Omega-3 fatty acids are a potent nutritional asset for dogs, backed by a wealth of research demonstrating their many benefits. These fatty acids play pivotal roles in fostering various aspects of canine health, from brain development in puppies to fortifying immune responses and reducing inflammation. 

Omega-3 benefits enhance cancer resilience, support cardiac well-being, and address concerns related to kidney health, skin quality, and coat luster. Moreover, Omega-3s have shown promise in treating anxiety and depression in dogs.

Not all Omega-3 supplements are equal. Fresh foods containing Omega-3 are the best option, but commercial supplements can be used. 

Dog parents may wonder why fish are considered an essential component of the Real Ancestral 6X diet™. After all, it is not common for wild canids to dive into the water to hunt for fish. However, your dog needs seafood in her diet because of the depletion of nutrients in the soil. 

Without nutrient-dense soil, plants do not contain adequate vitamins and minerals. Consequently, the animals feeding on the plants are not consuming the correct balance of nutrients. The impact includes the levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in the muscle meat of these animals, creating an overabundance of Omega-6, the inflammation activator fatty acid, in your dog's meals. Feeding seafood aids in the balancing of Omega-6 and Omega-3.

The best option when looking for Omega-3s for your dog is whole, fresh fish. Wild-caught small, fatty, oily fish are preferred over sizeable predatory fish or fish from commercial hatcheries.

Many predatory fish have longer life spans and can accumulate mercury in their systems, producing heavy metal toxicity. Farmed fish are often given hormones and medications to avoid disease. 

Freshly caught whole fish should be frozen for at least three weeks as a kill step for parasites in the fish. If you purchase fresh cuts of flesh only, freezing is not required, as the organs that harbor the parasites have been removed. Canned fish is a convenient option. However, ensure the fish is packed in spring water only with no oils or spices.

If your dog refuses to eat fish or you have difficulty sourcing it, there are alternatives. Many fish oil supplements are available commercially, but you must research the options to ensure the oils are stable.  

Although fish oil is not usually recommended as a substitute for seafood, some dogs may have an intolerance or allergy to seafood and shellfish. If using fish oil, recommendations include

Fish oil capsules - easier to dose than oil. Oil in a pump bottle will oxidize more rapidly due to the exposure to air.

Single-ingredient - Many fish oils are made from a conglomeration of fish containing fillers. Look for one that lists a single source, such as wild salmon oil.

Avoid oils from farm-raised fish, which may contain antibiotics or other contaminants. 

Minimally processed - ultra-processed oils will not have the same bioavailability as minimally processed oils.

Phytoplankton synthesize significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and other marine life are synthesized by phytoplankton.

Elk and grass-fed beef and lamb have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), beta carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin K2.

Another option for dog owners looking for plant-based sources of omega-3 is flaxseed. Flaxseed oil is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a precursor to the longer-chain omega-3 fatty acids. Although the conversion rate of ALA to EPA and DHA in dogs is not as efficient as it is from marine sources, it can still contribute to the overall dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids, supporting general health.

Fatty acids lose their nutritional value over time due to oxidation. Proper storage of fatty acids is essential to prevent rapid degradation. Step one to limit oxidation is the use of the correct containers.

Exposure to air can accelerate oxidation, leading to rancidity. Fatty foods or fatty acid supplements must be stored in airtight containers to limit their contact with oxygen. Bottled fish oil that is dosed by a pump is more exposed to air than the oil within capsules.

Light and heat can also contribute to rancidity. Keep fatty acids in dark, cool environments, like dark bottles or containers.

Light and heat can also contribute to rancidity. Refrigerating or freezing oils and fatty foods can significantly extend their shelf life by slowing the oxidation process.

Exposure to sunlight can result in the oil becoming insatiable and rancid. Use opaque containers or store fatty foods away from direct light to prevent light-induced oxidation.

All fish oils or capsules should be stored in dark glass bottles. Reasons to store in glass include:

Since glass is nearly inert, it does not degrade or leach chemicals into its contents.

Glass is relatively inexpensive since it is manufactured from readily available materials.

Tempering and adding different metals and minerals to glass during manufacturing will easily reinforce it.

Glass conducts heat more slowly than metal. 

Amber glass blocks UV light,  blue light, and all other wavelengths under 450 nm, making it perfect for storing light-sensitive supplements.

Powdered fish oils are a form of fish oil that has been processed and converted into a powder. Turning fish oil into a powder usually involves encapsulating the oil in a carrier substance (such as maltodextrin or gum acacia) to create a powder form. This encapsulation helps stabilize the oil, making it easier to handle, store, and incorporate into various products.

Powdered fish oils offer several advantages, including convenience, increased stability, and reduced fishy odor and taste. Powder-filled capsules can often be kept at room temperature for up to two years while providing a high concentration of essential fatty acids. 

However, the quality of powdered fish oils can vary based on the manufacturing process and the quality of the fish oil used. Some powders might contain added ingredients or carriers, so checking the product label for purity, additives, and potential allergens is essential.

Balancing Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids is crucial for a dog's overall health. Both are essential fatty acids, but an imbalance can lead to health issues. Most commercial dog foods tend to have higher Omega-6 levels compared to Omega-3.

The optimal ratio of Omega fatty acids has a wide range. The National Research Council states that the ratio should be between 2.6:1-26:1 Omega-6:Omega-3. The AAFCO guidelines state that the maximum ratio should be 30:1. However, based on the natural prey that canines eat in the wild, the ideal ratio is 4:1-5:1 Omega-6:Omega-3.

The best source of Omega-3 fatty acids is fresh, small oily fish.

There are fish oils and powders for dogs that refuse to eat fish.

Balancing Omega-3 and Omega-6 is crucial for dogs' overall health and well-being.

Role of Dietary Fatty Acids in Dogs & Cats | TToday'sVeterinary Practice 

An un-commissioned randomized, placebo-controlled double-masked study to test the effect of deep sea fish oil as a pain reliever for dogs suffering from canine OA - PMC 

Effects of dietary omega-3–3 fatty acids on ventricular function in dogs with healed myocardial infarctions: in vivo and in vitro studies - PMC 

Alternatives to Fresh Fish for Dogs

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