4 Benefits of Salmon Oil for Dogs

We call dogs our best friends for a reason. They give us companionship, love, and occasionally barf on our carpets. But what many dog parents don't know is that their furry friends need quality nutrition just like we do! And that includes administering nutritional supplements when called for.

With so many dog supplements available, finding the perfect one for your dog can be challenging.

The best way to select a supplement that’ll provide your dog with the best nutritional value? Make sure you understand what ingredients to look for, and how those ingredients work. Among the most essential components to consider: omega-three fatty acids.

Salmon and other fatty fish oils are some of the best sources of omega-three fatty acids. Without adequate omega-3s in their diet, your dog may...

• Suffer from dull, dry fur
• Risk developing hot spots (irritated skin)
• Develop allergies
• Experience a weakened immune system

So giving your dog salmon oil supplements is an easy way to ensure they're getting the nutrients they need for a long, happy life.

Today, we’ll discuss the top four benefits of salmon oil for dogs and also give you answers to extremely topical questions like, "What does salmon oil for dogs do?" or "Why use salmon oil for dogs?"

• Benefit #1 — Prevents and Cures Skin Allergies
• Benefit #2 — Ensures Soft and Shiny Dog Coats
• Benefit #3 — Sustains Strong Immune Systems for Dogs
• Benefit #4 — Aids in Sustaining Joint Health
• Frequently Asked Questions about Salmon Oil for Dogs

Benefit #1: Prevents and Cures Skin Allergies

Skin allergies are the leading causes of symptoms including runny nose, red watery eyes, and sneezing in dogs.

Luckily, omega-3 fatty acids play a crucial role in preventing and curing skin allergies!

Salmon oil is a rich source of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These are the two essential omega-3 fatty acids needed for healthy dog skin.

Although foods like chia and flax seeds are rich in omega 3, they lack EPA and DHA.

DHA and EPA from salmon oil are essential for the proper functioning of a dog's skin. These components help soothe, maintain, and promote healthy skin by:

• Modulating the production of inflammatory cytokines (a type of protein that can agitate immune response)
• Regulating the activity of enzymes that maintain normal cell structure and function — Keeping skin healthy from the inside out!
• Stimulating new cell growth to heal wounds — So small scratches heal faster and don't get more complicated
• Reducing histamine response to allergens — AKA less itching and less redness

When you use salmon oil for dogs with allergies, you're supporting their healthy skin barrier. This barrier then prevents your pup’s skin from reacting to allergens like dust and other external irritants.

What can you expect from salmon oil supplementation? A happy dog who doesn't scratch his skin raw!

If your dog is allergic to pollen, grass, and dust, salmon oil can help address these reactions — even helping reduce or cure skin's reactivity.

And if your dog doesn't experience skin allergies, you can prevent them from developing in the future by including salmon oil in your pup's diet.

The table shows the recommended salmon oil dosage for dogs based on weight:

Benefit #2: Ensures Soft and Shiny Coat

Your dog's coat is a reflection of her health. A healthy coat is shiny, soft, and free of tangles and mats.

But before we get into how to keep this coat in optimal condition, did you know that a dog's coat is actually made up of primary hairs and secondary hairs?

Yes, that’s right. The primary hairs are a thick, long outer coat that provides your pup with warmth and protection. Thinner, shorter secondary hairs keep them cool in hot weather!

Omega-three fatty acids in salmon oil are essential for the growth and development of both hair coats. They:

• Regulate the production of hormones that control hair growth
• Maintain the health of cell membranes that surround each hair follicle
• Determine the rate at which new hair cells are produced

The resulting benefits of using salmon oil for dogs with dry skin include:

• Ensuring a balanced moisture content in the skin, thanks to the presence of amino acids
• Supporting a soft and shiny coat via ensuring that those amino acids remain near the skin

Expert Tip: Chronic skin inflammation is a leading cause of dry, flaky skin and dull coats. Additionally, when your furry best friend’s skin is inflamed, you’ll find that they start to lick and bite their fur excessively, occasionally causing "hot spots" or grooming themselves raw.

Benefit #3: Sustains Strong Immune Systems for Dogs

A strong immune system is key to keeping your dog healthy and happy. Conversely, a weak immune system leaves your pup susceptible to infection and disease.

Some of the common signs of a weak immune system, especially in senior dogs, include:

• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Frequent infections
• Slow wound healing
• Hair loss

Omega-three fatty acids found in salmon oil play a vital role in maintaining a strong immune system. These nutrients will support your dog's immune system responses by:

• Reducing inflammation throughout the body: If left untreated, chronic inflammation in dogs can lead to autoimmune diseases like arthritis.
• Regulating the production of immune cells: Salmon oil helps the dog's body to produce more white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections.
• Increasing the effectiveness of vaccines: Omega-3s increase the effectiveness of vaccinations by boosting the ability of immune cells to respond to a vaccine.

It's worth noting that some dogs are born with a weaker immune system than others. These pups are already at a higher risk of developing allergies, infections, and autoimmune diseases.

Salmon oil can help reduce the severity of these conditions by strengthening the immune system, supporting your furry friend in recovering from illness more quickly.

Expert Tip: If your dog has not been taking salmon oil, start with half the recommended dose, and gradually increase the dosage over time. This will allow their body to adjust to the new supplement, and help prevent any digestive upset. Alternatively, you can mix their salmon oil with food to make it even tastier!

Benefit #4: Aids in Sustaining Joint Health

Sustaining joint health is crucial for dogs, especially as they age. This is because joint problems are among the main reasons older dogs slow down and become less active.

Some of the common signs that your dog has joint problems include:

• Consistent limping
• Stiffness
• Decreased activity level
• Reluctance to jump or climb stairs

Joint pain is another common problem caused by inflammation of the tissues that surround the joints. It can be the result of age, disease, or injury.

Salmon oil for dogs with arthritis is incredibly beneficial because it can help reduce inflammation around the joints, allowing your older pooch to move more freely and enthusiastically.

Salmon oil also helps to protect the cartilage that cushions dog joints. This cartilage breaks down with age, which leads to joint pain and stiffness. By protecting the cartilage, salmon oil helps to keep the joints healthy and pain-free.

Why Buy Salmon Oil from Paramount Pet Health?

Now you can comfortably answer the question, “Why is salmon oil good for dogs?” Soooo all that’s left is to determine the best salmon oil for your pup and where you can buy it... ;)

Paramount Pet Health is a USA-based pet health manufacturer and supplier, whose founder, Ben, was inspired by his cat, Lyo.

After consulting with his vet, Ben created a glucosamine supplement that helped Lyo start playing again. Very quickly, Ben realized other pet owners and pets needed support, too. 

And thus was born Paramount Pet Health. We're committed to creating science-backed supplements to help unwell and older pets, along with supporting younger pets through their long and healthy lives.

Ready to grab our salmon oil for dogs and see great results for your pup? You won't be disappointed.

“I have been giving the salmon oil to my two dogs for a few weeks now. I have totally noticed a difference, their coat is shiny, soft and very little shedding. I will be a returning costumer from now on!! Definitely recommend!.”

Kaitlyn, USA — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Verified Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil for Dogs Review

Frequently Asked Questions

Does salmon oil reduce dog shedding?

Yes. Salmon oil for dogs to stop shedding is an effective way to reduce the amount of fur that your dog sheds. The omega-three fatty acids in the oil help improve the health of your dog's skin and coat. This leads to less shedding and a shinier, healthier coat.

Is salmon oil good for dogs' itchy skin?

Yes. Salmon oil can help relieve itching caused by dry skin, allergies, and other skin conditions. The omega-three fatty acids in salmon oil promote the development of a silky dog coat. This can reduce the severity of itchiness and inflammation.

How often should I give my dog salmon oil?

Talk with your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplement! That being said, you can give your dog salmon oil daily if the vet recommends it.

What is the difference between salmon oil and other types of fish oil?

If you're unsure what the difference is between the two, our blog, Salmon Oil vs. Fish Oil, can help. Then you can  decide which is the best choice for your dog. 

How much salmon oil should I give my dog?

The amount of salmon oil that you give your dog will depend on their weight. Check your bottle for dosing guidelines!