Does Omega 3 help with dog allergies

Is Fish Oil Good for Dogs with Allergies?

Editors Note: NaturalPetsHQ.com is supported by readers and may earn for purchases made through links in this post.

Author TB Thompson DVM has been a licensed, practicing veterinarian since 2000.

Skin allergies can have a big impact on your dogs quality of life. While searching for solutions, youve likely seen dozens of products claiming to be a miracle cure.

So, is fish oil good for dogs with allergies or is it just marketing hype? Good news: this supplement is legit!

Fish oil has scientifically proven benefits in reducing inflammation, hair loss and dry skin associated with allergies in dogs. Read on to find out how to properly dose fish oil and why it might just be the game-changer your allergic pup needs.

KEY POINTS

• There is scientific evidence that fish oil is good for dogs with allergies.
• The recommended fish oil dosage for allergies is higher than the dose used to support general health.
• Fish oil is 100% fat and may cause adverse effects in sensitive dogs so consult your vet before using.

What Are Essential Fatty Acids?

EFAs are nutrients your dog needs to maintain healthy skin. EFAs include omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Dogs tend to get plenty of omega-6 EFAs and not enough omega-3 EFAs in their diet.

Omega-6 EFAs are good for healing, but too much can lead to inflammation. Thats where the omega-3s in fish oil come in. They counterbalance the effects of omega-6, helping to keep inflammation in check.

Fish oil is a supplement made from fatty fish like sardines, herring, mackerel, anchovies, and salmon. Fish oil is packed with omega-3 EFAs.

How Fish Oil Helps Dog Skin Allergies

Dogs with allergies have skin layers that dont stick together as well as they should. This abnormal structure makes their skin more susceptible to irritants. EFAs from fish oil help normalize the skin structure.

And we have scientific evidence to support this. A 2011 study showed that essential fatty acid supplements improved the fat content in the skin of allergic dogs.(4) This led to a more organized and healthy skin structure, similar to that of non-allergic dogs.

Whats even better? Adding fish oil to your dogs diet could mean fewer meds for dogs with itchy skin. A 2004 study by Saevik, et al showed that dogs taking fish oil needed less of the steroid prednisone to manage itching.(3)

So, not only can fish oil make your dogs skin healthier, but it can also reduce the need for stronger allergy-control meds. Pretty cool, right?

Fish Oil Dosage for Dogs with Skin Allergies

For dogs with allergies, the suggested fish oil dose is higher than the standard nutritional dose. Researchers recommend about 125 mg of EPA+DHA per metabolic body weight daily.(1) Since that calculation is a bit tricky, weve included a dosing table below.

If your dog has a sensitive tummy, start with half the dose for two weeks and watch for any digestive issues. Always consult your vet before upping the dose.

Choosing the Right Supplement

When picking a product for your dog, its important to know that not all options offer the same benefits.

Look for fish oil with the International Fish Oil Standards Program or IFOS certification to ensure quality and freshness. Avoid oils with a strong fishy smell, and buy only a months supply to store in the fridge.

Heres a quick guide to help you choose wisely.

Vet-Recommended Fish Oil

I give my dogs Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet fish oil in liquid form. It is made just for dogs and has no added flavors. Its quality-tested and the dosage is balanced for both nutrition and inflammation control.

For easy feeding, opt for the liquid form and mix it into your dogs food. Keep it in the fridge to stay fresh.

Alternative Ways to Feed Your Dog Fish Oil

Fish oil supplements are an easy way to add omega-3 fatty acids to your dogs diet. But here are some other options that might be even easier!

Whole Food Sources

Want to up your dogs fish oil intake naturally? Canned salmon or sardines are cold-water fish you can find in any grocery store. These fish are not only rich in omega-3s but also easy on the wallet.

You can gradually introduce a bit of these superfoods to your pups diet. Just be cautious with portions to avoid tummy troubles.

Half an ounce of fish a few times a month is a good start for a 10-pound dog.

Dog Food with Fish Oil Included

Looking for a hassle-free way to get more omega-3s into your dogs diet? Consider switching to a commercial food thats rich in these essential fats. Here are my top picks:

These options are great for general health and can help with mild inflammation. If your dog has more severe issues, consult your vet for specialized advice.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

It may take up to 60 days to see the full benefits of fish oil for your dog. Consistent daily dosing is key for positive changes.

Caution: Side Effects from Too Much Fish Oil

While moderate fish oil doses are usually safe, overdoing it can lead to issues like weight gain, digestive upset, poor wound healing, and even changes in blood sugar.(2)

Always consult your vet for the right dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

photo credits CC/BY 2.0: Chris Barnes, Anne Worner

The content provided on NaturalPetsHQ.com is for general information only. It is not meant to replace individualized medical advice from your own veterinarian. Read more on the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use page.

Last update on 2024-04-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Fish Oil for Dogs

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

All of this is because fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, an essential good type of fat that helps your dogs body and brain. Like humans, dogs cant produce omega-3 fatty acids on their own and must get them from their diet. If youre considering including fish oil as a part ofyour dogs nutritional routine, heres what you need to know.

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 arent 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. Humans (and dogs) need omega-6 fatty acids, but our modern diet often has too many. The body needs both in proper balance, and the same is true for dogs.

Why Should I Give My Dog Fish Oil?

Fish oil is a good way to give your four-legged companion the omega-3 fatty acids they need. Depending on their general health and diet, fish oil supplements may become part of a long-term plan. Or, they may just provide a temporary nutritional boost to your dogs diet.

Another benefit of fish oil is that it helps dogs across the span of their lifetimes. DHA, a component in omega-3 fatty acid, aids in the proper brain and eye development of puppies. DHA may also improve cognitive function in older dogs dealing with canine cognitive dysfunction. Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help to treatcanine arthritisand chronic kidney disease.

As with anything affecting your dogs health, talk to your veterinarian about supplementing your dogs diet with fish oils before proceeding.

How Do I Choose a Good Fish Oil for My Dog?

There are three types of fish oil on the market:

• Natural triglyceride oil, which is the most natural and easiest to absorb. However, because it isnt purified, it may contain contaminants
• Ethyl ester oil is concentrated and distilled, removing impurities. Think of it as semi-natural with high levels of important components of omega-3: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
• Synthetic triglyceride oil, which as the name says, is synthetic and absorbs the least easily of the three

Before choosing which type of fish oil to feed your dog, consider their breed, size, weight, and overall health. Speak with your veterinarian first as well. Over the long term, using fish oil as a supplement to a grain-based diet may deplete vitamin E, so some dogs may also ultimately require that supplement too.

TerraMax Pro Premium Liquid Omega-3 Fish Oil

The all-natural TerraMax fish oil liquid is appropriate for dogs and doesnt contain any artificial ingredients. Its guaranteed to contain at least 800 mg EPA and 525 mg DHA per serving (which support skin, fur, joints, and overall health), without the strong scent of fish. Most reviews are positive, reporting that the oil is worth the cost and works well for pets dealing with joint pain and itchy skin.

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet

Made in the USA, this Nordic Naturals supplement is a solid source of EPA and DHA and perfect for small breed dogs. Most reviews are positive and users report that the oil leaves their pets coats silky smooth.

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet Soft Gels

If youd rather give your pup a capsule than mix liquid into their food, this is the solution for you. This supplement is made with ingredients caught from the cleanest waters. Nordic Naturals are produced in true triglyceride form to ensure optimal absorption and results. The gels are recommended by veterinarians for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Reviewers also indicate that the gels are effective and less messy.

Care and Storage of Fish Oil

Protecting fish oil from heat, light, and air is important. Buy your fish oil in dark bottles and store it in the refrigerator. It can become rancid since they are susceptible to oxidation, so make sure to throw it away if it has an off odor.

Rather than following dosage guidelines on the package, ask your vet how much fish oil is appropriate for your dog. Make sure the amount of fish oil you give them is appropriate for their size, weight, and age.

Its difficult to feed your dog a completely natural diet. With so many processed ingredients in some of todays dog food, fish oil may be just the supplement to their diet needs. Lastly, be sure to ask your vet for advice before starting your dog on supplements, and purchase only quality products if thats the route you choose.

Omega-3 for Dogs: What Are the Benefits of Omega-3 for Dogs?

You may already be familiar with the incredible omega-3 benefits for humans, but did you know that your four-legged furry friend may also get some major health boosts from these fatty acids? According to the American Kennel Club, benefits of omega-3 for dogs include:

• Improves the condition of both skin and coat
• Boosts energy and joint health
• Balances the properties of omega-6 fatty acids
• Acts as anti-inflammatory in various inflammation-related problems, including arthritis and allergies
• Improves cognitive development in puppies and cognitive function in older dogs.

Lets take a closer look at these impressive omega-3 benefits for dogs and also discuss the best omega-3 supplement options for your beloved pup.

Why Your Dog Needs Omega-3

Your canine gets its energy from three main sources: protein, carbohydrates and fats. Omega-3 fatty acids fall into the fat category, and fats are an essential part of any dogs diet. Just like in humans, fats, including omega-3s, assist the bodys absorption of essential fat-soluble nutrients, including vitamins A, D, E and K. Fats also form cellular membranes, act as chemical messengers and play a major role in hormonal balance.

So is omega-3 good for dogs? It definitely can be helpful. Many dogs, like their owners, easily get enoughomega-6 fatty acids in their diets, but unless an intentional effort is made, it can be more challenging for them to obtain omega-3s.The balance ofomega-3 and 6 for dogs is key to optimal health.

Omega-3 fatty acids for dogs can be found in some pet foods but are often in very low amounts, if included at all. Thats why an omega-3 fatty acid supplement for dogs can be such a good idea.

5 Major Benefits of Omega-3 for Dogs

What are the benefits of omega-3 for dogs? Many experts believe the benefits are similar to human benefits and may include:

1. Decreases Inflammation

Inflammation is a major problem for pets just like it is for humans. Omega-3s are often given to dogs for their anti-inflammatory effects. This can benefit a number of conditions included on the list, such as arthritis, many skin-related problems and other inflammatory diseases.

2. Helps Arthritis and Joint Issues

Due to its anti-inflammatory ability, omega-3 for dogs is often a vets recommendations when a dog is struggling with inflammatory conditions like arthritis or other joint issues. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition demonstrates how omega-3 fatty acids can help dogs with naturally occurringosteoarthritis. For 13 weeks, the dogs were given a veterinary therapeutic diet high in omega-3 fatty acids from fish origin. Researchers compared these dogs to dogs given a regular diet. What did they find? In lame dogs withosteoarthritis, the diet rich in fish-derived omega-3s showedimprovements in their locomotor disability and their performance of common daily activities.

3. Improves Skin and Coat Health

Omega-3s are very commonly given to dogs to improve the health of their skin and coats. Is there any science to that? A study published in 2014 in the Veterinary Journal evaluates the effects of essential fatty acids on 48privately owned dogs of different breeds, ages and genders diagnosed with canine atopic dermatitis (CAD). The dogs were treated with a spot-on formulation containing essential fatty acids and essential oils or a placebo once weekly for a total of eight weeks.

Overall, the topical preparation containing essential fatty acids and essential oils was a safe treatment and beneficial in ameliorating the clinical signs of CAD. In addition, there were no adverse reactions. Generally speaking, many dog owners see less skin dryness and a shinier coat when they include omega-3s in their dogs diets.

4. Boosts Cognitive Function and Immune Health

A study of 48 beagle puppies released in 2012 in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association suggests that feeding weaned puppies a diet fortified with fish oils rich in DHA may boost several aspects of development, includingcognitive learning and memory as well as retinal and immune system function.

The puppies fed a high-DHA diet had better results for reversal task learning, visual contrast discrimination and early psychomotor performance compared to the moderate-DHA and low-DHA groups. The high-DHA group also had significantly higher anti-rabies antibodies one and two weeks after vaccination than the other groups.

5. Allergies

According to many experts, omega-3 for dogs with allergies is a must. Omega-3s top many supplement lists for itchy, allergy-plagued dogs, including one by Boulder Holistic Vets Dr. Angie Krause, DVM. Krause writes:

Every dog should be on an omega 3 fatty acid supplement. Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to help decrease inflammation and benefit organ function. For some itchy dogs, this all they need to drastically improve their itch. Giving your dog omega 3 fatty acids can significantly reduce the amount of steroids that it will take to eliminate biting, scratching and chewing.

Best Types of Omega-3 for Dogs

The best omega-3 supplements for dogs come in dark bottles that help discourage spoiling. Fish oil is a top choice as a source of omega-3s for dogs (as well as humans). The most natural and most easily absorbable form of fish oil is a natural triglyceride oil. If its not purified, it can contain contaminants so read product information and disclosures carefully.Its best to avoid synthetic triglyceride oils because these are man-made (so not natural) and their absorption is the least best.The most high-grade fish oil products are wild-caught and often come from fish like anchovies, sardines and salmon.

Some of your omega-3 for dogs options include:

• Omega-3 chews for dogs: These can be a great option that can be used in a treat fashion.
• Omega-3 fish oil for dogs: Can be combined with dog food most dogs enjoy fish oil and have no problem with having it added to their usual food.
• Vegan omega-3 oil for dogs: This option comes from plant options and doesnt come with any fishy scent.
• Omega 3 6 9 for dogs: Includes all three varieties omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 of fatty acids in one place. Some vets may prefer this mixture over omega-3 alone, depending on the contents of your dogs food as well as your dogs health needs.

When deciding which omega-3 supplement is best for your dog, you may find this information from petMDhelpful:

Vegetable oils including flaxseed oil, canola oil, walnut oil, and soybean oil can provide dogs with another omega 3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is a precursor to EPA and DHA. However, dogs are not very good at transforming ALA into either EPA or DHA. Therefore, it is much more efficient to provide dogs with EPA and DHA directly. Good sources include cold water fish oils (e.g., salmon oil) and certain types of algal oil.

Omega-3 for Dogs Dosage and How to Get More Into Your Dogs Diet

How many mg of omega-3 should I give my dog? If youre wondering how much omega-3 for dogs is ideal, it depends upon several factors, including your dogs age, weight and health status.Product packaging will likely include a recommended daily omega-3 dosage for dogs, but your best bet is to consult with your veterinarian to determine an ideal amount for your pet.

Many people ask: Can I give my dog omega-3 for humans? Its often perfectly fine to give your dog an omega-3 supplement intended for humans, but check with your vet first, especially when it comes to a proper dosage of a product marketed and labeled for human use.

You can also add omega-3 foods into your dogs diet and/or opt for dog food that contains omega 3-rich foods. What foods contain omega-3 for my dog? Top sources that are safe for dogs include fatty cold water fish like salmon, anchovies, sardinesand trout.

Precautions

Its normal for fish oils to smell like fish, but they shouldnt smell rancid. To avoid rancidity, store allomega-3 supplements for dogs away from heat and light.

Its important to note that giving dogs too much fish oil can be problematic.An overdose of fish oil can cause unwanted side effects, including diarrhea, blood-clotting abnormalities, delayed wound healing, vitamin E deficiency, weight gain and altered immune system function. Fish oil can also interact with some mediations, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications.

Always check with your vet on the best type of omega-3 supplement for your dog as well as optimal dosage.

Final Thoughts

• The best omega-3 for dogs is of the upmost quality. It should be in a dark bottle and have purity standards and full disclosure of the ingredients and sourcing.
• Omega-3 liquid for dogs can easily be added to food, but chews are another popular option.
• Similar to humans, omega-3 for dogs can be extremely beneficial. Health benefits of omega-3 for dogs may include:
  • Healthier skin and coat
  • Better energy and joint health
  • Anti-inflammatory effects that can improve problems like arthritis and allergies
  • Enhanced cognitive development in puppies and cognitive function in older dogs
• An ideal omega-3 for dogs dosage depends upon your dogs weight and health status. Speak with your vet about on an ideal daily dose for your pet.