Just like us human beings, dogs can’t produce omega-3 fatty acids by themselves, yet they need those fatty acids in their diet to maintain optimal health.
Therefore, it’s recommended that doggies digest fish oil, which is a great source of omega-3.
It can benefit both a dog’s body and brain.
Fish oil for dogs is commonly available as a supplement. So, let’s take a closer look at fish oil supplements so that you can determine whether they’re right for your canine friend.
The Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements
Whether you have a Labradoodle, a Goldendoodle, or a Sheepadoodle, your dog can benefit from taking fish oil.
Indeed, fish oil benefits dogs in many ways.
It can support a dog’s heart health, reduce itchy and flaky skin, promote a silky coat, and relieve joint pains and allergies. Furthermore, fish oil can strengthen dogs’ immune systems.
Another benefit of fish oil has to do with DHA, which is a component of omega-3 fatty acids. DHA helps puppies’ brain and eye development, and in older dogs, it can help to improve canine cognitive dysfunction. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial treatments for dogs who have chronic kidney disease and canine arthritis.
Also, omega-3 acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which not only potentially decrease the development of skin allergies but also help to heal wounds.
Salmon oil is one of the best types of fish oil to give to your dog as it’s rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. That means your dog can gain all of the above benefits. Check out this insightful article to learn more about the risks, best products, and benefits of salmon oil for your doggie.
And take a look at this post to find out whether you can give your dog fish oil for humans.
Get the Food and Supplement Balance Right
Your dog needs omega-3 in his or her diet in order to gain all of the above benefits, such as a shiny coat and relief from joint pain.
And fish oil supplements are the ideal way of getting omega-3 fatty acids into your dog’s diet. However, you need to get the balance right.
Many fish oil supplements contain omega-6 as well as omega-3 fatty acids, as with salmon oil. While omega-6 is certainly beneficial to your doggie, having too much isn’t good.
Many dog foods contain refined oil or meat from animals that are corn-fed, both of which are high in omega-6 fatty acids.
You need to ensure you don’t give your dog an overabundance of omega-6 acids. So, if your dog already has omega-6 in his or her diet via dog food, make sure your doggie doesn’t ingest a lot more.
The important thing is that your dog gets an equal balance of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Consult Your Veterinarian
To get the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids right, and the balance of food and supplements right, make sure you consult your veterinarian.
Indeed, you should always speak to your veterinarian any time that you’re thinking about considerably changing your dog’s diet.
The amount of fish oil your dog should take and the frequency of taking them can depend on various factors, such as the age and health of your dog. That’s why you need to get advice from a professional veterinarian.
Depending on your doggie’s general health and diet, fish oil supplements could become part of a long-term plan or they could be used as a temporary way of boosting your dog’s nutritional and dietary needs.
