If you have a dog that is struggling with itchy skin, dry cracked paws, or seems to be shedding a lot more than usual, then you might be in the market for a fish oil supplement for dogs. Giving your dog an omega-3 or fish oil supplement can be a great change to their diet. As dog owners we are often searching for ways to keep our pups healthy. Whether you are an active person yourself and want a dog to bring along with you for a hike or run or a homebody who loves playing catch outside with their dog, it is important to make sure your dog is getting their dietary needs met. Adding a fish oil supplement could make a huge difference in your dog's coat, skin, and overall energy levels.
There are many supplements on the market. While people seem to most commonly use salmon oil that can be pumped into their dog's food, there are a variety of different types of supplements out there. Some supplements are a combination of fish and seed oils and include other things like biotin or zinc. You will also find that these fish oil supplements for dogs come in a variety of forms. You can buy gel capsules, straight oil, and even chewable treats.
When you start looking at fish oil for your dog there are a few things you might want to consider. Most fish oil supplements for dogs are dosed by your pet's weight. Some capsule or chew forms may require up to 4-6 servings for a large dog around 100 pounds. If you have a large dog this may mean you will go through the chews or capsules very fast and a larger bottle of oil that you can pump into their food might be a better fit. You will also want to consider any allergies your pet has. Some of the fish oil supplements exclude major allergens, but not all do, so you will want to be aware of this. You can also consider whether you want a fish oil supplement with other added vitamins and how concerned you are about fishy odor.
Why Trust Us?
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The Best Fish Oil for Dogs - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Fish Oil for Dogs: Zesty Paws Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
- Best Budget Fish Oil for Dogs: planoplaws Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs
- Best Liquid Fish Oil for Dogs: Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet - Fish Oil Liquid
- Best Fish Oil for Dogs with Allergies: Native Pet Omega Oil for Dogs - Dog Fish Oil Supplements with Omega 3 EPA DHA
- Best Fish Oil Chews for Dogs: Zesty Paws Salmon Fish Oil Omega 3 for Dogs
- Best Fish Oil Pill for Dogs: NaturVet Salmon Oil Pet Supplement for Healthy Skin, Glossy Coats
- Best-Tasting Fish Oil for Dogs: Grateful Pawz Omega 3 for Dogs - Fish Oil for Dogs Chews
- Best Fish Oil Softgels for Dogs: Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Supplements for Dogs | Skin and Coat Omega 3 Supplement
- Best Fish Oil for Dog Skin and Coat: PetHonesty Omega SkinHealth Chews for Dogs
Best Overall Fish Oil for Dogs - Zesty Paws Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
SPECS
- Price (rating scale below): $-$$
- Dosage: 1-6 tsp
- Type: Liquid
With so many choices out there, it can be hard to find the best overall fish oil for your dog. While some people choose to give their dogs fish oil simply because they know it has health benefits, others do so because their dogs struggle with shedding, dry skin, allergies, or other issues. If you are a dog parent who is simply seeking out the best general fish oil to add to your dog's diet, then Zesty paws pure Alaskan salmon oil is a great option. This supplement comes in liquid form which makes it easy to add on top of your dog's favorite kibble or wet food. It comes with a pump which makes for easy dispensing.
This oil provides your dog with the perfect amount of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) which will help keep their skin and coat moisturized and healthy. After incorporating this into their diet you are sure to notice less scratching and more shine. Best of all, your dog will be pumped about the natural salmon flavor. Simply check the dispenser for how many pumps to treat your pup to based on their size.
What We Like
- Made in the USA
- Suitable for cats and dogs
- Easily usable pump dispenser
What We Don't Like
- No calorie information listed
- High dosage for pets over 100 lbs.
BUY: Zesty Paws Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil
Best Budget Fish Oil for Dogs - planoplaws Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 0.25-2 tsp
- Type: Liquid
Fish oil supplements for both humans and dogs can be expensive. Though they can be pricey, they are great for your dog's health. You are in luck, though, because there are absolutely affordable fish oil products on the market. The planoplaws Omega-3 Fish Oil is a budget-friendly fish oil for your dog. For an 8-ounce bottle of this pumpable oil, you will only pay about $.15 per pump. Depending on the size of your dog they will need 1/2 to 2 pumps daily, making this a very affordable supplement per serving regardless of your dog's size.
With each pump, you are supporting your dog's joints as well as heart and brain health. You will also be pleased to discover reduced shedding and itching as this supplement becomes part of your dog's daily diet. All ingredients used in this oil are safe and effective, even human-grade!
What We Like
- Low odor
- Dog owners report dogs love the taste
- Made by a small business
What We Don't Like
- Needs to be refrigerated after opening
- The pump may be problematic on some bottles
BUY: planoplaws Omega 3 Fish Oil for Dogs
Best Liquid Fish Oil for Dogs - Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Pet
SPECS
- Price: $$
- Dosage: 0.25-1.25 mL
- Type: Liquid
Liquid fish oil is often the preference when it comes to dogs. Many people like giving the supplement to their dogs in this form because it is easy to toss into their kibble and often makes their kibble even more appealing to them. Having to wrap a gel capsule or hard pill into meat or cheese just to get your dog to eat it is a real hassle, while liquid fish oil requires no fuss. It is easy to make adding the correct dose to their food part of your routine and theirs.
This Nordic Naturals liquid fish oil product is made with high-quality ingredients. While this specific product is intended for small breed dogs and cats, it can be given to any size dog but will just require higher doses and the bottle may not last as long. The combination of essential fatty acids included in this fish oil supplement is great for keeping your dog's heart, skin, coat, immune system, and joints healthy and can help enable them to keep playing and loving you even longer. This oil is also free of gluten, dairy, and artificial flavors and colors.
What We Like
- Great for small breed dogs and cats
- Distilled for purity
- Sustainably made in a zero-waste facility
What We Don't Like
- Less suitable for dogs over 20 lbs.
- Needs to be refrigerated after opening
BUY: Nordic Naturals Omega 3 Pet - Fish Oil Liquid
Best Fish Oil for Dogs with Allergies - Native Pet Omega Oil for Dogs
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1 pump per 10 lbs. of weight
- Type: Liquid
Watching your dog struggle with allergies can be so hard. From constantly scratching and gnawing at their skin to whimpering and licking constantly, it's impossible to not feel their pain. Often vets will recommend that you change to expensive foods or eliminate certain things from their diets. It can take quite some time to figure out how to help your dog with allergies. One of the first things you can do to help them is to start using a fish oil for dogs with allergies. Native Pet Omega Oil for Dogs is a great supplement to add to your dog's daily diet. This fish oil supplement uses oil from USA-sourced wild-caught salmon and pollock. Full of omega-3 oils, your pet is sure to see its itchy and sensitive skin clear up in no time.
Native Pet Omega Oil for Dogs contains the perfect combination of EPA, DHA, and vitamin E. Complete with omega 3, 6, and 9, both their skin and coats will be protected and in the best shape ever. You can also expect to see your dog move better than ever as this liquid omega-3 delivers fatty acids that will boost your dog's immune system, reduce inflammation, and help their joint mobility immensely. Simply follow the dosage instructions and pump onto your dog's food daily.
What We Like
- Only 5 ingredients
- Helps metabolize fatty acids
- Easily usable pump dispenser
- Cold-pressed
- Shelf stable up to 2 years
What We Don't Like
- Pump may leak or smell if uncovered
- Dosage instructions unclear on bottle
BUY: Native Pet Omega Oil for Dogs
Best Fish Oil Chews for Dogs - Zesty Paws Salmon Fish Oil Omega-3 for Dogs
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1-3 soft chews
- Type: Chews
Most of our dogs love treats, and many of them especially love a chewy delight rather than a crunchy biscuit. If you are searching for the best fish oil chews for dogs, then Zesty Paws Salmon Fish Oil Omega-3 Chews are sure to be a good fit. These tasty morsels come packed with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. With a delicious salmon flavor, your dog will eat them up, resulting in improved skin health and immunity. You will no longer have to worry about your pet struggling with dry skin, and the perfect blend of antioxidants and vitamins C and E will help to reduce oxidative stress.
Great for dogs of all sizes, simply follow the dosing instructions and give your pup 1-3 chews depending on their weight. Feel free to start supplementing when your pup is young and continue into their older years. Many dog owners enjoy the mess-free aspect of a chew-style supplement—no more cleaning those stinky food bowls or wiping down the floor due to oil spills.
What We Like
- No grain, corn, or soy derivatives
- Features premium DHA
- Immune system support
What We Don't Like
- Strong odor
- Contains palm oil
BUY: Zesty Paws Salmon Fish Oil Omega-3 for Dogs
Best Fish Oil Pill for Dogs - NaturVet Salmon Oil Pet Supplement
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1 capsule per 15 lbs. of body weight
- Type: Gel caps
Fish oil supplements can often be smelly, whether it is a liquid oil or chew, some pet parents simply do not want to deal with the strong fish odor. If you prefer a pill form of fish oil for your pup, NaturVet has created a fish oil pill in the form of a gel cap that is a great option. These gel caps are full of omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. Simply give your dog one capsule per 15 pounds of body weight daily. These capsules may seem small, but they are mighty. You will see your dog's coat begin to look healthier and slowly see their flaky skin become more moisturized, making for both a happy pup and owner.
This supplement is even wheat free so it will not enhance any allergy issues that your pet might have. Not all pets are too keen on swallowing pills, but that is an easy fix; to make getting your pup to eat the gel cap easier, add it to a small spoonful of peanut butter or hide in a small chunk of cheese. Your dog will never know that they are getting healthier through this tasty treat.
What We Like
- Wheat free
- Made in the USA
- Contains omega-3, -6, and -9
- Great for cats and dogs
What We Don't Like
- Many gel caps needed for larger dogs
- Gel caps may not be suitable for smaller pets
BUY: NaturVet Salmon Oil Pet Supplement
Best-Tasting Fish Oil for Dogs - Grateful Pawz Omega-3 for Dogs
SPECS
- Price: $-$$
- Dosage: 2-5 chews per day
- Type: Chews
If we are going to make our dogs take a supplement, we want to make sure it is something they will easily gobble up. The best-tasting fish oil for dogs is hands down the Grateful Pawz omega-3 chew. Complete with the perfect combination of flaxseed oil and Alaskan salmon oil, your dog will truly enjoy the taste of this chicken-flavored treat. It is full of biotin and zinc which will help to improve your dog's long-term health.
Not only does this fish oil taste great, but it will also leave your dog's coat softer and shinier than ever. Watch as your dog has decreased levels of shedding as well as scratching and itching episodes. You should see a decrease in hot spots and flaking of the skin which will result in less licking and scratching for your pup so you will have more time to play interruption free!
What We Like
- No corn, wheat, soy, sugar, or GMO
- Money-back guarantee
- Subscribe and save option
- Owners report dogs eat them with ease
What We Don't Like
- Chews are quite small for larger dogs
- May leave your dog with a fishy breath smell
BUY: Grateful Pawz Omega-3 for Dogs
Best Fish Oil Softgels for Dogs - Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Supplements for Dogs
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1 softgel per 30-60 lbs. of body weight
- Type: Softgels
Some dogs might not like fish oil being pumped onto their food, and some dog owners might not like the mess that comes along with it. You also might have a picky pet who you cannot convince to eat a fish oil chew. If that is the case, Nutri-Vet fish oil softgels are probably the best fish oil supplement choice for you and your dog. These softgels are easier dosage-wise than some; you only need to give your dog one softgel per 30-60 pounds of body weight, so you don't have to worry about convincing even a very large dog to eat a handful of them.
Your pup will get the perfect combination of omega fatty acids as well as vitamins A, D, and E. These fatty acids and oils will help to promote a healthy coat so you will no longer see your pet walking around with dull or brittle fur and will likely see them shed less, as well. You won't be able to keep your hands off their soft shiny coat! Your dog will also move with more ease as this supplement is great for joint health.
What We Like
- Very affordable
- 3 or less chews per day even for large dogs
- Made in the USA
What We Don't Like
- Strong odor
- Large pills may not be suitable for smaller dogs
BUY: Nutri-Vet Fish Oil Supplements for Dogs | Skin and Coat Omega 3 Supplement
Best Fish Oil for Dog Skin and Coat - PetHonesty Omega SkinHealth Chews for Dogs
SPECS
- Price: $
- Dosage: 1-3 chews based on weight
- Type: Chews
Having itchy skin or hair falling out as a human is infuriating, so as dog owners we should show them the same love we would show ourselves. If you are looking for a fish oil supplement to improve your dog's skin and coat, PetHonesty Omega Skin Health Chews are the way to go. These chews contain real Alaskan salmon oil which helps moisturize your dog's skin and make their coat shinier than ever. These delightful snacks use sustainably-sourced wild Alaskan salmon, kelp, vitamin E, and DHA. Every chew has more omega-3 and -6 fatty acids than most other salmon supplements that you will find.
Made in the USA, these chews are made with high-quality ingredients and follow strict safety standards, so you do not have to worry about your pet getting sick. PetHonesty does not use any harsh preservatives and this product is free from corn, soy, GMOs, and other chemicals that simply should not be ingested by us or our furry friends. Your dog will love the taste and you will love the results.
What We Like
- Contains nutrient-rich ingredients
- Improves immune system
- Very fairly priced
What We Don't Like
- Some owners reported their dogs would not eat them
- Some inconsistencies between batches
BUY: PetHonesty Omega SkinHealth Chews for Dogs
What to Look for in Fish Oil for Dogs
Chews, liquids, and softgels, oh my. There are so many choices for fish oil supplements for dogs and not every product will be the right product for your pup. When choosing a supplement consider their taste and texture preferences, your ability to remember to give the supplement, and any allergies they may have.
Dosage
The dosage for fish oil supplements for dogs can vary greatly. If you are using a liquid supplement with a pump, it is usually dosed by a certain number of pumps per body weight. While dogs under 10 pounds may get a half pump, dogs closer to 60-100 pounds may need two or more pumps. If you are using a gel cap, chew, or other type of pill, the dosage will still be based on weight. Some pills require multiples for large dogs. Be sure to read the dosing instructions for the specific supplement you choose.
Type
The main fish oil options for dogs are chews, liquids, and pills of various forms. Larger pills and chews may require less to be given to a large dog but if they are very small you might find yourself annoyed with having to give such a large dose, especially if your pet needs to have them disguised to consume them. If you are buying chews or pills, consider how many are in a container and how long this will last your dog. You might prefer a liquid supplement that can simply be poured onto their food if you don't want to have yet another task to complete each day. It is easy to remember but also may be a bit smelly or messy.
Benefits of Fish Oil for Dogs
Fish oil helps to support your dog's heart and brain health as well as their joints. Adding this supplement will keep them healthier and more comfortable for longer. Fish oil is known to help slow the progression of kidney disease, improve brain function, and help to alleviate allergy symptoms in dogs. Fish oil contains the healthy fats that dogs may not get in their regular kibble, and these healthy fats are necessary for maintaining health over time.
How We Rate Supplements
Price/Affordability (scale of $-$$$)
Prices depend on a number of factors, and tend to fluctuate over time, so we've kept our affordability rating scale simple so you can easily see how products compare:
$ = under $1 per serving
$$ = $1-2 per serving
$$$ = over $2 per serving
FAQs About Fish Oil for Dogs
What kind of fish oil is best for dogs?
Most supplements use salmon oil, which is also common in human fish oil supplements and is proven to have a beneficial combination of omega-3 fatty acids.
Can I give my dog fish oil every day?
Yes! Though if you notice any weird changes in your dog's behavior or health you should discontinue use and discuss these things with your vet. Different supplements also have different dosing instructions and may recommend a regime that is not daily or long-term, so be sure to follow those instructions.
Can I use human fish oil for my dog?
It is recommended that you use canine-specific formulas for your dog due to dosage differences. It is not unsafe if dosed properly.
Is fish oil for dogs worth it?
Yes! Science shows that dogs will benefit from having fish oil in their diet. While some dogs may show more improvement than others, it provides some benefit to all of them.
How do I add fish oil to my dog's diet?
You can give it to them in different forms. There are chews, softgels, or liquid forms that are squirted onto their food.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
About the Author
Amber holds an MS in Social Psychology and is currently pursuing her Ph.D. Her background in psychology combined with her experience in lifestyle change and her own personal fitness transformation keeps her excited about interacting with other people who want to learn more about health and fitness.
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