Elderly Pet Care, Nutrition, Pet Care Basics, Skin Problem Resources

Benefits of Omega-3 Supplements for Dogs

Is Omega-3 good for dogs? The answer is Yes! Omega-3 is a natural anti-inflammatory and often used as a nutraceutical product. Nutraceutical products are nutritional products or herbs that have therapeutic effects. Nutraceuticals for dogs are increasingly being used with other treatments to support recovery.

Omega Benefits for Dogs

What are the benefits of omega-3 for dogs? Omega-3 is a natural fatty acid that addresses irritation, itching and the effects of allergies, supports healthy joint function, skin and coat and helps controls inflammation. Fatty acids for dogs are essential for maintaining bodily functions, especially the immune system. When accompanied with bathing and antihistamines, Omega-3 has helped in addressing the irritation of pet allergies. It softens and improves resistance of skin to future allergens at the same time! In arthritis pain, omega-3 with glucosamine and chondroitin has helped to control pain and made movement easier.

Which Omega is Best for Dogs

When distinguishing between omega-3 sources, the ocean source is better because it is 20 times more bioactive than the plant source.

When giving omega-3, we can often lower the dose of prescription anti-inflammatory drugs. This is beneficial because it helps remove some of the negative side effects seen with prescription drugs.

Should You Give Your Dog Omega 3?

Omegaderm-3 helps to safely address inflammation without the negative side effects. Omegaderm-3 helps with allergy and itching issues, and it can be used with antihistamines or other prescription drugs safely. This supplement softens skin and supports resistance to allergies. When stacked with other allergy treatments, it will improve your success by controlling scratching and resulting trauma.

Omegaderm-3 can also help with arthritis, an inflammatory issue that causes pain and lameness. Giving Doc Roy’s® Aches Away Plus with Omegaderm-3 has been effective at easing movement, controlling pain and protecting cartilage. During warmer seasons, the combination of omega-3 with glucosamine and chondroitin can lower anti-inflammatory drug doses. In some cases, dogs might be able to take a break from pharmaceutical drugs completely.

Another great source of omega-3 for dogs is Doc Roy’s® Derma Coat Plus. These soft chews are packed with omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. When given on a daily basis, this formula will support your dog’s healthy skin, a shiny coat and strong nails.

Omega-3 is often given to older pets to help control coat and arthritis issues commonly seen in geriatric dogs. Because it is all natural, it is gentle enough for the kidney marginal patients who have sore joints that are difficult to treat.

How Often Should I Give My Dog Omega 3?

Dosage is not complicated; Omegaderm-3 for adult dogs give 1 tsp (5ml) per 20 pounds daily. For puppies, pregnant, or nursing mothers give 1 tsp (5 ml) per 10 pounds. Maximum suggested dosage for larger breeds is 6 tsps per day. For cats give ¼ tsp (1.25ml) per two pounds daily. For ill or recovering pets double the dosages daily. Starting with a low dosage and working up is always a good policy with nutraceuticals.

Natural treatments for inflammation can be a big help in dealing with chronic issues such as itching and arthritis. Use omega-3 as a natural anti-inflammatory to keep your pets more comfortable.

If you need help choosing the best Omega-3 supplement for your dog, call a Revival Animal Care Specialist at 800.786.4751.

Article originally written by Donald Bramlage, DVM, Revival’s Former Director of Veterinary Services. This article has been updated/reviewed by Dr. Greer.

Written by: Marty Greer, DVM

Director of Veterinary Services

Marty Greer, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, has 40+ years’ experience in veterinary medicine, with special interests in canine reproduction and pediatrics. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1981. She’s served as Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services since 2019. In 2023, Dr. Greer was named the Westminster Kennel Club Veterinarian of the Year.

If you need help, call us at 800.786.4751.