Omega 3 and 6 for dogs – Dosage and how to offer them

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are lipids (fats) of great nutritional value. They are polyunsaturated fats, liquid at room temperature, which it is essential to incorporate into the diet in small amounts, since the body needs them for multiple functions, but cannot manufacture them on its own. Omega 3 fatty acids are found, above all, in cold-water fish rich in fat, such as tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel or sardines. On the other hand, omega 6 are mainly in vegetables, such as soybean, corn, olive, sunflower or coconut oils.

Brands specialized in canine and feline nutrition, such as legend, known for their dry and wet foods made with natural ingredients, have created a range of oils rich in these fatty acids. They offer them in three varieties: salmon, sardines and tuna. They stand out because they are 100% salmon, sardine or tuna oil cold pressed. They work as a food supplement, suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages. Discover Lenda oils and keep reading to learn more about their uses and benefits.

Fatty acids serve dogs mainly for:

• Help cognitive and neurological development, which makes them a good support for growing fetuses and puppies, but also for older dogs that may be experiencing symptoms linked to cognitive dysfunction syndrome, as they improve cerebral oxygenation. In puppies, fatty acids are also involved in the formation of the retina.
• decrease inflammationHence, they are recommended for dogs with mobility problems related to the joints or any other pathology that causes inflammation, such as allergies.
• Keep skin and coat in good condition, so they will be especially useful for dogs with skin problems or with a weakened coat. At this point we can include its usefulness in wound healing.
• recover physicallywhich can be favorable in dogs that are coming out of a pathological process or have just undergone surgery, as well as in those subjected to stress, such as dogs participating in sports activities or work dogs, but also females during pregnancy or lactation.
• Contribute to the proper functioning of the kidneys and the digestive and circulatory systemsimproving blood circulation, so they can be indicated for dogs with stomach, heart and kidney problems.

An insufficient supply of fatty acids that lasts over time can begin to manifest itself with the appearance of skin problems, thinning of the skin, which becomes greasy and flakes, and a dull coat.

In view of the functions of fatty acids in the dog’s body, we can intuit what the benefits of providing them in the diet will be, although it must be known that, to this day, these are still the subject of study. We highlight:

• Healthy skin and shiny hair.
• Control of clinical signs produced by allergies.
• Improved brain functionboth in the acquisition of skills and in their conservation.
• Maintenance of general good physical condition.
• Injury healing.
• Preservation of cardiac and renal functions.
• Reduced risk of tumor formation.
• Good functioning of the immune system.

Not only is it important that we give our dog the amount he needs to consume per day of omega 3 and 6, but the ratio between the dose of both fatty acids has to be adequate so that the dog can take advantage of its benefits. So we must give more omega 3 than 6. An imbalance in this proportion or an excess could affect your health.

For example, the anti-inflammatory effect is attributed to omega 3, since omega 6 acts by promoting inflammation. If we give it in greater quantity than 3, we will not be getting the anti-inflammatory benefit that can help the dog in pathologies such as allergies or joints.

Therefore, before starting any supplementation it is essential consult with the vet, since there is not a single fixed amount for all dogs, but their omega 3 and 6 needs will vary depending on various factors, the quality of the supplement we choose and we must also take into account what amounts we are giving them already contributing to their diet, if what we want is to supplement. In this case, it is also advisable to follow the manufacturer’s administration recommendations. For example, the aforementioned Lenda oils already include in their composition a balance between both fatty acidsThat is why they are an excellent option to include them in the dog’s diet.

If we offer a commercial feed, the amount of fatty acids provided by the feed should be listed on the label. If this is not the case, it is possible to contact the company to provide us with this information. In this way we will know if the fatty acids present in the food are sufficient for our dog or not, in which case we could change the product or proceed to supplementation, always with the guidance of the veterinarian. Always use supplements specifically formulated for dogs. They are not suitable for human consumption.

A good quality food It will have in its composition the adequate amounts of omega 3 and 6, which, in addition, will be well balanced. But there is also the option of adding these fatty acids to the diet as a supplement, especially if our dog, due to its particular circumstances, needs to reinforce its intake or we are feeding it a homemade diet. In case of choosing a oil rich in omega 3 and 6 for dogslike those mentioned in previous sections, will be as simple as mix it with the food rationregardless of whether it is dry food or homemade food.

Again, it is a decision that only corresponds to the veterinarian or, if this is the case, the canine nutrition expert who is in charge of preparing our dog’s menu. We insist that supplementing on our own could cause more problems than good.

If you want to read more articles similar to Omega 3 and 6 for dogs – Dosage and how to offer themwe recommend that you enter our section on balanced diets.