If there's one product we find ourselves recommending to almost every dog owner, it's fish oil. When customers ask about what they can do to help their older dog deal with hip and joint issues, the first thing we do is ask if they use fish oil. The same goes for customers asking about how to keep their dog's heart healthy. This essential ingredient is such a beneficial supplement to almost any dog's diet that we go to extra lengths to make sure we have the absolute cheapest price out there for the brand we carry, Dr. Harvey's.
Here we're going to break down what exactly makes omega-3 fish oil such an important staple to any over-achieving dog owner's shelf.
Fish Oil Promotes Healthy Skin & Coat
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), have anti-inflammatory properties1 that can alleviate dry skin2, itching, and dandruff in dogs. Especially for breeds that are prone to allergies, this is a huge deal as it's a remarkably non-intrusive way to address the itching. Most customers of ours who buy fish oil from us report back within days that their dog's coat is feeling softer, looking softer and shedding less.
Joint Health & Reduced Inflammation
For dogs with arthritis or other inflammatory joint conditions, fish oil can provide much-needed relief. EPA and DHA have been shown to reduce inflammation3 and improve joint function, potentially slowing the progression of arthritis4. As dogs age, their joints naturally deteriorate, leading to stiffness and discomfort. Fish oil supplementation can help mitigate these symptoms, improving mobility and overall quality of life, particularly in senior dogs. Again as with skin issues, if fish oil works to improve joint-related issues with your dog, it can be an amazing alternative to supplements that are in a pill form. Many dogs who have trouble getting excited to down pills will be ecstatic about the fishy taste that comes along with Dr. Harvey's Health & Shine, along with many other brands of fish oil. And since it soaks into your dog's food, you don't have to worry about them eating around it.
Improved Heart Health
The anti-inflammatory and triglyceride-lowering effects of fish oil can also promote cardiovascular health in dogs1. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to reduce blood pressure, decrease blood clotting, and lower cholesterol levels, all of which are vital for heart health. Regular fish oil supplementation may help reduce the risk of heart disease, which can be a concern for certain breeds that are predisposed to cardiovascular issues5.
Boosted Immune System
The immune-boosting properties1 of fish oil make it a valuable supplement for dogs of all ages. By helping regulate the inflammatory response, fish oil can strengthen a dog’s immune system and improve their ability to fight off infections and other diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids can also support healthy cell function, helping protect your dog from chronic illnesses and supporting recovery after surgery or illness.
Why We Love Dr. Harvey's Health & Shine Fish Oil
We chose to carry Dr. Harvey's Health & Shine based on its high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. One teaspoon contains 365 mg of EPA and 370 mg of DHA, giving the 16 fl oz bottle a total omega-3 fatty acid level of 69,531 mg. We sell Health & Shine for $27, which puts it at 2,575 mg per dollar. This ratio is why we're proud to say we sell this fish oil for a lower price than anywhere on the internet (including Amazon!).
In addition, a great reason we love Dr. Harvey's fish oil is the fact that so many of our customers report that their dogs respond enthusiastically to the product. We hear reports of dogs happily lapping up their food, even begging, when previously they were barely interested. It's important to make sure you're not putting too much in your dog's food based on their weight, so assuming proper dosage, a few pumps of Health & Shine might turn mealtime for your dog from a chore to their favorite time of day!
As with any supplement, it's wise to consult with your vet before introducing fish oil to your dog's diet. They can give you an idea of what dosage will be recommended for your dog, which can be compared to the dosage recommended on the box.
References
1. Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Canine Health: A Review
5. Nutritional therapy in the treatment of heart disease in dogs. (Heart Disease in Dogs)