Apart from the daily food, offering your furry friends supplements may prove helpful in enhancing their overall health status. In this regard, fish oils can be an option. Fish oil enhances a glossy coat, decreases itchy and flaky skin, and can help relieve allergies and joint pain in your canine pet. In addition, it may even aid in the strengthening of their immune systems and the battle against canine cancer.
Fish oils contain essential fatty acids – omega-3, which can help boost your canine’s brains and body. And offering omega-3 fatty acids in your dog’s diet is essential because, unlike humans, dogs cannot produce them.
So, if you are planning to add fish oil to your dog’s diet, read the following sections to learn more about it.
What Fatty Acids do Fish Oil Contain?
The first thing to learn about is what kind of fats do fish oil contain?
Fish oils are derived from the tissues of oily fishes. These oils mainly contain omega-3 fatty acids in two forms – docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Fatty fish, like salmon, mackerel, and trout; and shellfish like mussels, oysters, and crabs, contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Another form of omega-3 fatty acid- alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)- is mainly found in plant oils such as flaxseed, soybean, and canola oils.
Types of Fish Oil
You can find fish oils in different forms, including
- Liquid
- Soft capsules
- Gels
As far as types are concerned, currently, there are three types of fish oils available in the market: triglyceride, ethyl ester, and free form. All these types are considered to be safe for dogs as well as humans.
All three types of fish oil can be administered safely to both dogs and human beings at approved dosage levels.
How to Select the Best Fish Oil for your Dog?
The next question that may bother dog owners is how to select the best fish oil for their canines.
Well, there is nothing like the best fish oil. However, before selecting any specific types, you should notice your dog’s breed, size, weight, and overall health status. Also, consulting a vet before including fish oil in your dog’s diet can be practical.
Also, keep in mind that long-term fish oil intake results in Vit E deficiency. Hence, talk to your vet if your dog needs added supplements. Additionally, try to avoid any flavored fish oil type, as those may not be the best opinions for your canine companion.
How to Give Fish Oil to Dogs?
You can administer fish oil directly to your dog’s mouth. It is also feasible to give fish oil liquid or soft capsules with or without food. However, if you notice stomach distress in your dog, give fish oil with food in the future. You can also supplement wet food with fish oil.
That being said, always measure the quantity of liquid fish oil before giving it to your dog. And in the case of soft capsules, administer the number as prescribed by the vet.
At A Glance: Our Top Selection For The Fish Oil For Dogs
- Zesty Paws Pure Salmon Oil
- Grizzly Salmon Fish Oil for Dogs
- Vital Pet Life Salmon Fish Oil
- Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil
- Welactin Omega-3 Skin And Coat Support
- Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Soft Gels
- Iceland Pure salmon oil
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Zesty Paws Pure Salmon Oil | • Oil from Alaskan fish captured in the wild • It contains no added flavor • Free from any artificial preservatives | |
 | Grizzly Salmon Fish Oil for Dogs | • Oil from wild Alaskan salmon. • Contain omega- 3, 6, & 9 • Offers increased levels of EPA | |
 | Vital Pet Life Salmon Fish Oil | • It contains 100% wild-caught Alaskan salmon oil • Made in the USA • High quality and 100% natural | |
 | Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil | • Made from wild-caught Alaskan salmon • BPA- free • Contains 30%, EPA 10%, DHA 11%, supported by Omega 7 | |
 | Welactin Omega-3 Skin And Coat Support | • The rich content of EPA and DHA • Soft gel capsules • It contains natural peppermint oil | |
 | Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Soft Gels | • Gluten-free • No added GMO | |
 | Iceland Pure salmon oil | • Odorless • Rich in omega- 3 acids • Pure salmon oil |
Top Fish Oil for Dogs
This is the most exciting section of this article. Here we will discuss the top fish oil available in the market in 2023. These oils are very safe for canines and are easily available online and at a nearby pharmacy.
1. Zesty Paws Pure Salmon Oil
If you are looking for a product packed with all the goodness of omega-3 fatty acids, then search no further and consider the Zesty Paws Pure Salmon Oil. A fuss-free product, Zesty Paws Pure Salmon Oil, contains pure salmon fish oil without additives.
For every gram of fish oil, there are 75 milligrams of EPA and 95 milligrams of DHA. The best part is that this product is all-natural and comes in a handy pump bottle that makes squirting it onto your dog’s food a breeze.
Pros
- Made with 100% salmon oil
- Easy to administer
- Hassle-free pump bottle
- Packed with EPA and DHA
Cons
- Your dog may face minor gastrointestinal issues
- The pump nozzle can be fragile
2. Grizzly Salmon Fish Oil for Dogs
Another highly popular fish oil in the market is Grizzly Salmon Fish Oil for Dogs. Made from wild-caught Alaskan salmon, this is a premium fish oil packed with the goodness of EPA and DHA along with omega- 3, 6, and 9.
This product is beneficial to your dog since it has enhanced EPA levels, balanced DHA levels, and reduced Omega-6 levels. Additionally, you will also get a higher concentration of arachidonic fatty acids in this product.
Very similar to Zesty Salmon Oil, this one is also made from pure Alaskan wild salmons and does not contain any added synthetic content or flavors. For your dog, the oil can have numerous health benefits. It can lead to a shinier and healthier coat, an improved immune and cardiovascular system, and enhanced nervous system performance.
Pros
- It comes with a pump nozzle for easy administration
- Purely natural
- Promotes a healthy immune system in dogs
Cons
- As per the reports, a small number of dogs have suffered from digestive issues.
- Price is on the higher side.
- Long-term usage may cause health issues.
3. Vital Pet Life Salmon Fish Oil
Nourish your furry companion from inside by offering it Vital Pet Life Salmon Fish Oil. This supplement is created in the United States from wild salmon collected off the coast of Alaska.
This fish oil supplement is high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, with an ideal balance of EPA and DHA. It is also reasonably priced.
This product is all-natural and can aid your dog’s coat, as well as reduce inflammation and joint pain. It also supports cardiovascular health and immune function.
You can trust Vital Pet Life Salmon Fish Oil, as this product is manufactured in an FDA-registered facility and contains no preservatives, GMO, or any other by-products.
Pros
- Liquid salmon oil is easy to administer
- The pump bottle makes administering oil hassle-free
- Affordable price
- Great for dog’s skin and coat
Cons
- Some customers have complained of leaking bottles.
Also Read: 10 Big Dog Breeds That Don’t Shed
4. Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil
The fish oil from Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil is a high-quality salmon oil for dogs that comes in a convenient, BPA-free bottle with a pump nozzle. This supplement contains the right proportion of omega-3 fatty acids, which is great for easing dry, itchy skin, heavy shedding, and allergies. This product is also helpful for your dog’s heart and brain, along with its overall well-being.
Made from Alaskan salmons – this oil is 100% natural, without added preservatives, colors, or flavors. Additionally, the taste of this oil is so good that your pet will ask for it every time. Just pump the recommended amount of oil in your dog’s food, and you are done. Now, sit back and witness the magical results of Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil.
It is recommended to give this oil to dogs three months of age or above.
Pros
- Great for dog’s overall health status
- Good to stop dog’s itching
- BPA free pump bottle
- Great taste
- Easy to administer
- It can be used for long term
Cons
- Price may feel higher.
5. Welactin Omega-3 Skin And Coat Support
Welactin Omega-3 Skin and Coat Support is a good choice if you want a fish oil supplement for your dog that won’t break the bank. Unlike the liquid ones, this product comes as soft gel capsules that you can either feed your dog directly or puncture and mix the liquid in their food.
There’s a thing with this product, however. It contains the mint flavor, which has been given to reduce the fishy stench. This, nonetheless, may not be liked by some dogs. Regardless, each capsule contains 300 mg of essential omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-3 fatty acids can help with itching, licking, and other health issues in dogs.
Pros
- No messy capsule form
- Affordable
- Rich source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Good for dog’s overall health condition
Cons
- Oil is not derived from wild Alaskan salmon
- Mint flavor may not be favorable for some dogs
- Calories not mentioned
You May Also Read: Can Humans Use Dog Shampoo?
6. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Soft Gels
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Soft Gels get omega fatty acids from anchovies and sardines. This makes the Nordic Naturals Supplementary oil different from other brands that primarily derive oil from salmon fish.
You can feel assured that your dog is receiving the highest quality because the brand makes their pet products with the same exceptional quality oil they use in their human products. Additionally, it comes in the triglyceride molecular form, encouraging quick and better absorption.
Moreover, you can buy this product guilt-free, as the company follows sustainable & ethical practices to derive raw materials for their products.
Pros
- This product is a rich source of EPA and DHA
- May contribute to the softer fur and healthier skin of dogs
Cons
- Not cost-effective for large dogs
- The strong fish stench from dogs after oil consumption
7. Iceland Pure salmon oil
If you have a sensitive nose and cannot stand the fishy stench of fish oil, then Iceland Pure Salmon Oil is your perfect fit. Thanks to the ultra-fine filters the brand uses that trap salmon protein that causes the stinky fishy aroma.
This odorless salmon oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to a dog’s cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and lustrous coat. The Iceland Pure salmon oil comes in a sturdy brushed aluminum bottle with a pump nozzle for easy administration.
Pros
- Easy to administer
- Good for dog’s overall health
- The bottle comes with airtight features
Cons
- No guarantee if the oil is derived from wild salmon
Also Read: Can You Wash A Dog With Dish Soap?
Are There Any Side Effects?
So fish oil is good for a dog’s overall health status. They are rich in omega- 3 fatty acids and easy to administer. By now, we have explored the good side of fish oil. But are any bad sides as well? Can there be any side effects of fish oil?
Let’s dig deeper.
Fish oil tends to have lesser side effects in dogs if consumed in the prescribed manner. Overdose can be harmful. That being said, remember that your dog may be getting omega-3 from other sources as well, like veggies. So, to avoid any fish oil overdose, keep a closer look at your dog’s diet.
Nonetheless, long term fish oil consumption may cause some side effects in dogs, including
- Vit E deficiency
- Delayed wound healing
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Liver and kidney disorder
- A fishy stench to the breath or skin, etc.
Storing Fish Oil
Fish oil tends to be sensitive to sunlight. Hence, storing them in an appropriate spot is essential. Fish oil should be purchased in dark containers or bottles and kept in the refrigerator. Because they are vulnerable to oxidation, they can become stale, so toss if it has an off or foul smell.
Summary
Several factors go into consideration while purchasing the most suitable fish oil for a dog. Nonetheless, always choose an oil derived from wild salmon rather than the farmed ones. Also, look for any added preservatives, GMO, color, flavor, and by-products. If you find any or all of these, REJECT that oil.
Also, administering fish oil as prescribed by your vet is crucial. However good a brand may be, an overdose may cause vital issues in your canine companion. Remember, too much of even the best thing may be bad.
Meet Madison Phillips, your compassionate guide to pet well-being. With experience from VCA Animal Hospitals and Laxton Vet Clinics Bellaire Inc. Madison honed her skills and embraced the balance of medical expertise and compassion, through her articles, she simplifies pet care, whether you’re a newbie or an experienced pet parent.