega 3 for Dogs

Omega 3s play a vital role in your dog’s body. If your dog is not getting enough omega 3’s from their diet, supplementation may be helpful in treating the issues that result from deficiency.

Here are the top 10 benefits of omega 3 fatty acids for dogs.

Healthier skin and less itching - Omega 3 fatty acids help maintain the skin barrier to help restore moisture and reduce itching.
Reduced shedding and dandruff - By keeping your pet’s skin moisturized and hydrated Omega 3's reduce shedding by protecting fur from the roots.
Shinier, healthier coat - Moisturized, healthy skin also leads to a shiny, healthier, and more beautiful coat.
Fewer Infections - They boost the immune system and result in more appropriate immune responses.
Relief from hot spots and inflammation - Reduce inflammation and provide relief from painful hot spots quickly with Omga 3 for dogs.
Better joint and mobility support - Hip and joint pain can also be reduced by the anti-inflammatory properties of Omega 3's.
Cognitive health for puppies and seniors - DHA is vital to your dog’s brain health, especially during growth stages and for senior dogs at risk of cognitive decline.
Heart health - Omega 3 fatty acids reduce heart inflammation and can lower blood pressure in dogs to help fight off heart disease.
Stronger, healthier nails - Protect the cells that support nail growth and health, leading to smoother, less brittle nails.
Support for Treating Chronic Diseases - Omega 3 fatty acids have properties that protect against the risk and slow the progression of chronic disease.

What is Omega 6 for Dogs?

The other half of the omega fatty acid balance for dogs is Omega 6's. Unlike some of the core omega 3 for dogs, Omega 6 fatty acids are typically easy to source from both fish and plant oil. These are often easier to include in dog food, so additional supplementation isn't always needed.

There are several omega 6 fatty acids that are needed for your dog’s health, but only one is considered essential, meaning they can't make it themselves.

Linoleic Acid (LA)

LA is the primary essential Omega-6 for dogs. It plays a role in maintaining healthy skin and coat, supporting immune system health, and promoting proper growth and development.

While most pet diets provide sufficient Omega-6, balancing it with Omega-3 is critical to avoiding excessive inflammation.

Benefits of Omega 6’s for Dogs

Omega 6s are more regularly represented in commercial pet foods because they are abundantly sourced from grains, seeds, and plant oils. Here are the top 5 functions of omega 6’s for dogs.

Reduced Pain in Stiff Joints - reduces swelling around the joints, reduces grinding of connective tissues and bone, and reduces pain.
Normal Growth and Development - play a role in brain function, skin and coat health, bone development, and metabolism during the puppy stage.
Reduced Allergy Symptoms - helps your dog's immune system react more appropriately to allergens by reducing unnecessary inflammation and relieving itchy, dry skin.
Blood Coagulation - involved in blood clot formation and circulatory function.
Appropriate Inflammation - encourages inflammation when appropriate to defend the body from pathogens and other intruders.

Fish Oil vs. Plant Oils for Dogs

There is some debate in the pet world about the best sources of omega fatty acids for dogs. Many pet owners prefer fish oil for dogs, but it's important not to discount plant oils for dogs as a potential nutritional benefit.

One of the main arguments for fish oil is that they are higher in Omega 3, particularly helpful ones like EPA and DHA. Plant oils, on the other hand, contain some omega 3 but tend to have more Omega 6s.

Although omega 3s and omega 6s have similar chemical structures and roles in the body, the differences between the compounds matter. It’s not just about having each nutrient in the diet; feeding them in the right quantities and ratios to each other has an impact on overall health.

Here are a few quick tips to consider when choosing an omega supplement for dogs:

- Balance Omega 3s and 6s: Target a 4:1 ratio of omega 3 to 6. At this ratio, the two types of omega fatty acids will complement each other instead of competing with each other.
- Some Diets are High in Omega 6s: Kibble diets are often high in omega-6s due to their higher plant content. Too many omega 6s can be pro-inflammatory.
- Rotate Your Oils: You don't have to settle for just one, rotating fish and plant oil supplements can provide more robust and complete nutrition for your dog.
- Plant Oil Can Offer Different Benefits: Different plant oils offer different benefits, so while they may not be superior to fish oil supplements for dogs, they can still be used to support specific health needs.

Though fish oil is still the preferred omega supplement for many pet owners, many plant oils offer key benefits that may be well suited to whatever health issue you are trying to manage. It's important to choose the option that is best for your pet's specific needs.

Talk to your vet about your pet's health to determine which oils could be the most beneficial in treating common symptoms. It's important to talk about diet and how and if these oils will provide the appropriate buffer of nutrients your pet needs.

Fish Oil Safety for Dogs

While there are many types of fish oil for dogs, some are safer than others. You have to consider not just the types of best omega 3 supplements for dogs provided by fish oil, but the quality of the fish that the oil is sourced from.

Poor-quality fish oil can do more damage than good in the long run so make sure you research the brand and products before you buy.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing fish oil for dogs:

Wild-Caught over Farm-Raised: Wild-caught salmon will have a more appropriate ratio of omega 3’s to 6’s. Farm-raised salmon are typically fed grain-heavy diets, and this increases the omega 6 content of the fish’s oils.
Smaller Fish Have Less Mercury Contamination: The larger the fish, the higher the mercury contamination. The smallest fish and sea creatures eat plankton and algae, which contain fairly low mercury levels, but larger fish eat fish that have their own mercury buildup, plus the mercury present in whatever their food source is. The mercury level continues to rise as you go up the fish food chain, so oils from smaller fish are typically considered safer.
Don't Over-Do It: Essential fatty acids aren’t the only nutrients present in fish oil. Some fish oils contain fat-soluble vitamins that can lead to higher than necessary micronutrient levels, especially if your dog is already getting an ample supply of that nutrient from their regular diet.
Pet-Safe Supplements Only: Humans and dogs have different nutrient needs. Human supplements are not always safe for pets. Fish oil supplements are popular for people too, but the dosage and ingredients aren’t always appropriate for your dog. Stick to dog-safe supplements and dosages only.
Sourcing Affects Quality: Where your fish oil is sourced may be important too. Fish, even wild-caught fish, from countries with less stringent fishing or manufacturing regulations or from more polluted bodies of water may be producing sub-standard fish oils.
Proper Fish Oil Storage: Oils can go rancid if not properly stored. Refrigeration once opened is the best practice as it slows oxidization.

Plant Oil Safety for Dogs

Much like fish oils, quality and proper usage are key to ensuring your pet's supplements are safe and nutritionally beneficial. Beyond being prepared for how to use plant oils safely, using these tips can also help you choose a nutritious and trustworthy plant oil product.

Keep these simple tips in mind when shopping for plant oils:

Quality of Ingredients: Plants are a cheaper option than animal sources for most omega 3 supplements for dogs, but plants can be cheaply, unethically, and unsafely sourced and manufactured. Make sure your plant oil is free from additives and artificial ingredients like colours.
Watch the Omega 6s: Many plant oils can offer a wide range of benefits, but they can also contain higher levels of pro-inflammatory omega 6s. In appropriate doses, they are unlikely to be a problem, but when you consider the high omega 6 content in many commercial pet foods, it can lead to some issues and even worsen some inflammation symptoms.
Sourcing Affects Quality: Some manufacturers source cheap plant oils from countries with less-than-ideal quality standards. Look for locally sourced ingredients from Canadian brands when possible.
Proper Fish Oil Storage: Plant oils are notorious for their short shelf life. They can go rancid quickly and when not packaged appropriately and not stored correctly, can lead to a lot of waste. Some exceptions, like camelina oil, can stay fresh longer, but proper storage and not over buying are key to keeping plant oils safe and healthy for pets.

Best Fish Oil Supplements for Dogs

brilliant-salmon-oil When looking for the best fish oil supplement for your dog, you will have some options to choose from. Each type of fish oil will offer different benefits, and it's important to be able to choose the option that will benefit your pet the best.

Stick to high-quality fish oils, preferably wild-caught, to maximize the benefits of fish oil for dogs.

Salmon Oil (Approximately - EPA 10% | DHA 11%)

Salmon oil is probably one of the most popular and widely used fish oils by dog food brands and by pet owners who supplement their dog's diet because:

Salmon oil has a high concentration of EPA and DHA.
Salmon can have a low to moderate mercury level compared to other similarly sized fish.
Salmon oil is typically moderately priced, making it an affordable ingredient.

Bear in mind though, that salmon are heavily overfished. This has a detrimental effect on the ecosystem but also diminishes our supply of wild-caught salmon. Many pet food manufacturers are forced to use farmed salmon in the absence of a consistent supply of wild-caught salmon available to the pet food industry.

Best Salmon Oil for Dogs

Not sure which brands to try? Check out a few of our favourite and most trusted options for salmon oil for dogs:

Sardine, Herring, or Mackerel Oil (Approximately - EPA 18% | DHA 12%)

These four little fish are often lumped together not only in terms of quality but also literally. Some omega 3 supplements use a blend of 2 or more of these fish oils to get a broader variety of nutrients. Here's why these small fish oils are a popular option for dogs:

High EPA and DHA concentration. Blends tend to have higher levels of EPA and DHA than any one oil alone.
All four of these fish are MSC-certified as sustainable, meaning that they are currently not at risk of being overfished.
They are smaller fish, so they have a much smaller bioaccumulation of mercury and are safe to feed consistently.

Although this sounds like a slam dunk option, this type of fish oil is not as widely available and as a result can be more expensive. When blended with cheaper fish oils, this can be a great option to add to your fish oil rotation.

Alaskan Pollock Oil (Approximately - EPA 6% | DHA 12%)

Last but not least, is pollock oil. It can't be just any oil pollock though, as Alaskan pollock oil comes from a safer and more sustainable body of water.

Alaskan pollock oil is one of the most cost-effective fish oils.
Alaskan pollock is a very sustainable fish compared to other types of pollock.
This oil has low mercury levels and is considered generally safe to eat. Pollock caught elsewhere may have higher mercury bioaccumulation.

You might be wondering why you've never heard of pollock oil for dogs before. Pollock oil is not usually sold on its own, due to its lower EPA content, but can be mixed with another EPA-rich fish oil to produce a healthy and lower-priced option.

Best Fish Oil Blends for Dogs

Many fish oil supplements for dogs use a variety of fish oils. This can offer a wider range of benefits, and even reduce the cost by mixing more expensive fish oils with some of the more cost-effective ones. Look for products that list multiple types of fish, or those that just use terms like fish oil or ocean fish. This typically indicates a mix of fish oils:

Fish Oil Supplement Alternatives for Dogs

In addition to fish oils, there are other types of animal-based oils that offer essential fats and nutrients. They aren't always the easiest options to find and can be a bit pricier, but each has its own advantage.

Krill Oil (Approximately – EPA 11% | DHA 5%)

Though they share the same environment and a similar diet, krill offer some of the same benefits as fish oils do. But these tiny shrimp-looking creatures have a few perks that fish oils can't compete with:

Contains omega-3 fatty acids. These aid in nutrient absorption and cell structure.
Krill is a natural source of antioxidants, helping to fight off disease-promoting free radical cells.
Krill oil has low mercury levels since this crustacean eats plankton which has minimal mercury levels from ground and water contamination.

EPA and DHA levels in krill oil are low compared to other fish oils, which is why krill oil is often not the base fish oil for dogs, rather many pet owners like to rotate in this unique oil to provide a more robust nutritional boost. Additionally, overfishing still has a large-scale environmental impact, as krill are a primary food source for many ocean-dwelling species.

Best Krill Oil for Dogs

- - Grizzly Pet Products Krill Oil

Cod Liver Oil (Approximately - EPA 9% | DHA 11%)

Unlike other fish oils, cod liver oil has higher levels of vitamins A and D, making it a popular fish oil type. It is often blended with other fish oils that are higher in EPA to give a well-balanced nutritional boost.

Cod liver oil is high in vitamins A and D which help support eye function, bone density, and the immune system.
The combination of vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve mobility.

Since cod liver oil is high in vitamins A and D, you need to be conscious of overfeeding. Keep in mind that both of these vitamins are also represented in your dog’s regular diet. Cod liver oil can be expensive compared to most fish oils.

Seal Oil (Approximately - EPA 6% | DHA 8%)

Though not very common seal oil has slowly been gaining popularity in the pet industry. This unique animal oil might shock you, but it does have some very cool benefits for dogs:

In addition to both EPA and DHA, seal oil offers another omega 3 fatty acid called docosapentaenoic acid (DPA), which improves retention and benefits of EPA and DHA.
Seal oil is highly palatable and easy to feed to even the pickiest pets.
Oils from mammals are more easily digested and absorbed by other mammals.

Seal products still carry a bad rap, even though seal hunting is now much more regulated to assure sustainability and humane hunting practices. It's not widely accepted just yet and because of its rarity, it’s expensive compared to traditional fish oils for dogs.

Best Plant Oils for Dogs

hemp-seeds-and-hemp-oil (1)

Plant oils can also offer a wide range of benefits for dogs. While they may not be the right option for all pets, they can certainly be used to support overall health when fed in combination with healthy, high-quality dog food.

Here are some of the most common plant oils for dogs:

Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil is a well-known source of Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs, particularly Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA). This plant-based oil has long been favoured for its ability to promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and support a shiny, healthy coat.

Benefits: High in Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), an Omega-3 fatty acid. Supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and improves skin and coat condition.

Considerations: Dogs convert ALA to EPA and DHA inefficiently, so supplementation with fish oil may still be necessary for optimal Omega-3 levels.

Camelina Oil

It's one of the best plant oils for dogs that you've never heard of! It may not be the most well-known, but camelina oil is quickly growing in popularity due its long shelf life and skin-conditioning properties.

It's one of the best plant oils for dogs that you've never heard of! It may not be the most well-known, but camelina oil is quickly growing in popularity due to its long shelf life and skin-conditioning properties.

Benefits: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (ALA) and Vitamin E, camelina oil supports skin and coat health, reduces inflammation, and acts as a natural antioxidant.

Considerations: Highly stable and less prone to oxidation than flaxseed oil, making it a good alternative. However, like flaxseed, ALA conversion in dogs is limited.

Best Camelina Oil for Dogs

- - Smart Eath Camelina Oil

Hemp Oil

Hemp seed oil is a plant-based powerhouse with an ideal balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, this oil is a great choice for dogs with joint issues or skin sensitivities, offering benefits from the inside out.

Hemp has become a very popular option for pet health. Find out more about Hemp Oil for Dogs and how you can use it to support your pet's health.

Benefits: Balanced ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6 fatty acids. Helps reduce inflammation, supports joint health, and maintains skin and coat health.

Considerations: Ensure the product is THC-free and specifically made for pets.

Best Hemp Oil for Dogs

- - Praise Hemp Seed Oil

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has gained popularity among pet owners for its versatility and numerous health benefits. Packed with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), this tropical oil supports digestion, boosts energy, and keeps your dog\u2019s skin and coat in top shape. To learn more about the benefits and best uses of coconut oil, check out Coconut Oil for Dogs.

Benefits: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that can boost energy, support digestion, and promote a healthy coat.

Considerations: High in saturated fats, so it should be fed in moderation to avoid weight gain.

How to Feed Fish Oil for Dogs

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The best part about fish and plant oils is that dogs usually love the taste, so they are easy to just toss in with whatever food you are already feeding. Because of its liquid state it mixes well with soft foods, but is an easy food topper for crunchy kibble diets.

Some dogs consider this healthy meal topper a special treat. They don't know it's good for them, but they do know you added an exciting new smell and taste to their boring old meals.

If you have a picky pooch who hates the taste, you might want to try mixing the omega oil with another strong-tasting food so that your dog can't pick it out.

Here are some simple and effective tips for sneaking plant or fish oil into your dog’s diet:

Canned or Raw Tripe: It’s got a powerful scent, so your dog will have a hard time noticing the fish oil for dogs.
Pumpkin Puree: Most dogs love the taste of canned or pureed pumpkin, and it's easy to stir in.
Canned Food: Mix it with soft foods to completely hide the taste and scent.
Bone Broth: Add to your dog's favourite bone broth and drizzle over meals.

Wanna try making your own? Check out Bone Broth for Dogs for an easy homemade bone broth recipe. Just remember to add the oil after the broth is cooked and cooled to ensure maximum nutritional benefit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fish oil safe for dogs?

Yes, fish oil is generally safe for dogs and is often recommended by veterinarians for its potential health benefits. Use only high-quality fish oil supplements specifically designed for dogs.

What are the benefits of giving fish oil to dogs?

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can provide various health benefits for dogs. These benefits include promoting healthy skin and coat, reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and potentially improving cognitive function.

How should I give fish oil to my dog?

You can give fish oil to your dog in the form of liquid supplements, capsules, or added to their food.

Can I give my dog too much fish oil?

While fish oil is beneficial, excessive intake can lead to potential health issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, and interference with blood clotting.

Are there any side effects of fish oil for dogs?

Some dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset when starting fish oil supplementation.

Can all dogs benefit from fish oil supplements?

Most dogs can benefit from fish oil supplements, especially those with skin issues, joint problems, or certain health conditions.

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