Which Healthy Oils Are Good for Dogs?

Adding a little oil to your dog’s food may seem like a simple way to improve their diet. But not every oil offers the same nutritional value, and more isn’t necessarily better. The type of oil, the amount you feed, and your dog’s individual needs all matter.

TL;DR: Healthy oils can provide dogs with essential fatty acids and dietary fat, but choosing the right source and feeding an appropriate amount matters. Fish oils and certain plant oils can have different nutritional profiles, so it’s worth learning what each one offers before adding it to your dog’s bowl. Want to learn more about choosing and feeding healthy oils? Take our course, “Feeding Your Dog Healthy Oils,” to explore how different oils can fit into your dog’s diet.

Why Do Dogs Need Healthy Fats?

Fat plays several roles in a dog’s diet. It provides energy and supplies essential fatty acids that dogs need from their food. Dietary fat also helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

The type of fat matters, too. Different oils contain different fatty acids, which means they aren’t interchangeable from a nutritional standpoint.

That’s one reason simply grabbing a bottle of oil from the pantry and adding it to your dog’s meal isn’t always the best approach.

Which Oils Can Be Beneficial for Dogs?

Fish oils are often discussed in canine nutrition because they can provide omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are found naturally in oily fish and are also available in some fish oil supplements.

Plant-based oils can provide other types of fatty acids. Some contain omega-6 fatty acids, while others provide alpha-linolenic acid, a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid.

The important part is understanding what an oil actually contains rather than choosing one because the label says “healthy.”

Quality matters as well. Oils can vary in freshness, processing, concentration, and storage requirements. Those details are easy to overlook when you’re focused on what sounds good for your dog.

How Much Oil Should You Give Your Dog?

More oil isn’t automatically better.

Oil is calorie-dense, so adding too much can increase your dog’s overall calorie intake. For dogs that need to maintain a healthy weight, those extra calories can add up quickly.

Your dog’s size, diet, activity level, health status, and the rest of their food should all be considered before deciding how much to add. If your dog has a medical condition or follows a specially formulated diet, talk with your veterinarian before making significant dietary changes.

How Can You Choose the Right Oil?

Start by looking beyond the front of the bottle. Check the ingredient list and nutritional information, and consider what fatty acids the oil provides.

You’ll also want to think about why you’re adding it in the first place. Are you trying to increase dietary fat? Add a source of omega-3 fatty acids? Or simply give your dog’s current diet a nutritional boost?

Those are different goals, and the best choice may not be the same for every dog.

Learning the basics can make these decisions much easier. You’ll also be better prepared to recognize marketing claims and ask your veterinarian more useful questions about your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are oils good for dogs?

Some oils can provide useful dietary fats and essential fatty acids. The right choice depends on the oil, the amount fed, and your dog’s individual nutritional needs.

Can I add fish oil to my dog’s food?

Fish oil can be a source of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA. Before adding a supplement, consider the product’s quality and your dog’s overall diet.

Can dogs have too much oil?

Yes. Oil is calorie-dense, so excessive amounts can add significant calories to a dog’s diet. Feeding an appropriate amount is important.

Should I ask my veterinarian before adding oil to my dog’s diet?

If your dog has a health condition, is overweight, eats a therapeutic diet, or takes medication, it’s a good idea to discuss dietary changes with your veterinarian first.