Fish oil supplements are widely known for their benefits in humans, but many dog owners wonder if the same applies to their furry companions. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil is often recommended for improving skin, coat health, and even joint function. But is it necessary for every dog, and could there be potential risks involved? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and considerations of giving your dog a fish oil supplement.
Benefits Are Likely
Studies have indicated that deep sea fish oil can reduce the markers of oxidative stress in canine patients suffering from osteoarthritis and improvement of kidney function.1,2 They might even help with mood, as one study indicated a beneficial effect in humans with depression.3 Fatty acids might even offset some of the changes associated with aging.
Easy to Give
Because of the many formulations, you can find one that is easy to give to your dog. Look for products that are satisfaction and palatability guaranteed. They can come in chews, tablets and oils, so you can consider the preferences of yourself and your dog.
Use the Right Supplements
Beware, joint supplements designed for human patients may or may not be beneficial for pets. Just because they seem benign and safe, does not mean that they are without risks. Always choose a supplement that is labeled for use in dogs. Read the labels and ask questions. Don’t forget that your veterinarian is an excellent resource.
All Things in Moderation
Nothing is perfect. Studies have also been done on the risks as well. Important potential adverse effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation include altered platelet (blood clotting) function, gastrointestinal adverse effects (like vomiting and diarrhea), delayed wound healing, altered immune function, and nutrient-drug interactions.4 These products are frequently accidentally ingested by dogs causing a trip to the animal ER.
Fish oil is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids and it is these acids that are thought to provide the beneficial effect. They might slow the onset of some age associated diseases, provide a protective effect for the kidneys and even help with overall mood. When appropriate products are used at correct doses, the chances of beneficial results are greater.
Be aware that supplements are only to enhance other medical management of disease and not meant to be a standalone therapy. Anything that you give to your dog should be mentioned and approved by your own veterinarian.
Note from the iHeartDogs Team: If supplementation of Omega-3 fish oil makes sense for your dog, we’d encourage you to try our Happy, Healthy Omega-3-6-9 Select Soft Chews, formulated using krill meal, which are at the bottom of the food chain and therefore are the least likely to have toxins like mercury that can be found in large fish, like salmon. And unlike any other product, each purchase provides up to 21 meals for shelter dogs!
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional.
Sources:
- Evaluating oxidative stress, serological- and haematological status of dogs suffering from osteoarthritis, after supplementing their diet with fish or corn oil. Lipids Health Dis. 2016 Aug 26;15(1):139. doi: 10.1186/s12944-016-0304-6.Barrouin-Melo SM, Anturaniemi J, Sankari S, Griinari M, Atroshi F, Ounjaijean S, Hielm-Björkman AK.
- Positive Impact of Nutritional Interventions on Serum Symmetric Dimethylarginine and Creatinine Concentrations in Client-Owned Geriatric Dogs. PLoS One. 2016 Apr 18;11(4):e0153653. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153653. eCollection 2016.Hall JA, MacLeay J, Yerramilli M, Obare E, Yerramilli M, Schiefelbein H, Paetau-Robinson I, Jewell DE.
- Fish oil as a management component for mood disorders – an evolving signal.Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2013 Jan;26(1):33-40. doi: 10.1097/YCO.0b013e32835ab4a7.Hegarty B, Parker G.
- Potential adverse effects of omega-3 Fatty acids in dogs and cats. J Vet Intern Med. 2013 Mar-Apr;27(2):217-26. doi: 10.1111/jvim.12033. Epub 2013 Jan 16. Lenox CE, Bauer JE.
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