Healthy fats for dogs aren’t the same thing as greasy table scraps. Dogs need the right types of fats, including essential fatty acids, for their health. The right types of fats support skin and coat health, brain development, and other body functions.
Not all fats do the same thing. Fish oil is one healthy fat that shows up in many dog food diets because it’s a healthy source of fats. Other fats add richness to the food but don’t offer the same health benefits.
This guide breaks down some of the most common sources of healthy fats for dogs, including fish oil, animal fats, and flaxseed oil, along with practical tips for adding fat to your dog’s diet safely. We’ll also cover when richer foods may not be appropriate, particularly for dogs with conditions like pancreatitis.
Which fats are good for dogs?
Fat is an essential nutrient in a healthy canine diet. Alongside protein and carbohydrates, dietary fat helps support normal body function. You can learn about essential dog nutrients in this guide.
Two of the most important healthy fats are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids show up in a lot of canine supplements for a reason. Fish-based sources like salmon oil and fish oil contain EPA and DHA, two fatty acids linked to skin and coat health, joint support, and normal brain function. DHA also plays an important role in the development of the brain and eyes in puppies.
Veterinary nutrition experts at Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine note that fish-based omega-3 sources provide EPA and DHA more directly than plant-based sources like flaxseed.
Omega-6 fatty acids provide another essential component of healthy canine nutrition. Ingredients like chicken fat and some plant oils naturally contain omega-6s, which is one reason they’re common in dog food formulas. They support your dog’s immune system and reproductive health.
If you’re asking yourself if dogs can eat fat, the answer is yes, and they should. In the right amounts and from healthy sources, fats are an important part of a healthy diet.
Healthy fats can also make dog food taste better for some picky eaters. For active dogs, dietary fat can provide a concentrated energy source to support an active lifestyle.
It doesn’t take much fat to affect your dog’s calorie intake because it’s a high-calorie food. In some cases, healthy fats for dogs to gain weight may be part of a veterinarian-guided nutrition plan for underweight or highly active dogs.
Yet, more fat isn’t always better. Some dogs need lower-fat diets to manage their health safely. Dogs with pancreatitis or certain digestive conditions fall into this category.
What are some common sources of healthy fats for dogs?
Healthy fats exist in both animal and plant-based ingredients. Many complete and balanced dog foods already contain fat sources that help support a healthy dog. Some pet parents also like to add targeted fat sources to their dog’s diet through dog food toppers or supplements.
Fish oil is one of the most popular sources of omega-3 fatty acids in canine nutrition. Both EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are healthy fats that dogs can absorb and use for skin and coat health, joint support, cognitive function, and overall development. Fish oil is a common supplement because it provides these fatty acids.
Small oily fish, like sardines, are another source of EPA and DHA essential fatty acids. Some pet parents use plain sardines packed in water as an occasional topper for healthy dogs.
Salmon oil is a specialized version of fish oil coming from salmon. Like other fish oils, it provides EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids that support skin, coat, cognitive, and joint health.
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil contain fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This plant-based omega-3 can support digestion and provide nutrients. However, dogs convert plant-based ALA less efficiently than EPA and DHA from fish or salmon oil. That said, flaxseed is a superfood and still adds fiber, nutrients, and plant-based omega-3s to your dog’s diet.
Chia seeds are another plant-based source for omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. Chia seeds absorb water, forming a gel-like texture that may help support digestion. It’s healthy, but like flaxseed, it contains ALA, so your dog has to do a little extra work to convert it into EPA and DHA.
Krill oil comes from tiny shrimp-like crustaceans and provides EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains astaxanthin, a naturally occurring antioxidant that helps protect the oil from oxidation. Krill oil contains omega-3s in phospholipids, which may help dogs absorb and use these fatty acids more efficiently.
Pet parents might wonder, “Is animal fat good for dogs?” The answer is yes, in moderation. Animal fats, like those in chicken, beef, and other meats, provide the energy and essential fatty acids dogs need. Chicken fat has linoleic acid, which is an omega-6 fatty acid that can help your dog have a healthy skin and coat.
Egg yolks support normal brain and cell function through fats, fatty acids, and nutrients like choline that support normal brain and cell function. They can also help make meals more flavorful and nutritious.
Some pet parents use small amounts of coconut oil to drizzle on their dog’s food, though it contains different types of fats than fish-based omega-3 sources.
How much fat should be in dog food?
Dogs need dietary fat, but there’s no single “perfect” fat percentage that works for every floof. A Border Collie sprinting through agility courses has very different energy needs than a senior Chihuahua whose biggest workout is barking at the delivery guy.
The amount of fat that makes sense in a dog’s diet depends on the dog. What’s the age, activity level, body condition, overall health, and the rest of the nutrients in the bowl?
These practical guidelines can help you strike the right balance.
Fat needs can vary a lot from dog to dog. A puppy playing fetch every day is burning more calories than a senior pup whose primary hobby is rotating nap spots.
Look at the whole meal plan, and not just the fat percentage, because fat doesn’t exist in isolation. Your dog’s overall calorie intake depends on protein, portion sizes, and the amount of treats.
Go easy on rich add-ons. Cheese cubes, bacon, buttery leftovers, and generous pours of salmon oil can add up to a surprising amount of extra fat by the end of the day. Even healthy fats for dogs can become “a bit much” when every meal starts looking like a restaurant special.
Introduce fattier foods slowly. Adding large amounts of oils or suddenly switching to richer foods may upset your dog’s stomach. Gradual changes tend to be easier on digestion.
Check with your veterinarian if your dog has health issues. Dogs with pancreatitis, obesity, or certain digestive conditions often need more carefully managed fat intake. In those cases, your veterinarian can help determine what’s appropriate for your dog’s specific needs.
Incorporate healthy fats into your dog’s diet
Healthy fats help support your dog’s skin and coat health and overall wellness. But they aren’t just for nutrition. Ingredients like salmon oil or egg yolks can make meals smell and taste yummy if you have a picky pooch.
FAQ
Do dogs need fats in their diets?
Yes, dogs need dietary fat in a complete and balanced diet. It provides energy, helps dogs absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, and supports normal cell function, skin health, and coat condition. Dogs also rely on certain essential fatty acids from food because their bodies cannot produce enough of them on their own. While dogs need fat in appropriate amounts, they cannot thrive on completely fat-free diets.
What is the best fat for homemade dog food?
There isn’t one universally “best” fat for every homemade dog food recipe. Instead, the right fat source depends on the overall nutritional balance of the diet, along with your dog’s age, activity level, body condition, and health needs. While some pet parents include fish oil for essential fatty acids like EPA and DHA, homemade diets can quickly become unbalanced, and some pet parents use dog supplements for homemade dog food.
Which JustFoodforDogs food is good for skin and coat support?
JustFoodforDogs Fish & Sweet Potato Recipe may be a good option for pet parents looking for nutritional support for skin and coat health. The recipe uses fish as a source of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, which are commonly associated with healthy skin and coat condition. It’s formulated as a complete and balanced diet, so it can provide a more consistent approach than simply adding random toppers or supplements to your dog’s bowl.
This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your veterinarian about any questions or concerns.
