Summary: In this blog, learn about omega oils and why they’re so good for dogs; that’s omega 3, 6 & 9 for dogs! Discover what they are and how omega oils they support a dog’s health and more below…

Omega For Dogs

Fish oil, fish oil, fish oil; we all know it’s meant to be great for us! Omega 3, 6 & 9 are one of the most popular and well-touted supplements for both humans and dogs, but why is omega for dogs so good? What is it and what does it do to serve your pup and their health?

What Are Omega 3, 6 & 9?

Omega 3, 6, and 9 are essential fatty acids derived from oily, cold-water fish, shellfish, plants, nuts, and seeds (like linseed and flaxseed). They’re described as essential because the body cannot make them, but needs them in order to survive and thrive. This means they must be ingested from the diet.

There are four types of dietary fats: trans fats, saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats. Omega fatty acids are found in polyunsaturated fats and create important hormones that can help regulate healthy blood flow and support a normal inflammatory response.

And, what fatty acids do Omega 3, 6 & 9 contain? Omega-6 fats include Linoleic acid and Arachidonic acid. Omega-3 fats include Alpha-Linolenic acid (ALA), Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Omega-9 fats include Oleic Acid.

What Does Omega 3, 6 & 9 Do For Dogs?

Helps Promote Healthy Skin & Glossy Coat

Foods that are rich in Omega 3 naturally help promote skin health in dogs, and thus, support their coat. Because it’s a fat, it helps lock in the moisture of the skin too which hydrates and keeps their coat silky and shiny!

Helps Promote Joint Health

As with humans, joint pain can be considered part and parcel when dogs grow old. However, all breeds, sizes, and ages can be susceptible. Joint discomfort can occur when the natural wear and tear of the cartilage in them breaks down between the bones. Cartilage stops the bones from rubbing together which can cause discomfort. 

Cartilage can’t grow back, but Omega oils can support a normal inflammatory response so they can help target joints’ discomfort and relieve occasional joint stiffness. That’s why, when choosing any joint care supplement for your dog, you should look for the inclusion of fish oils in the formula. 

Salmon oil is packed with Omega 3 fatty acids and works to help maintain healthy joints, targeting occasional stiffness, tenderness, and discomfort. With its Omega-3 wealth, salmon oil can support a healthy blood flow too, which has a range of other unique health benefits but namely getting nutrients and oxygen around the body and to the places that need them most.

Helps Boost The Immune System

The immune-boosting properties of Alpha-Linolenic acid (ALA) – a fatty acid found in Omega 3 – can help address allergic reactions during allergy season (which is when the immune system attacks a suspected threat). It can also help support a normal inflammatory response.

Can Help Maintain Organ Health

As well as the immune system, Omega fatty acids – in particular, Omega 3’s Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – directly contribute to the welfare of your pup’s organs too, namely the kidneys, eyes, liver, and heart. It’s also thought to help your pup’s positive bodily response to vaccinations!

Where Can I find Omega For Dogs?

Most commercial dog foods don’t provide enough essential fatty acids like omegas or don’t contain a good enough ratio of the three, which is why some pet parents choose to opt for supplements. Simply try adding a squirt of salmon oil to your pet’s food! This beneficial addition to all of your pet’s daily meals can support their overall health and leave their skin and coat in tip-top condition.

Salmon Oil is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids, meaning this liquid can help support immunity, cognitive function, coat, skin, and heart health. 

So, now you know why omega for dogs is so essential!

Sources

Author Brown, S A and Brown, C A and Crowell, W A and Barsanti, J A and Allen, T and Cowell, C and Finco, D R. “Beneficial effects of chronic administration of dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in dogs with renal insufficiency” US National Library Of Medicine, May 1998 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9605110/

Author Ogilvie, G K and Fettman, M J and Mallinckrodt, C H and Walton, J A and Hansen, R A and Davenport, D J and Gross, K L and Richardson, K L and Rogers, Q and Hand, M S “Effect of fish oil, arginine, and doxorubicin chemotherapy on remission and survival time for dogs with lymphoma: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled study” US National Library Of Medicine, Apr 15. 2000 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10760770/