Fats & Oils for Dogs: A Complete Guide
Healthy fats and oils are essential nutrients that play a vital role in a dog’s overall health. They provide a concentrated source of energy while supporting healthy skin, a glossy coat, cognitive function, joint mobility and immune health.
Not all fats are created equal, however. While certain natural oils and fats offer valuable nutritional benefits, others can contribute to weight gain or digestive upset if fed in excess. Choosing the sources and feeding them in appropriate amounts is key to maintaining good dog health.
What are fats & oils?
Fats are one of the three primary macronutrients required by dogs, alongside protein and carbohydrates. Oils are liquid forms of fat that can come from plants, seeds, fish or animal sources.
Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids that dogs cannot produce themselves and must obtain through their diet.
These include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Omega-6 fatty acids
- Omega-9 fatty acids
A balanced intake of these fats helps support growth, development and long-term health.
What are the health benefits of feeding dogs fats and oils?
Healthy fats are an essential part of every dog’s diet and perform numerous important functions.
Potential benefits include:
Healthy skin & coat
Essential fatty acids help nourish the skin, reduce dryness and promote a soft, shiny coat.
Brain & cognitive function
Omega-3 fatty acids support normal brain development in puppies and help maintain cognitive function in older dogs.
Joint health
Healthy fats help support joint mobility and normal inflammatory responses.
Immune system support
Essential fatty acids contribute to normal immune function and overall good health.
Concentrated energy source
Fat provides the most concentrated source of energy — more than twice the energy of protein or carbohydrates — making it particularly important for active and working dogs.
Dog-friendly fats & oils
Fish oil
When many people think of a fish oil, they instantly think of salmon oil. But there are also other — albeit more expensive — fish oils including mackerel, sardine, herring and anchovy. There is also krill oil and, for a purely plant-based option, algae oil or ahiflower oil, all of which provide the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA.
Benefits:
- Supports vision and overall wellbeing
- Supports healthy skin and coat
- Promotes joint mobility
- Supports heart health
- Contributes to cognitive function
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is rich in saturated fats, specifically medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). About half of its fat content comes from lauric acid, a type of MCT that gives the oil many of its unique properties.
Benefits:
- Supports skin condition
- Benefits cognitive function, particularly in ageing dogs
- Can be used both in food and topically
If your dog has weight management issues, feed in moderation due to its high calorie content.
Flaxseed oil
Flaxseed is one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. It contains a specific plant-based omega-3 called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). It also contains smaller amounts of omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids.
Benefits:
- Supports skin and coat health
- Less beneficial, but may be suitable for dogs that cannot tolerate fish body oils
Hemp Seed Oil
Hemp seed oil offers a balanced ratio of essential fatty acids.
Benefits:
- Supports healthy skin
- Helps maintain coat condition
- Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
Olive oil
For the same reasons it is beneficial for the human diet, extra virgin olive oil can form a regular part of the canine diet.
Benefits:
- Contains healthy monounsaturated fats
- Rich in antioxidants
- Supports overall health
Animal fats
Animal fats from meat provide vital energy, carry fat-soluble vitamins and supply essential fatty acids for healthy skin and cell growth. However, they must be given in moderation. Too much animal fat can cause serious health issues.
Benefits:
- Excellent energy source
- Highly palatable
- Supports absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
How to feed fats & oils to dogs
When introducing oils:
- Introduce gradually: start with small amounts and increase slowly to allow your dog’s digestive system to adapt.
- Follow feeding guidelines: always use manufacturer recommendations or dog nutritionist guidance when feeding supplements such as fish oil.
- Combine with food: oils can be drizzled over meals to improve palatability and nutritional value.
- Store correctly: many oils should be stored in a cool, dark place or refrigerated after opening to maintain freshness.
- Feed as part of a balanced diet: fats should complement a balanced diet.
How much fat do dogs need?
The appropriate amount depends on your dog’s age, breed, activity level and overall health.
Highly active dogs generally require more dietary fat than sedentary dogs, while overweight dogs will benefit from carefully controlled fat intake.
As a general rule though, in terms of omega-3 fatty acids feed your dog 70-100mg per kg (30-40mg per lb) of body weight per day.
When introducing oils:
- Small dogs: A few drops to ¼ teaspoon daily
- Medium dogs: ¼–½ teaspoon daily
- Large dogs: ½–1 teaspoon daily
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is fish oil good for dogs?
A. Yes. Fish oil is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids and supports skin, coat, joints and brain health.
Q. Can dogs have salmon oil?
A. Yes. Salmon oil is widely used as a natural supplement and provides EPA and DHA.
Q. Is coconut oil safe for dogs?
A. Yes. Coconut oil is safe and well tolerated in small amounts, although it should be fed in moderation because it is calorie-dense.
Q. Can dogs eat olive oil?
A. Yes. Extra virgin olive oil should regularly be included in a dog’s diet.
Q. Why do dogs need healthy fats?
A. Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids, support skin and coat health, aid vitamin absorption and supply concentrated energy.
Q. Can dogs eat too much fat?
A. Yes. Excessive fat intake can lead to weight gain and digestive problems and may increase the risk of pancreatitis in susceptible dogs.
Safety guidelines
While healthy fats are essential, some should be limited or avoided.
Avoid:
- Excessively fatty table scraps
- Deep-fried foods
- Foods cooked with excessive butter
- Greasy processed foods
Too much dietary fat can contribute to obesity and may increase the risk of digestive upset or pancreatitis in susceptible dogs.
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