Omega-3 Benefits for Dogs with Arthritis

Kristina Voltin
Apr 2
4 min read

Symptoms of Dog Arthritis: Trouble standing, climbing stairs, joint swelling, reduced activity, and limping.
How Omega-3s Help: Omega-3s (like EPA and DHA) reduce inflammation, support cartilage, and improve joint function.
Sources: Cold-water fish (salmon, sardines), fish oil, krill oil, and green-lipped mussels.
Dosage and Safety: Consult your vet for the right amount and choose high-quality supplements.

Omega-3s can be a simple addition to your dog’s diet that makes a big difference in their quality of life. Always introduce supplements gradually and monitor for any changes.

CAM Live: Multimodal management of dogs with arthritis with ...

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Explained

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that dogs need but can't produce on their own. These fats play a key role in reducing inflammation and promoting joint health.

EPA and DHA: Key Types

Marine-based omega-3s offer two main benefits:

EPA helps combat inflammation and ease joint discomfort.
DHA supports cartilage structure, aiding overall joint function.

Sources of Omega-3s

You can find omega-3 fatty acids in:

Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
Fish oil supplements that provide concentrated marine omega-3s.
Krill oil, known for its high bioavailability of EPA and DHA.
Green-lipped mussels, which contain natural compounds that help reduce inflammation.

Loyal Saints includes high-quality marine omega-3s in their freeze-dried dog food to ensure your pet gets the nutrients they need for healthy joints.

How Omega-3s Reduce Inflammation

Omega-3 fatty acids work in several ways to lower joint inflammation:

Blocking inflammatory pathways: They prevent enzymes from triggering swelling and pain in the joints.
Improving cell membrane health: By integrating into cell membranes, omega-3s enhance flexibility, helping cells respond better to inflammation.
Balancing inflammatory compounds: They regulate pro- and anti-inflammatory substances, creating a better environment for joint health.

These effects are driving ongoing research into how omega-3s can help manage arthritis.

Research on Omega-3s and Dog Arthritis

Easing Pain and Reducing Swelling

Studies reveal that omega-3 supplements can help lower joint pain and swelling in dogs with arthritis. Dogs taking omega-3s often need less pain medication, highlighting its potential to improve comfort.

Boosting Mobility and Activity

Research indicates that omega-3s can enhance mobility in arthritic dogs. With less discomfort, dogs are able to stay more active, which is key for maintaining overall health.

Supporting Joint Health

Omega-3s also play a role in maintaining the health of joint structures. Regular supplementation can slow down joint damage, offering long-term support for dogs dealing with arthritis.

Dosage and Safety Guidelines

Talk to your veterinarian to determine the right omega-3 dosage for managing your dog's arthritis. This ensures the supplement works well alongside their diet and medical treatments.

Quality and Selection

For the best anti-inflammatory benefits, focus on high-quality omega-3 products. Look for options that:

Meet AAFCO standards
Use human-grade ingredients
Avoid artificial additives
Go through independent purity testing

Loyal Saints' freeze-dried raw dog food is made in the USA with natural ingredients and is approved by veterinarians. It complies with AAFCO standards and provides balanced nutrition to support your dog's health.

Always check with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement and keep up with regular vet visits.

Adding Omega-3s to Dog Food

Supplement Types

You can add omega-3 fatty acids to your dog's diet with fish oil capsules, krill oil, sardines, salmon, or specially formulated dog food. When picking a supplement, look for products that meet AAFCO standards and are made with high-quality ingredients. These can help with joint health and may reduce inflammation.

Loyal Saints Food Options

Loyal Saints provides a convenient, whole-food option for adding omega-3s. Their freeze-dried raw dog food includes natural sources of omega-3s and is made with human-grade ingredients, free from additives and fillers [1].

"Finally a nutrition-packed food for Toby without all the added gunk! He loves it and it shows in his coat." – Wanda W. [1]

Many pet owners have shared positive experiences after switching to Loyal Saints:

"We started transitioning Nef over to Loyal Saints a few weeks ago and he is loving it! We have already noticed a huge improvement in some of the stomach issues we were noticing on his previous food." – NefariansMom [1]

Starting Omega-3s Safely

Once you've chosen the right product, introduce omega-3s into your dog's diet gradually. Start with a small amount and increase it slowly over 7–10 days by mixing it with their current food. Watch for any digestive changes during this period. Stick to regular feeding times and store supplements properly to prevent oxidation. Gradual changes can support the anti-inflammatory benefits mentioned earlier. Improved mobility and a steady appetite are good signs that the transition is working. If you notice digestive issues, slow the process and consult your veterinarian.

"I'd rather spend $200 a month on my picky eater and have them happy for years than a couple thousand on vet bills. This food rocks!" – Tony Eiguesse [1]

Summary

Key Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Dogs

Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, have been shown to help manage arthritis symptoms in dogs. Research indicates they can ease joint swelling and support better mobility. The main advantages include:

Less joint inflammation
Better joint function and health

Consult Your Veterinarian

Before giving your dog omega-3 supplements, it's important to consult your veterinarian. They can evaluate your dog's specific needs, recommend the right dosage based on weight and condition, and monitor progress. Your vet can also integrate omega-3s with a balanced diet and exercise to ensure the best possible outcome for your dog.