Best Omega-3 Supplement for Dogs - What You Need to Know

Do you want to keep your dog healthy and happy?

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for dogs, just like they are for humans. Dogs need omega 3s for cognitive function, joint health, skin and coat health, and more.

Not all supplements are created equal, however. That’s why it’s important to do your research before choosing one for your dog. In this blog post, we will discuss the best omega-3 supplement for dogs and why it is important to give your furry friend this nutrient.

Read our blog post to learn more about the best omega-3 supplement for dogs!

I wrote this review to save you time by doing the research for you. The opinions in this article are strictly my own, and I have not been paid to write them. However, DonnaLikes may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made from links on this page. This does not interfere with my objectivity and does not affect the price you pay.

Our Selection Criteria For Omega-3 Supplements

It can be tough to find a good omega-3 supplement for your pup.

All the different options and brands out there can make it overwhelming to try and find the best one for your dog.

I did all the research for you and found the best omega-3 supplements for dogs. These supplements contain high-quality ingredients, including EPA and DHA, which are essential fatty acids that support healthy skin, coat, joints, heart, brain, and vision.

FeelGood Omega®

Why I like this one

Introducing FeelGood Omega® – the ultimate health supplement that is perfect for your furry friends! This squid-based oil is tested to be toxin-free and heavy-metal-free, so you can rest assured knowing your pup is getting the absolute best care.

With its rich calamari oil, this supplement provides a range of amazing benefits to keep your pet looking and feeling his absolute best.

FeelGood Omega® helps maintain healthy skin and a glossy coat. It also helps to support your dog's immune system, giving him the extra boost of energy needed throughout the day. FeelGood Omega® also supports healthy joints and cognitive function – an essential part of maintaining all-around health for dogs of every age.

Things you probably want to know

This omega-3 supplement for dogs is made in Norway, with human-grade ingredients, including the highest concentration of DHA and EPA from calamari.

This product has a 2-year shelf life if unopened. Once opened, it must be refrigerated and used within 90 days. Each convenient-sized glass bottle contains 6.7 fl oz, so you can keep your pup healthy without any fuss - simply add it to his food.

Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet Soft Gels

Why I like this one

Finding the perfect supplements for your four-legged family members can be a challenge, but luckily, Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet is here to help.

This omega-3 supplement contains a non-GMO triglyceride form of fish oil, designed with optimal absorption in mind, so you don’t have to worry about not getting your money’s worth.

Research supports that EPA and DHA found in fish oils can aid in heart health, joint support, immunity, and skin and coat maintenance for pets of all sizes.

Things you probably want to know

This omega-3 formula is made from fresh, wild-caught omega-rich sardines and anchovies with absolutely no GMOs, gluten, or dairy. Plus, Nordic Naturals is committed to sustainability and ethical practices, which have earned them a Friend of the Sea certification.

Every batch is crafted in a zero-waste facility that runs on biofuel, so you can feel confident knowing that you're getting an omega-rich product that's good for your pup and the planet!

With a serving size of one soft gel per 20 lbs of body weight (for larger dogs add to food and for smaller dogs puncture the gel cap and apply the oil directly onto food), you'll give your pup the nutrition they need without sacrificing on taste.

Always check with your veterinarian to assure that this is the optimal amount to provide for your specific pet.

Salveo PetcareOmega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs

Why I like this one

Introducing Salveo Petcare's Omega 3 Fish Oil for - an all-natural, easy way to support your pup’s overall health! This wild-caught dog fish oil is sourced from anchovies, sardines, and mackerel – providing a cleaner source than salmon oil.

Plus, it's made right here in the USA in a registered facility that follows cGMP guidelines and undergoes molecular distillation for ultimate purity.

Omega 3 fatty acids have proven to benefit canine health in numerous ways. This natural supplement provides essential nutrition to help give your pup a shiny coat, healthy skin, and improved joint function. It can even help reduce inflammation.

Things you probably want to know

The soft gel capsules are gluten-free, and GMO-free and contain natural tocopherol, a form of vitamin E, as a preservative.

With 180 capsules per bottle, you can be sure to get the most bang out of this omega-3 supplement, and with their 100% guarantee if not satisfied, you don't need to worry about wasting your money!

Veterinarian advice is always recommended when considering any new supplements for your pup.

Dr. Mercola Antarctic Krill Oil Supplement

Why I like this one

Looking for a way to help keep your four-legged best friend healthy and happy? Consider giving them Dr. Mercola's Antarctic Krill Oil Supplement! This high-quality, human supplement is purely Krill oil, sourced from pristine Antarctic waters, providing essential fatty acids that are key for proper growth and development in all species.

The omega-3s (EPA and DHA) are configured into easy-to-digest phospholipids – liposomes that quickly transfer the fatty acids directly to the body's cells, where they can be absorbed more easily.

Some veterinarians suggest using a human supplement like this one instead of pet supplements, especially when calculating dosages for larger dogs. It's also guaranteed free of preservatives and GMOs.

Things you probably want to know

This supplement uses cold-pressed krill oil, to help prevent oxidation and rancidity over time. It also doesn't come in soft gel form, as these can oxidize faster, so the hard capsules will help it keep its potency for longer.

Sustainability has been kept in mind during the production and sourcing of the product, so you can be sure you're doing something good for Fido as well as the environment!

Adored Beast Potent-Sea Omega-3

Why I like this one

Introducing Adored Beast's Potent-Sea Omega-3 for Dogs. This is an omega-3 oil unlike anything else – it's harvested from micro-algae which is packed with beneficial DHA and EPA.

This product isn't pulled straight from the ocean — it's cultivated on land and free from solvents, pesticides, or any other chemicals or heavy metals. This drastically reduces the impact on our precious marine wildlife while still providing all that rich omega-3 nutrition!

You won't have to worry about a messy application, either; just add Adored Beast Potent-sea directly onto their food from the dropper applicator. All the ingredients are thoroughly tested to ensure top-grade quality, so you’ll always be providing them with exactly what they need.

Things you probably want to know

Human-grade and third-party tested, this omega-3 supplement is grown in fermentation tanks free from environmental contaminants.

The omega-3 supplement also uses high oleic sunflower oil and rosemary extract to slow down oxidation which leads to rancidity, so your dog will be able to enjoy the omega-3 benefits safely and longer.

The marine algae used in Potent-Sea comes from Schizochytrium sp., a type of microalgae found in some marine coastal areas.

Omega-3 Supplement For Dogs FAQ

Are you looking to provide your canine companion with omega-3 supplements? We've got some important information below to help you make an informed decision.

Learn more about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids and find out what kind of supplements are the best choice for your pup.

What are omega-3s?

Omega-3s are one of the essential fatty acids. They are important for all animals, including humans and dogs. In humans, omega-3s help to regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, improve cognitive function, and may even help prevent certain types of cancer.

In pets, omega-3s have been shown to have a range of benefits, including improved joint health, coat condition, skin health, and brain development. They can also reduce the risk of certain conditions such as allergies and eczema in both humans and dogs.

For dogs specifically, omega-3s can help reduce inflammation associated with arthritis and other joint issues as well as improve skin conditions caused by allergies or dry skin.

For more details on omega-3s, you can check this website.

Omega-3s: Always a Good Idea

EPA and DHA omega-3s are always a good idea for helping you stay healthy. Learn more about this thoroughly researched nutrient.

Omega 3s, Always a Good Idea

What are good sources of omega-3 for dogs?

Good sources of DHA and EPA for dogs include:

• Fish oil supplements - especially those made from smaller fish like sardines, anchovies, and mackerel
• Krill oil
• Algae products

Plant-based options such as flaxseed, hemp seed, and chia seed do not provide all of the essential fatty acids needed by dogs. Plant-based options contain ALA. Dogs cannot convert ALA into DHA and EPA, so they need to obtain those essential fatty acids from other sources. Dogs need the omega-3 DHA the most.

Are omega-3 supplements good for dogs?

Omega fatty acids are essential nutrients that provide many health benefits to dogs, including improved digestive health and skin and coat condition, as well as increased joint flexibility.

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for providing many different health benefits to dogs, including improved cognitive function, joint health, skin and coat health, and more. In fact, research has shown that omega-3 supplements can help improve overall dog health in a number of ways.

One of the most common benefits associated with omega-three supplements for dogs is improved cognitive function. Studies have shown that the omega-3 fatty acid DHA helps support the development and maintenance of healthy brain cells, which can lead to enhanced learning ability, improved problem-solving skills, and better overall mental performance. This is especially important for puppies.

Omega-3 supplements also aid in joint health by helping reduce inflammation in the joints, as well as supporting healthy cartilage growth. This helps keep your dog’s joints flexible and can reduce the risk of arthritis, one of the most common age-related health problems in older dogs.

Finally, omega-three supplements can help improve skin and coat condition in dogs by helping to nourish their skin from the inside out, promoting healthy skin turnover and reducing shedding. This can help keep your pup looking their best, while also keeping their coat in top condition.

How much omega-3 should a dog have daily?

The required amount of omega-3 that dogs need, is dependent on breed, age, weight, and current health conditions. All dogs need omega-3 but be sure you are not feeding too much omega-3 as that can be harmful. It is best to do your research and consult with a veterinarian who has training in nutrition.

How much fish oil should a dog have each day?

Strictly speaking, there is no actual requirement for a dog to have fish oil. Dogs need essential fatty acids and they may or may not come from a fish oil source. As an example, microalgae are a source of essential fatty acid, but it is not a fish oil supplement.

Rather, it is a form of marine life called algae and is actually the food source that enables fish to provide essential fatty acids. The fish eat the microalgae and it gets stored in their tissues or organs. Bigger fish get their essential fatty acids by eating the smaller fish. And so on and so forth.

Is there a difference between omega-3 supplements for dogs and humans?

Yes, there is a difference between omega-3s for dogs and humans. In many cases, omega-3s for dogs are higher in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) than those for humans. DHA helps with cognitive development and visual acuity in pups, which means it's important that they get enough from their diet. On the other hand, humans benefit more from EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which helps to reduce inflammation and can help lower cholesterol levels.

Depending on the particular supplement, a human supplement may be appropriate for your pup. The main disadvantage of human supplements is many add flavorings and other ingredients to disguise the taste. If the human supplement has minimal added ingredients, it may be appropriate for your pet and the pricing may also be advantageous. Always check with a veterinarian who is trained in nutrition to be sure.

What are important things to consider related to essential fatty acids?

Supplementing your dog’s diet with Omega 3 helps restore the optimum Omega 3 to Omega 6 ratio and improves health. Most highly processed dog food is much higher in omega-6 so it is important to add omega-3 to help balance out the ratio. Most dogs and humans alike get too much omega-6 and not enough omega-3.

Since essential fatty acids can go rancid quickly, it is best to buy only a 30-day supply at a time and keep the container in the refrigerator.

Watch the following video by Dr. Katie Woodley for more things to consider when selecting the right supplement for your pooch.

Humans and dogs do not convert plant oil which contains a short-chain EFA(Essential Fatty Acid) called ALA to EPA and DHA and thus using plant oils alone, o not provide the required EPA and DHA needed.

Can I give my dog human omega-3 supplements?

In general, human omega-3 supplements are not formulated for animals and could contain ingredients that are added simply to make the product more palatable for humans. These added ingredients may or may not be safe for your beloved pet.

If you are unsure, choose a supplement that was developed specifically for a dog's health needs. However, if the ingredients are safe, a supplement formulated for humans may be more cost-effective, especially for larger dogs. Always check with a veterinarian who is trained in nutrition for advice.

What form should the supplement come in?

Omega 3 supplements for dogs come in a variety of forms such as capsules, gel caps, powders, liquids and chews. Liquids may offer an easy-to-use option with accurate dosage control through a built-in dropper system.

However, hard capsules are the best form for stability since they help prevent oxidation which leads to rancidity. Chews are convenient but due to excessive exposure to air, they may lose their potency rather quickly and even become rancid.

It is really hard to find a supplement that follows the recommended processing to prevent oxidation and thus slow down rancidity. One of the worst choices is liquid fish oil in a plastic bottle with a plastic pump that says no refrigeration is required.

The following choices all speed up oxidation and thus lead to faster spoilage

• storing at room temperature
• using a plastic pump that draws air into the container
• storing in a plastic bottle since air can enter through the sides of the container.

What are cold water fish?

Cold water fish includes many fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, sardines, trout, swordfish, and anchovies.

The bigger fish such as tuna, salmon and swordfish are more likely to contain more toxins since they are higher up on the food chain.

In general, the smaller fish such as anchovies and sardines have eaten mostly microalgae and are very low on the food chain.

Why didn't I recommend a supplement containing wild Alaskan salmon oil?

There are many wild-caught Alaskan salmon oil supplements on the market and although I did recommend some of them in my article about itchy skin entitled Say Goodbye to Itchy Skin For Good,

Say Goodbye to Itchy Skin for Good

Your dog is scratching himself constantly. There are supplements that can help. Discover the best ones, so that your dog can finally get relief.

DonnaLikesDonna

I have since learned the benefits of choosing products made from smaller fish since they tend to contain less harmful toxins.

If there is evidence that the manufacturer is doing adequate testing for heavy metals and other toxic substances, then the salmon-based products may be OK to use.

Be sure to purchase in smaller quantities and refrigerate the product, even if it doesn't say to do so. This is the best recommendation for all products containing essential fatty acids such as omega-3.

What is the National Animal Supplement Council?

The council is an organization that provides 3rd party certification for responsibly created supplements that are produced for dogs, cats, and horses. Their quality seal on a product means that the supplier has passed a third-party audit and maintains a quality that meets NASC standards. You can find more information at the following site.

NASC Quality Seal | NASC LIVE

NASC Quality Seal The NASC Quality Seal identifies products from companies that are committed to quality, vigilance, and continuous improvement…Read More

NASC LIVE

What is a Friend of the Sea Certification?

Friend of the Sea is an international certification program that promotes sustainable and ethical fishing practices. The program works to support suppliers, consumers, and the marine environment by certifying wild-caught seafood and promoting environmentally friendly aquaculture operations. You can find more information at the following site.

Seafood Sustainable Certification Certification for Fishery

International certification program for sustainable fishery, aquaculture and other sea-related products and services - Seafood Sustainable Certification

Friend of the Sea

What is cGMP?

cGMP stands for Current Good Manufacturing Practice. It is a set of regulations created by the FDA to ensure that products are manufactured, stored, and distributed in a safe and secure environment.

The regulations cover everything from product quality control, to employee safety and hygiene. Compliance with cGMP helps manufacturers to produce consistent products with reliable quality. For more information, visit the FDA website.

Facts About the Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs)

It’s a fact! Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) help to establish the foundation for quality pharmaceuticals through regulatory standards.

FDA<a href=”/taxonomy/term/815″ hreflang=“en”>Center for Drug Evaluation and Research</a>

What is high oleic sunflower oil and why is if preferable to regular sunflower oil?

High oleic sunflower oil is a type of sunflower oil that has been manufactured to contain higher levels of the monounsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid) and less of the polyunsaturated fatty acid (linoleic acid) than traditional sunflower oils.

This oil is often used in food products such as margarines and shortenings, as well as in the beauty and personal care industry. High oleic sunflower oil is considered one of the healthiest edible oils due to its high levels of monounsaturated fat and low levels of polyunsaturated fat. This makes it much more resistent to oxidation and rancidity. Read more at the following website.

What is High-Oleic Sunflower Oil? - Tufts Health & Nutrition Letter

High-oleic sunflower oil is a type of plant oil made from sunflower seeds that have been conventionally bred to be high in oleic acid (a monounsaturated fatty acid) and low in linoleic acid (a polyunsaturated fatty acid). There is a minimum of 80% oleic acid in high-oleic sunflower oil. In compariso…

Tufts Health & Nutrition LetterEditorial Staff

Sciency stuff about fatty acids😁

I found this fascinating. Very technical but I like that kind of stuff.

Fatty acids with double bonds are called omega-9, omega-6, or omega-3 based on the location of the first double bond from the methyl (omega) end of the hydrocarbon chain.

For example, omega-6 fatty acids, often found in animal tissue and sunflower and safflower oils, have their first double bond between carbons 6 and 7 from the omega end, whereas omega-3 fatty acids, derived from plant and marine sources, have their first double bond between carbons 3 and 4.

Find the best omega-3 supplement for your dog

In conclusion, omega-3s are an essential part of any dog's diet and there are many options available for supplements.

DHA helps with cognitive development and visual acuity in pups, so they must get enough from their diet.

EPA also helps to reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for dogs suffering from skin issues or joint pain.

With the right supplement, you can help to ensure your pup is getting all the nutrients they need to stay healthy and happy.

Thanks for stopping at DonnaLikes

Donna and Gibbs

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This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for the diagnosis, treatment, and advice of a qualified licensed veterinarian.