Give Your Dog Omega Oil for These Benefits
Both humans and dogs require omega fatty acids, certain types of fat that are extremely potent but the body doesn’t synthesize. So how can you provide it to your dogs? Through diet and supplements! They offer a range of positive effects for puppies, including brain development, reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and more. So let’s dig right into the details, shall we?
What Is Omega Oil?
Any oil that contains omega fatty acids can be referred to as omega oil. There are three types of omega-fatty acids — omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9. They’re all considered healthy and beneficial for dog health.
Dogs can easily turn other fats into omega-9s but when it comes to certain types of omega-3s and omega-6s, humans and dogs can’t synthesize them. This is where dog food, supplements, and omega oil for dogs save the day. Since the latter need to be consumed through the diet, they’re known as essential fatty acids.
It’s important to keep in mind that omega-6 fatty acids are easier to come by in certain dog foods. Omega-3s? Not so much. So most omega oils for dogs will have omega-3s, the following types in particular:
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA)
- Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA)
- Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
Benefits of Omegas in Dogs
Brain development
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) are particularly better at improving brain health. Senior dogs aren’t the only ones who can benefit from these supplements. The fact is, when it comes to omega-3s, they’re particularly helpful in aiding brain development. This makes them highly beneficial for puppies with cognitive dysfunction.
DHA and EPA are also helpful with memory, balance, visual differentiation, and coordination.
Healthy heart
Since omega-3s are known to reduce inflammation, they’re great for improving overall cardiac health. So even if your pooch doesn’t have any health issues, you can just make omega oils a part of their diet as a general measure to improve heart health.
Better coat and skin
One of the primary benefits of omegas for dogs is finer coat and skin. The omega-3s and omega-6s help dogs prevent itchy and dry skin. If your dog tends to get skin allergies, you can incorporate omega oils into its diet to promote healthy skin.
Improved joints
Excellent for both humans and dogs having joint problems, the unrivaled anti-inflammatory benefits of omegas greatly help reduce pain and improve mobility. This is exactly why most dog foods and supplements for joint health have high levels of omega-3s.
What Are Some Easy Ways to Incorporate Omegas Into Your Dog’s Diet?
Omega oils for dogs
If you’re looking to supplement omegas for maximum health benefits, a good starting point would be fish oil. It may be fed with or without the food — we suggest mixing it in your dog’s wet food.
Dog food
You can find dog foods with higher contents of omegas. Just make sure to buy from a reputable brand.
Treats
Which dog doesn’t love treats? All you’ve got to do is find a treat that your dog enjoys and has the required omega-fatty acids!
Final Thoughts: Dosage
The best way to determine the required dosage for your pooch is to talk to your vet. They’ll take your dog’s health and size into account and come up with appropriate dosage. You can also follow the dosing instructions on the supplement label but it’s wise to consult a vet first due to varying DHA and EPA concentrations.