Best Fish Oils for Dogs: Vet Picks

Kristina Voltin
1 day ago
11 min read

Fish oil supplements are widely recommended by vets to support your dog’s skin, coat, joints, and overall health. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) found in fish oil help reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and promote a shiny coat. Here’s what you need to know:

Why It’s Important: Dogs can’t produce enough omega-3s naturally, so supplements are key for addressing issues like itchy skin, joint discomfort, and heart health.
What to Look For: Choose products with high EPA/DHA levels, third-party testing for purity, and wild-caught fish sources like anchovies or sardines to avoid contaminants.
Types: Fish oil comes in liquids, softgels, or chewable treats. Liquids mix easily with food, while softgels and chews are convenient but may require higher doses.
Dosing: Always follow weight-based dosing, starting with a small amount to avoid digestive issues. Consult your vet for personalized advice.
Top Picks: Vet-recommended options include Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3, Now Pets Omega-3 Support, and Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid, all known for safety, potency, and quality.

Adding fish oil to your dog’s diet can lead to noticeable improvements in their skin, coat, and joint health. Pair it with a high-quality diet for the best results.

Dog Nutritionist Explains How to find the Best Fish Oil for Dogs | thePack.in

How to Choose the Best Fish Oil for Your Dog

Selecting the right fish oil for your dog comes down to evaluating EPA/DHA levels, sourcing, and formulation. Once you've considered these factors, focus on specific features, available types, and proper dosing to maximize the benefits.

Key Features to Look For

Start by assessing the concentration of EPA and DHA. These omega-3 fatty acids are the main drivers of health benefits, so aim for a product with at least 225 mg of combined EPA and DHA per mL of liquid or per softgel [1]. Higher concentrations generally mean more effective results. For instance, Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil delivers 1,300 mg of total omega-3s per serving, offering at least 100 mg more EPA and DHA combined than many other options [1]. Similarly, Now Pets Omega-3 Support softgels provide 300 mg of EPA and DHA per capsule [1].

Choose products with transparent sourcing and third-party certifications. Fish oil made from wild-caught cold-water species is generally lower in mercury and other contaminants compared to oil from larger predatory fish. Look for certifications like the NASC seal, which ensures the product meets high standards for quality, safety, and accurate labeling [1].

Once you've identified a high-quality product, consider which formulation will best suit your dog's needs.

Types of Fish Oil Formulations

Fish oil supplements come in a variety of forms, each with its own advantages:

Liquid fish oil: This option allows for precise dosing and easily mixes into food. However, it often has a stronger ocean scent and usually requires refrigeration after opening.
Softgels or capsules: These provide pre-measured doses and can be squeezed onto food if your dog resists swallowing them. While convenient, some dogs might be hesitant to take capsules directly.
Chewable treats: These are a great choice for picky eaters, as they are typically very palatable. However, they may include added flavors or fillers and often have lower omega-3 concentrations, meaning you might need to give more to reach the desired dose.

Dosing and Administration Tips

Once you've chosen the right formulation, proper dosing is crucial for effectiveness. Always determine the dose based on your dog’s weight and the product's strength. While manufacturers usually provide weight-based dosing charts, consulting your veterinarian is the safest way to ensure the right amount for your dog.

For liquid fish oil, use the provided dropper or measuring cup to ensure accuracy. Follow the weight-based guidelines from the manufacturer [3]. Mixing liquid fish oil - or the contents of a softgel - into your dog’s food can make it easier for them to accept.

Some products are designed to reduce fishy odors, which can improve palatability. To maintain freshness, store the fish oil in a cool, dark place and refrigerate it as directed. Giving the supplement with your dog’s main meal can also enhance compliance, as they’re often more receptive at mealtime.

Top Vet-Recommended Fish Oil Products for Dogs

Veterinarians have carefully evaluated numerous fish oil supplements for dogs, focusing on their EPA/DHA content, sourcing, and third-party certifications. The result? A curated list of products that prioritize safety, purity, and precise dosing while offering convenience and high-quality nutrition for your furry friend.

Detailed Product Reviews

Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil is a standout choice for liquid fish oil supplements. Each serving delivers 1,300 mg of omega-3s, including over 100 mg more EPA/DHA than many competitors [1]. Made from a wild-caught blend, this oil ensures both purity and potency. Recognized as the best fish oil for dogs by ConsumerLab, it also holds NASC certification, allowing for easy mixing with food and accurate dosing.

Pet Protect Free Form Omega-3 Fish Oil Softgels offer over 300 mg of EPA/DHA per serving in a squeezable softgel format [1]. The snip-tip design makes it simple to add the contents directly to your dog's meals. These NASC-certified softgels don’t require refrigeration, making them a practical option for travel or busy households.

For those on a budget, Now Pets Omega-3 Support provides excellent quality at an affordable price. Each softgel contains 300 mg of EPA and DHA, surpassing the expert-recommended minimum of 225 mg per serving [1]. This product is well-regarded for its consistent quality and effectiveness.

VetriScience Omega 3, 6, 9 Gel Caps combine fish oils from a wild-caught blend with plant oils like borage seed and flaxseed. This balanced omega profile supports overall health, making it a great choice for dogs needing more comprehensive nutritional support beyond omega-3s [4].

Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet Liquid has earned the trust of veterinarians thanks to its transparency and rigorous testing. Sourced from sustainably harvested wild-caught fish, it provides detailed purity reports for each batch [4]. Its versatile formula works well for both dogs and cats, making it an excellent option for multi-pet households.

Honest Paws Omega-3 Fish Oil focuses on sustainability and ethical sourcing by using wild-caught Alaskan salmon and pollock. Many pet owners report noticeable improvements in their dogs' coat shine and reduced itching, along with benefits for joint and immune health [5].

Both Alaska Naturals Wild Alaskan Salmon Fish Oil and Grizzly Wild Alaskan Salmon Plus offer single-source salmon oil from Alaskan waters. These products undergo strict quality testing, making them especially suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs [2].

Iceland Pure Pet Products Unscented Pharmaceutical Grade Sardine & Anchovy Oil is processed to pharmaceutical-grade standards, ensuring consistent quality and purity. Its odorless formula makes it a more palatable option for sensitive dogs while maintaining its full potency [2].

Finally, Welactin Canine is a liquid fish oil derived from cold-water fish, specifically formulated to support joint, skin, and immune health. With a strong history of veterinary endorsement and reliable clinical results, it’s a trusted choice for many pet owners [4].

For a quick comparison, check out the table below:

Comparison Table

Product Name	Form	EPA/DHA Content	Source	Certifications	Price Range	Primary Benefits
Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3	Liquid	1,300 mg total	Wild-caught blend	NASC, third-party tested	$20–$30	Skin, coat, joints, anti-inflammatory
Pet Protect Free Form Omega-3	Softgel	300+ mg EPA/DHA	Multi-fish blend	NASC	$20–$30	Easy dosing, no refrigeration
Now Pets Omega-3 Support	Softgel	300 mg EPA/DHA	Multi-fish blend	NASC	$10–$20	Budget-friendly, high quality
VetriScience Omega 3, 6, 9	Gel cap	Balanced omega	Wild-caught blend, plant oils	-	$20–$30	Comprehensive fatty acid support
Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet	Liquid	High EPA/DHA	Wild-caught fish	Third-party tested	$20–$40	Purity, transparency, multi-pet use
Honest Paws Omega-3	Liquid	High omega-3	Wild Alaskan salmon, pollock	Vet-approved	$20–$40	Sustainable sourcing, skin/coat health
Alaska Naturals Wild Salmon	Liquid	High omega-3	Wild Alaskan salmon	NASC, third-party tested	$20–$30	Single-source, sensitive stomachs
Grizzly Wild Alaskan Salmon Plus	Liquid	High omega-3	Wild Alaskan salmon	NASC	$20–$30	Single-source, sensitive stomachs
Iceland Pure Sardine & Anchovy	Liquid	High EPA/DHA	Sardine, anchovy	Third-party tested	$20–$40	Pharmaceutical grade, odorless
Welactin Canine	Liquid	Therapeutic levels	Cold-water fish	Veterinary recommended	$20–$30	Joint, skin, immune support

Once you’ve chosen the right product, the next step is making sure your dog adjusts to it smoothly.

How to Safely Introduce Fish Oil to Your Dog's Diet

Once you've chosen the right fish oil product, the next step is introducing it to your dog's diet in a safe and controlled way. Start by giving your dog a low dose - especially if they have a sensitive stomach. Begin with half the recommended amount and slowly increase it over the course of a week. This gradual approach helps prevent digestive issues. For dogs who are picky eaters, opt for fish oil that has minimal odor and no additives. Liquid fish oil can be easily mixed into their food, while softgels can be punctured and squeezed onto meals. As you increase the dose, keep an eye on how your dog responds.

Monitoring for Side Effects

During the first few weeks of supplementation, pay close attention to your dog's behavior, appetite, and overall physical condition. It's not uncommon for dogs to experience mild digestive issues, such as diarrhea, loose stools, or vomiting, as their bodies adjust. You might also notice a fishy odor on their breath or skin. These minor side effects usually resolve within a week. However, if your dog shows signs of persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, lethargy, bleeding, or develops skin rashes, it could indicate an adverse reaction or overdose. In such cases, contact your veterinarian immediately.

If mild side effects occur, try reducing the dose temporarily and then gradually increasing it again. This can help your dog adjust more comfortably. Should symptoms persist or worsen, stop giving the supplement and consult your vet.

Proper storage of fish oil is also crucial. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, check expiration dates, and make sure the oil doesn’t have an unpleasant smell. Spoiled or rancid fish oil can cause inflammation or other health problems, so it's important to ensure the product is fresh.

Consulting Your Vet

Before fully integrating fish oil into your dog's diet, consult your veterinarian. This is especially important if your dog has existing health conditions or is taking other medications. During the consultation, share details about your dog’s current diet, any health issues (like bleeding disorders or allergies), and any other supplements or medications they’re on. Fish oil can interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants, so professional guidance is key to creating a safe plan.

Your vet can recommend a specific fish oil product, along with the correct dosage and administration method tailored to your dog’s needs. Dosage often depends on your dog's weight and the concentration of EPA and DHA in the supplement. Many experts suggest a minimum of 225 mg of combined EPA and DHA per dose to support your dog’s health [1] [3]. Extra care is needed if your dog has bleeding disorders, is on anticoagulant medications, or has a fish allergy. Always consult your vet if your dog has gastrointestinal or metabolic concerns.

Scheduling a follow-up visit a few weeks after starting the supplement allows your vet to evaluate your dog’s progress. These check-ins may include monitoring your dog’s skin, coat, and joint health, and in some cases, performing blood work to assess clotting or lipid levels - particularly for dogs on long-term fish oil. This professional oversight ensures your dog gets the most out of fish oil while minimizing any risks.

The Role of Nutrition in Supporting Fatty Acid Intake

Fish oil supplements are a great source of concentrated omega-3 fatty acids, but they shine brightest when paired with a well-rounded diet that enhances fatty acid absorption. A balanced diet plays a key role in helping your dog get the most out of omega-3s.

Whole food options such as salmon, sardines, and anchovies are excellent sources of EPA and DHA, the omega-3s that are easiest for your dog’s body to absorb. By combining these natural sources with supplements, you can help ensure your dog maintains healthy fatty acid levels while supporting overall nutrition.

Benefits of Freeze-Dried Raw Diets

Adding natural dietary sources to your dog’s meals can amplify the benefits of omega-3s. Freeze-dried raw diets are especially effective because they retain the nutritional integrity of whole ingredients, avoiding the nutrient loss that often occurs with traditional food processing.

For example, Loyal Saints offers premium freeze-dried raw dog food made in the USA with human-grade, all-natural ingredients. Their AAFO-compliant recipes are free of additives and designed to preserve natural omega-3s and other vital nutrients better than conventional kibble. This veterinarian-approved approach ensures your dog gets the most out of every meal.

When paired with fish oil supplements, dogs on freeze-dried raw diets often experience noticeable improvements, such as healthier skin, shinier coats, and enhanced joint mobility. Unlike heavily processed kibble - which often relies on synthetic additives to replace lost nutrients - high-quality freeze-dried raw food maintains its natural omega-3 content. This makes it easier for your dog’s body to absorb and utilize these nutrients, maximizing the benefits of both dietary and supplemental omega-3s.

Importance of Balanced Nutrition

Balanced nutrition is the cornerstone of optimal health, ensuring that essential nutrients work together effectively. Even the best commercial diets can sometimes fall short of providing the therapeutic levels of omega-3s needed for certain health conditions. That’s where combining whole foods with targeted supplements comes in.

Veterinary nutritionists recommend this dual approach to achieve the ideal omega-3 intake. For therapeutic benefits, the goal is to provide at least 225 mg of combined EPA and DHA per dose [1].

But omega-3s don’t work in isolation. A premium diet not only supports healthy digestion - improving how supplements are absorbed - but also delivers complementary nutrients like vitamin E, which protects omega-3s from oxidation.

Together, these strategies can significantly enhance your dog’s skin, coat, joint, and overall health. By focusing on a balanced diet and thoughtful supplementation, you’re setting the stage for your dog’s long-term well-being.

Conclusion

Finding the right fish oil supplement for your dog doesn't have to be complicated. Focus on options that clearly state their EPA/DHA levels, are third-party tested for purity, and come from wild-caught fish. These are the key factors to ensure you're giving your dog a safe and effective product.

This guide highlights several highly rated choices, each with its own advantages - whether you're looking for maximum potency, ease of use, or affordability. To get the most out of fish oil, combine it with a diet rich in high-quality whole foods.

Adding a good fish oil supplement to your dog's diet can lead to noticeable improvements, like a shinier coat, healthier joints, and enhanced overall well-being. For an even greater nutritional edge, consider pairing the supplement with a premium freeze-dried raw diet, such as the veterinarian-approved recipes from Loyal Saints. These combined efforts can make a real difference in your dog's skin, joint, and overall health.

FAQs

How do I figure out the right amount of fish oil to give my dog based on their weight and health?

The right amount of fish oil for your dog depends on factors like their weight, health, and individual needs. Typically, veterinarians suggest 20–55 mg of EPA and DHA combined per pound of body weight each day. For instance, a 50-pound dog might need anywhere from 1,000 to 2,750 mg daily, based on their specific condition. Be sure to check the product label for exact dosage recommendations.

It's important to consult your veterinarian before introducing fish oil supplements, especially if your dog has any health conditions or is taking medication. They can offer tailored guidance to ensure the supplement supports your dog's skin, coat, and overall health without causing any issues.

Are there any side effects of giving fish oil to my dog, and how can I prevent them?

Fish oil can be great for dogs, boosting their skin and coat health, but it’s not without its potential downsides. Some dogs might experience mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or even develop a fishy smell on their breath or skin. To keep these issues in check, start with a small dose and gradually increase it under your veterinarian’s guidance. Stick to high-quality, vet-approved fish oil products to ensure both safety and effectiveness. And if your dog shows any unusual symptoms, it’s always best to check in with your vet right away.

Why should I choose fish oil supplements made from wild-caught fish and tested by third parties?

When selecting fish oil supplements, opting for those made from wild-caught fish can make a big difference. These fish come from their natural habitats rather than being farmed, which often results in a cleaner, more nutrient-rich oil. Wild-caught fish are known to provide higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids - key nutrients that support your dog’s skin, coat, and overall well-being.

Another crucial factor to consider is third-party testing. This step ensures the supplement has been checked for purity, potency, and safety. It confirms the product is free from harmful substances like heavy metals or toxins and meets rigorous quality standards. Knowing this, you can feel confident that you’re giving your dog something that genuinely supports their health.