What Is Fish Oil For Dogs? What Are Its Benefits?

Fish oil for dogs!! Yes, you heard it right. Like humans, dogs too get benefited if they’re given fish oil.

First, let’s understand what exactly fish oil is!!

Well, it is the most common misconception that fish oil is the same as omega-3 fatty acids. But, fish oil is just a source of omega-3 fatty acids. There are many other sources such as flax seeds and chia seeds. In this article, we’ll be discussing the health benefits of fish oil and how exactly it works?

Let’s get back to the question about what’s fish oil? Fish oil basically comes from oily fishes like sardines, salmon, mackerel, etc. Fish oil is extracted from the tissues of these fishes. According to American Heart Association, it is recommended to have cold-water fish at least twice a week. But, if not so, there are a lot of fish oil supplements that you can purchase. Although, these supplements won’t be as beneficial as eating whole fish. You can get completely natural as well as processed fish oils in the market.

Now, let’s discuss what Omega-3 fatty acids are and their benefits?

Omega-3 fatty acids are very beneficial nutrients for our bodies. But, our bodies can’t produce these nutrients. So, it is necessary to get them from food. Now the question that arises is, what’s the need for omega-3s?

Well, the first one is that it is super amazing for your heart. Omega-3s help to lower blood pressure and reduce the number of triglycerides. Hence, reducing the risk of heart attack, strokes, and pancreatitis. Also, there is evidence of fish oil helping to reduce joint pain due to arthritis. Here, you can read more about it!

Now, what about dogs having fish oil!! You must be thinking, it’s supposed to be a dog blog! Why are we discussing if I can have it or not? Just tell me if my dog can consume it! Don’t worry, we are getting to this point.

And, the answer is, HELL YES!!

Well, it might be very interesting and surprising at the same time for dog owners to hear this. But the veterinary community has reached way far with fish oil supplements.

Some ways are mentioned below in which fish oil for dogs is beneficial:

• Good coat quality and healthy skin
• Cures joint diseases
• Prevents heart disease
• Reduces the risk of kidney disease
• Improves immunity

According to the AKC, “Omega-3 also helps balance out omega-6 fatty acids, commonly found in processed foods and most grains. Since many dog food manufacturers use meat from corn-fed animals or refined oil (which are high in omega-6), dogs often have an overabundance of omega-6 fatty acids in their diet. Your dog ends up with too much omega-6 and not nearly enough omega-3 fatty acids. And although we need omega-6 fatty acids, our modern diet often has too many. The body needs both in balance, and the same is true for dogs.”

You just need to keep in mind to serve your dog fish oil in accordance with its body requirements, i.e., size, breed, etc. So, don’t worry!! There is literally no side effect of serving your dog fish oil or fish oil supplements.

Does the next question that arises in your mind is how to choose fish oil for your dog?

Well, there are various different options available at online as well as offline stores.

Most dogs refuse to take fish oil capsules. So, you need to cut the capsule and pour out the oil. This leads to a fishy smell in your hands all day long. So, to avoid this hassle, use fish oil that comes in packaging with a pump. This will reduce ll your difficulties while serving it to your pet. There are various options available, specially curated for dogs and cats, such as this one. 

Lastly, make sure to consult your local vet before making a purchase!! So, for a healthy life, fish oil for dogs is a great option as it is always good to take a healthy and balanced diet. Now, go ahead and give your furry friend the nutrients they need!!

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