Reviewed By Joana Garrido DVM
Both flaxseed oil and fish oil for dogs are dense with omega-3 fatty acids. Some pawrents end up having a hard time choosing between the two.
We will tackle the similarities and differences of these omega-3 supplements to find out the best option for your canine companion.
Flaxseed Oil vs. Fish Oil for Dogs: Health Benefits
Flaxseed and fish oils share relatively the same health benefits as canines because of their omega-3 fatty acid content. Thus, they are on par with each other in this area.
Omega-3s are good for heart health as they boost cardiovascular function and reduce the risk of heart disease. They have anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in easing bone and joint problems like arthritis.
Dogs with skin issues can benefit from the omega-3 fats in flaxseed and fish oil as they combat symptoms like itchy, dry, and flaky skin. They nourish the skin and coat, making them shiny and lustrous.
Flaxseed Oil vs. Fish Oil for Dogs: Omega-3 Bioavailability
The major difference between flaxseed oil and fish oil is how quickly their omega-3 fatty acids get absorbed into the canine body.
Flaxseed oil contains omega-3s in the form of a-linolenic acid (ALA), which is commonly found in plants. Chia, hemp, soybeans, and kale are other sources of this nutrient.
Dogs still need to convert ALA into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3s to take advantage of its health benefits.
Unfortunately, this process yields only a small amount of EPA and a more minuscule quantity of DHA.
Pooches will need higher doses of flaxseed oil to gain sufficient amounts of EPA and DHA. Hence, the ALA omega-3 fatty acids in flaxseed oil are considered less potent than fish oil’s omega-3s.
Fish oils are extracted from the skin of fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel, which possess EPA and DHA in their raw form. This means they do not require undergoing a conversion process, unlike ALA.
EPA and DHA offer better efficacy in health benefits to dogs as they have higher levels of absorption rate.
With this in mind, fish oil supplements are the more suitable option for your dog if you want him to get the most out of omega-3s.
Many pet food companies cut corners by using ingredients rich in ALA, instead of EPA and DHA. Thus, you should be meticulous in choosing dog food, especially if your dog has a pre-existing illness that requires omega-3s in their diet.
Check the ingredients list and make sure that the top ingredients are great sources of EPA and DHA. Aside from oily fish, these omega-3s can be found in other seafoods such as green-lipped mussels and oysters.
Flaxseed Oil vs. Fish Oil for Dogs: Side Effects
The high-fat levels of fish oil and flaxseed oil can cause digestive issues in dogs when ingested in large doses. These problems may range from a minor gastric upset to serious pancreatitis.
Excessive use can also have a negative effect on their skin health. Dogs may suffer from itchy and flaky skin. Moreover, issues with blood clotting may arise, which slows down wound healing.
Fish oil supplements also have other dangers pawrents should watch out for. Certain varieties are produced from cod liver, causing them to have high vitamin A levels. Overdosing in dogs can result in hypervitaminosis A, which induces ailments like GI upset, inappetence, bone fragility, and weight loss.
Another risk associated with fish oil supplements for dogs is mercury toxicity. Due to pollution in the waters, most types of fish are getting more exposed to mercury contamination. The severity of this mineral buildup in their bodies will depend on their size and the areas they inhabit.
For instance, large types of fish are more likely to accumulate higher mercury levels than small ones. Locations like the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Sea are recorded to heavily contain mercury.
Mercury poisoning in dogs affects the central nervous system, causing symptoms like body incoordination, convulsions, and coma. Other health issues may also arise, such as blindness and kidney damage.
Be sure to choose high-quality omega-3 supplements for your furry pal. Make sure that they are third-party-tested and have a certificate of analysis, which shows the potency and safety of these products.
Flaxseed Oil vs. Fish Oil for Dogs: Sustainability
Between the two, the production of fish oil is less environmentally friendly than flaxseed oil. It contributes to overfishing, which can eradicate countless marine life and destroy the marine ecosystem.
If you plan to purchase this type of omega-3 supplement, check for labels proving that the product is ethically and sustainably sourced. Some certifications to look out for are the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Friend of the Sea (FOS).
In comparison, flaxseed oil has less negative impact on the environment as it is a renewable resource and does not harm marine life. Thus, if you are concerned about sustainability, it would be a better option for you.
FAQs About Flaxseed Oil vs. Fish Oil
1. Is It OK for Dogs to Take Flaxseed Oil and Fish Oil Together?
Dogs can take flaxseed oil and fish oil together, but adjustments to their dosage might be necessary. Consult with a vet or a certified veterinarian nutritionist to find the right dose.
Avoid making this change on your own. If the dosage is too low, the health benefits of these omega-3 supplements might not manifest in your dog.
On the other hand, giving him too much can lead to gastrointestinal upset or worse, pancreatitis.
Conclusion
Flaxseed oil vs. fish oil, which one will win? Both offer the same health benefits to dogs, such as improved skin, joint, and cardiovascular health.
However, in terms of bioavailability, fish oil is the winner. It contains EPA and DHA omega-3s, which do not require conversion, unlike flaxseed oil’s APA.
Regardless of which one you choose, always follow dosage instructions. Overdosing can lead to side effects like GI distress, itchy skin, and blood clotting disorders. Certain types of fish oils are known to cause vitamin A and mercury toxicity.
