Fish oil is one of the most popularly consumed supplements among humans. It is rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, which are very essential for health. They are usually obtained from the tissues of oily fishes.
You can directly provide oily and fat fishes to your dogs or add them as a supplement in the dog’s diet for their health benefits. Fish oil helps to support your pooch’s heart, joints, skin, coat, and regulates bodily systems. Especially, omega-3 fatty acid promotes relief from allergies and could help boost immunity.
Unlike humans, dogs do not produce omega-3 fatty acids naturally. Hence, fish oil supplements are popular among dog parents. It contains the most beneficial acids called EPA and DHA, which help your dog’s complete brain and body to function properly. It does not come included in pre-packed food because the fatty acids break down during processing and storage. Hence, fish oil supplements can be a good option.
The various benefits of fish oil for dogs are:
- Increased stamina
- Decreased shedding
- Healthy skin and coat
- Helps with cognitive relief
- Reduces risk of heart problems
- Decreased inflammation
Fish oil for dogs is usually tolerable when consumed in high dosages. But it is necessary to regulate the dose. Too much fish oil could cause blood clotting issues and obesity. Please always consult with your veterinarian before including fish oil in your dog’s diet.
Apart from omega-3, your dogs can gain benefits of omega-6 from the oil. There is a slight issue with providing fish oils for a long time because many dog food manufacturers use ingredients obtained from animals that have an overabundance of omega-6 fatty acids. Although your dog needs this, their usual diet consists of a huge level of fatty acid. Hence, omega-3 must be administered in proper dosage to balance the body requirements.
You can naturally source omega-3 fatty acids from flax seeds and chia seeds but they do not include EPA and DHA. Hence, supplements could be a good alternative. Omega-6 for dogs can be obtained from vegetable oils like corn oil and soybean oil. You can also try out products with animal fats to gain fatty acids.
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Fish oil can be included in your dog’s meal either by adding fish oil-rich food toppers or by giving dog treats with fish oil content. Fishes like sardines and salmons can be added to their meal. But the best way to maintain the proportion is with the use of fish oil supplements. They come in the forms of liquids, capsules, and chews for dogs. When you purchase fish oil supplements, ensure to store them in a tight, oxygen-free container to prohibit air from coming in contact with the contents.
There are indeed a few side effects of fish oil on dogs when we include omegas in their diet. Dogs could develop allergies to fish or to the oil. It could also result in oily coat and skin, fish-smelling breath, slow wound healing and diarrhoea.
The right type and amount of fish oils can provide plenty of health benefits for your pooch. Making sure that your sources have the required amount of omega-3 and less amount of omega-6 fatty acids to strike an ideal ratio is important.
Before you start your dog on a fish oil supplement, check with your veterinarian. They can explain how to effectively provide it for your dogs. According to your dog’s weight, size, age, and other health factors, your vet can recommend the ideal quantity.