Salmon Oil for Dogs: Your Quick Guide

Salmon Oil for Dogs: Your Quick Guide

  • Kirsten Thornhill - 30.04.2020

You’ve probably heard of fish oil as a supplement, but salmon oil? Salmon oil for dogs is a supplement with amazing health benefits. For those little puppers and senior dogs, salmon oil is a magic healer for all ages. 


In today’s read, we’ll talk all things salmon oil for doggos as well as the safety, benefits, and dosages. 


Let’s swim!


Salmon Oil - What is it?


Well, salmon oil is the oil that is extracted from the salmon fish. This fish is a cold-water swimmer, found mostly in the North Pacific and North Atlantic oceans. The fish migrate to the ocean, return to fresh water to reproduce, hatching their eggs in fresh waters. Interestingly enough, they typically reproduce in the same spot as where they previously had eggs hatch, talk about an exceptional memory!


Because of their cold habitat and long journeys they take on, salmon are very fatty fish. Their bodies are great at storing and producing high levels of fat. It’s this fat, or oil, that we are most interested in here. 

 

 

Salmon oil has high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s and omega-6s refer to certain characteristics in the structure of the fatty acids. There are three major omega-3 fatty acids: 


  • Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
  • Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
  • Docosahexaenoic (DHA)

     

    To tie this together, DHA and EPA are found in salmon and fish oils. ALA is more so a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid. ALA is commonly found in canola, chia seeds, flaxseeds, soya beans, hemp seeds, and walnuts, to name a few. 


    How to Choose Salmon Oil for Your Dog


    When looking for salmon oil for your doggo, there are some important pointers we want to share with you:


    Is it Pure?


    You’ll want to choose a salmon oil that is purely made from salmon. Sounds silly and seems like a “no brainer”, but some are bolstered with other oils, including krill oil, seed oil, vegetable oil, or fish oil. 


    How is it Produced?


    The most optimal form? Cold pressed salmon. Cold press extraction methods are the least destructive of the essential fatty acids. 


    Is it Wild-Caught or Farmed?


    Wild-caught salmon generally has a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids compared to farmed salmon. 


    Vet Preferred: Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil


    Veterinarians prefer premium wild Alaskan salmon oil. It is a top of the range salmon oil for dogs. It’s great for shiny, soft, and smooth coats as well as all-around healthy doggos. 


     

    What makes it so special? Well, because Alaskan salmon is used. This salmon is free of added hormones and antibiotics. In addition, the producers also practice sustainable farming methods. 


    5 Benefits of Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil

    Contains DHA and EPA, these are important for heart health

    Helps dogs to have a shiny coat and healthy skin

    Helps to maintain strong bones

    Re-balances the moisture content in your dog’s skin 

    Reduces allergies and shedding

      The Benefits of Salmon Oil


      There are SO many amazing benefits of salmon oil for your four-legged friend. By the time you finish reading this section, you’ll be wondering why you hadn’t purchased any sooner. 


      Omega-3 fatty acids help to build a strong barrier of skin cells, helping prevent an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with the skin. 


      Helps for a healthy and luscious coat. 


      Assist in the prevention of skin issues and autoimmune diseases.


      Assist in the production of collagen, these proteins are found throughout your pet’s body.

       

       

      Lowers the concentration of certain triglycerides (TGA) and blood pressure in the body. If your pet has high concentrations of the wrong kinds of triglycerides, this may lead to high blood pressure and clogged or blocked arteries. 

       

      • Assist in the development and health of fetuses
      • Helps puppy mental development 
      • Aids in prevention of heart disease
      • Support for dogs with kidney and heart disease
      • Leads to improved cognitive abilities in senior dogs
      • Encourages weight loss
      • Reduces joint issues
      • Reduces inflammation that leads to arthritis
      • Aids in prevention of cachexia caused by cancer
      • Good for eye health
      • Regulates and boosts the immune system
      • Helps to calm an overactive immune system 

      Why Omega-3s Matter for Dogs


      Omega-3 fatty A’s are vital for so many important aspects of your dog’s health. Essential fatty acids form the outer layer that surround almost each and every cell in their cute little bodies. Dogs can’t manufacture their own omega-3s and omega-6s. This is why it is so important to get these essential fatty A’s into their diet.


      The ratio of omega-3s and omega-6s matters. Omega-6s play a vital role in the structure of cell membranes. But, if the ratio of omega-6 to omega-4 is too high, detrimental effects may occur. 


      For instance, a ratio of 5:1 and 10:1 is thought to be an ideal ratio. Omega-6 fatty A’s can be found in most vegetables and seeded oils. Thus, they are readily available.


      Most dog foods do contain high levels of omega-6s! However, they do not contain sufficient amounts of omega-3s. It is crucial that you supplement with omega-3s to keep that ratio balanced and optimal!


      Fish Oil vs Salmon Oil: Are They the Same Oil?


      We can say that they are very very similar. They both are great sources of EPA and DHA. Fish oil supplementation can also be super beneficial to your pup! There are a few key differences between the two oils though. 


      Salmon oil is extracted from salmon, and only salmon. FIsh oil, for example cod liver oil can be extracted from a wide variety of fish, like tuna, mackerel, herring, krill, or cod.

       

       

      Omega-3 fatty acids are higher in salmon oil. There are also numerous benefits from salmon oil that aren’t found in fish oil.  


      Salmon oil, like we briefly mentioned above, is cold pressed. This method readily preserves the oils, so your dog can enjoy maximal benefit from the oil. On the other hand, fish oils produced for pets are usually boiled. By heating these oils, this can break them down, resulting in a huge loss of those essential fatty acids. 


      Does it Help or Harm For my Dog to Eat Salmon


      Yes, dogs can eat salmon. It’s an awesome source of protein and omega-3s. But, do keep in mind:

       

      Make sure to check for small bones that may be a choking hazard

      Never give your dog undercooked or raw salmon

      Make sure your dog is not allergic to salmon

        How to Add Salmon Oil 


        This is the easy peezy part! Salmon oil supplements come in many different forms: pills, oils, treats, capsules, etc. These should be straightforward when adding them into your pup’s diet/meals. 

         

         

        Some four-legged fur babies are picky eaters or diet sensitive (if you know, you know). If this is the case, your vet may advise giving your pooch a topical treatment. This won’t necessarily have the same effect as them eating it and your dog could begin to smell like fish. Oh boy!


        Salmon Oil Dosage for Dogs


        Dosage is most often based off the dog’s weight:


        0 -26 lbs 4 ml 

        27 - 53 lbs 8 ml

        54 - 106 lbs 12 ml

        107 lbs and up 16 ml


        These guidelines are for basic salmon oil supplementation. If you are treating or managing a specific issue or disease, you may need to increase your dose. Consult with your vet about the correct and personalized dose for your dog’s specific needs.


        Do Other Supplements Compete with Salmon Oil?


        Yes! The overall health and well-being of your canine friend should be at the top of your list! We understand that the selection of dog food supplements claim all sorts of healthful benefits, which can be super overwhelming. 


        So which supplements can offer amazing benefits like salmon oil? CBD friends! Many paw parents are coming to know the beautiful benefits of CBD oil and treats for dogs. 


        Petly CBD Pet Chews


        CBD, cannabidiol, is a non-toxic and 100% natural cannabinoid that is extract from the hemp plant. The individuals behind Petly CBD have put together a delicious-tasting treat for your dog to enjoy!

         

         

        The anti-inflammatory properties of hemp oil along with coconut oil are great for relieving inflammation and pain. Petly CBD Pet Chews are a beneficial supplement for dogs with bone and joint pain, sore muscles, and arthritis, to name a few. 


        It’s also a great supplement for doggos with mobility issues or those wanting a sense of relaxation. 


        Salmon Oil for Dogs: Final Thoughts


        It’s a great idea to start supplementing your dog’s diet with high-quality salmon oil. Whether you are aiming to prevent them from further issues down the road or are wanting to ease or cure existing issues, salmon oil can certainly be your tool to improve their health and overall well-being. 


        Most reputable products and companies will come with a 30-day money back guarantee. So, there’s not much to lose here. Your pup may benefit from taking salmon oil in more ways than you think!

        Leave a comment