How to give fish oil to an adult dog and a puppy, do I need Omega 3? Can I give my dog ​​fish oil?

Khodyrev Yuri

Let's try to answer an important question about the benefits of fish oil and how to use it.
There is no consensus on the benefits of fish oil, but today we will give our answer to this question, based on all possible aspects and pitfalls.

Fish oil is valuable primarily for the presence of Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in it. They are difficult to find in other products. These acids are very useful for almost all systems of the canine body:
cardiovascular,
nervous
immune.

They have a beneficial effect on the proper development of the skeleton, give a healthy sheen to the coat.
Fish oil contains vitamins A and D. In fact, this is the only source of vitamin A for a dog, not counting the tablet or liquid form of the vitamin, since the body of a predator cannot absorb it from carrots.

Pay attention to choosing this product, it is desirable to study all these points:

one). It must be fat from the CARCASSES of fish (salmon, menhaden, herring), and IN NO EVENT FROM THE LIVER! Fat from the liver just contains a huge amount of vitamin A, which is extremely dangerous.
2). The fat should be of good quality (high degree of purification), preferably from the carcasses of fish from the northern seas - and now, unfortunately, a huge amount of low-quality fish oil is produced (from warm southern seas, in unsanitary conditions, often rancid already at the packaging stage, etc. .). Therefore, choose carefully the manufacturer, seek, if possible, an assessment of independent laboratories, etc.
3). In any case, no matter which manufacturer you choose, use fat ONLY IN CAPSULES (directly from the capsule into food), and not in bottles (!) - this way it is better preserved, it quickly deteriorates in bottles.
4) Useful sour should be more than 15%
5). And the last thing is to carefully look at the composition of the fat - no additives like lemon, rosemary, etc. should not be!

However, fish oil must be given in a strictly defined amount, due to the fact that a glut of it can harm your pet.
Prophylactic dosages of 250 mg for every 20 kg of your pet's weight.

If a puppy has an upset stomach due to fish oil, it should be stopped for a couple of days. Also, when taking fish oil, you need to periodically take breaks. After two weeks of taking this remedy, you should take a week break, and then continue taking it again, gradually increasing the dose depending on age. Fish oil can be given to a puppy until at least one year of age. Although this natural food supplement will not harm an adult dog. And the reception can be continued throughout life, but not all year round, but in the winter, as well as during periods of weakening of the dog's body and recovery.

Fish oil is not recommended for dogs with poor digestion, as well as for liver problems and diseases. If large amounts of fish oil are consumed, gastritis may develop.
I can also say that it is not recommended to give fish oil along with vitamins A, D, E. It is better to conduct a separate course of fat-soluble vitamins, in order to avoid their excess in the body.
So, what can we answer the question “is it possible to give fish oil?”
Absolutely yes, even necessary! Only in the right proportions regarding the age, weight and health of your pet. And the product must be of high quality!

The nutrition of the animal must be balanced, in addition, you need to ensure that a sufficient amount of essential vitamins enters the pet's body. This applies to dogs of any breed and age, vitamins are especially important for puppies, because the growth and development of babies depends on it.

Many veterinarians insist that fish oil for dogs is indeed healthy, despite the fact that it is obtained from fatty fish that dogs should not eat.

The most important thing to know about fish oil is that it is valuable and one of the most important foods for little puppies. After all, its main purpose is to prevent developmental delays and rickets in small dogs. This product ensures the growth and development of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, while helping to improve the condition of the skin and coat of the animal.

There is no doubt that this product benefits pets. However, veterinarians insist that fish oil must be ingested by the dog in a strictly defined amount. In case of an overdose, the level of accumulated fat-soluble vitamins reaches a maximum, and vitamins have the opposite effect, which leads to the development of many dangerous diseases.

That is why it is best to start adding fish oil to your pet's food only after consulting with a specialist in a veterinary clinic.

The veterinarian will tell you how much is the daily allowance for a puppy or for an adult dog and how to properly introduce this product into the animal's diet.

The composition and benefits of fish oil

This product includes Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that are hard to find in any other product. Such acids have a positive effect on the nervous, immune, auditory, visual systems of the body. In addition, thanks to these acids, the skeleton develops correctly, the level of calcium is normal, respectively, the bones are strengthened and grow correctly, like teeth.

In addition, the composition also includes vitamins A and D, vitamin A is necessary for good and sharp vision.

The use of this product will undoubtedly benefit those dogs that are sick with arthrosis, arthritis or other similar diseases. In such cases, fat also plays the role of an anesthetic. Many dog ​​owners have noted that after the start of the use of fish oil, the animals began to move better, the lameness went away.

It is important to know which fish oil should be given to a dog. The product is available in liquid form and in pea-sized capsules. The cost of the first option is somewhat lower, but the second option is practical, and it is easier to calculate the dose.

It is very important to ensure that the fat is from the carcasses of the fish, and not from their liver. Fat must have a high degree of purification. It is worth checking that the product does not contain any additives. The presence of rosemary or lemon in the composition is also undesirable.

Instructions for use

The amount of fish oil you should give your dog depends on its age. The most optimal dosage for a pet is one or two capsules. Babies of one month old need only one capsule, then, as the animal grows, the dose is gradually increased.

The course should last no more than two weeks, and be sure to take a break of one week. It is very important to check your dog for allergies to fat. It is worth making sure that there is no diarrhea and all kinds of skin irritations.

For adult dogs, the course should be 3-4 weeks. Courses should be held two or three times a year, preferably in the autumn-winter period. Fish oil is usually added and mixed with food.

You can also put the capsule on the root of your pet's tongue. Most dogs are not afraid of even the strong smell of fish in the case of a liquid preparation, therefore, in order to save money, you can use the product in a liquid state.

With the advent of a small puppy in the house, everyone wants him to grow up strong, healthy and beautiful. To do this, you need to organize proper nutrition, regular walks and a lot of useful mineral supplements for proper development and growth. Fish oil is one of these vitamins.

Fish oil is a dietary supplement that is made from certain types of fish - cod, mackerel, salmon and trout. The preparation is dominated by a huge amount of vitamins D, A, E and beneficial substances of omega fatty acids. They improve the absorption of calcium and promote proper bone growth, have a good effect on vision and prevent the formation of blood clots.

Should I give?

All veterinarians recommend adding this supplement to the diet of puppies and adult dogs for proper development of the nervous system and growth, to improve the cardiovascular system and the condition of the coat and skin. If puppies add fish oil to their food, then the likelihood of developing rickets will be reduced to a minimum.

Puppies should be given the drug from the age of two months. And adult animals need it in autumn and spring. If the pet is already in old age, then this supplement will favorably affect the functioning of the heart. Your friend will become more active.

As for the condition of the coat, regular use of this nutritional supplement will make it shiny and healthy. Here are some of the benefits of adding fish oil to your dog's diet:

• prevention of cardiac, nervous and muscular systems;
• cure for inflammatory diseases;
• improvement of wool and skin;
• strengthening the immune system;
• cure for allergies;
• proper skeletal formation and bone strength.

Harm

Any vitamins and supplements are beneficial, if taken correctly. When giving this medication to your pet, it must be borne in mind that some individuals may experience an allergic reaction, indigestion and other negative phenomena.

Important: an allergy can occur not only to the medicine itself, but also to the capsule in which it is located. In this case, it can be given to a pet, after piercing the capsule and squeezing the contents out of it.

You should not drink the drug to your pet before planned operations or with various intestinal diseases. Be aware of the possibility of an overdose.

Before deciding how much to add to your diet, consult your veterinarian. Exceeding the daily dose can lead to such negative consequences as:

• manifestation of allergic reactions in the form of a rash and redness of the skin;
• low blood clotting;
• excessive gas formation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• the appearance of a specific smell from the mouth;
• apathy, drowsiness and lethargy.

Attention: if the dog is prescribed a course of anticonvulsants, stop taking the drug, as it will reduce the therapeutic effectiveness of the drug.

There are no prohibitions for individual breeds, so the drug can be given to any dog, be it a German Shepherd or Spitz.

Absolute contraindications for admission are:

• kidney failure;
• tuberculosis in an open form;
• violation of the thyroid gland;
• malignant formations;
• the formation of stones in the bladder and kidneys;

Release forms

In capsules

For dogs, dietary supplements are available in capsules and in liquid form. The substance in capsules has a neutral odor, and in liquid form its cost is much cheaper. But the quality of both means is no different in its composition.

Liquid

Most people prefer the liquid formulation as it is easier to mix into food. And some animals are allergic to the gelatin capsule. Puppies are easier to drink with a liquid remedy, and adults can be given a veterinary remedy in capsules. Most adult animals bite the capsule with pleasure, and they like the pungent smell of the drug.

Important: Please note that the composition of the medication does not contain any flavors and fragrances.

What kind is better?

Get a drug extracted from salmon. Fats must be mined from the muscles of the fish, not from the liver. Since it contains a large amount of vitamin A. Its excess can cause hair loss in a pet.

Important: fish cannot be replaced with fish oil. Because it's just a food supplement, not a complete product.

Better buy fish oil for dogs carcasses of menhaden, herring, salmon. Salmon oil is obtained from salmon muscle mass. It is better absorbed, and most dog breeders prefer it.

Compound

This drug contains more than 20 useful elements, namely:

• a large amount of vitamin D, A and E;
• omega - 3 fatty acids;
• bromine;
• phosphorus;
• sulfur.

All these trace elements have a beneficial effect on the body of animals.

How to choose a veterinarian?

On the shelves of pharmacies there is a huge variety of fish oil from different manufacturers. When choosing this drug worth paying attention to type of packaging, date, proper storage, absence of harmful flavors and additives in the composition.

It is necessary to buy the drug in veterinary pharmacies. Then the label will indicate that it is intended specifically for animals. The product you purchase must be highly purified.

Important: fish oil should not be stored in the light and in heat.

How to give?

You can drink fish oil to pets regularly, starting from two months of age. The only thing is that veterinarians recommend taking a week break between doses every 2-3 weeks. Or, you can give your dog this supplement 2-3 times a week, adding it to the morning and evening meals.

Fish oil is essential either mix it into the dog's food or give it directly in the capsule.

For adult pets

Older dogs should be given with caution and in small amounts. Since it can put a strain on the liver.

Adult dogs do not need to be given this product. It can be perfectly replaced with any vitamins. And if you feed the animal with a balanced diet, which already contains certain trace elements, then you should not give additional various food supplements.

Some people think fish oil is best for pets. along with curd. There is no special evidence for this technique, but the drug is really better absorbed with dairy products.

Can it be given to puppies?

But two-month-old puppies need to introduce this supplement gradually and carefully, starting with a few drops and gradually increasing the dose to a few teaspoons.

Summing up, it can be noted that fish oil is good for animals. If you want your pet to grow up healthy, cheerful and beautiful, properly care for him and provide him with the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals.

Useful video

Check out the veterinarian's opinion on whether dogs need fish oil:

Conclusion

If you decide to add this particular drug to your pet’s diet, try to purchase it. in trusted pet stores and veterinary pharmacies. With the right choice and proper dosage of the supplement, your dog will have a healthy and beautiful appearance, a balanced state, and will be less stressed.

In contact with

It is known that dogs cannot eat fatty fish, but fish oil, which is obtained just from fatty fish, is possible.

However, this product should be given in strictly defined quantities, otherwise, instead of benefit, you can harm your beloved pet.

It should be remembered that fish cannot be replaced with fish oil, which is a food supplement, but not a complete product. It contains a large amount of vitamin D, as well as vitamins A and E, omega-3 fatty acids.

Fish oil is obtained from cod liver, as well as from mackerel, herring, salmon muscle mass and some other fatty marine fish. It should be noted that salmon oil is obtained from salmon, not fat. And many dog ​​breeders prefer oil, because it is better absorbed.

Why do dogs need fish oil?

This product is given to puppies to strengthen immunity, prevent rickets, normal growth and development.

It is recommended to give fish oil to dogs suffering from arthritis, arthrosis or other joint diseases. In these diseases, fat has a strengthening, analgesic effect. Dog breeders note that after taking this nutritional supplement in dogs suffering from joint diseases, improvements in mobility were observed, and lameness passed.

Fish oil is given to dogs to improve the quality of wool, skin health, and the prevention of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

There is no consensus on the 100% benefits of fish oil, but in some cases it helps, for example, with joint diseases. However, this product should be given in moderation, otherwise it will lead to the development of various dangerous diseases.

How and how much to give fish oil to a dog

Fish oil is mixed into food, in small quantities. The dose is determined taking into account the body weight of the pet. The optimal dosage is 0.5-1 tablespoon of fish oil per day. Some dog breeders mix fat only in cottage cheese, for better absorption of the fermented milk product. Thus, give this food supplement several times a week. With an everyday course, the food supplement is given only in the morning feeding.

Puppies are given fish oil from two months or one year of age (everyone decides for himself, but many advise against giving fish oil if the puppy is under one year old), starting with a few drops, gradually increasing the dose to 1 tablespoon per day. Older dogs are given in smaller amounts to reduce the load on the liver.

Adult healthy dogs can not be given fish oil, but replace it with a vitamin complex, and then if the pet eats natural products, and not ready-made dry food (high-quality), which often already contains all the necessary vitamins.

The course begins in autumn-winter, the product is mixed into food for 3 months. It is recommended to take the course twice a year.

Fish oil should not be taken by dogs with indigestion or liver problems. In some dogs, this food supplement causes allergies, and can also cause diarrhea. If the pet is allergic to the capsule itself, then you should switch to liquid fish oil (some pierce the shell, squeezing out its contents).

It is not recommended to give cod liver oil to dogs, because it contains a high content of vitamin A, and its overdose is fraught with serious consequences. In addition, gastritis can develop from it when fed in large quantities. An overdose of fat-soluble vitamins leads to a number of other diseases, such as hair loss - the first sign of an overdose.

Vitamin D contained in fish oil is poorly absorbed, while different dogs have different absorption rates. For example, in some it is absorbed by 50%, while in others by 10%.

Together with fish oil, vitamin E should be given, since the first inhibits the synthesis of vitamin E in the body.

This dietary supplement helps to increase appetite, so it is easy to overfeed the pet, because it will seem that he is hungry.

If the dog is regularly given vitamins, in particular A, D, E, then fish oil should not be included in the diet, because the dog will receive an excess of vitamins. As you know, an excess of vitamins in the body is more dangerous than their lack.

In general, references to fish oil are present in the old literature, many are guided by this, forgetting that in those years it was difficult to get vitamins, there was no variety of vitamin complexes that are currently present in a wide range on the shelves of pet stores and pharmacies. Therefore, taking into account all the features of this nutritional supplement, you should responsibly approach the question “Include or not include fish oil in the dog’s diet?”. Many prefer not to take risks, and give their pets not pure fish oil, but more balanced, complex preparations designed specifically for dogs.

To summarize, the answer to the question "Can dogs be given fish oil?" will - yes, but in moderation.

How to choose fish oil

When buying, you should study the composition, pay attention to what fat the product is obtained from. The safest product is derived from muscle (ichthyene or fish oil) fat. Useful acids should be more than 15%. The composition should not contain additional additives in the form of lemon, rosemary, which act as natural preservatives.

Fish oil for dogs should be highly purified.

You need to pay attention to the storage conditions in the pharmacy, pet store. If the product was kept warm and in the light, then most likely it has already been spoiled.

Fish oil is available in capsules and liquid form. In capsules, it is most convenient - it does not smell, does not spill, it is stored longer, but some dogs may be allergic to the components of the shell. As for the smell, many dogs are happy to use the supplement despite its unpleasant smell.

You can buy fish oil for dogs at a veterinary pharmacy or clinic, a pet store or a regular pharmacy. If the instructions indicate the dosage for humans only, then dogs should be given according to the children's scheme.

Opinions regarding whether it is possible to feed a dog with fish are extremely controversial due to the content in it:

• thiaminase;
• histamine;
• trimethylamine oxide.

These substances are harmful to the pet.

Thiaminase

This enzyme, entering the body, destroys thiamine, in other words, vitamin B1.

Important! You should never feed fish heads and entrails to your dog - that's where most of this enzyme is found.

But it is destroyed by heat treatment. Boiled or well-frozen fish practically does not contain it.

However, heat treatment deprives the product of many useful elements. This can be avoided if 1-2 times a week to give sheepdogs fresh raw fish.

The largest amount of thiaminase is found in meat:

• tuna;
• cod;
• zander;
• catfish;
• sardines;
• herring;
• whitefish;
• herring;
• carp;
• tyulki.

It is contraindicated to give them raw and fresh to animals.

Histamine

This is a real poison for living beings. Due to its minimal content, it is recommended to feed to dogs:

• tuna;
• sardines;
• mackerel;
• whiting.

Trimethylamine oxide

This trace element is iron-binding. It modifies iron, making it impossible to absorb.

Important! Trimethylamine oxide is found in fish in extremely small quantities. It can harm the dog with long-term regular eating of large portions of it.

What kind of fish can be given to a German Shepherd puppy

From the foregoing, it is concluded that it is not only possible to give a German Shepherd puppy a fish, but it is also necessary to follow the rules:

Useful are:

• greenling;
• otopeka;
• zuban;
• pink salmon;
• sea ​​burbot;
• crucian carp;
• halibut;
• ice fish;
• bearded man;
• mackerel;
• haddock;
• salmon;
• flounder;
• croaker;
• trout;
• salmon;
• pollock;
• sea ​​bass;
• saithe;
• acne;
• Atlantic cod.

Sometimes a puppy refuses unusual foods. Then the owner is advised to slightly let it go on fire along with vegetables.

fish oil for german shepherd

Animals cannot, like humans, synthesize vitamin D from ultraviolet rays in the skin and vitamin A in the liver from vegetables. Fish oil is a dietary supplement that supplies the body with these and other vitamins and minerals.

For growing living beings, it is one of the most useful. The benefits of fish oil are great:

• improves visual acuity;
• prevents rickets and developmental delay;
• activates the immune system;
• increases the absorption of calcium, stimulates the growth of teeth, bone strength;
• improves metabolism;
• heals the skin, increases its regeneration;
• makes hair thick and shiny.

Therefore, veterinarians often prescribe regular monthly courses of fish oil for puppies as a prophylactic, followed by a “rest” of 2-3 weeks.

But if the pet eats fatty varieties of fish, then you do not need to give fish oil to a German shepherd puppy.

Use this dietary supplement for the treatment of rickets, allergies, dermatitis. The rate of admission is the same as for prevention.