Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Fumipets
10 Best Fish Oils for Dogs: Unlocking the Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish oil supplements have become increasingly popular among dog owners due to their potential health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the world of fish oils for dogs, delving into their advantages, considerations for usage, and answers to common questions.
Fish Oils
Just like us people, our dogs sometimes need a little assistance with their food and general health. Also, fish oil provides a variety of advantages for your pet, just as it does for humans, including better coats, more moisturized skin, enhanced immune systems, and more! Finding the ideal fish oil supplement for our pets might be difficult since there are so many varieties available. especially if you are unsure of what to look for.
In fact, there are a few characteristics that distinguish one fish oil for dogs from another, and we’ve discussed all of them below. As an added bonus, we examined 10 of the top dog fish oils available today. You will then be equipped with the information necessary to choose the best option for your beloved dog!
A Comparison of Our 2023 Favorites
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
BEST OVERALL |
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Grizzly Omega Health Omega-3 Dog & Cat Supplement | High in omega-3 fatty acids Great for all breed sizes Low in calories | Check Price |
BEST VALUE |
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American Journey Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Formula Liquid Supplement | Minimally nourishes itchy, dry skin Squeezable bottle with cap that won’t dripprocessed Great flavor | Check Price |
PREMIUM CHOICE |
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Zesty Paws Core Elements Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Liquid Skin & Coat | 100% salmon oil Easy to use bottle Pet owners seem to love | Check Price |
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Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid Supplement For Dogs | Distilled for purity Helps your dog’s skin, coat, eyes, brain, heart, and more Tested by a 3rd party for quality | Check Price | |
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PetHonesty Omega-3 Fish Oil Immune, Joint And Skin & Coat Supplement | Promises less fishy smell & taste Low mercury amounts GMO-free | Check Price |
The 10 Best Fish Oils For Dogs
1. Grizzly Omega Health Omega-3 Dog & Cat Supplement – Best Overall
| Weight: | 16 oz, 32 oz, 64 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
The Grizzly Omega Health Omega-3 dietary supplement is the way to go if you want the greatest overall fish oil for your dog. This fish oil helps to safeguard and enhance your dog’s health in a variety of ways since it is made with sustainably sourced wild Alaskan salmon for superior quality and is packed with DHA and EPA—omega-3 fatty acids that can really be absorbed by your pet’s metabolism. The omega-3 fatty acids therein support the eyesight, brain, and immune systems of your pet. Vitamins and antioxidants also help your dog’s skin and coat.
By taking this product, you won’t gain weight since wild salmon contains less calories. You can be confident that this fish oil is safe since it also has the National Animal Supplement Council’s stamp of approval.
Pros
- High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Low in calories
- Great for all breed sizes
Cons
- Pump may leak
- Strong odor
2. American Journey Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Formula Liquid Supplement for Cats & Dogs – Best Value
| Weight: | 18 oz, 32 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
We suggest this fish oil from American Journey as the finest fish oil for the money. This fish oil is a 51/49% mixture of wild-caught Alaskan salmon and pollock, not just salmon. Both varieties of fish include the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which promote sound eyesight and cognitive function. These omega-3 fatty acids aid to hydrate sensitive, dry, itchy skin, which supports healthy skin and coats.
According to American Journey, this product has a taste that dogs will like. It has a top that won’t leak, so there won’t be any mess, and it comes in a squeeze container to make adding it to your pet’s meals simpler.
Pros
- Nourishes itchy, dry skin
- Great flavor
- Squeezable bottle with cap that won’t drip
Cons
- Strong smell
- Squeeze bottle is sensitive; if not careful, may get messy
3. Zesty Paws Core Elements Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Liquid Skin & Coat Supplement for Cats & Dogs – Premium Choice
| Weight: | 8 oz, 16 oz, 32 oz, 2-pk of 32 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
Our recommendation for premium fish oil is Zesty Paws Core Elements. This fish oil for healthy skin is flavored and prepared from superior Alaskan salmon that has been wild-caught, so your dog is guaranteed to like it. Also, Zesty Paws is 100% salmon oil rather than salmon plus pollock like some other fish oils. It contains omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA to help your dog’s coat look lovely and lustrous and to treat dry skin. Pet owners saw greater hunger, less allergies and itching, and even disappearance of dandruff.
You just need to feed your pet one teaspoon, and the simple pump container will make it simple to include it in their meals.
Pros
- 100% salmon oil
- Pet owners seem to love
- Easy to use bottle
Cons
- Bottle may drip
- Rare reports of customer receiving leaky bottle
4. Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid Supplement for Dogs
| Weight: | 8 oz, 16 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
You may want to think about Nordic Naturals if you want your puppy to have a great, lustrous coat, well-moisturized skin, and a bright mind. This fish oil for dogs gives your pet the critical omega-3 fatty acids they need for those things since it is made from sustainable sardines and anchovies found in the South Pacific, not salmon. Also, this oil supports the health of the heart, eyes, and joints.
This product is distilled for purity and put through independent testing to guarantee its quality. You will need to measure out what you need for each meal since the bottle is a pour rather than a pump. After opening, it lasts for up to three months.
Pros
- Distilled for purity
- Tested by a 3rd party for quality
- Helps your dog’s skin, coat, eyes, brain, heart, and more
Cons
- Need to actually measure out
- May make your hands smelly for awhile, even after washing
- Rare reports of pets getting sick
5. PetHonesty Omega-3 Fish Oil Immune, Joint and Skin & Coat Supplement for Dogs & Cats
| Weight: | 16 oz, 32 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement |
| Product form: | Liquid |
This canine fish oil is formulated from a combination of fish taken off the Icelandic beaches, including herring, sardines, mackerel, and anchovies. PetHonesty’s oil supports better joint health along with healthier skin, a shinier coat, and increased immunological function and is free of corn, soy, wheat, and GMOs. It also has very little mercury in it. Also, this fish oil has been filtered to reduce the fishy flavor and odor, which is great news for both you and your pet!
Fish oil from PetHonesty is packaged in an FDA-approved facility. All revenues are split amongst no-kill shelters.
Pros
- Promises less fishy smell & taste
- Low mercury amounts
- GMO-free
Cons
- Reports of some bottles coming with caps rather than pumps
- Bottle may leak
6. TerraMax Pro Premium Omega-3 Fish Oil Dog Supplement
| Weight: | 16 oz, 32 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
Vet-recommended Anchovies, mackerel, sardines, and herring fished off the coast of Iceland are combined with TerraMax Pro Premium Omega-3 Fish Oil to create a pharmaceutical-grade fish oil that is molecularly distilled to ensure there are no contaminants. Each serving, according to the manufacturer, should include at least 525 mg of DHA and 800 mg of EPA, which are intended to reduce inflammation, treat allergies and itchy skin, and enhance the condition of your dog’s coat.
Mercury is completely absent from TerraMax Pro, and there are also no appreciable levels of pesticides, dioxins, or PCBs. To prevent injuring protected animals like dolphins, they use sustainable and safe fishing techniques.
Pros
- 100% mercury free
- Pharmaceutical grade
- High amounts of omega-3 fatty acids
Cons
- Pump is leaky
- Rare complaints that liquid seemed overly thin/too liquidy
- Occasional reports of people receiving product with broken pump
7. Nutramax Welactin Omega-3 Softgels Skin & Coat Supplement for Dogs
| Weight: | 120 count, 240 count, 360 count |
| Food form: | Supplement |
| Product form: | Softgel |
Each serving of Nutramax, which is made from wild-caught sardines and anchovies from Peru, provides at least 155 mg of EPA and 100 mg of DHA omega-3 fatty acids. That’s plenty to provide your dog with a health boost for their kidneys, brain, and eyes as well as support for a lustrous, healthy coat and less dry skin. The neurological system, a healthy nervous system, and a regular heart beat are additional benefits of fish oil.
The softgels taste good and minty (peppermint has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and is fine in moderation for dogs). Also, all of the sardines and anchovies in this product are checked for pollutants before use, so you don’t have to worry about anything hurting your pet.
Pros
- Minty flavor
- Tested for contaminants
Cons
- More difficult to give to your pet than a liquid
- Complaints of “softgels” being super hard
8. Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Softgels Skin & Coat Supplement for Dogs
| Weight: | 100 count |
| Food form: | Supplement |
| Product form: | Softgel |
Veterinarians created these fish oil softgels to provide your dog with both a health boost and a tasty treat. They are made from a variety of fish, including sprat, salmon, sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and herring, and they include vitamins A, D, and E in addition to the omega-3 fatty acids necessary to keep your dog’s hair lustrous and to support healthy joint and immune system function. Also, they won’t cause your pet’s breath to smell bad!
Each softgel, which may be conveniently and mess-free administered to your pet, contains 180 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA.
Pros
- Contains added vitamins
- Supposedly odor free
Cons
- Pills are very large; may be difficult for smaller dogs
- Some pet owners saw better results with other brands
- Rare complaint of dogs becoming gassy after taking
9. EicosaDerm Omega 3 Liquid Dog & Cat Nutritional Supplement
| Weight: | 8 oz, 32 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
EicosaDerma Omega 3 Liquid, produced in the US from tiny cold-water fish, supports your dog’s immune system and lowers inflammation. Along with enhancing dry, itchy skin, Vitamin E and the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA will also keep your pet’s coat lustrous. Also, just around 17 calories per milliliter, making it an excellent supplement for dogs managing their weight.
Every product is examined to make sure there are no pesticides present. The fish oil features a helpful dosage chart based on weight, so you can be confident you are feeding your pet the right amount. One pump from this container dispenses around 2ml.
Pros
- Low calorie
- Added Vitamin E
Cons
- Bottle pump is leaky
- Super smelly
10. Alaska Naturals Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Formula Dog Supplement
| Weight: | 8 oz, 15.5 oz, 32 oz, 64 oz, 120 oz |
| Food form: | Supplement, food topping |
| Product form: | Liquid |
Alaska Naturals is an excellent source of balanced omega-3 fatty acids for your pet and is prepared from superior Alaskan salmon that has been fished in the wild. More of the healthy components are maintained since it isn’t distilled at high heat and is treated as little as possible. Also, with just 40 calories per teaspoon, it won’t contribute an excessive amount of calories to your dog’s diet as a whole.
A third party evaluates the quality of each batch of Alaska Naturals Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Formula Dog Supplement.
Pros
- Minimally processed
- 3rd party testing
- Improves coat and skin health
Cons
- Some people had trouble with pump on bottle
- Also contains pollock oil
- Can be smelly
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing The Best Fish Oil For Dogs
What Are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?
While omega-3 fatty acids may seem bad—after all, who wants to eat fat?—they are really beneficial. Polyunsaturated fats include omega fatty acids (one of the good kinds of fats). These fatty acids play a crucial role in the production of hormones that control blood flow and inflammation. While you’d assume that we’d all have some of them laying around, they are not present in our bodies naturally. Because of this, it’s essential that we (and our dogs) ingest items like flaxseed and fish oil that contain them.
Yet omega-3 fatty acids are useful for more than just that! They are beneficial for our bodies because they help counteract the omega-6 fatty acids, which are mostly present in cereals and processed meals. Many dog meals contain far too much omega-6 fatty acids, which means your dog also does (and they do need some omega-6, just not an overabundance).
Why Is Giving Your Dog Fish Oil A Good Idea?
Feeding fish oil to your dog may have a lot of positive health effects!
Benefits
- Healthy Coat & Skin: Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which is fantastic since they may help make your dog’s coat very lustrous and lessen itching brought on by dry skin. Added benefit of enhancing your dog’s skin condition? It could lessen shedding!
- Immune system: Our dogs sometimes come into contact with some really unpleasant things (like the garbage).. This implies that they are constantly exposed to microorganisms. Fortunately, omega-3 fatty acids strengthen your pet’s immune system, making it simpler for them to fight off any ailments that may arise. And much better if the fish oil you’re feeding your dog contains salmon! Astaxanthin, an antioxidant found in salmon, offers some pretty awesome advantages for the immune system of your dog (and may even help prevent cancer!).
- Healthy Heart: Adding fish oil supplements to your dog’s food may have similar heart-healthy advantages as adding them to a human’s diet. Omega-3s provide a number of advantages, including lowering the risk of arrhythmia and strengthening the heart muscle!
- Improved Joint Function: Fish oil is a fantastic supplement to the diet of any dog experiencing joint problems since it includes omega-3 fatty acids that may help decrease inflammation. When it comes to arthritis, not only can this decrease in inflammation aid minimize discomfort and increase mobility, but studies revealed that dogs using fish oil were able to use less of their arthritis medicine. Fish oil may also assist with elbow and hip dysplasia. When your pet’s joints don’t grow properly, it’s called dysplasia. As a consequence, the cartilage in the joints degrades, resulting in swelling, discomfort, and limping. Although fish oil isn’t a panacea, it may help lessen the symptoms of inflammation.
- Healthy Brain: Omega-3 fatty acids are often provided to pregnant dogs since they are crucial for the healthy development of the pups’ brains. But not only pups can profit from this! DHA levels in older dogs suffering from cognitive dysfunction syndrome are often decreased. Yet, research showed that symptoms of cognitive dysfunction syndrome might be lessened when administered fish oil containing DHA!
Potential Side Effects
Like any supplements, fish oil might have certain negative effects. While they won’t always happen in all dogs, you should look out for them.
- Upset Stomach: If your pet has a sensitive stomach or is given something new to try, they may have stomach problems. Moreover, really fatty diets (and fish oil is largely a fat) might give dogs minor diarrhea that goes away soon. Talk to your veterinarian regarding dose quantities and stop providing your pet fish oil right away if diarrhea doesn’t cease quickly or isn’t a minor case.
- Food Allergy: While it is uncommon, some dogs may have allergies to certain fish species, rendering them sensitive to fish oil made from such fish. If this is the case, your pet may begin to have unhealthy-looking fur or have itching skin.
- Blood Thinner: Since omega-3 fatty acids may stop blood from clotting, fish oil may make your pet’s blood thinner. Normally, this isn’t a problem (and may even improve heart health). Nevertheless, it can become a concern if your dog sustains an injury and starts bleeding. Also, avoid giving fish oil to dogs who are currently on blood thinners!
- Contraindication: Fish oil for dogs has the same effects as it does for people. As a result, there may be times when the fatty acids in fish oil and a prescription your dog is currently receiving don’t combine well (especially anti-inflammatory drugs). Before giving your pet any vitamins, be sure to see your veterinarian.
How Do I Store Fish Oil?
Fish oil storage is a straightforward process. It must be shielded from intense heat, light, and air as oxidation may cause it to go bad. You must keep fish oil in the refrigerator to do this.
What To Look At In A Fish Oil For Dogs
When it comes to anything your dog will be consuming, you want to be sure you’re buying them the best. Because of this, you need to consider the following while purchasing fish oil for your dog.
Ingredients
Different fish oils for dogs are manufactured from various substances, as you’ll discover. Some may have just salmon, while others may contain both salmon and pollock, yet others will contain a variety of fish. If your dog doesn’t have an allergy, any kind of fish oil should be safe, however the ones that are 100% salmon will generally have greater concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids and astaxanthin.
Moreover, some fish oils include extra vitamins (particularly Vitamin E) and antioxidants to provide additional benefits. To make fish oil more palatable to your pet, flavour may sometimes be added.
You must choose the level of purity you desire for the product and if your dog needs additional vitamins or antioxidants. Understanding the components might help you determine how a fish oil can affect the drugs your pet is taking.
Omega-3 Fatty Acid Levels
Not all fish oils are created equal, as we have said. Although some will have far lower quantities of EPA and DHA, others will have exceptionally high levels. The greater the value for your money, the more.
Form
Several kinds of fish oil are available for dogs, mostly as a liquid or a softgel (but occasionally as a chew). When you are familiar with your pet, you will be able to determine which form will be easiest for them to eat. Although medications often have less odor, some dogs won’t take them (no matter how much peanut butter or other deliciousness you put on them).
Testing
The FDA controls pet food and supplements far less strictly than it does human food and supplements. It is crucial to choose a product that has undergone independent testing to guarantee its quality and purity. Also, you may determine whether the fish oil you’re thinking about has The NASC Quality Seal, since any company that bears it needs to adhere to extremely strict requirements.
Price
Vitamins for both humans and dogs may be rather expensive! Compare pricing, ingredients, and quality carefully since you could discover many products with the same components, etc., at drastically different prices.
Reviews
You may get the real truth about a product’s quality and advantages by reading reviews from other pet owners who have tried it. But bear in mind that every dog reacts to diets and supplements differently, so even the best-reviewed item may not be right for your dog.
Conclusion
Because of its certification from the National Animal Supplement Council and additional vitamins and antioxidants, Grizzly Omega Health Omega-3 is our recommendation when looking for the finest overall fish oil for your dog. We suggest American Journey Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Formula as the finest fish oil for the money since it is affordable and yet includes 51% salmon oil. Last but not least, if you’re searching for a luxury option, we recommend Zesty Paws since it is 100% flavored salmon oil and your dog will like it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Fish Oils for Dogs, and Why Are They Important?
Fish oils for dogs are dietary supplements derived from fish, such as salmon, mackerel, or sardines. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These essential fatty acids offer a range of health benefits for dogs, from promoting a shiny coat to supporting joint health and cognitive function.
What Are the Key Benefits of Fish Oils for Dogs?
Fish oil supplements offer several advantages for dogs:
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Skin and Coat Health: Omega-3 fatty acids can help alleviate skin conditions, reduce itching, and promote a shiny, healthy coat.
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Joint Health: Fish oils have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit dogs with arthritis or joint issues by reducing pain and swelling.
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Heart Health: Omega-3s support cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease and improving circulation.
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Brain Function: DHA, a component of fish oil, plays a role in cognitive function and can benefit aging dogs’ mental sharpness.
How Should I Choose the Right Fish Oil Supplement for My Dog?
Selecting the right fish oil supplement involves several considerations:
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Quality: Look for high-quality supplements from reputable brands. Ensure they undergo purification processes to remove contaminants like heavy metals and toxins.
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Dosage: Consult your veterinarian for the appropriate dosage based on your dog’s size, age, and specific health needs.
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Form: Fish oil supplements come in various forms, including liquid, capsules, and soft gels. Choose one that is easy for your dog to consume.
Are There Any Side Effects or Risks Associated with Fish Oils for Dogs?
Fish oil supplements are generally safe for dogs when administered correctly. However, some potential side effects may include diarrhea, vomiting, or an upset stomach. To minimize these risks, follow your veterinarian’s dosing instructions and introduce the supplement gradually.
Can I Use Fish Oils for Dogs as a Part of Their Regular Diet?
Yes, fish oil supplements can be integrated into your dog’s regular diet. You can add them directly to their food or administer them as directed by your veterinarian. Many dog foods also include fish oil as an ingredient, providing a convenient way to incorporate it into their diet.
Fish oils for dogs are a valuable addition to your pet’s wellness regimen, offering a range of health benefits. However, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to determine the right supplement, dosage, and usage for your specific dog, ensuring they receive the maximum advantages with minimal risk.
