Fatty Acids for Dogs

Fatty acids for dogs are essential for the overall health and wellbeing of dogs. Since they cannot be synthesized, fatty acids must be supplemented to the dog's diet.

What are Fatty Acids?

Fatty acids are specific types of polyunsaturated fats. Two main classes that are of particular importance to our dogs are Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.

Omega-3 fatty acids include:

• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)
• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)

ALA has to be converted to EPA and DHA to be of nutritional benefit. However, proper enzymes are required in the body for the conversion. Excessive amount of Omega-6's will hinder the conversion as well.

Omega-6 fatty acids include:

• Linoleic acid (LA)
• Gamma linoleic acid (GLA)
• Dihomo-gamma linoleic acid (DGLA)
• Arachidonic acid (AA)

LA is useful because it optimizes water permeability in the skin.

AA, in increased amounts, is the "dark horse" of fatty acids and is not good for the body.

Important Notes on Fatty Acids Fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the body and therefore must be supplemented in the diet. Animals are incapable of converting one type of fatty acids to another, e.g. from Omega-6's to Omega-3's. Research shows that an optimal ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids should be consumed for maximum positive benefits. Current recommendations are for ratios of 10:1 to 5:1 in the dog's daily diet. You may also wonder about Omega-9 fatty acids - These fatty acids are of no use to a dog's health; in fact, increased amounts of Omega-9's can actually decrease the concentration of Omega-3's and 6's in the blood and skin. Fatty acids for dogs are not medicines and, when used in isolation, cannot cure diseases such as kidney failure or cancer. However, used in complement with other medication, they can facilitate speedier recovery and improved health conditions.

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Fatty Acids for Dogs - Sources

Flaxseed oil, hempseed oil, and soybean oil are rich in Omega-3 too, but in the form of ALA. As mentioned above, ALA needs to be converted to EPA and DHA to be of nutritional benefit.

Evening primrose, borage, pumpkin seed, and sunflower oil are rich in Omega-6 fatty acids.

Fatty Acids for Dogs - Signs of FA Deficiency

• A thin, discolored coat
• Hair loss
• Scaly, dry skin, dandruff
• Increased sebum viscosity, resulting in skin problems such as greasy hair, acne, etc.
• Slow wound healing
• Ear infection
• Weight loss
• Allergy-like symptoms (e.g. itching, eczema)

Fatty Acids for Dogs - Benefits

Fatty acids are beneficial to all dogs. Even healthy dogs can benefit from a shinier, healthier coat when they are given fatty acid supplements.

Fatty acids for dogs are particularly effective in helping to improve the following health problems:

Inflammatory diseases

By supplementing our dog with EPA, DHA, and GLA, inflammatory diseases can be kept in check.

Fatty acids, especially EPA, are found to be effective in reducing inflammation associated with arthritis.

Fatty acids for dogs are also effective in alleviating symptoms of other inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Dull and Dry Hair

Dogs with dull and dry hair can greatly benefit from the use of fatty acids, especially LA in Omega-6's.

Allergies

Allergies are usually the result of a weakened immune system. Dogs with allergies respond well to an addition of fatty acids to their diet, since certain fatty acids strengthen the immune system and lessen the effects of some allergic symptoms on the body.

Yeast Infections

Fatty acids have been shown to slow down the growth of certain yeast that causes common yeast infection in dogs. If your dog suffers from recurring infections on the skin and ears, try adding fatty acids to his diet.

Triglycerides and Cholesterol

Fatty acids can decrease levels of triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. Dogs receiving retinoid therapy (synthetic vitamin A derivatives) for various skin problems may develop hyperlipidemia (an elevation of fats in the bloodstream). Also, dogs with kidney disease tend to have elevated levels of blood cholesterol and triglycerides. Omega-3 fatty acids may benefit these doggie patients.

Kidney Failure

Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to slow the progression of kidney disease in dogs. The anti-inflammatory action of the Omega-3’s may reduce kidney inflammation and improve blood flow to the kidneys.

Heart Disease

Fatty acids (Omega-3's) can prevent certain cardiovascular problems in dogs, such as high blood pressure, and ventricular arrhythmias (abnormal rapid heart rhythms).

Cancers

Research has shown that Omega-3 fatty acids can prevent the growth and slow down the development and spread of certain cancer tumors. Moreover, Omega-3's can improve the body's immune system, which may help the body fight cancer as well.

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Fatty Acids for Dogs - Are They Safe?

Because fish oil has a mild "blood-thinning" effect, it should not be combined with powerful blood-thinning medications without consultation with a veterinarian. Flaxseed oil has not been found to have a blood-thinning effect.

Supplements of Fatty Acids for Dogs

Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet for Dogs and Cats

This supplement contains the highest quality fish oils available, and provides the important Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA, which support healthy skin and coat, joints, heart, eyes, brain, growth and reproduction in dogs (and cats!).

Dr. Harvey's Health and Shine for Dogs 90 ct.

This supplement is a combination of borage oil, flaxseed oil, fish oil and Vitamin E, and is excellent for improving nad maintaining health haircoats of our dogs.

Ark Naturals Royal Coat for Dogs and Cats

If your dog does not like pills, consider mixing this oil (fish oil and borage oil) with his food. This supplement will also do wonders to your dog's coat.