Fish oil

What is fish oil?

Fish oil is an oil obtained from the tissue of fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel or sardines. It contains high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential polyunsaturated fatty acids. This means that they cannot be produced by the body itself and must therefore be taken in with food.

Omega-3 fatty acids have many positive effects on the body. For example, they can

• stimulate the metabolism and strengthen the immune system
• regulate blood clotting and promote vascular health
• inhibit inflammation and relieve pain
• support brain function and increase emotional well-being
• make the skin supple and the coat shiny

How much fish oil does my dog need?

The optimum dosage of fish oil depends on various factors such as the dog's weight, age, state of health and diet. However, as a rule of thumb, around 100 mg EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and 70 mg DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) should be administered per 10 kg of body weight. These two omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important for your dog's health.

You can buy fish oil either in capsule or liquid form. Make sure that the product is of high quality and especially suitable for dogs. You can give the oil directly into your dog's mouth or mix it into their food.

What are the disadvantages of fish oil for dogs?

Fish oil is generally well tolerated by dogs when given in appropriate amounts. However, it can have some side effects if it is overdosed or if the dog is allergic to it.

Possible side effects include

Fatigue 
Vitamin E deficiency 
Vomiting 
Diarrhoea 
Bleeding tendency 
Poor wound healing 
Tissue damage 
Fainting
To minimize these risks, you should always stick to the recommended dosage and have your dog checked regularly by your vet. If you notice any signs of an overdose or allergy in your dog, you should consult a vet immediately.