Hey there, pet parents! There is a lot of information and marketing surrounding omega supplements for dogs that I thought I would create a breakdown. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of omega fatty acids, exploring what types of omega supplements dogs need, the marine foods that contain these essential omegas, plant-based omega supplements, and more. So, let’s get started on uncovering the secrets of omega goodness for your beloved pets!
What Types of Omega Supplements Do Dogs Need?
When it comes to omega supplements, dogs primarily require two types of essential fatty acids: omega-3 and omega-6. These fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining your dog’s overall health, from supporting skin and coat health to promoting heart and joint function. New conversations are starting about omega-9 but I haven’t found enough information covering it as of yet.
- · Omega-3: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are vital for reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and enhancing cardiovascular health in dogs. ALA (Alpha-Linolenic Acid) is found in plant sources but not as efficiently converted by dogs into EPA and DHA.
- · Omega-6: Omega-6 fatty acids, like linoleic acid, are essential for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs. While omega-6s are commonly found in commercial dog foods, supplementing with additional omega-6 sources like evening primrose oil can further benefit your dog’s skin and coat health.
- Omega-9 Fatty Acids: Unlike Omega-3 and Omega-6, dogs can produce Omega-9 on their own, so it’s not considered an essential supplement. However, it can still provide benefits for heart health and immune function.
Marine Foods That Contain Essential Omegas
Marine sources are a rich reservoir of omega-3 fatty acids, and there are several options to consider for your dog:
- · Anchovies: These small, oily fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making them an ideal choice for supporting your dog’s cardiovascular health and reducing inflammation. Look for high-quality anchovy-based supplements for an easy way to introduce omega-3s into your dog’s diet.
- · Sardines: Sardines are a nutrient-dense fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. Whether fresh, canned, or as a supplement, sardines can offer a flavorful omega-3 boost for your furry friend.
- · Krill: Krill oil is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for its high levels of EPA and DHA. Consider incorporating krill oil supplements to provide your dog with a potent dose of essential omegas.
- · Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is a popular choice for pet owners looking to boost their dog’s intake of EPA and DHA. Salmon can contain higher levels of contaminants and heavy metals.
- · Green Lipped Mussels: Native to New Zealand, these mussels contain EPA, DHA, and eicosatetraenoic acid (ETA); a rare Omega-3 that has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.1 They also provide glucosamine and chondroitin, which support cartilage health and mobility, making them an excellent supplement for dogs with arthritis or joint pain.2
When it comes to fish-based omega-3 sources, my veterinary dermatologist recommends oils made from anchovies and sardines since they are more sustainable and have less of an environmental impact. She also recommends that you pick a brand that is independently tested. Also the label should list the EPA and DHA content.
Plant-Based/Land-based Omega Supplements
For pet parents seeking plant-based alternatives to marine-based omega supplements, several options are available to meet your dog’s omega needs:
- · Marine Micro-Algae: Rich in DHA, marine micro-algae supplements provide a vegan-friendly source of omega-3 fatty acids, offering an alternative to fish-derived omegas for dogs following a plant-based diet. They are contaminant-free and sustainable which makes them highly attractive. When shopping for algae-based supplements, look for unextracted products. Micro-algae oils can be vunerable to rapid and damaging oxidation due to the extraction process.
- · Ahiflower: This plant-based oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly known for its high levels of stearidonic acid (SDA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Ahiflower oil can be a valuable addition to your dog’s diet to support their omega-3 needs. Since it doesn’t contain EPA/DHA, it should be used in combination with other sources.
- · Flaxseed Oil: An excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, flaxseed oil can support your dog's skin health and reduce inflammation. Simply drizzle a small amount of flaxseed oil over your dog’s food to provide a plant-based omega-3 boost.
- · Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are rich in ALA and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet. Consider grinding chia seeds before sprinkling them on your dog’s food to enhance their digestibility and absorption of essential omegas.
- · Eggs: contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs. While they aren’t the richest source compared to fish or algae-based supplements, they still provide a good nutritional boost. Omega-3s in eggs help support skin health, heart function, and inflammation reduction, while omega-6s contribute to cell function and coat health.3
Personally, my dogs have had micro-algae, eggs and sardine/anchovy oils as part of their diet as I believe they were the best for them with the least amount of impact to the earth. I am curious about green lipped mussels but since they are filter feeders I haven’t tried them over concerns of contaminants.
No matter what you decide is best for your dog, omega supplements can be a valuable addition to your dog’s diet, supporting their overall health and well-being. Whether you opt for marine-based sources, or plant-based alternatives, incorporating omega fatty acids into your dog’s daily routine can help maintain their skin, coat, joint, and heart health.
Remember, before introducing any new supplements into your dog’s diet, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are suitable for your pet’s specific needs. With the right omega supplements and a balanced diet, you can provide your furry friend with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
Let’s keep those tails wagging and those coats gleaming with the power of omega goodness!
Sources: 1 dogs naturally magazine, 2 petmd 3 webmd