Omega 3 for Dogs: What You Need to Know

Like me you've heard about the importance of omega 3 for your own health. But dog biology is clearly different in a lot of ways. So, is omega 3 for dogs worth it, or just hype?

The other day, I was on my usual afternoon stroll around the neighborhood with Bruno, my gentle giant of a lab mix, and Pixie, my ever-energetic terrier. We stopped to chat with a fellow dog mom, Naomi, who was gushing over Bruno's shiny coat. "What are you feeding him? He looks amazing!" she asked.

I smiled. "Well, thank you! That's something we're working on this year. Omega 3 is like a magic potion for dogs."

Of course, Pixie had to show off her silky fur, too, prancing around Naomi and a rambunctious toy poodle, Amari, as if to say, "I’m on the Omega 3 train, too!"

But omega 3 for dogs is about more than getting Pixie ready for a magazine photo shoot. Healthy dog treats with omega 3 have many benefits—inside and out.

Here's how to find the best healthy dog treats with omega 3.

What Is Omega 3 for Dogs?

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats. So, dogs (and humans, too!) need them. But we can’t produce them on our own. We have to get omega 3 from food.

These good fats are crucial for various bodily functions, including:

• Cell membrane health
• Inflammation control
• Brain function
• Joint health
• Heart health

We don't need a lot of it, but without enough, dogs are not in optimal health and will decline earlier than they would otherwise.

I don't like to think about it. I want my pups to stay healthy and active for hikes, fetch, laughs, and dog fashion shows for a very long time.

What Are the Omega 3 Benefits for Dogs?

Omega 3 is a multitasker for dogs in particular. The difference between dogs getting enough and too little is very noticeable.

Glossy Coat and Healthy Skin

Dogs who get enough have shinier, softer coats—regardless of breed. They have healthier skin, so you may notice they don't scratch at it or develop skin allergies.

Responsive and Active

Because it keeps heart and brain inflammation in check, dogs are typically more active, alert, and responsive to commands. They may be easier to train.

Go ahead: put your pup to the test with this Free 7-Day Dog Training Challenge. From the basics to more advanced skills, the dog training experts at K9 Connoisseur show you how to quickly teach dogs new skills they'll use for a lifetime.

Omega 3 for Dog Joints and Mobility

You might also see the difference in how they walk. Because arthritis is a degenerative joint inflammation, starting a dog on omega 3 at a younger age can preserve joints and allow them to walk more confidently (and without pain) as they age.

Better Immunity

A strong immune system means fewer trips to the vet. Omega 3 strengthens your dog’s immune response, making them less susceptible to infections and illnesses. At the same time, omega 3 for dogs is an immune response modulator.

That means it prevents the immune system from overreacting to threats. Chronic inflammation happens when an unhealthy immune system revs up a heavy-handed response to invaders (bacteria, viruses, parasites, fungus, allergens). Many "diseases," from dog pneumonia to gastrointestinal issues in dogs to dog dermatitis, are the result of this excessive immune response.

Why Do Dogs Struggle to Get Enough Omega 3?

If omega 3 is so important, you might be wondering: why aren't dog food manufacturers required to include it? The truth is: this isn't a requirement because it's not practical for most dog treat and dog food companies.

Sadly, dogs on an all-kibble diet do not get this vital nutrient because the high heat at which most dog food is cooked destroys any omega 3 that may have been in the ingredients. Much of the omega 3 is destroyed at just 170 degrees F for an extended period. Kibble is cooked at 220 to 300 degrees. And wet food isn't any better. It's cooked upwards of 350, so stuff doesn't grow in it.

Additionally, the cooking method matters. More omega 3 is preserved when it's encased in other fats during cooking. For example, brushing olive oil on salmon before baking can preserve more omega 3.

Kibble and wet food is mixed and churned while cooking. The omega 3 is exposed to the full heat. On the other hand, if there were some way to keep the omega 3 inside a protective "shell" that included other fats, more would survive.

There's also a matter of the type of omega 3. Chia, avocado, and walnuts are fantastic sources of omega 3. But the best omega 3 for dogs comes from animal sources like grass fed beef. Grass-fed beef has 2.5X the omega 3 of conventionally-raised cattle—and less saturated fat.

Fish oil capsules could provide a solution. But unfortunately, researchers have tested fish oil for humans and found as much as 60-80% of the omega 3 is oxidized (destroyed) in unexpired capsules.

Hmmm. I wonder if any dog treat vendors have found a way to preserve the omega 3? It sure would make it a lot easier for my dogs to get enough of this vital nutrient.

Single Ingredient Healthy Dog Treats Are the Answer

When you buy a single ingredient healthy dog treats with omega 3 you're leaving that omega 3 inside it's naturally-occurring protection until your dog consumes it. This means more omega 3 can get into your dog's tummy and out to the rest of the body.

Think about it. We know that ultra-processed foods aren't great for health for a lot of reasons. This is one of them. When ingredients are taken out of their natural environment and combined with potentially harmful preservatives, additives, and GMOs, they lose nutrition.

My dogs get grass fed beef marrow-filled dog bones and dog treats. They deserve what I can give. And their dog health is thriving on these all-natural dog bone treats. Even my neighbor Naomi noticed. And she has two dogs of her own. She knows when a dog's coat is extra shiny.

The omega 3 benefits for dogs are helping my dogs feel and look their best. Marrow bones are possibly the best source of high-quality omega 3 dogs. Bone marrow is mostly protein and fat. So it can preserve omega 3. Plus, that marrow is inside a naturally-occurring "shell", the dog bone, for even more protection.

Best Single Ingredient Dog Bones and Treats

Best Omega 3 Training Treats

Beef lung bites are lightweight, nutrient-dense, and rich in omega 3. Their easy-to-break texture makes them ideal for training sessions, allowing you to reward your pup frequently without overloading on calories.

You can find these irresistible training treats on Amazon.

Best Omega 3 Plus Joint Support Dog Treats

Beef trachea chews combine omega 3 with natural glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. These long-lasting treats also clean teeth while supporting mobility.

Get the best single-ingredient joint support treats for dogs on Amazon.

Best Omega 3 Dog Bones

Marrow bones from grass-fed cattle provide a natural source of Omega 3, collagen, and B12. They’re perfect for extended chewing sessions, keeping dogs entertained and supporting overall health. You can check out marrow bones like this Champ dog bone here.

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