Is Salmon Oil Good for Dogs?

March 10, 2023 Kar-Bay-Inc

Senior Gay Male Couple Playing with Their Dogs on the Beach — Older dogs can gain a great deal from salmon oil, including improved movement and cognition, helping them continue to lead active, fun lives. Credit: Davids’Adventures Photos | Getty Images

Salmon oil is good for dogs and rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 benefits for dogs include:

In addition, fish oil can help dogs with heart and kidney problems, and DHA is believed to help with eye and brain development in puppies.

The Best Salmon Oil Products

Choose a salmon oil product for your dog that includes both omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) as ingredients.

The ideal fish oil supplement is from fresh-caught, wild, cold-water fish. You want a product that has been screened for contaminants, such as heavy metals, and comes from a manufacturer who uses sustainable fishing practices in making the product.

Since pet supplements are not FDA-regulated, choose brands with the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal to ensure that quality ingredients are used and that the contents match the label claims.

Salmon Oil Side Effects

Start with a salmon oil dose of about 25% of the recommended dose on the product label and gradually work your way up. Not all dogs will tolerate maximum doses.

Side effects include:

diarrhea
vomiting
chronic pancreatitis
weight gain

Dogs with clotting problems should probably avoid salmon oil. Drug interactions with other medications, such as NSAIDs, are possible, so always check with your veterinarian to see if salmon oil is appropriate for your dog, given his health history, current diet (which may already include omega-3 fatty acids), and medications.

All fish-oil products should be properly stored in a cool place, out of direct sunlight.

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