Borage Oil For Dogs: How This Key Allergy & Immune Chew Ingredient Can Support Skin & Immune Health

Does your dog experience seasonal discomfort or skin sensitivities when the weather changes? This is relatively common, especially during certain times of the year. Fortunately, there’s an ingredient that may help support comfort: borage oil for dogs.

In this article, you’ll learn what borage oil is, how it may support your dog’s skin and immune system, and why it’s included in PetLab Co.’s Allergy & Immune Chew, as part of a broader blend of beneficial ingredients.

What Is Borage Oil?

Borage oil is sourced from the seeds of the borage plant (Borago officinalis), also known as the starflower. It’s a source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid which veterinary-reviewed research has shown may help with occasional skin discomfort and support normal immune system function, especially during peak allergy season (spring and fall). Because of these properties, borage oil is included in many dog health supplements for its potential skin and immune benefits. 

What Is Borage Oil Good For?

Veterinary-reviewed research shows that borage oil can be a valuable addition to a dog’s daily supplement routine, helping support seasonal or occasional skin and immune health. When paired with other supportive ingredients and used consistently, it may help:

• Support normal skin condition and comfort
• Maintain normal skin moisture levels
• Support skin hydration
• Support normal immune system function
• Contribute to seasonal skin comfort

Borage Oil For Dogs: How & Why To Use It

Consistent use of borage oils over several weeks may help gently support immune function and skin health for dogs with seasonal or occasional allergies. You can give borage oil in several forms:

• Soft chews like PetLab Co.’s Allergy & Immune Chews, which include borage oil as part of a broader immune-support blend, are convenient and readily accepted by most dogs
• Liquid oil added directly to food 
• Capsules typically given with meals.

Borage oil works best when used consistently over time, as part of a broader blend of gut and immune-supporting ingredients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics. Combining GLA with the right co-factors creates a multi-system, holistic effect. 

Borage Oil Administration Tips:

Always follow the product’s label instructions or your veterinarian’s guidance. 

Start with a small amount to ensure your dog tolerates it well. 

It can take 4 to 8 weeks to see full potential benefits, so patience and consistency are key. 

If your dog is uncomfortable with seasonal allergies in the meantime, talk to your veterinarian about short-term support.

It’s important to remember:

• This is not a cure for allergies or skin conditions.
• You should always follow product label instructions.
• It’s important to consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has specific sensitivities.

PetLab Co.’s Allergy & Immune Chews – Comprehensive Support for Skin & Immune Health

PetLab Co.’s Allergy & Immune Chew is a nutritionist-formulated, vet-reviewed* soft chew health supplement made in the USA from domestic and globally sourced ingredients. 

Each soft chew is tailored to help maintain healthy skin, support normal immune system function, and promote comfort during seasonal changes. The formula includes:

• Borage Oil – provides antioxidant benefits, is a source of omega-6 fatty acids, supports normal skin condition, and helps maintain normal skin moisture content.
• Krill Oil – a source of omega-3 fatty acids that help support skin condition and contribute to a normal inflammatory response.
• Colostrum – helps support the immune system and maintain normal tissue health.
• Probiotics, Prebiotics & Postbiotics – help maintain gut health and support normal digestive and immune function.
• Vitamin E – provides antioxidant support to help protect cells from oxidative stress.

When combined, these ingredients work together to:

• Support seasonal/occasional skin comfort
• Help maintain normal skin hydration and texture
• Support normal immune system function
• Promote overall well-being when given daily as directed

*Vet reviewed – formula has been reviewed by veterinarians.

Borage Oil For Dogs: FAQ

• Is Borage Oil suitable for dogs? Borage oil is included in vet-reviewed health supplements and may support skin and immune health, and is suitable for most dogs when given appropriately. Every dog is unique, however, so be sure to consult your vet for individual sensitivities.
• How often can dogs take Borage Oil? Daily use is typically recommended for consistent benefits. Always follow product-specific directions.
• What does Borage Oil help with in dogs? It may help support skin hydration and promote comfort during seasonal changes.
• Is Borage Oil better than fish oil? Borage Oil is a plant-based source of omega-6 GLA, while fish oils provide omega-3s like EPA/DHA. Borage oil and fish oil contain different compounds that provide different benefits.  Many supplements combine both for balanced support (e.g., PetLab Co.’s formula includes Borage and Krill Oil). 
• How long does it take to see results? It may take 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use to notice the full benefits. Seasonal comfort and skin hydration are supported over time.
• Can I give borage oil alongside other supplements? Yes—borage oil is often combined with omega-3 sources and gut health ingredients for more comprehensive skin and immune support.

Conclusion: Borage Oil for Dogs

Borage oil for dogs is a gentle, science-supported way to help maintain comfort, especially during allergy season or times when the immune system may need additional support. Borage oil works best when it is combined synergistically with other science-backed ingredients. If your dog experiences occasional allergy discomfort or sensitive skin, a daily soft chew that includes ingredients like borage oil may be a helpful addition to their care routine. Always consult your vet before introducing a new supplement.

References:

Hill, Peter B., et al. Veterinary Dermatology, vol. 12, no. 4, 2001, pp. 161–176. Wiley, doi:10.1046/j.0959-4493.2001.00281.x.

Sousa, C. A., & Marsella, R. (2001). Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 81(3-4), 323–329. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0165-2427(01)00353-3

Scott, D. W., Miller, W. H., Griffin, C. E., Erb, H. N., & Cline, A. (1997). The effects of an essential fatty acid supplement (Derm Caps) on canine atopy: A double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Canadian Veterinary Journal, 38(4), 255–258. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1576755/

Loeffler, A., & Lloyd, D. H. (2004). Veterinary Dermatology, 15(2), 117–124. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3164.2004.00380.x

Rees, C. A., Bauer, J. E., & Burkholder, W. J. (2001). Effects of dietary supplementation with borage seed oil on lipid composition and function of epidermal lipids in healthy dogs. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 62(10), 1597–1603. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.2001.62.1597

Watson, A. D. J., Lloyd, J., & Church, D. B. (1999). Australian Veterinary Journal, 77(11), 756–763. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-0813.1999.tb12870.x

Paterson, S. (2004). Journal of Small Animal Practice, 45(6), 293–297. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2004.tb00238.x

Saevik et al. (2004) Journal: Veterinary Dermatology DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3164.2004.00401.x

Marsella & Nicklin (2002) Journal:Veterinary Dermatology. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3164.2002.00279.x