Best Omega-3s For Dogs – Organic Bunny

As we all know by now, I am a huge dog lover and I want them to have the best life ever. I also want them to live until they are 100 so ensuring they get the proper nutrients they need is a must for me. One thing people ask me a lot is, “What is the Best Omega 3 For Dogs”? or “Does my dog need an Omega 3? So, today we are going to explore not only what Omega3s are but also why they are needed and then, of course, the best possible ways to get some into their diet!

What Are Omega-3s?

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that provide numerous health benefits for dogs, particularly in promoting joint health, reducing inflammation, improving coat, and supporting cognitive function. The two most important omega-3s for dogs are EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), both of which are known for their anti-inflammatory effects, helping alleviate pain and improve mobility in dogs with arthritis or joint issues. Omega-3s also contribute to a shiny coat, reduce skin inflammation, and support heart health.

• Promote optimal joint health.
• Reduce inflammation.
• Support cognitive function and heart health.
• Improve skin and coat.
• Improve mobility in dogs with joint issues.

What Is the Best Source of Omega-3s?

The best sources of omega-3s for dogs are fish oil, krill oil, and algal oil! Flaxseed oil and chia seeds are plant-based options that provide ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), but the body converts it less efficiently into EPA and DHA. If you do want a plant-based option, we will link one below that performs better than flax or chia. The typical dosage is around 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA per 10 pounds of body weight daily, but it’s best to consult a veterinarian for personalized recommendations. Omega-3s are especially beneficial for senior dogs, those with joint pain, or dogs with skin conditions, cognitive decline or anyone who simply wants to add the above values into their dog’s daily nutrition!

Best Omega-3 Products

Wild Sardines

Sardines are considered one of the best sources of omega-3s because they are rich in EPA and DHA, provide fewer toxins like mercury compared to larger fish, are more sustainable due to their fast reproduction rates, and offer a nutrient-dense profile with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, they are minimally processed, retaining more natural nutrients, making them a healthy and eco-friendly option for dogs. Wild sardines are better than farmed sardines because they have lower levels of contaminants like mercury, eat a natural diet that leads to higher-quality omega-3s, are more sustainably caught, and offer a richer nutritional profile with more vitamins and minerals. Additionally, they are often less processed, retaining more of their natural nutrients compared to farmed fish. We recently found this brand of Wild Sardines and my dogs are OBSESSED. Try them and thank me later! If you prefer a supplement form, we also carry the Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Soft Gels you can add to their food easily or the Fera Pet Fish Oil which is a blend of various Wild fish, including Sardines.

Cod Liver Oil

This is another good source of omega-3s for dogs because it is rich in EPA and DHA, which help reduce inflammation, support joint health, and improve skin and coat condition. Additionally, it contains high levels of vitamin A and vitamin D, which promote immune function, bone health, and vision. Its concentrated form makes it an effective supplement for addressing specific health needs in dogs. If you want more support with the immune system and bone health, a Cod Liver Oil is a great choice.

Sardines and cod liver oil are both excellent sources of omega-3s, but they differ in their nutritional profiles. Sardines provide a whole-food source of EPA, DHA, protein, and minerals, making them a more complete option for overall health, including joint and skin support. Cod liver oil, while also rich in omega-3s, is particularly high in vitamins A and D, supporting immune and bone health. Sardines are generally more sustainable and contain fewer contaminants, while cod liver oil offers a more concentrated form of nutrients.

Fish Free Omega-3s

New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel Oil and Ahiflower are both good sources of omega-3s for dogs. Green Lipped Mussel Oil provides EPA and DHA, supporting joint health and reducing inflammation, while Ahiflower is a plant-based omega-3 source rich in ALA, which can be converted into EPA and DHA, offering benefits for skin health, inflammation, and overall wellness. Both are natural, sustainable options for boosting omega-3 intake in dogs and the Four Leaf Rover option is great for those who cannot have fish!

Green Lipid Mussels

Green-lipped mussels are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These mussels are particularly known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making them beneficial for joint health and conditions like arthritis in both humans and dogs. In addition to omega-3s, green-lipped mussels also contain glycosaminoglycans (like glucosamine and chondroitin), which further support joint health by promoting cartilage repair and reducing inflammation. While they do provide omega-3s, green-lipped mussels are often used more for their overall joint and mobility benefits, rather than as a primary omega-3 supplement like fish oil. If you want joint support and Omega-3s a green lipped treat or product is a great option! We have some treat options as well as the Four Leaf Rover supplement our dogs love!

Marine Algae Oil

Marine algae oil is also a good fish-free, plant-based source of omega-3s for dogs because it provides EPA and DHA, the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that support joint health, cognitive function, and skin health. As a plant-based source, it’s an excellent alternative for dogs with fish allergies or those on a vegetarian diet, offering the same omega-3 benefits without the contaminants commonly found in fish oil. We love the Adored Beast Sea Omega.

Overall, Omega-3s are so critical to our pet’s diet so hopefully this blog summarized all the different options and made it a bit easier for you to narrow down which will be best for you! You can also choose one of the supplements and then, additionally give them the Sardine treats occasionally to give them a nice variety. Got questions? Be sure to post them below and we will answer them!