Is oily fish good for dogs?

Is Oily Fish Good for Dogs?

Introducing oily fish into your dog's diet can seem like a straightforward boost to their health, with promises of shiny coats and improved cognitive function.

However, for many dog owners, navigating this change is anything but simple. Concerns about mercury contamination, the right balance of fatty acids, and the fear of potential allergies can turn this well-intentioned dietary adjustment into a source of confusion and worry.

Understanding which types of oily fish are safe and beneficial and which might pose risks is crucial in ensuring that your furry friend reaps the benefits without suffering any adverse effects.

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Should you feed your dog oily fish?

Yes, oily fish is very good for dogs when included as part of a balanced diet. Oily fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids that help improve a dog's skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and support their immune system.

Fish should be given in moderation to prevent excessive calorie and fat intake.

What are the health benefits of feeding oily fish to dogs?

There are six main health benefits associated with including oily fish in a dog's diet.

Improved Skin and Coat Health

Oily fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which can help to nourish the skin and promote a shiny, healthy coat. These fatty acids can also help reduce flakiness and itchiness that can result from skin conditions.

Joint Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are renowned for their inflammation-reducing properties. Regular intake can help reduce joint inflammation, which is especially helpful for dogs suffering arthritis or other joint issues.

Heart Health

Omega-3s help regulate heartbeats, decrease blood pressure, and improve circulation in dogs, which can lead to better overall cardiovascular health.

Brain Development

For puppies, DHA is important for the development of brain and nerve tissues. Feeding them diets rich in DHA can contribute to better cognitive development and improved trainability.

Immune System Boost

The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3 fatty acids can also support the immune system by helping to manage chronic inflammation, which can otherwise lead to various autoimmune diseases.

Weight Management

Including the right amounts of oily fish in a dog’s diet can help maintain an ideal weight. It provides high-quality protein with fewer calories, which can be beneficial for weight management.

What are the best types of oily fish for dogs?

These are some of the best types of oily fish you can consider feeding your dog:

  • Salmon: Rich in protein and omega-3s, salmon is a popular choice for dog diets. Avoid farm-raised salmon when possible, as it may contain higher levels of pollutants compared to wild-caught.
  • Sardines: These small fish are typically safe for dogs because they are less likely to contain heavy metals like mercury.
  • Mackerel: Another good source of omega-3s, mackerel should be given in moderation due to its higher mercury content compared to smaller fish.
  • Anchovies: Low in mercury and high in omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Herring: A nutrient-dense fish that's also good for omega-3s.
  • Trout: Like salmon, trout is an excellent omega-3 fatty acids and protein source. Avoid farm-raised trout when possible, as it may contain higher levels of pollutants compared to wild-caught.
  • Pilchards: These are a type of small sardine that is also high in omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury.

 

How to safely prepare oily fish for dogs

Not all oily fish is created equal and preparation is key to ensure it doesn't pose any health risks to your dog.

  • Look for canned fish in spring water rather than brine or oil. The salt in brine is excessive for dogs to consume and oil is extremely calorie dense.
  • Fresh fish should be frozen for a month prior to feeding to ensure any parasites are killed as these can infect a dog.
  • Frozen fish can be defrosted and fed cooked or raw.
  • Dried fish such as sprats are perfect for training or sprinkling into food.
  • Cooked fish should be deboned and left to cool before feeding. Cooked bones can cause blockages and damage internally to a dog.

 

sprats for dogs

 

How often should you feed oily fish to your dogs?

Oily fish should be fed in moderation. Aim 2-3 times per week as part of a balanced diet. This helps prevent the build-up of toxins like mercury and balances nutrient intake.

At what age should you start feeding oily fish to dogs?

Puppies can start having oily fish once they begin eating solid food, around 8 weeks of age. Introduce it slowly to ensure they do not have allergic reactions or digestive issues.

fish treats for dogs

 

Can oily fish be mixed with other foods, or should it be served separately?

Oily fish can be mixed with other dog-safe foods. It pairs well with raw food and kibble, making a nutritious meal. Always introduce new combinations gradually.

Are there any special considerations for feeding oily fish to senior dogs?

For senior dogs, fish being cooked very softly aids in chewing and digestion.

  • Adjust food portions based on their activity level and metabolic rate, which tend to decrease with age.
  • Be cautious of any chronic health conditions like kidney disease, where protein intake might need to be moderated or pancreatitis, where fat content needs to be monitored.

Can you feed raw fish to dogs?

Feeding raw fish that has not been frozen to dogs is generally not recommended because of the risk of parasitic infections and bacteria like listeria and salmonella, which can be harmful to both pets and humans.

To avoid this issue, always cook fresh fish thoroughly to eliminate these risks or freeze for a month prior to feeding. This is enough time to ensure any parasites are killed. Fish that is purchased frozen has been blast frozen which kills parasites and means it is safe to feed to your dog immediately.

Oily fish that should be avoided

  • Swordfish, and King Mackerel: These are known to have high mercury levels and should be avoided in a dog's diet.
  • Farm-raised Fish: Often contain higher levels of pollutants and antibiotics; opting for wild-caught fish is generally healthier.
  • Fish with High Oil Content for Certain Conditions: Dogs with specific health issues, such as pancreatitis, should avoid high-fat diets, including some types of oily fish.

Symptoms of oily fish allergies in dogs

As with any protein, some dogs, although rare, can be intolerant to oily fish and display symptoms of allergies when having eaten it.

  • Skin Issues: One of the most noticeable symptoms is skin irritation. This can include excessive itching, redness, and inflamed skin. Dogs might also develop hives or hot spots due to constant scratching.
  • Gastrointestinal Problems: Allergic reactions can also affect your dog's digestive system. Symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhoea, and excessive gas. There may also be a lack of appetite.
  • Ear Infections: Dogs with food allergies, including those to fish, often suffer from recurrent ear infections. The ears may appear red and swollen, and there might be an odour or discharge.
  • Respiratory Issues: Although less common, some dogs might experience coughing, sneezing, or other respiratory symptoms as a part of an allergic reaction.
  • General Discomfort: You may notice your dog seems unusually uncomfortable or lethargic, which can be a sign of an allergic reaction. 
fish bars for dogs

What are the best fish treats for dogs?

Natural fish based treats can be a great convenient way to include fish in a dog's diet without having feed it as part of their meals.

Dried sprats are extremely popular as they are a high value reward for training whilst offering the benefits listed above. Dried sprats can be broken into smaller pieces and used on walks, for enrichment games and to add interest to meal times.

Fish Jerky Bars are a dual benefit treat as they not only give the benefit of being rich in vitamins and minerals, they also act as a natural dental stick helping to mechanically remove plaque and tartar as your dog chews.

Little Trainers Fish Training Treats are 100% fish in a small, dry and portable treat which are perfect for taking our on walks. They are not greasy either and do not smell particularly strong.

While oily fish can be a nutritious part of your dog’s diet, it’s essential to introduce it carefully and monitor its effects on your dog’s health.

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie

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