Does your furry best friend sometimes seem a little stiff after playing fetch? Maybe their coat isn’t as shiny as it used to be? You’ve probably heard that fish oil is good for dogs, packed with amazing stuff called omega-3s. It sounds like a simple solution, right? Not so fast! Walking down the pet store aisle can feel like a maze. Which brand should you trust? How much is too much? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed trying to find the best fish oil to truly help your pup.
But don’t worry, you’re in the right place to sort through the confusion. We’re diving deep into the world of dog fish oil. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what to look for on labels, how to spot the good stuff from the not-so-good, and how to give your dog the best support for healthy joints and a dazzling coat. Let’s uncover the secrets to choosing the perfect fish oil supplement for your happy, healthy dog!
Top Dog Fish Oil Recommendations
Bestseller No. 1
Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Omega-3 Blend Pollock + Salmon Oil for Dogs and Cats- Skin and Coat Support, Omega 3 Supplement for Pets, 8.5oz
- SKIN & COAT NOURISHMENT: Fish oil for dogs and cat like Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil provides omega-3 fatty acids, helping maintain a shiny coat and nourished skin
- OMEGA 3 HEALTH SUPPORT: Our omega 3 fish oil for dogs and cats is packed with EPA and DHA, supporting overall pet health, supporting the immune system, joints, and heart function
- EASY-TO-MIX FORMULA: Avoid capsules with this easy salmon oil for cats and dogs; simply add a few pumps to food for a nutritious boost
- NOURISHES SKIN: This cat and dog oil for skin and coat is gentle, making it a key part of cat and dog health supplies
- BOOST IMMUNE SYSTEM: Rich in omega 3, this cat and dog salmon oil not only supports skin and coat health but also strengthens immune function and overall well-being, fitting dog health needs
Bestseller No. 2
Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Omega-3 Blend Pollock + Salmon Oil for Dogs and Cats- Skin and Coat Support, Omega 3 Supplement for Pets, 32oz
- SKIN & COAT NOURISHMENT: Fish oil for dogs and cat like Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil provides omega-3 fatty acids, helping maintain a shiny coat and nourished skin
- OMEGA 3 HEALTH SUPPORT: Our omega 3 fish oil for dogs and cats is packed with EPA and DHA, supporting overall pet health, supporting the immune system, joints, and heart function
- EASY-TO-MIX FORMULA: Avoid capsules with this easy salmon oil for cats and dogs; simply add a few pumps to food for a nutritious boost
- NOURISHES SKIN: This cat and dog oil for skin and coat is gentle, making it a key part of cat and dog health supplies
- BOOST IMMUNE SYSTEM: Rich in omega 3, this cat and dog salmon oil not only supports skin and coat health but also strengthens immune function and overall well-being, fitting dog health needs
Bestseller No. 3
Omega 3 for Dogs and Cats 1000mg – 200 Fish Oil Fatty Acids Capsules (180mg EPA + 120mg DHA) – Supplement for Skin and Coat Itch Relief and Immune System
- Pure Omega-3 for all breeds, formulated by veterinarians, in soft capsules for 3 months of use. Fatty acids with no additives or preservatives, ideal for providing your furry friend with safe, 100% natural care
- Sourced from high-purity anchovies, free from heavy metals thanks to advanced purification processes, supporting joint, heart, and brain health
- Each 2 cm capsule provides 1000 mg of anchovy oil with 180 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA, helping improve skin health, enhance coat shine, and reduce shedding
- Easy to give by mixing with daily food or a BARF diet. It is recommended to cut one end of the capsule with scissors and pour the softgel contents over the food for better use
- Satisfaction guaranteed because your pet’s health comes first. If the product does not meet their needs, you can return it without any issues
Bestseller No. 4
Native Pet Salmon Oil for Dogs & Cats – Pure Omega-3 Fish Oil for Dogs Supplement for Skin & Coat, Joint & Heart Health - Dog Anti-Inflammatory – 100% Wild-Caught Alaskan Sockeye Salmon – 8 oz
- ETHICAL, SINGLE-SOURCED SOCKEYE SALMON FROM BRISTOL BAY, ALASKA: Sockeye Salmon Oil for Dogs comes from sustainable fisheries and has the highest concentration of dog omega-3 supplements and dog omega-6 supplements.
- PROMOTES A HEALTHY SKIN & COAT + HELPS REDUCE SHEDDING & ITCHING: Native Pet's dog fish oil supplement helps reduce itching and shedding while deeply nourishing the skin. An ideal fish oil for dogs skin and coat that delivers visible results.
- SUPPORTS MOBILITY & JOINT HEALTH: Our wild Alaskan salmon oil for dogs and cats is a natural omega 3 supplement with EPA, DHA, and Astaxanthin to promote joint health, support mobility, and keep your pet active and comfortable at any age.
- BOOSTS HEART FUNCTION & OVERALL WELLNESS: Our salmon oil for cats and dogs is packed with EPA omega-3s to support heart health and boost overall vitality. A trusted dog salmon oil supplement for lifelong wellness in every drop.
- VITAL FOR BRAIN HEALTH & COGNITIVE FUNCTION: Featuring DHA omega-3s, Native Pet salmon oil for dogs and cats supports brain development in young pets and helps maintain cognitive function in aging pets. Ideal as a cat salmon oil or wild salmon oil for dogs seeking mental sharpness.
Bestseller No. 5
Fish Oil for Dogs - Healthy Skin & Coat, Salmon, Pollock, All Natural Supplement for Pets, Itching Scratching Allergy & Inflammation Defense, Omega 3 EPA DHA, Brain & Heart Health, 64 oz
- SOFT, SHINY, & SMOOTH COAT - Does your dog, cat, ferret, horse, or energetic ball of fur have a dull, dry or coarse coat? Essential omega 3 fatty acids from our fish oil supplement will help support healthy skin and coats. You’ll want to hug them even more!
- DRY SKIN, ITCHING, FLAKING, SHEDDING, & ALLERGIES? - Is your pet constantly itching or scratching due to dry skin and allergies? The essential fatty acids contained in fish oil help support natural allergy defense. Your pet will be much happier playing rather than itching and scratching.
- INFLAMMATION & JOINT PROBLEMS? - Have you noticed your pet playing less and having trouble with common activities? The omega 3 in fish oil helps support joint and bone health and also supports a healthy immune system. Normal activities will be funner and more comfortable.
- SUSTAINABLY SOURCED - Our fish oil has been sustainably sourced, ensuring healthy oceans and safeguarding seafood supplies for the future.
- PROUDLY WOMEN-OWNED, FAMILY-OWNED, and US-OWNED - We are proud to be Family-owned, Woman-owned, and US-owned. Our products and ingredients are sourced globally so we can give our fur babies the best.
Bestseller No. 6
Native Pet Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs & Cats - Promotes Healthy Skin, Shiny Coat, & Strong Joints - Made with Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs – Tasty, Fast-Absorbing Omega 3 6 9 Liquid Supplement- 8oz
- HEALTHY SKIN, COAT AND JOINTS, ALL IN ONE DELICIOUS PUMP: Our Omega 3 for dogs is made from wild Alaskan fish oil, a high-quality dog fish oil supplements that promotes shiny coat, healthy skin, and strong joints.
- ALL-NATURAL, WILD-CAUGHT FISH OIL: Made with wild-caught pollock oil and wild-caught Alaskan salmon oil, this omega oil for dogs ensures the highest quality and sustainability. We use no added fillers, just pure, premium ingredients to support your pet’s health.
- COMPLETE OMEGA 3, 6, & 9 PROFILE : This dog omega 3 supplement is a blend of wheat germ oil and Omega 3 liquid fish oil, packed with essential EPA, DHA, and Vitamin E to support your dog’s immune health, joint mobility, and overall vitality.
- VET APPROVED WITH HIGH QUALITY INGREDIENTS: This fish oil for cats and dogs is packed with omega-rich nutrients to support skin, coat, joint, and heart health. A Liquid fish oil for dogs made with clean, effective ingredients and no added fillers
- REDUCE EXCESSIVE SHEDDING: Our dog shedding supplement is a real champ, fighting off skin troubles with omega 3, 6, and 9. An ideal dog supplements for itchy skin, this coat defense for dogs supports a shiny coat, reduces shedding, and promotes healthy skin.
Bestseller No. 7
Natural Dog Company Wild Alaskan Salmon Chews for Dogs – Fish Oil Supplement with EPA & DHA for Itchy Skin, Coat, Brain, Joints & Immune Health, Daily Omega-3 Chews, 90 Count
- SUPPORTS SKIN & COAT HEALTH: These daily omega chews provide naturally occurring EPA and DHA from Alaskan salmon to help maintain healthy skin, promote a soft, shiny coat, and support overall wellness in dogs of all ages.
- HELPS MAINTAIN SEASONAL SKIN COMFORT: Crafted with nourishing omega-3 fatty acids that may help with occasional skin dryness associated with seasonal changes, to help support balanced skin function year-round.
- JOINT & MOBILITY SUPPORT: Our salmon omega blend soft chews helps maintain normal joint flexibility and mobility great for active pups, growing dogs, and seniors who benefit from daily whole-body nutritional support.
- IMMUNE & HEART SUPPORT: Rich in essential fatty acids that help support normal immune system function and contribute to overall cardiovascular health, these Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil soft chews offer daily foundational nourishment.
- TASTY SOFT CHEWS DOGS LOVE: A delicious fish-flavored soft chew made with real salmon oil, perfect for picky eaters and easier than pumps or liquids. No mess, no measuring, just simple daily nutrition that fits any routine.
Bestseller No. 8
Premium Salmon Oil for Dogs – Pure Norwegian Salmon Oil High in Omega 3 EPA & DHA -Powerful Fish Oil for Dogs Skin & Coat, Hip & Joints, Allergies & Itchy Skin – Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs-8oz Liquid
- 100% NORWEGIAN SALMON OIL: Wonder Paws 100% Norwegian salmon oil for dogs is sustainably sourced from the pristine waters in Norway to deliver powerful amounts of omega-3, 6 and 9. Our pure Norwegian Atlantic salmon oil for dogs is packed with EPA and DHA to support healthy skin and coat, itchy skin, shedding, dry skin, occasional allergy relief and overall hip and joint health. Our salmon oil formula with omega-3s is a delicious and tasty food topper that your pet will love. Give your furry friend the gift of salmon oil today!
- SKIN & COAT, SHEDDING, ITCHY SKIN & ALLERGIES: Is your pet struggling with skin & coat and allergy challenges? Our natural salmon oil for dogs helps relieve dry and itchy skin, shedding, flaking and seasonal allergies. This omega-3 fish oil for dogs comes from high quality sustainably sourced Norwegian salmon oil that provides powerful skin and coat benefits including softer fur, less hot spots and helps reduce scratching. Try our premium salmon oil for dogs skin and coat to help keep your pet happy, instead of itching and scratching!
- HIP & JOINT SUPPORT: Is your pet struggling with joint challenges or mobility issues? Our 100% Norwegian salmon oil for dogs joint health is designed to support hip & joint health, flexibility, mobility and overall bone health. Help keep your pet active and mobile with our omega-3 salmon oil. Our sustainable omega-3 fish oil for dogs also supports heart and immune health. Avoid salmon treats or salmon chews, instead simply add a few pumps of our tasty omega 3 salmon oil to your pet’s food for a nutritious boost.
- FOR ALL AGES, SIZES & BREEDS: Our pure salmon oil for dogs is perfect for all breeds, sizes and ages. Our easy to use omega 3 fish oil for dogs can be put in food, kibble or water. This delicious daily salmon oil for dogs skin and coat is perfect to support overall joint mobility and flexibility. This liquid salmon oil for dogs comes with an easy to use pump. Your pet will love the delicious and pure salmon oil high in beneficial omega 3 fatty acids.
- NASC CERTIFIED: Wonder Paws is a member of the prestigious National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), which ensures strict quality control standards. Wonder Paws fish oil for dogs is NASC Certified, so you know you are getting a trusted product that adheres to stringent quality controls. Our dog salmon oil is made in the United States with Norwegian sourced salmon oil in an FDA registered and GMP Certified facility.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Dog Fish Oil: Keep Your Pup Happy and Healthy
Dog fish oil is a fantastic supplement. It adds healthy fats to your dog’s diet. These fats help their skin, coat, and joints. Choosing the right one can seem tricky. Use this guide to pick the best bottle for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for dog fish oil, check these important things first.
1. Omega-3 Content (EPA and DHA)
- What it is: These are the main healthy fats in fish oil. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) do the heavy lifting for health.
- Why it matters: Look for the actual amounts of EPA and DHA listed on the label, not just the total fish oil amount. More is usually better for treating skin issues or joint stiffness.
2. Purity and Testing
- What it is: Fish can sometimes have bad stuff like heavy metals (mercury) or toxins.
- Why it matters: Good brands send their oil for third-party testing. This proves the oil is clean and safe for your dog. Look for certifications or mention of testing on the bottle.
3. Form of Oil
- Liquids vs. Softgels: Liquids are easy to mix into food. Softgels are easier to store and measure correctly. Choose what works best for your feeding routine.
Important Materials: Where Does the Oil Come From?
The source of the fish matters a lot for quality.
Source of Fish
- Cold-Water Fish are Best: Fish like salmon, anchovies, and sardines live in cold waters. They naturally have more healthy Omega-3s.
- Avoid Certain Fish: Large predator fish often hold more toxins. Smaller, shorter-lived fish usually have cleaner oil.
Form of Triglycerides
- Triglyceride Form: This is the natural form of the fat. It is easier for a dog’s body to absorb and use.
- Ethyl Esters: This is a processed form. While okay, the triglyceride form is generally considered superior for absorption.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all fish oil is created equal. Some things make the oil better, and others ruin it.
Quality Boosters
- Antioxidants Added: Vitamin E is often added to fish oil. This helps stop the oil from going bad (oxidizing).
- Freshness: Fresh oil works best. Rancid (spoiled) oil smells bad and loses its benefits.
Quality Reducers
- Rancidity: Fish oil spoils quickly when exposed to heat, light, or air. Always store the bottle tightly closed in a cool, dark place—sometimes even the refrigerator. If it smells very “fishy” or like old paint, throw it out.
- Too Much Processing: Over-refining the oil removes good things along with the bad.
User Experience and Use Cases
How will you use this product, and what results can you expect?
Common Use Cases
- Skin and Coat Health: This is the most common reason. Owners often see less dryness, itchiness, and a shinier coat within a few weeks.
- Joint Support: For older dogs or large breeds, fish oil helps reduce inflammation in the joints, making movement easier.
- Heart and Brain Health: DHA is important for puppies’ brain development and supports the hearts of adult dogs.
Giving the Supplement
- Taste: Most dogs like the taste of fish oil. You can usually put the liquid right on their regular food.
- Dosing: Always start with the lowest recommended dose and increase slowly. Follow the dosing chart based on your dog’s weight. Consult your vet before starting any new supplement.
Dog Fish Oil: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I give my dog human fish oil supplements?
A: Generally, no. Human supplements often have doses too high for dogs or contain ingredients like garlic or extra Vitamin D that might be harmful in large amounts for dogs.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: For skin and coat changes, you might notice improvements in four to six weeks. For joint benefits, it might take longer, sometimes two months or more.
Q: What is the best time of day to give fish oil?
A: You can give it at any meal. Splitting the dose between morning and evening meals can sometimes help with absorption.
Q: Will fish oil make my dog’s breath smell bad?
A: Sometimes, yes, especially if the oil is starting to go rancid or if your dog licks the residue off their bowl. Keep containers sealed tightly.
Q: Is it safe to give fish oil every day?
A: Yes, fish oil is typically safe for daily, long-term use when given at the correct dosage based on your dog’s weight.
Q: What is the difference between Fish Oil and Krill Oil for dogs?
A: Fish oil usually has higher total amounts of EPA and DHA. Krill oil has smaller amounts but is absorbed very well by the body.
Q: Should I refrigerate the fish oil?
A: It is highly recommended for liquid forms. Refrigeration slows down the spoilage process and keeps the oil fresher longer.
Q: What if my dog gets diarrhea?
A: Diarrhea often means the dose is too high. Reduce the amount you are giving immediately and slowly increase it again over several days.
Q: Does the color of the oil matter?
A: Good quality fish oil should be clear or a very pale yellow. If it looks dark brown or cloudy, the quality is probably low.
Q: Are there any side effects to watch out for?
A: The most common side effects are mild stomach upset or loose stools. Serious side effects are rare when given correctly.