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Fats are a critical component of a dog's diet, providing energy, supporting cell structure, and aiding in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. However, not all fats are created equal. They are classified into essential and non-essential fats based on whether they can be synthesised by the body or must be obtained through diet. Let’s explore the differences between essential and non-essential fats, their roles in our dog’s health, and how to ensure your pup receives the right balance of these important nutrients.
It is crucial to understand that all nutrients are necessary for health. However, not all are considered “essential”. A nutrient is considered “essential” to the organism when it is needed by the organism for growth, reproduction, and overall health, but cannot be synthesised in sufficient quantities by the organism. As such, essential nutrients must be obtained from dietary sources. Failure to consume adequate essential nutrients will lead to deficiencies. Deficiencies in essential nutrients leads to ill health and eventually, death.
Similarly, both essential and non-essential fats are important for the dog’s overall health. They are both needed for various physiological processes in the dog’s body. The main difference is that non-essential fats can be synthesised by the dog’s body from other nutrients. They do not need to be directly obtained through the diet. Therefore, they are “not essential” to be present in the dog’s diet. On the other hand, essential fats, sometimes termed as Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs), are fats that the body cannot synthesise on its own and must be obtained through the diet. These fats are “essential” to be present in the dog’s diet.
The primary essential fatty acids for dogs are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Your dog requires both Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats but in particular balance. If that balance is out, inflammation can occur and therefore, health issues arise.
Omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids offer numerous benefits for dogs. Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for skin and coat health, growth, and reproductive function. Together with Omega-3, they promote skin and coat health, maintain cell structure and function, and support a balanced inflammatory response. Linoleic acid, a key omega-6 fatty acid, helps prevent dry and flaky skin, leading to a shiny and healthy coat. Omega-6 also plays a vital role in the immune system, the inflammatory processes, which is essential for healing and overall health. Sources of Omega-6 includes:
Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids provide anti-inflammatory benefits. The balance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids is an important part of a healthy immune system and balances out inflammation. They support brain and eye development, particularly in puppies, and improve cognitive function in older dogs. Omega-3s also promote cardiovascular health by reducing triglycerides and lowering blood pressure. Key sources of Omega-3 include:
Improved Skin and Coat Health
One of the most visible benefits of essential fats is improved skin and coat health. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help maintain a healthy skin barrier, reducing the risk of dryness, flakiness, and itchiness. Dogs with sufficient essential fats in their diet often have shinier, softer coats and are less prone to skin allergies and infections.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Omega-3 fatty acids have potent anti-inflammatory properties. They can help manage chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and allergies. By reducing inflammation, these fats can alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for dogs with these conditions.
Cognitive Function and Development
Omega-3 DHA is essential for brain development in puppies and maintaining cognitive function in adult and senior dogs. Studies have shown that puppies fed diets rich in DHA perform better in training and have improved cognitive abilities. For older dogs, DHA can help slow cognitive decline and support overall brain health.
Cardiovascular Health
Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing blood triglyceride levels, lowering blood pressure, and preventing abnormal heart rhythms. These benefits can help protect dogs from heart disease and support overall cardiovascular function.
Immune System Support
Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play roles in modulating the immune system. They help maintain a balanced immune response, which is crucial for fighting off infections and preventing autoimmune diseases.
Quality of Fats
Ensure that your dog's diet includes high-quality sources of both essential and non-essential fats. Look for specific sources on the ingredients list like fish oil, flaxseed oil, or cold-pressed coconut oil rather than generic terms like "vegetable oil” or “animal fat".
Balance
Maintain a proper balance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. While omega-6s are important, an excess can lead to inflammation if not balanced with sufficient omega-3s. Some manufacturers, typically fresh food manufacturers, will publish their diet’s Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio. It’s best to choose a diet that has a ratio of not more than 10:1 (Omega-6 : Omega-3).
Supplements
Depending on your dog’s diet, some dogs may require Omega-3 supplementation. If your dog’s diet lacks Omega-3 fatty acids, consider adding a generic fish oil supplement like this Zesty Paws Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil Formula Supplements for Dogs and Cats. Certain fatty acid supplements like this K9 Natural Skin & Coat Health Oil (Flaxseed, Hoki & Borage) For Dogs are formulated for specific health support. Choose according to your dog’s health needs. High quality freeze-dried or air-dried fish treats like The Barkery Dehydrated Anchovies Dog Treats can be included in your pup’s diet to increase overall Omega-3 consumption. However, with treats, keep in mind the 10% rule - your dog's treats per day should take up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake.
Plant Oils
For omega-6 fatty acids, use plant oils like wheat germ oil, sunflower or safflower oil. Ensure these are included in a balanced manner to avoid aggravating an inflammatory response. Unlike some plant oils that can be highly pro-inflammatory with a ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 of up to 40:1, wheat germ oil is rich in Vitamin E and has a relatively balanced ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 at 5:1.
Commercial Diets
Many high-quality commercial dog foods are formulated to provide a balanced ratio of essential and non-essential fats. Choose brands that list specific fat sources and avoid those with ambiguous ingredients. As previously highlighted, check the Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio, which is often published under Guaranteed Analysis. If the information is not found under Guaranteed Analysis, you can contact them directly for the details.
Homemade Diets
If preparing homemade meals, include a variety of fat sources to cover both essential and non-essential fats. Fresh fish and mussels are excellent sources of essential Omega-3 fats for homemade diets. Some pet parents may choose to include a fish oil or mussel oil supplement. Omega-6 fats can be obtained from wheat germ oil, sesame oil, and sunflower oil. Conventionally raised meats, especially chicken, may be higher in Omega-6 and typically, some fresh fish or fish oil supplement may be included in the dog’s diet to balance the Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio. Cold-pressed coconut oil can be a source of saturated fats for dogs. Please work with a veterinary nutritionist or pet nutritionist to ensure a balanced diet.
Understanding the differences between essential and non-essential fats, and the roles of the various fatty acids are crucial for optimising your dog's health. Essential fats, which must be obtained through diet, play critical roles in reducing inflammation, promoting healthy skin and coat, and supporting cognitive and immune functions. Non-essential fats, while synthesised by the body, are still important for energy provision, cell structure, and vitamin absorption. It is important that our pup’s diet provides a balanced ratio of the different types of fats for them to remain healthy, active, and happy.
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