Flaxseed vs fish oil for dogs: Which is better?

Updated 04/09/2024

Finding the right natural foods for doggos can be tricky, particularly if they have a sensitive stomach or an intolerance. Both flaxseed oil and fish oil are healthy fatty acids for dogs packed with omega-3 which can be added to daily doggo diets. But, is flaxseed oil or fish oil better for dogs?

Let’s examine which of these oils is the best omega-3 supplement and offers the most overall benefits for dogs. As always, please consult your vet before adding anything new to your dog's diet. Even if the Internet says something is dog-safe, make sure you’ve had this confirmed in person by a vet alongside a plan on how best to introduce a new supplement.

All right, with that in mind, let’s fish out some facts and start by learning a bit more about flaxseed for dogs…

Flaxseed for dogs

Originating from the seeds of a flax plant (Google it, you’ll recognize it), flaxseed oil has become a new alternative for pet parents as a source of fatty acids for dogs. Not only is it odorless (unlike the pungent fish oil), but it’s also thought to be a great way of treating doggo skin conditions with anti-inflammatory effects to help soothe allergies. It can easily be added to your pup’s food in small quantities and the effects of flaxseed are thought to be quite quick - just a few weeks.

Fish oil for dogs

Like flaxseed, fish oil for dogs is a natural supplement known for its anti-inflammatory properties and bursting with other health benefits thought to help reduce kidney issues and improve heart health. In some studies, it’s believed fish oil has helped to reduce tumor growth in dogs, but this is still debated within the veterinary world.

Is flaxseed oil or fish oil better for dogs?

Scientific studies suggest that fish oils are the better choice, although this has to be balanced against other factors such as your individual doggo and ethical or environmental concerns.

Flaxseed oil has been shown to have more omega 3 in it than fish oil, so some would argue this makes it the superior choice. However, the omega 3 source in flaxseed oil, known as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), is hard for a dog’s body to turn into useful products. Fish oil provides an omega 3 source that is more easily converted into the right things in the body and so in theory provides more benefits overall. Fish oil is also better tested than flaxseed oil for dogs. 

Both have anti-inflammatory properties which have been shown to improve joint issues like arthritis and illnesses related to kidney problems, and even make their coats healthier and shinier.

So, should you choose fish oil or flaxseed oil for dogs?

Well, in truth, the decision is down to what you and your vet think is best. It’s not a satisfying answer, is it? We’ve offered some of the facts, but we highly recommend you review the National Library of Medicine’s lengthy study and analysis if you want to know more about the science.

Every doggo is different, their health needs will be dependent on their breed, environment, lifestyle, and genetics, so every dog’s diet must be tailored to them.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

So, what do you think: Do you prefer flaxseed oil or fish oil for dogs? Why not start the conversation on our Community Forum - you don’t need to be a member to join the canine chat and it’s a paw-fect way to connect with other like-minded people. But, if you’re a curious canine carer or sitter and would like to know more, have a look at our different membership plans to see which would suit you best.