The Amazing Benefits of Omega 3 for Dogs
In another articles we talked about the 5 essential nutrients for a healthly and well balanced dog diet. Here we are going to go a little deeper into the benefits of Omega 3 for dogs, and some great sources of Omega 3 that dogs absolutely love.
Omega 3 is perhaps one of the most important nutrient in your dog’s diet. It provides a wide range of benefits for your dog’s health such as supporting brain development, strengthening the immune system, reducing inflammation, and the ability to fight off cancer.
What Are Omega 3s?
Omega 3s are called Essential Fatty Acids. However, that’s not to say they are just fats.
These are certain nutrients that a dog’s body cannot create by itself. This means they must be provided through healthy food choices or other supplements.
The good news is that there are plenty of tasty foods and treats that contain good amount of Omega 3s to keep your dog healthy. More on those later.
What Are the Benefits of Omega 3 for Dogs?
- Reduces Inflammation – Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids work together to control inflammation. Therefore, both must be kept in a healthy balance. Omega 3s are particularly useful for controlling inflammation that causes allergies and skin disorders like severe itching and loss of hair.
- Reduces Arthritis Inflammation – Omega 3s are particularly effective for older dogs with arthritis. It can significantly reduce discomfort and severity of inflammation in joints.
- Helps Dry and Flaky Skin – when your dog has a poor-quality coat it also at an increased risk of skin irritation, itching, skin allergies and bacterial infections.
- Prevents Yeast Infections – ear yeast infections are among one of the most common health complications for dogs. Omega 3s can help to reduce the risk of developing, and even treat these types of infections.
- Improves Hearth Health – Omega 3 has positive effects on heart function, and is able to help lower blood pressure. Dogs consuming Omega 3 may reduce their chances of developing an irregular heart rhythm, otherwise known as arterial fibrillation.
- Supports Brain Development in Puppies – it has been shown that puppies eating foods high in Omega 3s performed better in tests that involved memory, balance and coordination.
- Helps to Fight off Cancer – Omega 3s can slow or even prevent certain types of cancer. This has actually be proven by a study of 32 dogs with lymphoma which is a common type of cancer for dogs.
Healthy Sources of Omega 3 for Dogs
While vets may tell you to go searching for Fish Oil and Omega 3 supplements, it’s actually far easier, tastier, and more natural to get Omega 3 into your dog’s diet than that!
Here are a few Oh My Paws products that are loaded with Omega 3 and have dogs going tail wagging crazy for!
Whole Sardines – sourced from the waters of Northern Queensland, our Whole Sardines are about as direct from the source as it gets. We’ve also written a more in-depth article on the additional health benefits of Sardines for dogs, it’s well worth a read!
Mackerel Skin Chews – want something a little longer lasting? Mackerel Chews are twisted slow dried Aussie Mackerel Skins and make for a great Omega 3 boosting chewing treat. Ou 200g pack contain about 15-20 pieces each.
Green Lipped Mussels – sourced from New Zealand and slow dried in our Australian facilities. Green Lipped Mussels are the king of Omega 3 and make for an incredibly healthy meal supplement.
Omega 3 Topper – if your dog isn’t too fond of fish you can also try out Omega 3 Super Paws Nutrient Booster. This is a blend of Sardines, Green Lipped Mussels and Shark Cartlidge. Sprinkle a little bit on your dog’s meal to pack in the health benefits.
Essentially, a Sardines, a Mussel, or a sprinkling of Omega 3 each day will boost the Omega 3 in your dog’s diet. Just don’t leave the treats bag lying around unattended, or it might be empty when you get back.
