Is Omega-3 Good for My Dog?

Omega-3 fatty acids can provide many health benefits to humans and for example have been shown to help prevent heart disease and stroke.  

Taking Omega-3 supplement can also benefit the health of your dog.

What are Omea-3 Fatty Acids?     

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in many natural foods such as flaxseed, fish oils and cold-water fish. There are three main omega-3 fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Most omega-3 supplements contain EPA and DHA, which are polyunsaturated fats that make up essential fatty acids.

Some dog food sources do not provide enough omega-3s but too many omega-6s. For your dog to enjoy the best of health a balance between the two is necessary.

What are the Health Benefits of Omega-3 for my Dog?

There are many potential health benefits of Omega-3 supplements for your dog but always remember  not to ever give your dog omega-3 fatty acid supplements designed for humans.

Here at Treat Your Dog we have chosen to offer the Pet Wellbeing range of holistic, all-natural products, designed to support your dog's overall health and wellness, since 2001.

• Reducing Joint Inflammation

As natural anti-inflammatories omega-3 fatty acid supplements can help to reduce inflammation in your dogs’ joints, caused by osteoarthritis for example, improving their flexibility and comfort.

• Supporting Immunity

Omega-3 fatty acids help to support your dog’s immunity all year round helping your dog to stay healthy in fighting off infections and diseases.

• Preventing Cognition and Memory Decline

Puppies and more senior dogs can benefit from omega-3 fatty acids. Because they can reduce inflammation of the brain, sometimes a role in cognitive disorders, they can prevent cognitive decline in older dogs while for puppies omega-3 can help with the developing nervous system, vision and mental development.

• Skin Relief    

Sometimes a dog may suffer from problems with a dull coat, inflamed or dry, flaky, and itchy skin and these can stem from other problems with allergies, fleas or ticks or other causes. Omega-3 can help provide relief by moisturising the dogs skin and reducing any inflammation and discomfort. It can also help your dog’s coat to look shinier whilst feeling softer.

• Maintaining Cardiovascular Health

The fats in Omega-3 can help with a healthier heart and this is the reason why vets will often recommend a supplement for a dog with cardiovascular issues as an aid to help reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements might also be given to prevent cardiovascular issues from occurring. 

Always be aware that potential blood clotting issues and gastrointestinal problems can be caused by overdosing with too much omega-3 fatty acid. Speak with your vet before giving your dog any supplement, regarding any health conditions and to make sure they will not interact negatively with any medications your dog is taking.

The Pet Wellbeing supplements Omega 3 Skin & Itch and Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil both contain beneficial amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from sustainably caught cold-water fish and are formulated for dogs.

Add some to your pet’s food each day for a delicious source of healthy essential fatty acids.