The market for dietary supplements is booming, with a 2018 estimate of $35 billion and a projected $57 billion by 2024 increase. For humans, oil supplements can be a useful component of a comprehensive diet plan, but what about dogs? Are there any differences in the health advantages and safety of canine consumption?
Consult your veterinarian prior to including any supplements in your dog’s diet or regimen. She is getting all the nutrients she requires normally if you are feeding your dog food that has the AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) designation of being “complete and balanced.” Additional oil supplements may provide additional health advantages, but there has been little research on their effects, and in some cases, there is a chance of toxicity from overdosing on certain substances.
Additionally, keep in mind that regulations for dietary supplements and drugs differ greatly. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review dietary supplements to ensure their efficacy, safety, or quality. More significantly, the FDA must demonstrate that a supplement is unsafe while drug manufacturers must demonstrate that a drug is both safe and effective before it is sold.
Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two essential omega-3 fatty acids, can be found in high concentrations in fish oil. Fish oil may help dogs with joint pain to some extent, but severe cases may need additional medications from your veterinarian.
Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil may lessen inflammation, muscle loss, and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) in canines with heart disease or heart failure. While canine coronary artery disease does not exist, humans’ coronary artery disease can be prevented with omega-3 fatty acids.
Fish oil or omega-3 supplementation may also benefit some dogs with kidney disease by lowering the amount of proteins in their urine, but there hasn’t been much research on this and we don’t yet know exactly how it works.
Although there are different kinds of fish oil available, natural triglyceride oil is the most popular and the most readily absorbed by dogs’ bodies.
Parents of pet athletes frequently add olive oil as a useful additive to high-performance kibble to further increase fat and calorie intake, despite the fact that you may only think of it as a cooking oil or as a key component of your favorite salad dressing. Even though this can be helpful for dogs who are very active, typical house dogs typically do not require the extra calories, which can result in weight gain.
While both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids are present in olive oils, other oils have higher concentrations per volume and would be a more efficient way to include these nutrients in your dog’s diet.
Cod liver oil has higher levels of vitamins A and D and lower levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids when compared to other fish oils. As a result, dosages of cod liver oil that would, for instance, provide enough omega-3s to help dogs with heart failure would cause the diet to become out of balance or result in dosages of vitamins A and D that aren’t necessary and could be harmful.
Linseed oil, also referred to as flax oil or flaxseed oil, is a plant-based triglyceride that comes from the flax plant and contains an unusually high concentration of the fatty acid ALA (Alpha-linolenic acid). Plant-based ALAs are less efficient at reducing joint inflammation or treating other chronic diseases than DHA and EPA derived from fish oil or algae. Dogs’ coats and skin have benefited from the addition of flax or linseed oil, which keeps them shiny and healthy.
A dietary source of linoleic acid (LA), which dogs and cats cannot produce, is necessary to maintain healthier skin and fur. Vegetable oils like sunflower oil are promoted as an efficient supplemental source, despite the fact that many commercially produced dog foods offer sufficient levels of LA and other omega-6 acids for the majority of dogs. However, arachidonic acid (AA or ARA), an omega-6 acid that is only present in significant amounts in animal fats, is not present in sunflower oil at levels that are significant.
In recent years, coconut oil has been hailed as a miracle cure for everything from Alzheimer’s disease to the common cold. It also has anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. The benefit of coconut oil’s high levels of Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) has been established despite some outlandish claims to the contrary. Lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid, among other MCT components, have been shown in a few studies to benefit the human immune system by acting as antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial agents. However, results in dogs are inconclusive, necessitating further investigation.
Coconut oil may help wounds heal more quickly and provide some benefit in the treatment of atopic dermatitis and dry skin. When used in higher doses, the oil may also help treat some cognitive issues and lessen seizure frequency. Internally, the oil offers a different route for MCTs to be absorbed, which helps treat conditions like Lymphangectasia (poor bowel absorption) and inflammatory bowel disease.
Coconut oil lacks significant amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, like the majority of plant-based oils, and what little is present is not easily absorbed by dogs’ bodies. There is no conclusive scientific evidence for other claimed advantages, such as cancer prevention, weight loss, or prevention of periodontal disease.
Applying Coconut Oil to Your Dog’s Skin and Coat
Applying coconut oil directly to dogs’ skin and coat is, in our opinion, one of the best uses for it. In contrast to other skin-care products for dogs, coconut oil has the added benefit of tasting good and being suitable for consumption. That means you won’t need to be concerned about your dog unintentionally licking any off.
Coconut oil works as a leave-in conditioner. It makes your dog’s fur, which is both single and double-coated, stronger, shinier, and less vulnerable to damage.
However, the real star of the show is a fatty acid known as lauric acid, which has a unique chemical composition that makes it far more effective at penetrating the hair shaft. Very few other oils have this claim to fame, which is why coconut oil is a fan favorite of pet owners everywhere.
Even some people think that coconut oil can help fight off that recognizable “dog” smell!
In contrast to olive oil, coconut oil doesn’t have a lot of omega fatty acids. While it does have some, it is not nearly enough for your dog to receive the same number of advantages as other oils. Additionally, because coconut oil is harder to digest and process, the few fatty acids that do pass through might not be as beneficial.
While some avocado parts can be consumed by dogs, others, such as the leaves and pit, are poisonous due to the presence of persin. Fortunately, avocado oil does not contain that substance, so you can give your dog small amounts of it without worrying.
A rich source of vitamin E, avocado oil also contains omega-3 fatty acids. Together, these elements might lessen swelling and promote both internal and external physical wellness. However, because avocado oil contains more fat than other cooking oils, your dog should only consume it occasionally and in very small amounts.
Another option is to occasionally give your dog sesame oil. Even though it is not as healthy or nutrient-rich as other oils, it won’t harm to give your dog a few drops if you use it in your cooking.
Vitamin E, an antioxidant that may also help reduce swelling, is one vitamin that sesame oil does contain in abundance. Even though occasionally using a small amount of sesame oil won’t have a significant impact on your dog’s overall health, it won’t do any harm!
Be aware that some dogs may not like sesame oil because it tends to have a stronger, more distinct flavor than other oils, especially if they are picky.
Sunflower oil is also safe for dogs. The oil is abundant in omega-6 fatty acids and made from compressed sunflower seeds. The fact that your dog cannot produce omega-6 fatty acids on their own makes them essential for their health.
Therefore, if your dog hasn’t been spayed or neutered, supplementation is essential to preserving the health and development of your dog’s skin, coat, immune system, and reproductive system.
Additionally, you can directly massage a little bit of sunflower oil into your dog’s paw pads. The winter months are the most beneficial because the dry air and low humidity can cause their pads to crack and hurt. .
Omega-6 fatty acids are only truly beneficial when combined with omega-3 fatty acids, which is a disadvantage of using sunflower oil for dogs. These acids do have the potential to worsen any existing swelling if taken alone.
Although it is safe for dogs, vegetable oil lacks many of the health benefits of many of the other cooking oils on the list. Vegetable oil is mostly useful for external issues because it contains fewer fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals than the oils that are more beneficial.
The main problem with giving vegetable oil to your dog is that it might contain byproducts from both corn and soybeans. These ingredients are likely to have a negative impact on dogs with allergies. It is best to avoid vegetable oil in order to help reduce your dog’s symptoms from potential allergens.
Canola oil is safe but may not always be good for your dog, like vegetable oil. Canola oil is much more likely to undergo extensive processing and is frequently produced using genetically modified organisms (GMOs). You would be better off picking one of the many other, healthier oils available if you wanted to add an oil to your dog’s diet to benefit their health.
Other oils are mentioned as well, though they aren’t as frequently. Many of these are less frequently found in kitchens, but we want you to be ready if you find them and want to try them!
MCT oil is one of the additional oils that pet owners frequently inquire about. If you’re not familiar with MCT oil, it is made typically from either coconut oil or palm oil and stands for medium-chain triglycerides.
MCT oil is based on the premise that these medium-chain triglycerides have smaller molecules than many of the other types of fats we consume. They are more readily available as an energy source right away due to their smaller size and ease of digestion.
MCT oil hasn’t been studied nearly as much as the majority of the other oils on this list, but some veterinarians think it can aid in better digestion and lessen the signs of cognitive decline in older dogs. However, more investigation is required to provide proof for those assertions.
The other traditional oils on our list, including ghee, have many of the same healthful ingredients. Ghee is actually a type of clarified butter. Additionally, ghee can be given to your dog safely in moderation, just like the other oils.
Ghee is particularly rich in vitamin A, which is essential for your dog’s immune system. Additionally, it is abundant in fatty acids and a substance called butyric acid, which can support healthy digestion.
What are the healthiest oils for dogs?
Fish oil: According to Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA, MSFP, executive director of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Foundation, fish oil contains EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids that help with arthritis and also have some anti-cancer properties. Fish oil can also improve your dog’s memory.
“The main reason I advise fish-oil-based omega-3 fatty supplements is to produce a natural anti-inflammatory effect that can help reduce overall body inflammation and possibly reduce my patients’ dependence on medications intended to reduce inflammation and pain,” says Dr. A certified veterinary acupuncturist with California Pet Acupuncture and Wellness (CPAW), Patrick Mahaney, VMD, CVA, CVJ,
Fish oil typically originates from fish higher on the food chain, such as salmon, whereas krill oil is derived from tiny shrimp-like organisms that are slightly lower on the food chain. As a result, krill oil is less likely to contain mercury, according to Dr. Scanlan says. Along with other advantages, it also contains EPA and DHA, which will help your pet have healthier skin and joints.
Dogs are omnivores with a tendency to carnivore, so non-vegetarian based oils like fish and krill are best absorbed by them, according to Dr. Mahaney.
Extra-virgin coconut oil is a popular option for humans and dogs alike because it’s a healthier substitute for more processed saturated and trans fats. Dogs who consume coconut oil have also been shown to experience weight loss, increased energy, and relief from dry skin. Bonus: It will help improve your dog’s bad breath!.
Flaxseed oil: When it comes to promoting heart health, this oil is comparable to wild fish due to its high content of alpha linolenic omega-3s. Similar to many other beneficial oils, flaxseed oil can improve kidney and blood pressure function as well as mobility in arthritic dogs.
What Should I Know About Cooking Oils and My Dog?
Even though the cooking oils mentioned in this article are secure for your dog to consume (or to apply to their skin and coat), that doesn’t mean you should give them as much as they desire.
While they have many advantageous qualities, they also have a lot of fat and calories. Dogs should refrain from consuming excessive amounts of fat and calories, just like us. Indulgence has the same negative effects on dogs as it does on people, including increased cardiovascular risk factors (such as high cholesterol and blood pressure) and weight gain.
Remember that dogs who consume excessive amounts of fatty acids may develop liver problems. Before beginning any new supplement, it’s crucial to strike a healthy balance and speak with your vet, especially if your dog is already taking other drugs (prescription or over-the-counter).
Having too much fat can also result in pancreatitis, a serious medical condition. The pancreas, which among other things produces insulin and aids in food digestion, becomes inflamed when it has pancreatitis. Dogs with this condition frequently exhibit symptoms like fever, vomiting, nausea, and loss of appetite. When left untreated, it can become fatal.
If you have any reason to believe that your dog may have pancreatitis, call your veterinarian right away. Even though your dog might need to spend a day or two in the hospital, the results are good when the condition is discovered and treated quickly.
GI upset is one of the most probable side effects of adding any oil to your dog’s diet. For the most part, this will manifest as softer stools or even diarrhea, especially at first. If your dog experiences this, you might want to give less oil or even stop altogether. Once the oils are eliminated from their diet, the GI issues will typically disappear quickly.
FAQ
What oils are safe for dogs to eat?
Low in saturated fat and high in vitamin E and omega-6 is sunflower oil. Dog food frequently contains sunflower oil, which is also present in Scratch. Flaxseed Oil – Has both Omega-3 & 6. Coconut oil is simple to digest and contains a lot of good saturated fats.
Can dogs have olive oil in their food?
Thankfully, dogs can consume small amounts of olive oil without any problems. In fact, it can even be beneficial for them. Regular use of olive oil can promote healthy skin and give your dog’s coat shine.
Does oily food harm dogs?
Fried or Fatty Foods According to Hartogensis, dogs are extremely toxic to foods that are overly fatty, like fried chicken. If they consume enough of these foods, the pancreas may become inflamed and begin to produce enzymes that can seriously harm your pet’s intestines.