The best fish oil for dogs can support their health in several important ways. Studies show it may help with arthritis and joint health, skin allergies, coat health, immune function, and cardiovascular health. The omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA in fish oil have even been linked to increased trainability in puppies, says Dr. Emily Luisana, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist and cofounder of Peak Veterinary Specialists.
For this guide, I consulted several veterinarians and an expert from the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) about what defines a high-quality fish oil supplement. After a thorough review of fish oil liquids, softgels, and chews, I selected Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil as my top pick. This liquid supplement delivers high levels of EPA and DHA from wild-caught fish, which tend to be lower in mercury and other toxins.
Before giving your dog fish oil or any supplement, even over-the-counter ones, talk to your veterinarian. Although the fish oils in this guide come with general dosage guidelines, your vet is the best person to determine the right amount for your dog.
How we selected the best fish oil for dogs
Based on feedback from the experts I interviewed, I established clear standards for evaluating fish oil supplements for dogs. I carefully assessed dozens of products based on their total omega-3 fatty acid concentration, EPA and DHA levels, fish oil sources, added ingredients, third-party certifications, packaging, and storage instructions. I also reviewed customer feedback, including repeated complaints about specific products. I also factored in practical considerations about a supplement’s available flavors, sizes, and cost when narrowing down my recommendations.
Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best fish oil for dogs
Best overall: Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil – See at Amazon
Best softgels: Pet Protect Free Form Omega-3 Fish Oil – See at Chewy
Best budget: Now Pets Omega-3 Support for Dogs and Cats – See at Chewy
Best chews: Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Omega and Skin Soft Chews – See at Chewy
Best overall
Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil
This third-party-tested pure fish oil contains four marine-based oils rich in omega fatty acids, which experts say provide anti-inflammatory benefits and are the best ingredients to ease joint pain in dogs.
The best fish oil for dogs is Pet Honesty Wild Caught Omega-3 Fish Oil, which is available in liquid form. “Fish oil that comes in a liquid is best for dosing as you can be more precise,” Luisana says. Among my recommendations, this product also contains the highest concentrations of overall omega-3 fatty acids (1,300 mg) and EPA and DHA, two fatty acids shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and believed to provide most of fish oil’s health benefits, according to a study published in In Vivo. These benefits also helped secure its spot as the top pick for both the best dog supplements and best joint supplements for dogs.
Pet Honesty Omega-3 Fish Oil contains at least 100 milligrams more combined EPA and DHA than its competitors. The label clearly identifies the oils’ sources (anchovies, herring, sardines, and mackerel), and the formula has no added flavors or dyes. Pet Honesty is also an audited member of the National Animal Supplements Council (NASC), which is a coalition that aims to ensure safer animal supplements. Even more, ConsumerLab, an organization that independently tests products, named this supplement the best fish oil for dogs after extensive third-party testing.
Beyond potency and quality, this product stands out for its affordability and non-fishy smell, which results from purifying the oil. I wish it came with a pump or pour spout for easier dispensing, but it’s a minor drawback for such a high-quality product.
Although the label does not indicate refrigeration is needed, my experts recommend storing liquid fish oils in the refrigerator to prevent them from going rancid.
Best softgels
Pet Protect Free Form Omega-3 Fish Oil
Of all the capsules we considered, these softgels contain the highest concentration of omega-3s and have a convenient snip tip that makes them easy to dispense.
Softgels are a convenient alternative to liquid fish oil. Pet Protect Free Form Omega-3 Fish Oil by Elanco is my top pick in this category. While the specific source of the fish oil isn’t disclosed, Elanco is a trusted name in the pet supplement industry with a strong focus on research and development. The NASC seal on this product also ensures strict quality standards. In addition, the product contains high concentrations of EPA and DHA with a short, straightforward ingredient list.
These softgels are available in separate formulations for small dogs as well as medium and large breeds, making it easier to dose appropriately. They also feature a snip tip, which allows you to mix the oil into your dog’s food if they won’t accept the capsules. Another advantage is that they don’t require refrigeration, which makes them easy to store.
Some users say the snip tips can be messy and that the oil has a lingering odor, which may turn off picky dogs. But overall, given the quality you get for a good price, Pet Protect Free Form Omega-3 Fish Oil softgels stand out among dog fish oil supplements.
Best budget
One drawback of fish oil supplements for dogs is their price, but Now Pets Omega-3 Support softgels are a notable exception. Each softgel contains 300 mg of EPA and DHA, exceeding Luisana’s recommendation of at least 225 mg per capsule. The product is NASC-certified, and the Now brand also has a strong reputation for fish oil. In fact, ConsumerLab named Now Kids DHA Fish Oil Chewables its top recommendation for children after independent testing.
Although the softgels don’t provide the highest concentrations of DHA and EPA, you still get 1,000 mg of fish oil concentrate, which includes other omega-3 fatty acids that may also offer health benefits. They’re even safe to give to cats, though you’ll need to confirm proper dosing with your veterinarian.
One possible drawback is the pill size, with some users saying the softgels can be difficult for small breeds to take. However, you can squeeze out the liquid and give it with your pet’s food if you don’t mind a little mess. Overall, Now Pets Omega-3 Support is a solid, budget-friendly option for giving your dog the benefits of fish oil.
Best chews
If your dog refuses pills or liquids, treats may be an effective way to provide extra omega fatty acids, and the Vetnique Labs Dermabliss Omega and Skin Soft Chews are the top choice in this category. These soft, compact treats contain a blend of marine and plant sources that supply a variety of fatty acids, including omega-6s, which play an important role in supporting healthy skin, coat, and immune function. Since dogs can’t produce these essential fats on their own, they must get them through their diet.
Unlike oils or softgels, chews often contain additional ingredients for flavor, texture, and shelf stability. As a result, they typically have a more complex ingredients list than other forms of fish oil for dogs. These chews also have the lowest amounts of EPA and DHA (150 mg combined) of the supplements I reviewed, despite being one of the most expensive options. Still, these chews contain salmon and krill oil, plus biotin to support skin and coat health. I also appreciate the resealable bag and screw-top container, which help preserve freshness.
One downside is the limited flavor choices. Users say their dogs enjoy the salmon flavor, but it may not appeal to every pet.
What to look for in fish oil for dogs
With so many fish oil supplements for dogs on the market, it’s important to know how experts evaluate their quality. Here are the key factors to consider.
Omega-3, EPA, and DHA concentrations: In general, the more concentrated a product is, the better, Luisana says. She recommends choosing fish oil supplements that contain at least 225 mg of EPA and DHA per mL of liquid or per small softgel, along with the highest possible amount of total omega-3 fatty acids. EPA and DHA are the most important omega-3s to look for since they are the most bioactive forms (most easily used by canine bodies). However, other omega-3 fatty acids do offer benefits. When comparing products with equal amounts of DHA and EPA, Luisana says she gives preference to the one with the highest amount of total omega-3s. Still, the top priority should always be high EPA and DHA concentrations.
Ingredients: Fish oil should always be the primary ingredient, and supplements that specify the source of the oil are best, though not all labels provide this information. Ideally, the oil will be from wild-caught small fish, which are typically lower in mercury and other toxins, says Priyank Kumar, an associate professor of veterinary pharmacology at the Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine.
It’s also important to look out for specific ingredients that may be harmful. For example, xylitol is sometimes added to mask fishy flavors, but Kumar says it can be harmful to dogs. Luisana adds citrus flavorings to the list, as many pets don’t like them, and advises avoiding vitamins A and D. Most dogs already receive enough of those vitamins in their food, and excess amounts can be toxic. “I avoid cod liver oil products due to the vitamin A inclusion,” she says.
Other vitamins, such as vitamin E, are not a concern. Luisana says vitamin E may be listed as mixed tocopherols on an ingredient list, and they’re needed to avoid oxidation of fish oils.
Format: Fish oil is available in several forms, including liquids, softgels, and chews. The experts I spoke to agree that liquids are usually the easiest to dose and administer, especially for dogs who have difficulty swallowing or when you want to mix it into your pet’s food. However, the strong odor can deter some picky eaters. Meanwhile, softgels help mask the fishy smell, and chews usually contain other appealing ingredients, making them easy to give in place of a regular treat.
Calories: It’s easy to overlook, but supplements and treats do add calories to your dog’s diet. Fish oil is the most calorie-dense of the macronutrients, at around 9 calories per gram, and a typical serving of fish oil contains roughly 40 calories. Remember that treats and supplements should generally make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Choosing a concentrated source of EPA and DHA (the active omega-3 fatty acids) allows you to deliver more benefits with fewer calories, which is especially important for dogs that need careful weight management.
Third-party testing and quality seals: The supplement industry for humans is not well regulated, and Kumar says the regulation for animal products is even weaker. That’s why quality seals from reputable organizations and third-party testing played a major role in my recommendations for the best fish oil for dogs. “The seal signifies that the product has gone through and met or exceeded stringent standards and good manufacturing standards,” Kumar says.
One of the leading certifying bodies is the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). “We are a nonprofit that works cooperatively with the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine and state regulators,” says Bill Bookout, president of the NASC. “Our goal is quality and compliance.” Other third-party organizations include ConsumerLab, NSF International, and Eurofins. While these seals ensure quality control, it’s important to note that they do not make any claims about efficacy or how well a fish oil supplement delivers on its health claims.
Dosage directions: “There is a lot to consider when deciding a patient’s ideal dosage of fish oil,” Luisana says. Factors such as the pet’s size, health, diet, and tolerance all factor in. “Additionally, we prefer to dose on ideal body weight, so patients that are under/overweight may need some adjustments after calculating their dose,” she says. For these reasons, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian before starting your pet on any new supplement and to confirm the proper dosage. A good product will offer general dosing guidelines according to weight on the label. Still, it’s always best to be cautious, especially if you’re unsure how much of certain nutrients your dog is already getting from their regular food.
Packaging: Giving fish oil supplements can be tricky if your dog is not keen on taking them, so a well-designed product can help minimize mess. Liquids with dispenser pumps are often easier to use, while capsules with snip-off tips are easy to cut open with scissors and squeeze out the oil if your dog won’t swallow them. The most important factor, however, is that the packaging is opaque and airtight. Heat and light can degrade fish oil and cause it to go rancid. For this reason, Bookout advises never buying a product without a lot number, which indicates how old it is and provides a reference point if you need to contact the company about an issue.
Quantity: Dog fish oil supplements are sold in different quantities, but it doesn’t pay to buy in bulk. “I recommend people only get what they can use in 30 to 60 days,” says Dr. Gary Richter, author of The Ultimate Pet Health Guide. Since fish oil can go rancid, the longer it sits, the greater the risk. A bargain isn’t really a bargain if the product spoils and you can no longer safely use it. The shelf life of products also varies widely: Synthetic oils may last for years, while natural products without preservatives may only keep for about 20 days, Kumar says.
Storage directions: Always follow the storage instructions on the package to ensure safety. Not all fish oil supplements require refrigeration, and many will keep well as long as they’re stored away from direct light. However, cooler temperatures help extend their shelf life, especially if the room temperature tends to be above 80 degrees F. “Liquid fish oil does spoil the most rapidly, and should be kept in the refrigerator,” Richter says. “Gel caps are much more stable and can be kept at room temperature.”
Fish oil for dogs FAQs
Is fish oil good for dogs?
Fish oil, particularly the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA it contains, can benefit dogs with a wide variety of health conditions. “I use it commonly with patients that have inflammatory conditions, skin disease, arthritis, renal disease, and heart disease,” Luisana says. “Counterintuitively, some patients with diseases that are historically fat-sensitive, such as pancreatitis and hyperlipidemia, can also benefit from omega-3 supplementation.”
What is the best fish oil to give a dog?
The best fish oil for your dog is ultimately the one your veterinarian recommends. If you have your vet’s approval to give your dog fish oil, choose a supplement with clear, transparent labeling. It should clearly state the overall amount of omega-3 fatty acids and the specific concentrations of DHA and EPA. Ideally, the label will also specify the oil’s source, include a lot number, and display a certification seal from a reputable third party, such as the NASC.
Is human fish oil safe for dogs?
Dogs can technically take fish oil supplements made for people, but it’s not recommended. Human supplements are formulated differently and may contain ingredients or concentrations that can be harmful to dogs, Kumar says. Plus, dosing instructions on products intended for people won’t provide accurate guidance for dogs.
Is salmon oil or fish oil better for dogs?
In general, any wild-sourced fish oil with at least 225 mg of EPA and DHA per mL or small softgel is considered a quality option for your dog. If the source of the fish oil is specified as wild-caught small species such as sardines or mackerel, there’s a lower risk of contamination with toxins.
How long does fish oil take to work on dogs?
Depending on the results you’d like to see, it may take several weeks or longer to notice changes in your dog. While you can see improvements in skin and coat, heart health benefits may only be detected by a veterinarian.
