Best Salmon Oil for Dogs: Salmon oil for dogs is a perfect ally for anyone who cares about the health of their four-legged friend. This type of oil, in fact, offers a series of benefits to your dog. For example, it improves skin and coat health, as well as increasing its cognitive faculties (very suitable for fetuses of pregnant dogs).
Unfortunately, the most unbridled capitalism and the fierce competition between the various brands can complicate the choice of the best salmon oil for dogs. Not all products are created equal. For example, some promise – but rarely keep. We have prepared this guide to help you purchase the right salmon oil for dogs, so as not to buy apples for pears!
The most important things in a nutshell
- The best salmon oils for dogs are an indispensable source of Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, which help your friend keep the hair soft and shiny, as well as strengthen the immune system and improve his mood. They also serve to treat allergies or keep bad cholesterol levels at bay.
- The dose you should give to your “furry” friend depends on his size and age. The product usually clearly indicates how much you should give your dog based on its characteristics. If not, we recommend that you consult a veterinarian first.
- Among the most important purchase criteria for choosing the best salmon oil for dogs on the market is the container that must contain it. The glass isolates the liquid from the air currents, preventing oxidation. Plastic can be fine as long as it is not transparent, as light degrades the fatty acids present in the product.
The best salmon oils for dogs on the market: our selection
Buying the best salmon oil for dogs is not easy. But don’t panic, it’s not even that difficult. You should be clear about a number of very specific aspects, in addition to knowing the product in depth. Before going into the more technical aspects, we have prepared a list for you with a selection of the five of the best salmon oils for dogs according to our criteria.
Pets Purest
Pets Purest is one of the best salmon dog oils on the market today. Made with Scottish salmon, it is equally useful for other animals such as cats, ferrets and horses. The dose varies according to the weight and type of animal you have. It is indicated on the bottle and there will be no problems in determining the right quantity.
Users like it as 100% natural and without chemicals. The quantity (500 ml per pack) is also excellent, as the article tends to run out before it begins to perish. In particular, the presence of the dosages is praised, clearly and unequivocally indicated on the label. Last but not least, animals also seem to like the product.
Natural Dog Treats
This product has a liquid formula and is therefore suitable for dogs of any breed and size. The ingredients used are 100% natural, have an extreme degree of purity and are rich in natural antioxidants such as vitamin E. In particular, salmon oil provides valuable support in strengthening the animal’s immune system.
The reviews report an excellent product and users report having noticed significant improvements in the quality of the hair of the animals and in the well-being of their joints. There also seems to be an improvement in the gastrointestinal level, with excrements of better consistency. Also in this case, last but not least is the appreciation that the animals show towards the product.
GreenPet
This salmon oil for dogs in 5 liters format is made with natural and genuine ingredients, which are an excellent supplement for dogs, cats, horses and other pets. In addition, the product does not contain chemical additives and preservatives. The correct dosages to be administered on the basis of the weight and size of the animal are shown on the label (in German).
The product is enhanced by reviewers because of the improvements found in the quality of the hair and in the digestion process of the animal. The distinctive element is the smell, as it is “pleasant” and “non-smelling of fish”, which is somewhat difficult for a salmon. The only flaw is the slight difficulty encountered in making the transfer from the packaging to any other wrapper.
AniForte
This oil stands out from the others in that it won the “Salmon oil of the year 2016” test on Strawpoll. In fact, it is produced exclusively with natural elements rich in Omega 3, vitamins and various fatty acids. In addition, this food supplement belongs to the “Barf” category and can be used on different types of animals, such as dogs, cats and horses.
The palatability of the product seems to dominate all the reviews: the animals, according to the reviewers, jump for joy at the time of the meal! In addition, there is an improvement in quality, shine, and in the reduction of hair loss. At a cost level, the value for money is appreciated, as the article offers a service that deserves all the money spent.
Grizzly
This Grizzly dog salmon oil is produced exclusively using natural ingredients, free of preservatives or chemical additives. It acts as an excellent supplement of Omega 3 and 6 and, in addition, it is stabilized thanks to the addition of vitamin E and rosemary extract. Designed specifically for dogs, it has a pleasant taste on the animal’s palate.
There are only ten American reviews, but all five stars each! Users appreciate the noticeable improvement not only in quality, but also in the thickness and shine of the dog’s fur. Another prominent element is the flavor, which seems to be very appreciated by animals, who eat with much more appetite and indirectly improve their health.
Purchase guide: Everything you need to know about salmon oils for dogs
Although it may seem like a product on which there is not much to say, you may have doubts about many aspects related to this product. Now that you know what some of the best salmon fish oils are available on the market today, we think it’s convenient to solve some of these possible doubts. Make yourself comfortable and read on!
Salmon oil helps your dog maintain a soft and bright coat.
(Source: Martin Novak: 55154912 / 123rf.com)
What is salmon oil for dogs and what is it for?
Salmon oil for dogs is nothing more than a food supplement derived from salmon. The best salmon dog oils on the market are 100% natural. The goal of these products is to exploit Omega 3 and Omega 6 proteins and fatty acids, in addition to the high mineral content present in salmon.
Although salmon oil is not an indispensable element in your dog’s diet, it can be very useful. Just like us humans, who take food supplements to feel healthier, the best salmon oils for dogs will have a beneficial effect on your “furry” friend.
Why is it important to use salmon oil for your dog?
Although it’s not essential, introducing salmon oil into your pet’s diet can be very important and, of course, never hurts. Administering a dietary supplement rich in Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids allows your dog to maintain optimal levels of health. It can also contain up to 25 times more minerals than many other foods.
30% of Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids are generally made up of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). It is important to note that Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids cannot be produced by the body itself (omega 9, on the contrary, yes). To make sure your “furry” gets the required amount, there is no better option than this supplement.
Consumption of salmon oil can have very beneficial effects in older dogs. (Fuente: William Perugini: 20403802 / 123rf.com)
What are the benefits of the best salmon oils for dogs?
If you are thinking of adding to the diet of your dog or cat (since it is also useful for “cats”) one of the best salmon oils for dogs, which is cheap or high-end, it is normal to ask what are the benefits it can make to your friend. We have already listed some of them in the previous paragraphs but below you can find a more complete list.
Advantages of salmon oil for dogs:
- Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, dog oil is an excellent option to combat arthritis and intestinal inflammation.
- It is an ideal product to avoid dermal or gastric allergies. In cats it helps to expel the balls of hair.
- Boost your dog’s skin and coat health. In this way, his hair will be shiny, soft and strong.
- It is an ideal complement to control your pet’s weight and lower blood pressure.
- Helps lower the triglyceride level, commonly known as cholesterol.
- Boost your immune system, others to cardiovascular health.
- It favors an important cognitive improvement. When administered during pregnancy it will have positive effects on cognitive functions and eye health.
- Increase energy and improves the mood of dogs in old age.
- Improve kidney function.
Eva San MartinAnimal health expert
“Fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna are the richest in Omega 3, a component that protects your pet’s immune system and treats its coat.”
Contraindications of salmon oil for dogs:
- In some cases it can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea or stomach pain (however these effects are normally caused by incorrect administration or dosage).
- Some dogs may develop an allergy to the product, although it is uncommon.
What are the best salmon oils for dogs made of?
At this point you probably know it, but it doesn’t hurt to repeat it. The best salmon dog oils on the market should contain at least 30% Omega 3. The presence of EPA and DHA is critical, as it is the fatty acids that have the most positive effects on your dog or cat. The composition must be indicated on the product packaging.
It is also important that the salmon oil for dogs you buy contains Natural Vitamin E. Because? Basically, because essential fatty acids have a high degree of instability. That is, they quickly oxidize, losing their properties. Thanks to this addition (about 1% of the total product), oxidation is blocked.
You can sprinkle your pet’s baby food with salmon oil.
(Source: Jaromir Chalabala: 85693633 / 123rf.com)
What does each fatty acid contained in salmon oil for dogs bring?
You already know that Omega 3, 6 and 9 acids are important for maintaining the health of your “furry” friend. However, not all fatty acids are created equal, and not all play the same role in overall health improvement. To know what the effects of each are, we decided to explain them one by one in more detail:
- Omega 3: This important fatty acid helps reduce cytokines and improves the dog’s response to insulin. It is also useful to avoid excessive coagulation and to regulate the production of prostaglandins.
- Omega 6: In this case, the main advantages for the dog will be a better regulation of the metabolism and a better immune response. It also serves to balance fat levels. Like Omega 3 fatty acid, it helps coagulation.
- Omega 9: The same goes for Omega 6 fatty acid, which helps improve the immune response of your “hairy” friend. It also helps lower bad cholesterol levels and increase good cholesterol levels. It is ideal for older dogs as it improves joint health.
Are salmon oil fatty acids suitable for all types of dog?
Yes, unless your dog is allergic to the product. Depending on the stage of your pet’s life, it will get specific benefits by consuming salmon oil. In the case of puppies for example, the product will help their cognitive development and facilitate immune functions by keeping them efficient.
As for pregnant dogs, we have previously described how the consumption of salmon oil for dogs helps fetuses to develop optimally. It also reduces the onset of disease in the mother, because it improves the immune system. In this way, it will facilitate a healthy and safe pregnancy.
Finally, the consumption of salmon oil for dogs can be very useful in older dogs, with nutritional deficiencies, or of large dimensions, since salmon oil improves joint health. Not only that, its consumption helps improve mood. It is also a magnificent source of energy, so older dogs will tend to be more active.
What are the key aspects when determining the quality of a salmon oil for dogs?
Logically, not all salmon oils for dogs are created equal. Depending on a series of specific factors, the salmon oil for the dogs you buy will have different quality levels. Very often quality is reflected in the price. In any case, knowing these factors is not a question of price, but an act of responsibility as owner:
Quality criterion | Details |
---|---|
provenance | For salmon, low temperatures are better, as it will contain more nutrients. For this reason areas such as Norway or Scotland are ideal for breeding. If salmon comes from farms in other warmer regions, it won’t be a good investment. |
Time interval between capture and processing | It is important that the time between capture and processing does not exceed 6-8 hours. |
Type of processing | First pressing: it is carried out cold and the best oil quality is obtained. Thanks to this process, a pure, natural and excellent taste salmon oil for dogs is obtained. In addition, it is the oil with the highest amount of minerals and Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. Refined: With this type of processing, the product is subjected to chemical and physical processes that have an impact on its properties (reducing them). Obviously, being produced in an industrial way, it is usually cheaper. |
Sustainability | If you care about the health of your pet, why not think about the rest of the animals and the ecosystem? The best option is always to, according to your possibilities, buy salmon oil with at least one sustainable fishing certificate (type ISFF). |
How should salmon oil for dogs be administered?
Generally, salmon oil for dogs is administered in liquid form. The product is contained in bottles usually equipped with a precise applicator. Thanks to the applicator you will not waste the product, you will not dirty and you can always administer the exact dose to your dog. Alternatively, you can opt for capsules or gels.
Liquid salmon oil for dogs has the advantage of being easier to administer. You can simply sprinkle your “furry” friend’s baby food. It also helps him to eat with more taste. Undoubtedly an exceptional help in cases where your faithful friend has appetite problems.
What is the recommended dose of salmon oil for dogs?
Not all salmon oils for dogs are created equal. The right dose varies according to their purity, as well as the nutrients they contain. This can also change depending on various factors. For example, the methods of administering salmon oil to pregnant dogs differ from those for dogs with health problems and puppies.
This is the reason why we do not want to indicate specific quantities or doses. What we recommend is to carefully read the package or the leaflet that accompanies the product. If you are left in doubt, consult your trusted veterinarian. Remember that improper administration of salmon oil can have negative effects on your dog.
How long does it take before you notice the effects of salmon oil for dogs?
Just like humans, each dog is a world of its own. Each metabolism is unique and each “canine” organism reacts differently to salmon oils. In any case, numerous studies indicate that the benefits of this food supplement are generally visible within a few days, especially with regards to energy.
Other benefits, such as improving the immune system, increasing joint health or increasing the brightness of the dog’s fur may take a week or more. The first two aspects can hardly be noticed, however, if you love to pamper your dog often, you will clearly notice an improvement in the coat
What is the BARF diet for dogs and why does it include salmon oil?
The BARF or B.A.R.F diet, acronym for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, is a dietary practice for dogs, cats and other pets. It is characterized by being composed of raw foods suitable for the specific needs of each animal.
Purchase criteria
We close this section on the best salmon oils for dogs with a buying guide. It is useful to know more about the product and, at the time of purchase, have clear guidelines so as not to make a mistake. Here are what, in our opinion, are the five key aspects to making a good purchase:
- Natural or with additives
- Amount of Omega 3 fatty acids
- Type of container
- Smell
- Budget
Natural or with additives
Although the ultra low price may tempt you, you should avoid salmon oils for dogs with synthetic components in the formulation. These types of oil are generally more likely to cause allergies. Some studies also indicate a potential relationship between increased cancer risks and consumption of synthetic ingredients. The best options are always natural ones.
Did you know that the bond that binds you to your pet is similar to that between parent and child?
Amount of Omega 3 fatty acids
Each fish oil must contain at least 30% Omega 3. Of these, not all of them are fine. You should pay attention to the fact that it contains large quantities of EPA and DHA. These types of Omega 3 fatty acids offer the greatest benefits to your pet (and, moreover, they are not naturally produced by the body). Therefore, check the labels carefully.
Type of container
The fatty acids contained in salmon oil are particularly sensitive to heat, light and even air. The best option is the glass bottle. In case this is not possible, you can opt for a dark plastic container. Never buy a transparent container, as light oxidizes fatty acids.
Smell
We continue with another criterion which may seem negligible, but it is not. The best salmon oils for dogs should have a pleasant smell. In fact, they should not necessarily have a strong fishy smell, but of the sea. If the salmon oil for dogs you want to buy has a very strong smell, avoid it: it is a sign that its fatty acids are oxidized (rancid).
Budget
Salmon oil for dogs is not exactly cheap when it is of quality. This does not mean that it is not convenient, but that its price / liter ratio is much more expensive than that of other liquids. The liter usually costs between € 20 and € 30. Therefore, avoid excessively cheap options (unless it is a brand with offers on its products)
Conclusions
Over the years, awareness and respect for animals increases. Logically, this also affects how we treat our friends. Each responsible owner makes sure that your dog is healthy and can grow optimally. One of the most important supplements in this regard is salmon oil for dogs, an indispensable source of Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids.
This product helps your dog keep his hair soft, strong and shiny. Furthermore, it improves the cognitive and immune development of fetuses and puppies. It is also a great option for older dogs, as it helps maintain joint health, and is a powerful source of energy, as well as keeping bad cholesterol at bay.
If we helped you in choosing the best salmon oil for dogs, leave us a comment and share the article with your friends on social networks!
(Source of the highlighted image: Tatiana Gladskikh: 55209093 / 123rf.com)