The Best Fish Oils For Dogs in 2022
- The Best Fish Oil For Dogs
- 1. Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
- 2. Grizzly Salmon Plus Food Supplement for Dogs
- 3. Vital Pet Life Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
- 4. Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil
- 5. Omegease Omega Rich Fish Oil for Dogs
- 6. Nutramax Welactin 3 Omega 3 Supplement for Dogs
- 7. Coco and Luna Liver & Kidney Milk Thistle
- 8. Deley Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs
It’s not just humans that can benefit from fish oils, they can also be used to help put a spring back into your dog’s step. Packed with essential fatty acids, including omega 3s, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), fish oil has many anti-inflammatory properties that can help support your pup's health. Added to your fur baby's diet, fish oil can improve the condition of your dog’s coat and skin as well as boost their joint, heart, eye and brain health as well as all-round wellbeing.
The best fish oils are derived from oily fish such as mackerel, tuna, salmon, herring, and anchovies and, as your pup cannot produce many of the essential omega-3s themselves, adding extra to their diet could well work wonders. But with so many products to choose from, it can be a bit of a chore to fish out the right supplement for your dog. Not to worry though because we trawl through some of the most popular brands on the market to help you choose the best fish oil for dogs to give your pooch an extra health boost.
The Best Fish Oil For Dogs
1. Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
Key Features
Naturally sourced from wild salmon
Quality formula of omega-3s EPA and DHA
Formulated for coat and skin health
Boost for immune system, joint and heart health
Derived from wild Alaskan salmon, Zesty Paws is not only a tasty treat for your dog but packed with all the essential omega fatty acids they need for premium health and vitality. Gentle enough for younger dogs as well as more senior pets, getting your pooch to take their ‘medicine’ couldn’t be easier, as the liquid formulation mixes well with their regular meal. Rich in the essential EPA and DHA fatty acids, you also get a good balance of omega-3s to make it worth the purchase if you are looking to maintain your pooch’s all-round good health.
Formulated for healthy skin and coat, this wild salmon omega-3 supplement for dogs is a treat for their fur, helping to calm down any skin irritations or allergies – happy users report improvements in their pet’s coat and a reduction in shedding. The balanced formulation of omega-3s can also support your dog’s joint health as well as their heart and immune system, making it a good option for keeping a pet with no major health issues supple, on the move, happy and bouncy. Easy to use with its no-fuss pump action, as a good all-round fish oil for dogs, Zesty Paw scoops our best choice pick.
2. Grizzly Salmon Plus Food Supplement for Dogs
Key Features
All-natural source of omega 3s and 6s
Medical grade precision pump
For skin, coat, joint and heart health
NASC certified
With a good balance of omega-3s and 6s including EPA and DHA, Grizzly Salmon Oil is a top-quality liquid fish oil for dogs that uses certified wild Alaskan salmon to boost your canine companion’s skin, coat and all-round vitality and health. Approved by the National Animal Supplement Council, there are no unnatural nasties in this fish oil and available in a choice of sizes, is a good value of money, depending on the size of your pooch.
Grizzly Salmon Oil also utilizes a medical-grade pump for precise application so that you can add the correct dose to your pet’s meal in an easy and mess-free way. In each dose, you get a nice balance of Omega 3s and 6s as well as antioxidants and vitamins that naturally occur in salmon oil. For your pup’s skin, coat, eyes, immune system, joint health and general wellbeing, this is a good investment.
3. Vital Pet Life Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
Key Features
Balance of omega 3s and 6s
Made from 100% natural salmon oil
FDA-certified facilities
For skin allergies, coat condition and joint health
For the fussy eater or tablet shy pet, this unassuming fish oil from Vital Pet Life could well be the answer. Made from 100% natural wild Alaskan salmon, it is packed with all those essential omega 3s and 6s you want at tummy-friendly levels most dogs can tolerate. Whether their coat condition, joint health or skin allergies are your main concern – or even all three – this good value omega 3 fish oil for dogs is a good way to ensure they are getting the right nutrients to keep them scratch-free, mobile and in good health.
With its easy to use pump, you simply add the appropriate dose to your pooch’s food, as it has a formula that mixes in and absorbs well, plus the subtle taste is one your pooch will enjoy. And 100% made in the US, you can be assured of where the omega oil for dogs has come from and the quality of its production.
4. Pure Paw Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil
Key Features
100% natural salmon oil
No preservatives or additives
Delicious fishy taste
Formulated for healthy skin and coat
With no additives or preservatives, you know exactly what you are getting with Best Paw’s Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil as it is 100% natural. And you know its natural, as it has a healthy fishy smell and taste your pup will love! With a choice of bottle sizes to accommodate small to large dogs, a little does go a long way, making this fish oil supplement for dogs good value for money. But the lack of preservatives mean it is advisable to keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. For the effort you get an excellent omega 3 for dogs that works well for healing and maintaining your dog’s irritated skin and coat.
If your pooch has an easily upset tum when it comes to supplements, the balance of omegas and quantities in the Pure Alaskan Salmon Oil is a good choice as it has been carefully formulated so that it can be tolerated by most pets. And the environmental credentials go further as the easy to use pump bottle is recyclable and BPA-free.
5. Omegease Omega Rich Fish Oil for Dogs
Key Features
Balanced mix of wild fish oils
Rich source of omegas 3,6 & 9
For skin, coat and joint health
Leak-proof bottle/non-drip pump
If your pooch seems to be under the weather and there are no medical reasons why, then this omega-rich natural fish oil for dogs could help to make a difference. Formulated as a good all-round omega 3 supplement for dogs, Omegease can help with your dog’s general aches and pains as well as bring some life back into their dull skin and coat. It can also help soothe allergies and irritated skin.
Free from artificial ingredients and other nasties, Omegease is made from a balanced mix of oils from wild mackerel, herring, anchovies and sardines to provide higher quantities of omegas 3, 6 and 9, including rich sources of EPA and DHA. We like the fact that although an oil supplement there is no that strong fishy smell, just a great taste your pet will lap up when added to their daily meal. And the dispensing bottle is leak-proof and has a non-drip pump for a fuss and mess-free application.
6. Nutramax Welactin 3 Omega 3 Supplement for Dogs
Key Features
Sourced from cold-water fish
Softgel capsules for flexibility
High concentration of EPA and DHA
For coat, skin, joint and heart health
If your pet is a fussy eater or just cannot take to the taste of fish oil supplements in their food, then these great value fish oil capsules for dogs could well be your solution. Derived from cold-water fish oils, Welactin 3 is a good source of high concentration omega 3s, including EPA and DHA and, used as a supplement for general health and vitality, can help to keep that bounce in your beloved pooch’s step.
Welactin 3 can also be used for boosting their skin and coat as well as heart and joint health and can be given to small and larger sized dogs, based on one capsule per 20 pounds in weight. Each capsule can be fed direct or punctured to add the oil to their food, giving you greater flexibility on how you supplement your dog if they are smaller or depending on how they feel and behave. And, with 120 softgel capsules per pack, they will last a decent amount of time.
7. Coco and Luna Liver & Kidney Milk Thistle
Key Features
Omega 3 supplement for kidney, liver and bladder health
Bacon-flavored chewable tablets
Milk thistle for liver function
Added dandelion and vitamin B
If you have concerns for the kidney or liver health of your pet or you want to prevent any problems further down the line, VitaPet Life has produced this balanced mix of fish oil tablets for dogs to support their internal systems.
With a quality fish oil packed with DHA and EPA, Vitapet has also added vitamin Bs as well as the herbs milk thistle and dandelion root to detox, cleanse, heal and support. The result is a liver, kidney and bladder support formulation that helps to boost your pupper’s health, remove impurities and maintains their overall condition and wellbeing.
Of course, you should consult your vet if your pet has diagnosed liver or kidney disease to ensure the supplement will not interfere with their medication, but for otherwise healthy pets, this omega-rich formulation is safe to take as a daily supplement. We like that each chewable tablet is bacon-flavored to capture your pup’s attention and easy to swallow. For more resistant pooches, simply crush a tablet and mix with their food.
8. Deley Naturals Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs
Key Features
Sourced from wild fish from the north Atlantic
Contains pure omega 3,6 & 9
No toxins, preservatives and GMO-free
For skin, joints and all-round health
With no toxins, preservatives and GMO-free, this all-natural fish oil for dogs from Deley is a natural catch for your pup’s itchy skin or achy joints. Made from 100% North Atlantic fish sources, including mackerel, herring and anchovy, and free of any bulking agents or nasty additives, Deley’s Wild Caught Fish Oil for Dogs is one of the purest you can buy.
Packed with skin and joint soothing omega 3,6 & 9s, you get a healthy dose of those essential fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. These properties mean that this Omega-3 fish oil can be effective in eliminating itchy skin, reducing excess shedding and easing joint pain and stiffness that comes with age. This is also a good pure product for brain, eye and heart health as well as all-round bounce and vitality. And all with virtually no fishy smell! Added to their meal, the accurate pump action also means you can tailor the dosage for pets from 5 pounds to larger pooches weighing in 75-pound plus.
Best Fish Oil For Dogs Buying Guide & FAQ
Whether you’re looking for a supplement to soothe your dog’s itchy skin and reduce shedding, or something to relieve their allergies and joint pain, fish oil is the right choice. Packed with omega essential fatty acids, good-quality fish oil can boost your canine buddy’s overall health and well-being quite quickly and effortlessly. Check out our guide on dog joint supplements for more info.
But with so many fish oil supplements for dogs available for purchase, finding the right product for your pooch may prove to be challenging. To help you in your selection process, we’ve not only reviewed some of the best oils that the pet market has to offer, we’ve also put together this comprehensive buying guide. Here, we cover absolutely everything you need to know about these healthful supplements, including how to find the best one for your pet.
What is a Fish Oil Supplement?
Fish oil is sourced from oily fish, such as mackerel, salmon, herring and cod liver, and is one of the most consumed dietary supplements for both humans and domestic pets. This oil is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are essential for good health. Take a look at our review of salmon oil for dogs for more options.
Omega-3 fatty acids – especially EPA and DHA – are anti-inflammatories and have many health benefits. They are believed to help support brain, heart, and eye health as well as help to protect against a number of diseases. If you or your pet are not getting enough omega 3 fatty acids from your daily diet, then a supplement is a good way to go. Made from fish oil extracted from the fish tissue, supplements can come in either gel capsule or liquid form. Good quality fish oil also contains vitamins A and D. Head over to our review of dog vitamins for more choices.
Benefits of Omega-3 Fish Oil for Dogs
When it comes to the health and wellbeing of your pooch there are numerous benefits of using a fish oil supplement. Top of the omega-3 fish oil benefits list are:
- Improves coat and skin health
The anti-inflammatory properties of the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil can help to calm and heal skin conditions and allergies as well as improve the overall condition of your pup’s skin and coat.
- Can help to treat arthritis
Fish oils are regularly used as a therapeutic treatment for arthritis in dogs and have been shown to ease joint stiffness and mobility issues. The anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil can also be beneficial for older dogs in general and can help to put a bit of a spring back into their step.
- Helps with brain health
Fish oils can be beneficial for older dogs to help boost and maintain their cognitive function. It is thought that the fatty acid DHA in particular can not only improve cognitive abilities but also potentially slow down inevitable deterioration in how your ageing canine’s brain functions.
- Supports heart and eye health
Not only can fish oils help to support your pet’s cardiovascular health but it is thought to help in weight management, which is often a factor when it comes to chronic heart issues in canines. When it comes to their eye health, the DHA fatty acids present in fish oil can also help to maintain the healthy levels of natural DHA present in your dog’s retina and support their overall eye function.
- Can help in the treatment of kidney disease
Fish oil is often used as a therapeutic treatment for dogs with kidney disease, particularly glomerular disease which causes excessive protein loss. In this condition, fish oil has been shown to slow down the progression of chronic kidney disease and can help to protect your dog’s overall kidney health.
Does My Dog Need Fish Oil?
As your pooch cannot naturally produce their own essential fatty acids (in particular, EPA and DHA) they need to obtain enough of them from their diet. However, this is not always as easy as it sounds, especially if your pet is eating a lot of cheap and poor-quality kibble. A well-balanced diet for your pet is always the first route when it comes to ensuring they are getting all the nutrients they need, but if you suspect your pet is missing out on omega-3s or they have a few health issues which could benefit from a fatty acid boost, then omega-3 supplementation in the form of fish oil could be very beneficial. If you are in any doubt as to whether to give your dog a fish oil supplement, speak to your veterinary professional for advice.
How to Pick a Good Fish Oil Supplement for Your Dog
With a wide selection of fish oil supplements for dogs on the market, it is essential you do your homework so that you pick the best product for your pet. To get the best fish oil for dogs, you need to check out the following on the packet:
- What type of fish oil it is: There are three main types: natural triglyceride oil, which is the easiest to absorb but isn’t purified and so could contain contaminants; ethyl ester oil, which has been distilled and concentrated to remove impurities so is considered semi-natural; and synthetic triglyceride oil, which is not a natural source, and is least easily absorbed.
- Go wild: Always choose a supplement that is sourced from wild-caught fish as farmed fish has lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids, plus can contain high levels of heavy metals and toxins.
- Look for the quality control: You need to be sure the source of the fish oil has been treated to a high standard and is safe for your pet. FDA-registered, National Animal Supplementation Council (NASC) certification, country of origin or a recommendation from your vet are all good places to start.
- Check the EPA and DHA levels: Going for the highest levels of DHA may not always be the best combination for your pet unless brain and eye health is your priority, as DHA can be easily be stored in the body. EPA, however, cannot be stored and so supplementing at a good level is essential.
Our Top Pick
Derived from wild salmon and packed with essential omega-3s, including the all-important EPA and DHA, Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats is our review’s easy to use Top Pick. Formulated for healthy skin and coat, this oil is guaranteed to soothe your pooch's irritated skin and reduce shedding. A high-quality fish oil, this supplement can also help boost your dog's immune system as well as joint and heart health. And because it's palatable and most dogs simply love the taste, it can be easily added to their food, whether dry or wet.
FAQ
Q: What are the potential side effects of fish oil supplements?
Fish oil supplements can be really beneficial for your pet but as with any supplementation, you need to be fully aware of the correct dosage, potential side effects and the suitability for your dog and their individual health. Too much fish oil can have some unpleasant side effects, including diarrhea, delayed wound healing and vitamin E deficiency so it’s essential to get the dose right. And if your dog is on other medication, do check with your vet first before giving them a fish oil supplement in case there is a risk of any adverse interactions. And some oils can give your pooch a fishy smell to their breath, which while harmless isn’t particularly pleasant to be around!
Q: How do I give my dog fish oil?
Fish oil supplements are available in both liquid and gel capsule forms so you can choose which type is the easiest to give to your pet. Liquid fish oil for dogs can be added to their food and with the fishy taste, it is a welcome addition your pooch should lap up. However, it can be messy and if your dog is a fussy eater could be a problem. If your dog is happy to swallow their tablets without any drama, then fish oil tablets for dogs are a good option. As a bonus, many are flavored to taste meaty so they can be seen as a treat.
Q: How much fish oil should I give my dog?
The short answer is to always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging of the fish oil supplement you have chosen for your dog. Most supplements can be given daily, but the dosage should also be based on your dog’s size and weight.
Sources
- How much Omega 3 fatty acids should I give my dog? - Canine Arthritis Resources and Education
- Should I give fish oil to my pet? - Cummings Veterinary Medical Center