Is Fish Oil Good For Dogs?
Updated: October 19, 2023As pet parents who want to stay on top of our dog's health, we only want what's best for our furbabies. Fish oil for dogs is one of those things.
You may be aware of how beneficial fish oil is for humans but it definitely creates its own wonders for dogs! In this article, we will discuss the many benefits of fish oil for dogs.
What is Fish Oil?
As one of the most commonly used supplements that's healthy for both humans and dogs, fish oil is a great source of essential omega fatty acids that come from salmon, tunas, anchovies, and mullet.
These fatty acids are an essential polyunsaturated fat your fur baby is unable to produce on their own, and can only get from certain foods.
According to the American Kennel Club, fish oil is a dietary supplement that helps support dog hearts, joints, coats, skin, and immune systems.
Note: There are different forms of fish oil made specifically for humans and pets. Fish oil for humans may be acceptable to use for your dog, however the dosages may vary. Opting for a specific fish oil for dogs is the best way to avoid any complications.
Benefits of Fish Oil For Dogs
The following are some of the many benefits of fish oil for dogs:
Treats Skin Conditions
Fish oil is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acid. This fatty acid has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the relief symptoms caused by skin allergic reactions.
Studies have shown the constant use of fish oil for dogs with dog skin conditions have shown lessened itching, reduced skin inflammation, decreased shedding, and overall better skin & coat health.
"Omega-3 fatty acid has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in relieving symptoms caused by skin reactions."
Helps Treat Kidney Diseases
Fish oil is the common, and most used, recommendation in combating the symptoms of canine kidney diseases. According to Pet Health Network, fish oil contains properties that help protect the kidneys from acute injuries and help support kidney health.
Relieves Arthritis
Studies show fish oil for dogs may also relieve arthritis pain. As fish oil contains Omega-3 fatty acids, it has essential benefits for dogs with arthritis, and may help reduce joint pain and inflammation.
Symptoms of joint distress in your dog may include:
- Difficulty or discomfort when standing up or sitting down
- Struggling to walk or run
- Limp leg
- Swollen joints
- A cracking sound in the hips
Promotes Healthier Weight
Rapid and sudden weight loss in your furbaby is dangerous as it could eventually result in heart failure, or even death. Fish oil for dogs helps in reducing weight loss casualties in dogs and helps maintain a healthier weight.
Fish oil for dogs can do so much for your dog's overall health. It is natural, has anti-inflammatory properties and can be supplemented daily to support a happy and healthy life your furbaby deserves.
Improves Cognitive Function and Neurologic Development
A study by Hill’s Pet Nutrition in 2012 found out that supplementing puppies with DHA, an omega acid, found in fish oil widened and improved their capacities to learn and retain certain skills, compared to those not being supplemented any additional DHA.
Moreover, older pets suffering from cognitive dysfunction, like disorientation, sleep-wake cycle disturbances, house-soiling and accidents, had a better recognition when supplemented with fish oil.
Fish oil for dogs can do so much for your fur-baby's overall health, as it is natural, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can be supplemented daily to support that happy and healthy life your fur-baby fully deserves.
Where Can Pet Parents Get Fish Oil?
Adding fish oil to your dog's diet is not as hard as you might think. It is available in various forms, such as oils, capsules and supplements for dogs.
When determining which form of fish oil is best for your dog, you may identify three different types of fish oil for dogs:
- Natural Triglyceride Oil - it is the most natural and the easiest for your pet to absorb
- Ethyl Ester Oil - it is distilled, concentrated, and has no impurities
- Synthetic Triglyceride Oil - it is absorbed least easily and yes, it is synthetic.
As pet parents, we should always be cautious in knowing where we get our fish oil or supplements. It is important to do proper research, as they can get very susceptible to rancidity if they are manufactured, or packaged, incorrectly.
Opt for dog fish oil supplements that have no filler ingredients, and are specifically crafted to have more active ingredients than other leading supplements for dogs. Skin & Coat SoftSupps® by Pet Parents® provide your furbaby with healthy nutrients to promote an overall healthy skin & coat. These supplements are made with the branded form of fish oil for dogs, Epax®, containing a concentrated amount of Omega-3. Our Skin & Coat Supplements are safe, and recommended, to ensure your fur baby receives the essential fish oils for dogs they need.
By understanding the benefits of fish oil and why our pets need it, you can feel confident in what you're giving your furbaby, giving you worry-free days for a healthier and happier life.
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Micka Virtudazo is a full-time content creator at Pet Parents® who lives with thirteen adorable American Bullies and a Shih Tzu-Maltese mix named Gretel. She especially enjoys writing how-to articles as she feels through this she can connect to other pet parents on a more personal level.
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