Does your dog need omega-3 fatty acids?

Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as fish oil, are among the most well-rounded and popular supplements available to improve your dog’s diet.

Fish oil is a popular supplement for humans. But it also helps support a healthy heart, promotes healthy skin, and relieves joint pain in dogs.

There are numerous benefits to providing your dog with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Read on to learn about these benefits and the history behind fatty acids.

What are omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil?

Two different omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil supplements — eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The most common forms contain both types of omega-3, and some even contain omega-6 fatty acids.

Omega-6 fatty acids are related to omega-3 and can provide additional essential fats to your dog’s diet.

If you are looking for complete fish oil for your dog, then it is recommended that you find a supplement that contains both omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids.

Why give your dog omega-3 fatty acids?

There are many different benefits of giving omega-3 fatty acids to your dog. Fish oil is recommended for all dog breeds but becomes even more important as your dog ages because it can help keep them healthy into their senior years.

Omega-3 fatty acids appear naturally in your dog, but most dogs don’t receive the required amount of omega fatty acids to receive the full benefits.

Omega fatty acids also show up in certain types of food, such as salmon, oysters, other types of fish, and other meat types.

Fish oil benefits include:

• Reducing inflammation
• Improving skin and fur
• Aiding digestive health
• Relieving joint pain
• Improving cognitive function

Dr. Jacob Hawthorne, DVM from the Thank Your Vet Organization, says, “Omega-3 or fish oil is one of the safest and most heavily tested supplements that pet parents should think about giving to their dog. Omega-3 is even more beneficial for senior dogs who are more likely to suffer from joint pain and inflammation build-up.”

How much omega-3 does my dog need?

The amount of omega-3 or fish oil you should give to your dog will vary based on your dog’s size, general health, and age.

The supplement bottle lists the recommended dose. Your dog will require a higher amount if it weighs more.

You should follow the directions of the supplement that you purchase. If you want to start by giving your dog omega-3 from natural sources, you can give them a small amount of salmon or cod each week.

How to choose a good fish oil for your dog

If you plan to give your dog some fish oil, you must pick a high-quality fish oil.

Science proves omega-3 fatty acids help support brain development, remove inflammation, and help support a healthy heart in your dog.

There are also additional benefits of high-quality fish oil, such as healthier skin and coat, improved eye health, a stronger immune system, and more.

To receive these benefits for your dog, you must choose high-quality fish oil. It is essential to choose a brand that is high quality and trusted.

Stick with the best-selling and highly reputable brands. These supplements should contain at least 500mg of EPA omega-3 fatty acids as this will provide the most benefits to your dog, depending on their weight and size.

Dr. Jacob Hawthorne, DVM, is a certified Veterinarian in Davis, California. He specializes in Veterinary Medicine and nutritional guidance for dogs and other companion animals. His goal is to improve the state of nutrition and general health for dogs around the globe.

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