Fish oil is probably the most important supplement you can add to your dog’s diet, regardless of what type of diet you feed. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil. Liquid fish oil products made for humans often contain flavorings that dogs generally do not like. Cod liver oil is similar to fish oil, but most products also contain high levels of vitamins A and D. Do not use high doses of cod liver oil. If additional omega-3 fatty acids are desired, add plain fish oil.
Some proven benefits from EPA and DHA are improves the coat and skin, reduces inflammation due to conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease,regulates the immune system, boosting those that are suppressed and calming overactive immune systems for dogs with allergies or autoimmune diseases, aids in mental development of fetuses and puppies, and improving cognitive function in older dogs with geriatric dementia, lowers blood pressure and triglycerides, provides support for dogs with kidney disease, heart disease, and cancer and promotes weight loss in overweight dogs.
Too much of a good thing may have adverse effects on health. The anti-inflammatory properties of EPA and DHA also interfere with blood clotting and wound healing by slowing down the process. Such an effect could be serious for an animal undergoing an extensive surgical procedure that was also fed high levels of dietary fish oil.
Healthy dogs can be given 100 to 150 mg EPA and DHA per 5kg of body weight daily. Consult with your veterinarian when treating conditions requiring higher dosages.
