Omega 3 for Dogs: Benefits, Sources, Options

If you've landed on this page, you're likely passionate about providing the best possible nutrition for your dog. You may have explored options like wild Alaskan salmon oil, hempseed oil, or even CBD oil for dogs to support your dog's health.

Many pet owners are curious about the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for their dogs. Fish oil supplements for dogs are widely available, but are they helpful?

In this article, I'll provide a guide on omega-3 fatty acids for dogs. Covering the essentials of omega fatty acids in general, the role that fish oil could play in your dog's diet, and much more.

If you didn't expect to learn all about fish oils in an article about omega fatty acids, buckle up! Fish oils are one of the key forms of omega 3 supplements for our canine companions.

What Are Omega 3s, 6s, and 9s Used for?

Fat is one of the three primary macronutrients, along with protein and carbohydrates. Macronutrients provide calories that your dog's body burns for energy.

Within the dietary fat category of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), there are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Your dog's body does not produce this type of fat, so they must be obtained through the diet.

Omega 9s are the lesser-known cousin of omega 3s and 6s, and it is a type of unsaturated fatty acid known as a mono-unsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) rather than a poly-unsaturated fatty acid. Omega 9s can be beneficial to your dog's health, even though their bodies produce them on their own so they are not considered essential fatty acids.

Animals require a blend of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids to stay healthy. It is a myth that omega-6s are "bad fats" — linoleic acid, an omega-6, is a required nutrient for all animals.

However, the best ratio of omega-6s and omega-3s for dogs remains unclear. As a result, many dog foods are high in omega-6 but low in omega-3 (1).

The Uses of Omega 3s

• Skin and Coat Health: May help reduce itching and dryness, and can improve coat appearance.

• Joint Health: Could support joint comfort and mobility by helping to manage inflammation.

• Heart Health: Might contribute to cardiovascular well-being and support heart function.

• Brain Function: May support cognitive function and overall brain health.

• Immune System: Could assist in maintaining immune system function and managing immune responses.

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: May help manage inflammation throughout the body.

• Eye Health: Could support retinal health and potentially reduce the risk of certain eye conditions.

• Healthy Weight: Might assist in maintaining a healthy weight by promoting metabolic health.

• Digestive Health: May support digestive health and help reduce gastrointestinal issues.

The Uses of Omega 6s

• Skin and Coat Health: May contribute to maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat.

• Joint Health: Could support joint comfort and flexibility.

• Heart Health: Might play a role in supporting cardiovascular function.

• Brain Function: May assist in maintaining cognitive health.

• Immune System: Could help in supporting overall immune system function.

• Cell Membrane Integrity: Might contribute to healthy cell membranes.

• Metabolism: May support metabolic processes and energy levels.

• Reproductive Health: Could support reproductive health and overall well-being.

The Uses of Omega 9s

• Skin and Coat Health: May help support healthy skin and a glossy coat.

• Joint Health: Could contribute to maintaining joint comfort and flexibility.

• Heart Health: Might support cardiovascular well-being and overall heart function.

• Brain Function: May assist in maintaining cognitive function and brain health.

• Immune System: Could play a role in supporting immune system function.

• Metabolism: Might aid in metabolic processes and energy levels.

• Cell Membrane Health: May contribute to the health of cell membranes.

• Inflammation Management: Could help in managing inflammation in the body.

The Essentials Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s are essential for many processes in your dog's body, including vision and brain development, brain health, immune system function, skin and joint health, and more.

There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids:

• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)

• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)

• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

EPA and DHA are found in cold-water ocean fish, fish oil, krill oil, and products made from algae. In contrast, ALA comes from plants. Flaxseeds and chia seeds are particularly rich in ALA.

Benefits Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Beyond providing energy as a source of calories, omega-3s are a popular supplement for dogs. Many dog owners are interested in omega-3s due to their potential benefits for joint pain, heart health, skin conditions, and other conditions.

Small clinical trials suggest that omega-3s can help manage or reduce inflammation in dogs with joint conditions like osteoarthritis (2). Similarly, dogs with inflammatory skin conditions like atopic dermatitis may also benefit.

Potential Side Effects of Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplements

However, like any supplement, omega-3 fatty acids come with a risk of side effects (3). Remember, "natural" does not necessarily mean "safe" when it comes to supplements.

Potential Benefits of Omega 3s for Dogs

• Skin and Coat Health
• Joint Health
• Heart Health
• Brain Function
• Immune System Support
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects
• Eye Health
• Healthy Weight Management
• Digestive Health

Potential risks associated with fish oil supplements for dogs include:

• Stomach upset (vomiting and diarrhea)

• Pancreatitis

• Weight gain

• Altered wound healing

• Overdose of Vitamin A or Vitamin D

• Exposure to heavy metals

Follow the manufacturer's dosing instructions carefully to provide an appropriate dose of omega-3 fatty acids for your dog's weight. Side effects are generally less likely with a lower amount, so start small. You can gradually increase the dose if needed.

If you're concerned that your dog may be experiencing side effects from omega-3s, stop giving the supplement and contact your veterinarian.

Are Fish Oil Supplements a Good Source of Omega 3s for Dogs?

Yes, fish oil supplements are a common and popular way to provide omega-3 fatty acids to dogs.

Fish oil is often used because it is a rich source of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are the two key types of omega-3s beneficial for dogs.

Here are some reasons why fish oil supplements are commonly used:

1. Convenience: Fish oil supplements are easy to administer, available in liquid or capsule forms, and can be added to a dog's food.

2. Effectiveness: They are a direct and effective way to deliver high levels of EPA and DHA, which may support various aspects of health.

3. Research-Backed: Numerous studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids can help with skin conditions, joint health, inflammation, and overall well-being in dogs.

4. Veterinary Recommendation: Many veterinarians recommend fish oil supplements for dogs to address specific health issues or as part of a general health regimen.

If you're considering fish oil supplements for your dog, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and to ensure it complements your dog's overall diet and health needs.

Are Fish Oils The Best Source of Omega Fatty Acids for Dogs?

Fish oils can be a great source of omega fatty acids for your dog, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind.

First, there's a range of quality when it comes to fish oil supplements for pets. The source and manufacturing processes used can vary greatly across different companies. For that reason, a lot of pet owners opt for wild Alaskan salmon oil for their pets, as it typically has higher quality and more reputable sourcing practices.

That said, with the help of your veterinarian and a keen eye for finding well-made products, fish oil might be the best option for your dog. There are also other options for you to explore.

Other Sources of Omega Fatty Acids:

1. Camelina Oil

   • Pros: Provides DHA and is a vegetarian/vegan alternative to fish oil. Less risk of contamination.

   • Cons: Typically more expensive than fish oil and may be less readily available.

2. Flaxseed Oil:

   • Pros: Rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which can be converted into EPA and DHA in the body. Good plant-based option.

   • Cons: Conversion of ALA to EPA and DHA is inefficient in dogs, so it may not be as effective as fish oil.

3. Chia Seeds:

   • Pros: Contain ALA, similar to flaxseed oil. Good plant-based source of omega-3s.

   • Cons: ALA conversion to EPA and DHA is less efficient, so the benefits might not be as pronounced as those from fish oil.

4. Hemp Seed Oil:

   • Pros: Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a balanced ratio. Less risk of contamination.

   • Cons: Lower in EPA and DHA compared to fish oil; may not provide the same level of benefits.

5. Hemp Oil:

   • Pros: Provides a natural source of omega-3s and other nutrients. Less processed in many cases.

   • Cons: Is often used for calming or help with occasional joint discomfort, so it may not be the right choice for all dogs.

Omegas for Dogs: Dosage Information

The appropriate dosage of omega-6 and omega-3 for dogs should be determined with the help of your veterinarian.

Your vet will consider your dog's weight, breed, age, and diet to decide on an appropriate dose. The proper amount of omega-3s to give your dog differs for each health condition. If your dog has gastrointestinal problems or a bleeding disorder, omega-3 supplements may not be safe for them.

When administering omega-3 supplements to dogs, it's also important to follow the dosing instructions on the label. Similarly, it's best to use omega-3 supplements specifically formulated for dogs, as the concentration of DHA and EPA in human supplements may be too high for your pup.

High-quality fish oil supplements and dog foods generally list the amount of EPA, DHA, and "total omega-3s." Solid brands should also provide third-party batch testing to confirm that their product is free of heavy metals, mercury, and other contaminants found in fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the common questions that other pet parents ask about giving their dogs omega 3 supplements.

1. Can I Give My Dog Human Omega-3?

It's always recommended that you give your pets products made for animals of their species. There is a lot of variance in tolerance to certain ingredients across mammals, so things that are safe for humans may not be safe for your pets. All supplements are different, so a general rule of thumb is to never give your dog something that was manufactured for human consumption.

2. What's The Most Potent Source of Omega 3s for Dogs?

Fish oil is typically considered the most potent source of EPA and DHA, which is why it's commonly chosen by other pet parents.

3. How Much Fish Oil Should I Give My Dog a Day?

Always consult with your veterinarian before beginning a dosage of any supplement for your pet. The guidelines below are based of our research into average fish oil for dogs brands.

Below, you'll find a (general) breakdown of what many fish oil supplements for dogs contain. Always look at the specific dosages and guidelines listed on the product you choose and follow them closely, this breakdown is in place just to give you a rough idea of what to expect.

1 teaspoon of fish oil ≈ 4,000 to 5,000 mg

Here’s a breakdown based on this range:

• 1/4 teaspoon ≈ 1,000 to 1,250 mg

• 1/2 teaspoon ≈ 2,000 to 2,500 mg

• 3/4 teaspoon ≈ 3,000 to 3,750 mg

• 1 teaspoon ≈ 4,000 to 5,000 mg

• 1 1/4 teaspoons ≈ 5,000 to 6,250 mg

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ≈ 6,000 to 7,500 mg

• 1 3/4 teaspoons ≈ 7,000 to 8,750 mg

• 2 teaspoons ≈ 8,000 to 10,000 mg

Always consult with your veterinarian before deciding on a supplement dose for your dog. This table is based on 

For exact dosage, you would need to check the concentration of EPA and DHA in the specific fish oil product you are using. Always consult the product label and your veterinarian for precise dosing recommendations.

Conclusion

When considering health supplements for dogs, it's always important to do your own research and bring the idea up to your vet. Doing your own research allows you to get informed and have insights that the vet can help you understand more clearly. 

Further, your insights could provide the vet some food for thought, inspiring them to do some research of their own and get back to you with answers. Whenever your trying a new product for your pet, whether it's CBD oil for dogs or a brand new variety of fish oil, it's important to let the experts guide your decisions. 

References

1. https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/2018/04/essential-fatty-acids-and-inflammation/

2. https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/vth/services/orthopedic-medicine/arthritis-management-and-prevention/

3. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jvim.12033