Is Fish Oil for Dogs Dangerous?

You take fish oil supplements for your health, and you're wondering what they might do for you furry friend. In fact, fish oil is beneficial for dogs. Veterinarians often prescribe fish oil as a supplement for healthy skin and coats or for the treatment of certain diseases.

  1. Health Benefits

    • Fish oil is beneficial for use in any dog's diet. According to HealthCondition.com, omega-3 fatty acids have been credited with improving the skin's condition in both dogs and humans. In addition, the two fatty acids most prevalent in fish oil, DHA and EPA, also lower both triglyceride levels and blood pressure (See Reference 1).

    Nutraceutical

    • Nutraceuticals are nutritional supplements used in place of drugs that have a beneficial effect on certain physical conditions. Fish oils are appropriate nutraceuticals for arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and gastrointestinal problems. According to the Placerville Veterinary Clinic site, fish oils also may have "a measurable effect" in improving dogs' memory (See Reference 2).

    As an Ingredient

    • Cod liver oil, salmon liver oil, and to a lesser extent, sardines, are all commonly used as an ingredient in pet foods and treats. Giant breeds of dogs (100+ pounds) require between 3000 and 4000 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids to see a benefit, large dogs (approximately 50 pounds) require 1500 to 2000 milligrams, and medium-sized dogs (25 pounds), require 750 to 1000 milligrams (See Reference 2).

    Where to Get It

    • Human grade fish oil supplements can be used for dogs (See Reference 2); they can be found at any department store, discount store, or pharmacy. Dogs also enjoy canned or fresh sardines meant for human consumption.

    Salmon Poisoning Disease

    • Although salmon oil is good for dogs, fresh raw salmon is not. When dogs eat raw salmon infested with a particular flatworm found in salmon, trout, steelhead fish, and some kinds of freshwater snails, they can become infected with an organism known as a "rickettsial" organism. If treated, dogs can survive salmon poisoning disease (SPD); however, according to VetInfo.com, untreated SPD has a mortality rate up to 90% (See Reference 3).