Fish oil is a popular supplement for getting high dosage of Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. Many people swear by the health benefits associated with fish oils. Did you know that it can be just as effective to your dog as it is for you?
Pet owners are starting to see health benefits from giving their four-legged-friends fish oils. This is because fish oils are made up of two essential fatty acids, DHA and EPA. Both of these are omega 3 fatty acids and can only be made in limited quantities by dogs. These fatty acids are found in salmon, herring, black cod, anchovies, sardines, albacore tuna, and mackerel.
The fatty acids found in fish oils has been shown to help with inflammation as well as reduce arthritis. Studies have shown that it can also reduce allergies and helps maintain a silky shine on your dogs coat. If that isn’t enough, research also found that it can reduce shedding
How Much Fish Oil To Give Your Dog
Most fish oil brands for pets will have detailed dosage instructions on them. For your general knowledge, we have put together an overview of the estimated dosage. Keep in mind this is very generalized and you should always consult a vet before starting a new supplement program for your dog.
Dogs Up To 19lbs
While fish oil is non-toxic, there are unpleasant side effects if too much is taken. Dogs with a history of gastrointestinal problems should start with a much lower dose than what is recommended. If diarrhea occurs, lower the dose or talk with a vet.
Another side effect to be conscious of is that fish oils sometime reduce the blogs ability to clog quickly. Dogs that are on blood thinners should not take omega 3 fatty acids without consulting the vet first. This is the same with pets on anti-inflammatories – because fish oils are also natural anti-inflammatories, you should consult a vet before adding it as a supplement.
Starting A Fish Oil Supplement Routine
Just like with any supplement, you need to take it at the same time everyday for it to be effective. This consistency is just as important for dogs as they can be sensitive to new foods [supplements].
Start with a lower dose than what is recommended for the first week or so. As long as there are no side effects, you can slowly up the dose from here until you get to the manufactures (or vets) reccomended dose. If side effects occur, lower the dosage.
If side effects occur when you first start administering the fish oils, stop giving them to your dog and consult your vet before trying again.
All pets are different and will react differently to supplements. In general, giving your dog too much of something new will almost always cause a sore stomach and loose stool.
Why Take Fish Oils
If your dog is lacking fatty acids in their diet, fish oils are a great way to supplement for their health. Many pet owners are finding relief from arthritis with fish oil and making their dogs happy at the same time.
Many pet owners are now also weighing the features/benefits between fish oils and CBD oils with the legalization of the farm bill. While one is derived from hemp and the other from fish, they actually share many of the same properties, mainly both being high in Omega 3 fatty acids.
If you want to learn more about how fish oils and CBD compare, check out our article here about the benefits of each.
Just like with any new supplement, be sure to consult a vet before trying. Also, make sure you are buying premium quality products. These are made under higher quality controls and will actually give your dog more benefit with lower dose than cheaper brands.