Health Benefits of Salmon Oil for Dogs - The Facts and Nutrition

Salmon Oil has become one of the most popular, well-known supplements for dogs and for good reason. A small amount each day on top of your dog’s food can improve your dog’s cognitive function, boost the immune system, help combat kidney and heart disease, and it is even suggested to prevent cachexia which is often seen in dogs with cancer, who knew?

Besides highlighting the health benefits of salmon oil for dogs, we are going to explore everything you need to know about it, from the directions, how to store and whether salmon oil is right for you and your tail-wagger.

What is Salmon Oil?

You have probably heard of Omega-3 fatty acids before, if not, you will hear it a lot here at Betty & Butch. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that play an important role in your dog’s development, nutrition and health. It is one of the key components that your dog’s body doesn’t produce itself. As a result, Omega-3 fatty acids have to be obtained from your dog’s diet.

Salmon oil contains a high concentration of both Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which provides many health benefits for your pup. Supplementing Salmon oil into your dog’s diet is one of the best ways to ensure that your dog is getting the Omega-3 nutrition they need.

Not to be mistaken for fish oil which is made up of many different fish species such as sardines, tuna, and herring, salmon oil for dogs is considered healthier than fish oil because of the way it is made.

Fish oil is typically produced by boiling but salmon oil is pressed at relatively low temperatures and is considered less damaging. This is because the low temperatures help to preserve their excellent nutritional value.

The oil that is extracted from salmon has a lot more Omega-3 fatty acids than other fish and contain two of the most important fatty acids for dogs which are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). 

Health Benefits of Salmon Oil

Improves Cognitive Function – The fatty acids in Salmon Oil play an important role in how your dog’s brain functions and develops. Salmon oil has been proven in many studies to help dogs perform better in memory, visual and training. It is a great option, especially for puppies to help them to learn and develop from a young age.

Skin & Coat – DHA and EPA fatty acids found in salmon oil provide a healthier, shiner coat, especially for dogs with irritated or itchy skin.

Allergies – Besides promoting a healthy coat, salmon oil is hypoallergenic, which can help regulate allergies and ease symptoms of common skin conditions in dogs.

Immune System – Salmon oil is high in omega 3 and omega 6, both which help in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. They also help dogs with joint problems and older dogs to help to ease symptoms of arthritis.

Healthy Heart Function – The anti-inflammatory and anti-arrhythmic properties found in salmon oil helps to support a healthy heart and lowers blood pressure so they are great for dogs who have heart problems.

Collagen – A surprising benefit of salmon oil is that they contain a high amount of the collagen protein which helps keep skin, joint and ligaments healthy and stretchy. Collagen is produced less and less as a dog gets older so supplementing salmon oil in your dog’s diet makes sure they have enough collagen in the body and it even helps create more collagen that is produced by the body in the future.

Are There Any Risk Factors?

Dogs with a Fish Allergy - Salmon oil should not be given to dogs who have a fish allergy for obvious reasons and whilst there are many health benefits to this tasty supplement, as dog parents, we know that all dogs are different. If you notice any side effects such as vomiting, diarrhoea or dizziness, stop immediately because salmon oil might not be suitable for your dog or they have been offered an excess amount so reduce the quantity.

Introduce Slowly - Salmon oil should always be introduced into your dog’s diet slowly, starting with a smaller amount at first and then gradually reaching the recommended amount for your dog’s size and weight. You should always ask your vet first before making any dietary changes in your dog’s diet.

Calories - It is also important to bear in mind the extra calories that salmon oil contains so you should reduce the rest of your dog’s diet accordingly especially for dogs who are overweight. Salmon oil can be very nutritionally healthy but just keep in mind the added calories it will add to your dog’s diet.

Avoid Low Quality Products – The most important of them all, be wary of where you are getting your salmon oil. You should only go for salmon oil that is ‘cold-pressed’ which is a gentle technique that doesn’t break down the essential fatty acids that are offered by the high omega-3 content. Always avoid salmon oil that is made with with preservatives and chemicals.

Directions & How to Store Salmon Oil

Fairly simple to add to your dog’s diet, salmon oil should be gradually introduced into your dog’s food and all you have to do is add it on top and mix it in. If you give your dog dry food, simply adding a small amount will give it more moisture and flavour which your dog will adore. Our recommended amount for a healthy supplement;

Small dog - One teaspoon a day

Medium - Two teaspoons a day

Large - Three teaspoons + 5ml

Did you know that our salmon oil is also suitable for cats?

Our recommendation is ½ teaspoon a day for cats.

After adding salmon oil to your dog’s food, the bottle should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent the oil going rancid. Do not refrigerate and once opened, use within 3 months and always check the date on the bottle.

Should I Get Salmon Oil For My Dog?

For sure!

Salmon Oil is full of essential fatty acids that are required for optimal health. There are many scientifically proven benefits for your dog from a noticeably shiny coat, reduced itchiness, lower blood pressure, more collagen produced by the body and reduced inflammation.

As long as you keep informed and only offer your pup high quality salmon oil like our Cold Pressed Salmon Oil, you have nothing to worry about.