Should You Start Giving Your Dog Omega-3s?

Learn how your dog can benefit from Omega-3s

As a veterinarian, I am constantly asked about the best ways to keep our furry friends healthy and happy. One topic that has gained a lot of attention is the use of Omega-3 fatty acids as a dietary supplement for dogs. It is true that Omega-3s have a multitude of benefits, but to bring about these benefits, they must be administered in the right way. In this article, we will explain the benefits that Omega-3s can bring for dogs, and show you how to choose the best Omega-3s for your furry friend.

Understanding Omega-3s - What are they, and WHICH OMEGA-3s work best for dogs: Not all Omega-3s are equal. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that are essential for overall health. These fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining various bodily functions, including immune function, brain development, and inflammation regulation.

There are 3 types of Omega-3 Fatty Acids. They are:

1. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA),

2. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA),

3. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).

*IMPORTANT* The Omega-3 fatty acids that you want to give to your dog are 1. eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 2. docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are the biologically active forms of Omega-3. They will be marine-sourced Omega-3s. They will come from fish, krill, or algae sources.

The third Omega-3 fatty acid is Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). ALA is NOT the preferred omega-3 for dogs (or cats, for that matter!). You will see ALA coming from flaxseed, canola, walnut, or soy sources. The reason ALA is not the best choice of Omega-3 supplement for dogs is because ALA is the precursor for the biologically active Omega-3s (EPA and DHA), and dogs lack an efficient way to convert ALA to the biologically active forms of EPA and DHA within their body. Quantitative studies have shown that marine-sourced Omega-3 Fatty acids show clear benefit over flaxseed oil-sourced Omega-3 Fatty acids. Despite this, many Omega-3 products for dogs still contain a high level of ALA as their Omega-3 source, rendering them pretty much useless.

Benefits of Omega-3 Supplementation for Dogs:

1. Skin and Coat: Omega-3 fatty acids may improve the condition of your dog's skin and coat by reducing dryness, itchiness, and excessive shedding. They have been shown to help manage skin allergies and other dermatological conditions.

2. Joint Health: Omega-3s possess anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for dogs with arthritis or joint pain. They may help reduce inflammation, alleviate stiffness, and improve mobility.

3. Cognitive Function: DHA is a critical component for brain development and function. Supplementing your dog's diet with DHA may support cognitive health, enhance learning ability, and aid in the prevention of cognitive decline in senior dogs.

4. Heart Health: Omega-3s have been found to have positive effects on cardiovascular health. They may help regulate blood pressure, reduce triglyceride levels, and decrease the risk of abnormal heart rhythms in dogs.

5. Immune System: Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in modulating the immune response. By improving immune function, they can help your dog fight off infections and reduce the severity of certain autoimmune conditions.

Choosing the Right Omega-3 Supplement: When considering Omega-3 supplementation for your dog, it's essential to choose the right product. Here are a few key tips to help you do so:

1. Remember that the quantity of "Fish Oil" in a supplement is not the same as the quantity of "Omega-3s". Look for quantity of Omega-3s in a product first.

2. Next, make sure your supplement contains the RIGHT Omega-3s: i.e. look for EPA and DHA in your dog's Omega-3 supplement. The Vet Equation's O+ Omega Support Supplement contains 300mg of EPA+DHA per chew. (NB: Recommended dosage ranges from 1-4 chews per day depending on weight.)

3. Remember that "Total Omega-3s" amount may not be the same as the amount of "EPA" and "DHA" in a supplement.

4. Form of Supplement: Omega-3 supplements for dogs come in capsules, liquid formulations, and treat formulations. Consider your dog's preferences and choose a form that is easy to administer and well-tolerated. At The Vet Equation, we make a duck-flavoured soft-chew Omega-3 supplement which makes giving your pup Omega-3s delicious and mess-free!

Any questions? Feel free to reach out at [email protected] , we'd love to hear from you!