Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs are vital nutrients offering many health benefits. Explore what these fats are, where they come from and how their intake positively affects your furry friend's well-being.
What Is Omega-3?
Omega-3 is a healthy, polyunsaturated fat naturally found in some animals and plants. Three types exist — alpha-linolenic acids (ALA), docosahexaenoic acids (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acids (EPA). ALA omega-3 fatty acids are plant-based, while DHA and EPA come from fish.
Your dog can't produce these essential nutrients on their own. They must get them in their diet, which is why many pet parents actively look for ways to include these substances. Plants rich in ALA include flaxseeds, soybeans and walnuts. The best sources of DHA and EPA are fish like:
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Herring
- Trout
- Sardines
- Mackerel
- Cod
Benefits for Pets
Omega benefits for dogs include overall better health in many ways, such as:
- Promoting a healthy brain: These fatty acids help support your dog's mental function throughout their lives. The nutrients aid healthy brain development in puppies and help senior dogs retain cognitive abilities.
- Supporting the cardiac system: Omega-3 fats offer antioxidants that allow your furry friend's heart to perform at its best. Having enough of these nutrients can help regulate healthy blood pressure and heart rhythms.
- Enhancing skin and coat: A diet rich in these fatty acids helps the skin produce a shinier coat and retain its moisture barrier. These essentials can also relieve allergic itching and reduce skin inflammation.
- Supporting endocrine and immune systems: Omega-3 fatty acids also help lessen joint inflammation as your dog ages. Plus, they can strengthen the immune system to fight against infections.
How Much Omega-3 for Dogs?
This question is common for pet parents when they want to ensure their dogs have a healthy intake of these fatty acids. It's crucial to understand the sources available before determining the accurate feeding amount.
Some dog foods and treats are enriched with omega-3 fats. When choosing these, it's best to read the label carefully. Some also contain omega-6 fats, another healthy, unsaturated fat essential to proper nutrition. You'll want a balanced intake of both, so read the labels to clarify how much of each ingredient the food or treat contains. Asking your veterinarian for recommendations is also a good idea. Regardless of your choice, always follow the label's feeding guidelines or your veterinarian's advice.
Supplements are another excellent way to meet your dog's need for these nutrients. The best options are all-natural ones using identifiable, human-grade ingredients and listing the dosage. This information is typically based on your dog's weight to ensure you feed them the right amount.
Shop LuckyTail Chews With Omega-3 Today
We have two irresistibly flavored supplements that provide fish oil for your dogs, both sourced from healthy and sustainable salmon. Our AllerImmune Chews contain 50 milligrams of salmon oil and other human-grade, all-natural ingredients that help relieve allergy symptoms and boost the immune system. Our Skin + Coat Chews feature 80 milligrams of wild Alaskan salmon oil to support a shiny coat and healthy skin. We offer a 30-day money-back guarantee if you're not 100% satisfied.
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