Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are nowadays widely mentioned when it comes to canine nutrition. Essential components for a good and balanced nutrition, they are especially recommended for dogs in certain situations. If you still don't know what these fatty acids are, in this article on our site we talk about omega 3 and 6 for dogs, what dose they need and how we can offer them.
What are fatty acids?
Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are lipids (fats) of great nutritional value They are polyunsaturated fats, liquid at room temperature, which It is essential to incorporate them into the diet in small quantities, since the body needs them for multiple functions, but cannot manufacture them on its own. Omega 3 fatty acids are found, above all, in cold-water fish rich in fat, such as tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel or sardines. For its part, omega 6 are mainly found in vegetables, such as soybean, corn, olive, sunflower or coconut oils.
Brands specializing in canine and feline nutrition, such as Lenda, known for its dry and wet foods made with natural ingredients, have created a range of oils rich in these fatty acids. They offer them in three varieties: salmon, sardine and tuna. They stand out because they are 100% salmon, sardine or tuna oil cold-pressed. They work as a food supplement, suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages. Discover Lenda oils and read on to learn more about their uses and benefits.
What are omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for dogs?
Fatty acids serve dogs primarily for:
- Help cognitive and neurological development, making them a good support for growing fetuses and puppies, but also, for older specimens that may be experiencing symptoms related to cognitive dysfunction syndrome, as they improve brain oxygenation. In puppies, fatty acids are also involved in the formation of the retina.
- Reduce inflammation, which is why they are recommended for dogs with mobility problems related to joints or any other pathology with inflammation, such as allergies.
- Keep the skin and coat in good condition, so they will be especially useful for dogs with skin problems or with a weakened coat. At this point we can include its usefulness in wound healing.
- Recover physically, which can be beneficial in dogs that are coming out of some pathological process or have just undergone surgery, as well as in those subjected to efforts, such as dogs participating in sports or work activities, but also females during pregnancy or lactation.
- Contribute to the proper functioning of the kidneys and the digestive and circulatory systems, improving blood circulation, so they can be indicated for dogs with stomach, heart and kidney problems.
An insufficient supply of fatty acids that lasts over time can begin to manifest itself with the appearance of skin problems, thinning of the skin, which becomes oily and flaky, and a dull coat.
Benefits of omega 3 and 6 for dogs
In view of the functions of fatty acids in the dog's body, we can guess what the benefits of adding them to the diet will be, although we must know that, to this day, these are still subject to study. We highlight:
- He althy skin and shiny hair.
- Control of clinical signs caused by allergies.
- Improved brain function, both in the acquisition of skills and in their maintenance.
- Maintaining General Fitness.
- Lesion healing.
- Preservation of heart and kidney function.
- Reducing the risk of tumor formation.
- Immune system function well.
Dose of omega 3 and 6 for dogs
It is not only important that we give our dog the amount of omega 3 and 6 that he needs per day, but also that the proportion between the dose of both fatty acids has to be adequate so that the dog can take advantage of its benefits. Thus, we must give him more omega 3 than 6 An imbalance in this proportion or an excess could have repercussions on his he alth.
For example, the anti-inflammatory effect is attributed to omega 3, since omega 6 acts by favoring inflammation. If we give it in greater quantity than 3, we will not be getting the anti-inflammatory benefit that can help the dog in pathologies such as allergies or joints.
Therefore, before starting any supplementation it is essential to consult with the veterinarian, since there is no single fixed amount for everyone dogs, but their needs for omega 3 and 6 will vary depending on various factors, the quality of the supplement we choose and we must also take into account what amounts we are already providing in their diet, if what we want is supplement. In this case, it is also advisable to follow the manufacturer's administration recommendations. For example, the aforementioned Lenda oils already include in their composition a balance between both fatty acids, which is why they are an excellent option to include in the dog's diet.
If we offer a commercial diet, the amount of fatty acids provided by the food should be stated on the label. If not, you can contact the company to provide us with such information. In this way we will know if the fatty acids present in the food are sufficient for our dog or not, in which case we could change the product or proceed to supplementation, always with the guidance of the veterinarian. Always use supplements formulated specifically for dogs. Those for human consumption are not suitable.
How to give omega 3 and 6 to dogs?
A good quality food will contain adequate amounts of omega 3 and 6, which will also be well balanced. But there is also the option of adding these fatty acids to the diet as a supplement, especially if our dog, due to its particular circumstances, needs to reinforce its intake or we are feeding him a homemade diet. If you choose a oil rich in omega 3 and 6 for dogs, like those mentioned in previous sections, it will be as simple as mix it with the food ration, regardless of whether it is dry food or homemade food.
Again, it is a decision that only the veterinarian must make or, in our case, the canine nutrition expert who is in charge of preparing our dog's menu. We insist that supplementing on our own could cause more problems than benefits.
