Fish oil is a type of natural fat extracted mainly from cold-water marine fish, such as sardines, tuna, horse mackerel, herring, salmon, anchovies and mackerel. Due to its high content of omega 3 and its good supply of vitamin D, it has become a very popular natural supplement today, both for humans and for dogs and cats.
Some high-quality commercial dog foods already incorporate fish oil into their formula. However, there are many guardians who wonder how and what are the benefits of introducing this natural supplement in the diet of their kittens.
Of course, we remind you that the incorporation of any food or natural supplement in your furry's diet must be guided and supervised by a veterinaryHowever, today on our site, you will be able to learn about the properties and benefits of fish oil for dogs
Why is fish oil good for dogs?
Coldwater fish are rich in omega 3, as they tend to eat a large amount of plankton to supplement their diet, in addition to also consume other fish that feed on plankton. The plankton, in turn, consists of a set of microorganisms that contain a lot of omega 3 inside. In fact, it is estimated that marine plankton may contain up to 30 times more omega 3 than olive oil, which is already considered a good source of said nutrient.
But… what is omega 3 and why is it good for your dog?
Although we tend to think of omega 3 as a single substance, it is a collection of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids, also known as as "good fats". Oily fish and, consequently, fish oil include in its composition eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two types of omega 3 essential for the body of dogs and also of human beings.
In addition, fish oil provides a good supply of vitamin D, which is an essential nutrient for the synthesis of calcium, the formation of the bones and the strengthening of the immune system. It is also a highly energetic supplement that stimulates the physical and cognitive development of puppies and acts as an excellent ally in feeding malnourished dogs.
Properties of fish oil
Below we will mention some of the properties of consuming fish oil for dogs:
- Anticancer properties of fish oil. Researchers at the Fox Chase Cancer Center hospital and research center in Philadelphia (USA) have shown that omega 3 is capable of stopping and delaying the abnormal multiplication of cancer cells. Other studies have revealed that the consumption of essential fatty acids helps prevent the development of colon and breast cancer. [1]
- Cardiovascular protector. Omega 3 helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels, preventing the accumulation of lipid and insoluble plaques inside of the arteries. Thus, it improves blood circulation and oxygenation of body tissues, and at the same time, prevents arteriosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.[two]
- Cognitive function stimulant Various studies have shown that regular consumption of omega 3 has a very positive impact on the brain. In addition to stimulating cognitive and emotional development, it also helps prevent strokes and delay the decline of cognitive functions associated with the aging process. [3]
- Fish oil is a natural anti-inflammatory. Its high content of omega 3 gives fish oil a powerful anti-inflammatory action. Therefore, its regular and moderate consumption is effective in preventing inflammatory processes and joint problems, such as arthritis.
- Antidepressant effects of fish oil. Some research has already shown that omega 3 is capable of preventing and improving symptoms of depression. It has also shown good results in the treatment of bipolar disorder in humans.[4]
- Prevention of vitamin D deficiency Moderate and regular consumption of fish oil helps prevent vitamin D deficiency in the body. In this way, it stimulates the absorption of calcium ingested in the diet, collaborating for the formation and strengthening of bones. It also helps prevent infectious diseases, such as tuberculosis, which are more common when there is a vitamin D deficiency. [5]
Benefits of fish oil for dogs
Now that you know what the properties of fish oil are, we can list its 10 main benefits for the he alth of dogs:
- Strengthens your immune system, helping to keep it strong and he althy.
- Improves the he alth and appearance of their fur and skin, reducing the risk of allergies and skin problems.
- Collaborates with the development of cognitive functions, especially in puppies and elderly dogs.
- Helps prevent strokes and cognitive dysfunction syndrome (so-called "canine Alzheimer's").
- Has anti-inflammatory action, helping to prevent joint wear and relieve pain associated with inflammatory and degenerative processes, such as osteoarthritis and osteoarthritis in dogs.
- It is a good ally for regulating triglyceride and cholesterol levels, protecting arteries and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in dogs.
- Helps combat the symptoms of depression in dogs, improving their quality of life on a physical, emotional, social and cognitive level.
- Reduces the risk of developing cancer.
- Collaborates for the proper functioning of your kidneys, reducing the risk of kidney failure.
- It is a good natural supplement in the feeding of pregnant dogs, helping in the physical and mental development of fetuses.
Recommended dose of fish oil for dogs
The moderate and regular consumption of fish oil can be very beneficial for our dogs, as long as we respect a safe dose for your body. However, there is no set amount that is safe and beneficial for all dogs. The dose of any supplement or nutrient must be adequate according to the purpose of consumption, weight, age, size and he alth status of each animal.
Therefore, it is essential that you consult your veterinarian before offering fish oil to your dog, either through a High-quality commercial feed, as a supplement in capsules, or by introducing the oil in the homemade recipes you prepare for your furry friend. The veterinarian will be able to guide you on the necessary amount and the best way to administer this nutrient to have a positive impact on the he alth of your best friend.
