Frequent How often should I give my dog fish oil? The Ultimate Guide

What Are Fatty Acids Found in Fish Oil?

There are four types of dietary fats: trans fats, saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats. Omega fatty acids, found in polyunsaturated fats, create important hormones that regulate blood flow and inflammation. However, they aren’t found naturally in the body. Omega-3 is found primarily in cold-water fish, shellfish, plant and nut oils, and flaxseed. But, your dog needs omega-3 in their diet for several reasons.

Omega-3 also helps balance out omega-6 fatty acids, commonly found in processed foods and most grains. Since many dog food manufacturers use meat from corn-fed animals or refined oil (which are high in omega-6), dogs often have an overabundance of omega-6 fatty acids in their diet. Your dog ends up with too much omega-6 and not nearly enough omega-3 fatty acids. And although we need omega-6 fatty acids, our modern diet often has too many. The body needs both in balance, and the same is true for dogs.

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  • Fish oil is a dietary supplement that helps supports dogs’ hearts, joints, coats, skin, and immune systems.
  • High in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil can either be part of a long-term plan or a momentary dietary boost.
  • Always consult your veterinarian before starting your dog on fish oil or any other supplements.

Fish oil is one of the best supplements to add to your dog’s diet. Fish oil supports your canine companion’s heart health, promotes a silky coat, reduces itchy and flaky skin, and can help relieve allergies and joint pain. It can even help strengthen their immune system and could help them fight canine cancer.

That’s because fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, an essential “good” type of fat that helps your dog’s body and brain. Like humans, dogs can’t produce omega-3 fatty acids on their own and must get them from their diet. If you’re considering including fish oil as a part of your dog’s nutritional routine, here’s what you need to know.

The safe upper limit set by the NRC

The NRC (National Research Council) established a safe upper limit of EPA and DHA of 370 mg/kg. You may notice that these limits are set in the amount of EPA and DHA. Therefore, when looking at Omega 3 supplements, look at the breakdown in the guaranteed analysis section to see the exact amount of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid).

Benefits of Fish Oil for your dogs? | Veterinary Approved

To figure out your dog’s body weight in kilograms (kg), divide their weight in pounds by 2.2. For example, 50 lbs = 22.7 kg. A 50-lb dog would need about 2,000 mg (2 grams) of fish oil per day. The maximum dose for a 50-lb dog would be 3,200 mg/ day.