Fish or Fish Oils

Why Oily Fish Is Essential for Dogs

Including small oily fish in your dog’s diet provides a biologically appropriate and highly beneficial source of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) & DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid). These essential nutrients cannot be synthesized by a dog’s body and must be obtained through diet.

✔️ EPA & DHA help:

Brain health – Supports cognitive function, learning ability, and neurological development.
Eye health – Maintains optimal vision and may aid in the prevention of ocular degeneration.
Skin & coat – Promotes a glossy coat, reduces itching, and minimizes dandruff.
Inflammation control – Eases symptoms of arthritis, joint stiffness, and autoimmune conditions.
Gut microbiome balance – Works with probiotics to enhance beneficial gut bacteria.
Heart disease prevention – Strengthens cardiovascular health by improving circulation and reducing plaque build-up.
Cancer defence – Has been shown to help slow tumour growth and support the immune system in fighting cancer cells.

🚨 Deficiency Risks: Without adequate EPA & DHA, dogs may experience:

⚠️ Depression and behavioural changes

⚠️ Chronic skin conditions such as hot spots or flaky skin

⚠️ Ear infections and recurrent inflammation

⚠️ Delayed wound healing

⚠️ A dull, greasy, or brittle coat

Whole Fish vs. Fish Oil Supplements: Making the Right Choice

While fish oil supplements have been marketed as a convenient solution, they come with significant risks:

❌ Oxidation concerns – Exposure to air causes rapid rancidity, leading to oxidative stress that may contribute to heart disease, joint degeneration, cognitive decline, kidney dysfunction, and cancer.

❌ Toxin accumulation – Extracted fish oil comes from fatty tissues, where toxins such as heavy metals and industrial pollutants are stored. With rising ocean contamination, fish oils can carry harmful chemicals, impacting long-term health.

✔️ Solution: Instead of relying on fish oil supplements, opt for whole, fresh fish, which provides:

High bioavailability of nutrients
Additional essential minerals like calcium, selenium, and niacin
Naturally occurring coenzyme Q10, a powerful antioxidant that supports cellular energy production and heart health

🐾 Green-lipped mussels are a superior alternative to fish oil due to their unique ETA (Eicosatetraenoic Acid) content, an omega-3 with enhanced anti-inflammatory properties.

Best Fish Choices for Dogs

To maximise health benefits, select small oily fish that are low in contaminants and rich in essential nutrients:

🐟 Omega-3 Content per 100g of Fish:

Fish Type	EPA & DHA (mg)
Sardines	2,760 mg
Mackerel	2,298 mg
Salmon	1,962 mg
Herring	1,571 mg
Sprats	1,400 mg

🐾 Other suitable options:

✔️ Whitebait – High in protein and calcium

✔️ Green-lipped mussels – Bioavailable omega-3 powerhouse

✔️ Anchovies – Sustainable and nutrient-dense

🚫 Fish to Avoid:

⚠️ Tuna – Due to its large size, it contains high levels of mercury and heavy metals, making it unsafe for regular consumption.

⚠️ Crabsticks – Highly processed and contain minimal nutritional value, and not actual crab!

How Much Oily Fish Should You Feed?

🐾 The required quantity depends on your dog’s overall diet:

✔️ Dogs on a 100% organic, varied diet require less omega-3 supplementation.

✔️ Dogs consuming majority farmed meats need more due to a lower omega-3 profile.

✔️ Dogs on non-raw, processed diets require the most.

🔢 Use our Fish Calculator to determine the optimal amount based on daily feeding needs and dietary type.

✅ Divide weekly fish portions over multiple meals rather than feeding large amounts at once.

✅ If your dog needs to lose weight, add the oily fish into the food instead of feeding on top of it, such as using a surf & turf mince to avoid adding extra calories.

What If My Dog Won’t Eat Oily Fish?

🐾 If your dog refuses raw oily fish or has difficulty tolerating it, consider:

✔️ Aniforte Algae Oil or Adored Beast Algae Oil – Designed for canine-specific omega-3 needs

🚨 Important Note: Algae oil supplies essential fatty acids but lacks the protein, vitamins, and minerals found in oily fish, so oily fish is preferable. Use only when necessary

🐾 Green-lipped mussels are another excellent replacement option, offering enhanced omega-3 bioavailability and inflammation control. Recommended sources include Canumi Monkhouse Liver, Mackerel, and Green-Lipped Mussels

Considerations for Dogs With Epilepsy

⚠️ Some dogs with specific types of epilepsy may require alternative omega sources. It is strongly advised to consult a pro-raw or holistic veterinarian to determine the safest option.

Can I Use Tinned Fish?

⁉️ Did you know that most supermarket tinned fish is considered a low-quality market cast-off?

🐾 If using tinned fish:

✅ Only use spring water-packed varieties

✅ Ensure the tin is BPA-free to avoid endocrine disruption

✅ Prioritise high-quality sources, such as Canumi's Monkhouse Liver, Mackerel, and Green-Lipped Mussels

🚨 Why You Should Avoid Tinned Fish in Oils or Sauces:

⚠️ Even after thorough washing, oils, brine, salts, and sugars remain absorbed into the fish.

⚠️ Heat processing during canning reduces nutrient availability.

Safe Handling Practices

🐾 To ensure safe consumption, follow these precautions:

✅ Fresh unfrozen fish should be frozen for at least three weeks before feeding to eliminate parasites.

✅ Prawns & squid can be fed raw only if sourced safely—otherwise, cook them to eliminate potential hepatitis risks.

✅ Defrosting methods: Some owners prefer feeding fish whole, chopping into pieces, or blitzing in a food processor as a meal topper.

Final Thoughts: Sustainable Sourcing Matters

🐾 Sustainability is vital in maintaining healthy fish populations. Whenever possible, choose ethically sourced fish to reduce environmental impact and ensure responsible ocean fishing practices.

Incorporating small oily fish into your dog’s diet provides superior nutrition, enhanced wellness, and long-term health benefits. Making informed choices will ensure they receive optimal omega-3s, protein, and minerals while avoiding potential risks.

🐾 Your dog’s health starts with what’s in their bowl. Choose wisely!