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- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Trying to keep your canine’s coat in tip-top shape? It may be time to add some healthy oils for dogs to your pooch’s daily food routine!
Supplementing your dog’s diet with omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids (given in specific, safe ratios, which we provide links for below) can help pups suffering from skin conditions like flaking or dull coats, and can even help inflammation diseases and allergies.
There are a variety of supplements that your dog can take—check with your vet to see which one might be the best fit for your dog and take a look at our suggestions here.
Healthy Oils for Dogs
Fish Oil for Dogs
Fish oil is highly recommended by vets because it’s packed with two essential fatty acids, EPA and DHA. These omega-3 fatty acids are great for helping to ease inflammation in some dogs due to allergies, which means less itchy skin, dandruff, and hot spots.
It also can help soothe arthritis, allergies, and may even help improve fido’s memory. And the supplements can make dogs’ coats healthier and shinier—and perfect for lots of cuddles.
Luckily, it’s easy to give to your pooch as a pill, or as liquid—poured on top of their kibble.
Take a look at this chart for dosing tips.
Coconut Oil for Dogs
Is your dog suffering from digestion issues? Coconut oil just may save the day! It can also improve your dog’s coat (helping flaky, itchy skin) and may benefit their cognitive function—not to mention it even makes that stinky breath a little bit sweeter.
Look for organic, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil for dogs.
See this post for safety tips and coconut oil servings (which should be quite small).
Flaxseed Oil for Dogs
Like many of the other healthy oils, flaxseed oil can also help with mobility issues for some dogs with arthritis, and may also help with both blood pressure and kidney function. Flaxseed is great as a substitute supplement for fish oil (for dogs who have allergies to fish)—and still helps to reduce inflammation and bring allergy relief to sneezy dogs.
Just make sure to research the correct portion for your dog, since too much can cause diarrhea; yikes.
Olive Oil for Dogs
This one is easy to find—there are plenty of olive oil options at your local grocery store (though we recommend sticking with 100% olive oil rather than a mixed version). Olive oil is wonderful for dogs’ overall health because it can help keep their coats moisturized and shiny, improve their immune systems, and help prevent and lessen the effects of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Great for pups whose systems aren’t able to digest omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids well.
Sunflower Oil for Dogs
Want your four-legged friend to have an extra-shiny coat? Then this may be the oil for you. A wonderful source of omega-6 fatty acids, this supplement helps keep that skin moisturized and boosts energy, plus it can help maintain a healthy heart.
As always, before you give your dog supplements, make sure to check with your veterinarian and make sure to start small. For most dogs, this means just a few drops to a teaspoonful with their kibble. Too much of any oil can give your pup a case of the runs (oh no!).
Also, make sure to store fish oil and olive oils in dark, cool areas to prevent them from going rancid.
