Phoebe and Frank have long been fans of a bit of salmon oil on their breakfast or dinner. We first incorporated this super-supplement into their diets when Phoebe’s mobility started slowing slightly, but it actually offers so many potential health benefits to support good health for dogs of all ages, from gorgeous glossy coats to even improving heart health.
We’ve used a number of different salmon oils over the years, but currently our go-to is the Forthglade Premium Scottish Salmon Oil – a 100 per cent natural recipe packed with Omegas 3, 6 and 9.
First of all, their salmon oil is ethically and sustainably sourced from open waters and sea lochs in Scotland before being microfiltered, ensuring quality and longevity. The formula is made of 95.5 per cent salmon oil and 0.5 per cent natural Tocopherols – a powerful antioxidant and natural preservative derived from vegetable oil, which is part of the vitamin E family of compounds.
Moreover, the packaging is beautiful, which means it has secured itself a spot on the kitchen side, so we never forget to add it to mealtimes. There’s a handy guide of how much to give your dog daily on the Forthglade website, according to your pet’s weight.
Unlike other brands we’ve tried, the Forthglade packaging comes with an easy-to-use dispenser pump which makes incorporating this supplement into your dog’s meals a breeze. No mess, no fuss – just a straightforward way to enrich your pup’s diet. Phoebe and Frank get 5-6 pumps a day, each.
Suitable for dogs over the age of four months, the antioxidant-rich formula helps contribute to a number of health benefits, with owners seeing tangible results after around six weeks of use.
Explaining why salmon oil is such a great addition to your dog’s dinner, Forthglade said: “Salmon oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that cannot be produced by dogs themselves and must be obtained through their diet. Salmon oil contains high levels of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which have been shown to support a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin and coat, reduce inflammation, improve joint health, support cognitive function, and promote cardiovascular health in dogs.”
Here are some of the benefits of incorporating salmon oil into your dog’s diet:
- Shiny coat and soothing skin – If your pet’s fur is looking a bit lacklustre and looks like it needs a bit of shine, salmon oil can make that happen. The Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon oil are renowned for promoting a glossy coat and alleviating itching skin, ensuring your pooch looks and feels their best.
- Joint health and mobility – As dogs age, joint health becomes paramount, and this is one of the reasons why we tried salmon oil initially, to help Phoebe as she transitioned into a senior. Salmon oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce joint inflammation, alleviating discomfort and enhancing your dog’s mobility, allowing them to chase their tails and enjoy their walkies with more ease.
- Heart and brain health – Just like in humans, heart and brain health are vital for dogs too, and the natural antioxidants in salmon oil contribute to this. The omega-3 fatty acids can help support cardiovascular health in adult dogs, including reducing the risk of heart disease and improving blood flow. For puppies, these Omegas are essential for proper brain and nervous system development, while the DHA found in the oil can help improve cognitive function, including memory and learning ability. For older dogs struggling with a cognitive decline, supplementing their diet with salmon oil may help improve their brain health.
- Immune boosting and inflammation reduction – Salmon oil’s Omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role in boosting your dog’s immune system, making them more resistant to infections and diseases. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for conditions such as cancer, arthritis, digestive problems, and other age-related health issues.
While salmon oil presents an array of benefits, it’s crucial to consult your vet before adding any new supplement to your dog’s diet, especially if your furry friend has specific health needs or dietary requirements.
For us, salmon oil has been wholeheartedly embraced by the Scamps, even enticing Phoebe to eat her kibble on her fussy days. Using it regularly for the past 12 months, we’ve noticed a real change in Phoebe and Frank’s coats looking brighter, they’re full of energy and Phoebe in particular has been incredibly spritely and lighter on her feet. It really is a nutritional powerhouse and a really quick, easy and affordable way to ensure your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Forthglade salmon oil starts at £13 for 500ml – you can try it out for yourself here.
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