

By Wag! Staff
Published: 06/21/2017, edited: 03/05/2024
Reviewed by a licensed veterinary professional: Dr. Linda Simon, MVB MRCVS
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- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): ALA is a plant-based essential fatty acid that can lower the risk of heart disease and plays a major role in healthy canine growth. It’s found in flaxseed and vegetable oils.
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): EPA is an anti-inflammatory fatty acid found in fish and fish oils, which can help promote blood flow and slow blood clotting.
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): DHA is one of the most important fatty acids for dogs since it helps the brain and eyes develop. According to the National Research Council, "Studies over the last decade have provided evidence that a deficiency of DHA leads to nervous system abnormalities, such as decreased visual acuity, electroretinographic abnormalities, polyneuropathy, and reduced learning ability." It’s found in their mother's milk, as well as fish and organ meat.

Let's talk about some foods you can offer to sneak more fatty acids into your pooch's diet:
- Fish, such as salmon, herring, sardines, anchovies, sea bass, mackerel
- Fish oil such as Nordic Naturals fish oil (also krill oil and cod liver oil)
- Peanut butter
- Wheat germ
- Hemp seeds
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseed
- Eggs

- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): 0.11g recommended allowance for adults and 0.2g recommended allowance for dogs under 1 year.
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): 0.11g - 2.8g (max for adult dogs) and 0.13g - 11g for dogs under 1 year.
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): 0.11g - 2.8g (max for adult dogs) and 0.13g - 11g for dogs under 1 year.
- Linolenic acid (LA): Adult Dogs, 2.8g recommended - 16.3g (max). Dogs under 1 year: 3.3g recommended, 65g (max)
- Arachidonic acid (AA): No recommended allowance for dogs under 1 year, 0.08g recommended allowance for puppies.
- It is unclear what the current dosage recommendations are for Gamma-linolenic acid and Dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid in dogs. Ask your vet for specific dosage recommendations if you are unsure, especially if your dog has medical conditions that may affect supplement absorption.

Some dogs find oil-filled capsules at night (perhaps wrapped securely in a slice of cheese) a welcome treat, while others will readily consume a small amount of oil added daily in meals.
- Natural triglyceride oil: This is the most easily metabolized but can contain impurities since it's unprocessed
- Synthetic triglyceride: This won't contain any of the impurities of natural triglyceride. However, it’s more difficult for dogs to metabolize
- Ethyl ester oil: This is a concentrated, semi-synthetic fish oil that contains both DHA and EPA. It’s a top pick since it’s more digestible than synthetic triglyceride and the levels of processed impurities are lower than in unrefined natural fish oils
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Pancreatitis
- Weight changes
- Lower blood pressure
- Lowered immune responses
- Changes in white blood cell counts
- Slowed wound healing or blood clotting
- Exposure to contaminants or heavy metals
- May cause vitamin levels to spike or plummet
- Degradation of lipids in the plasma and urine (lipid peroxidation)
- Essential fatty acids for dogs are separated into two groups — Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids for dogs
- Fatty acids are integral to canine health can improve blood flow, the immune system, skin conditions and reduce inflammation
- Your dog is capable of synthesizing some fatty acids by themselves, but they can only get essential fatty acids for dogs from their diet
- You can ensure your dog gets plenty of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids by adding fish, flaxseed, or peanuts to their diet. There are also many over-the-counter fish oil and fatty acid supplements for dogs (like Welactin Liquid)
- An excessive amount of fatty acids can cause toxicity and abnormal vitamin E plasma levels
Got more questions about your dog's nutrition? Chat with a veterinary professional today for trusted pet advice.
