Veterinarians observe that dog owners are increasingly interested in ensuring their pets' proper health, paying more attention to a healthy lifestyle and, most importantly, to nutrition that meets their pets' needs. People are looking for better-quality food and health-conscious solutions that can help their four-legged friends live longer and happier lives. According to veterinarian Marius Mincė, one of the most important elements in pets' nutrition is omega fatty acids.
More than just healthy skin and coat
"Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, often referred to as fish oil, are a true treasure trove of vitamins and minerals, with omega-3 fatty acids considered particularly valuable," says veterinarian M. Mincė. "However, it’s important to know that omega fatty acids can come not only from animal (marine) sources but also from plants. Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil can also be sources of omega. Still, omega fatty acids of marine origin are more easily absorbed and more effective. These acids perform many essential functions in the body: strengthening the immune system, improving heart function, reducing inflammation, and having a positive effect on the condition of the skin and coat. According to the United States National Research Council, the recommended ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 for puppies and lactating females should be 1:6, and for adult dogs 1:10."
According to the veterinarian, omega-3 fatty acids can improve a dog’s skin condition by moisturizing it, reducing itching and flaking, and strengthening the coat's roots. Regular intake of omega-3 fatty acids strengthens the skin barrier, promotes cell regeneration, and due to their anti-inflammatory properties, reduces the production of substances that may cause inflammatory reactions.
This is particularly important for animals suffering from allergies or skin diseases. Additionally, these acids can help reduce joint inflammation, which often affects older dogs and cats. They may also slow down the progression of degenerative joint diseases and help prevent future joint issues. A proper amount of omega-3 fatty acids can increase the elasticity of a pet’s skin, reducing the risk of injury or trauma.
The veterinarian also notes that omega-3 is often described as "brain food." DHA and EPA (long-chain omega-3 fatty acids) are especially beneficial for brain health. The brain is composed of about 12% gray matter, which includes long-chain fatty acids.
"The benefits of omega fatty acids are multifaceted. Research shows that these acids are crucial for the health of dogs and cats, helping to regulate inflammatory processes in the body, which are often associated with various diseases. It’s widely known that one of the greatest benefits of omega fatty acids, for both humans and animals, is maintaining proper brain function. For young, growing puppies, omega-3s are important for faster learning and absorbing commands during training. Meanwhile, for senior dogs, they can help improve the quality of aging, helping to maintain proper cognitive functions longer. In general, for dogs of all ages, omega-3s can reduce anxiety and stress," explains veterinarian Marius Mincė.
How to ensure the right amount of omega fatty acids in the diet?
According to the veterinarian, omega fatty acids are typically given to pets in the form of capsules or liquid oil. Capsules can be given directly into the mouth or mixed with food, and liquid oil can also be mixed into meals.
"Before giving your pet fish oil, be sure to consult a veterinarian. They will help determine the appropriate dose based on your pet's weight and recommend the most suitable supplement. It’s essential to remember that excessive doses can cause harm. Overdosing on omega fatty acids can lead to digestive issues, bad breath, or dietary disturbances. It’s also important to note that for omega-3 benefits to be noticeable, they must be used consistently. Changes in the skin and coat can be seen within 4–6 weeks of regular use, and more significant results are typically visible after 3–6 months. Pet owners can also benefit from food enriched with omega fatty acids. Super-premium, balanced pet foods contain the optimal amount of omega fatty acids, so when choosing food, pay attention to the label and look for products that indicate the amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids or include ingredients such as fish meal, krill, or flaxseeds. Many dog foods on the market contain a lot of omega-6 fatty acids from ingredients like grains, chicken fat, and vegetable oils. Although omega-6s are important, too much can cause inflammation, especially in the skin. Fish oil helps balance the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio in the diet, reducing the pro-inflammatory effects of excess omega-6," advises the veterinarian.
In conclusion, the veterinarian emphasizes that fish oil is an excellent way to supplement your pet’s diet and ensure their health. In summary, fish oil provides significant benefits for a dog’s brain development, cognitive function, mood regulation, and protection against age-related cognitive changes. By supporting healthy brain function, omega-3s help dogs remain active, stress-resistant, and mentally healthy throughout their lives.