Written and reviewed by Dr Jill McMaster BVM&S MBA MRCVS, Veterinary Surgeon and in-house expert at BorrowMyDoggy on 9th May 2023

What are fish oils?

Fish oils are simply the oils that we get from the tissue of oily fish like salmon or mackerel. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids including docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid. Our pooches can’t make their own omega-3 fatty acids, so they need to get them from their diet.

Although many commercial diets contain these fatty acids, some dogs can benefit from additional supplementing of them too.

What are the benefits of fish oils for dogs?

These omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to benefit some dogs’ skin, cardiovascular, kidney and joint health, as well as supporting the immune and other body systems.

However every dog is different and supplementing fish oils doesn’t agree with all dogs’, with some pooches experiencing side-effects like itchy, flaky skin and upset guts, especially when they have been given high doses.

Should I give my dog fish oils?

The best idea is to speak to your vet, they can advise on your dog as an individual when it comes to adding in some fish oils to their diet. Some dogs do really well with fish oil supplements, but not all.

A prescribed dose from one of the products below, can support your dog’s health, as long as they tolerate the ingredients and your vet has advised you that they are safe to use for your individual dog.

And always remember when adding something new to your dog’s diet it should be done slowly and carefully, and contact your vet if you have any worries!

Pooch and Mutt Salmon Oil

https://www.poochandmutt.co.uk/products/salmon-oil

Price -  £10.49 for 500ml  (50+ day supply for medium dog)

What we love -

• The salmon used is sustainably sourced
• Natural ingredients
• Dogs find it tasty!

Best for -

• Dogs of any age from 8 weeks old
• All sizes of pooch

Yumove Skin and Coat Care Itching

https://yumove.co.uk/products/yuderm-itching-dog

Price - £32.86 for 500ml (80+ day supply for medium dog)

What we love -

• As well as salmon oil contains other sources of omega 3s, omega 6s and Vitamin E
• Pump action bottle makes it easy to measure out the correct dose
• 6 week money back guarantee

Best for -

• Dogs with itchy skin (as advised by your vet)
• Those who want the option of subscription offers