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What are omega-3s & how can they help your dog‘s skin?

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are long-chain omega-3 fatty acids found mainly in fish and algae oils. They’re called long-chain because of their chemical structure, in that they have more carbon atoms than short-chain compounds like ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) found in plants. EPA and DHA can be converted into ‘mediators’ that help regulate inflammation, effectively the body’s natural off-switch after an immune response event, and have been shown to improve clinical skin scores (2).

Essential fatty acids, like those found in omega-3, are recognised for their role in supporting the management of canine atopic dermatitis - usually alongside hygiene routines and reducing exposure to common itch triggers (1). Around one in ten dogs are thought to live with some form of allergic skin condition, with atopic dermatitis estimated to affect roughly 3–10 % of the population (4), typically showing signs such as persistent itching, redness, and inflammation. For many owners, it starts with a patch of pink skin or a bit more scratching than usual, but over time these flare-ups can become chronic. Supporting the skin early, before secondary infections or hair loss appear, can make day-to-day life far easier.

Marine-based vs Plant-based omega-3s

Plant oils provide ALA, which the body inefficiently converts into EPA and DHA, whereas marine sources provide EPA/DHA directly, which is why many supplements use fish or algae oil in their preparation. That doesn’t mean that ALA isn’t effective - it just needs another step to become useful. If your dog follows a fish-free or vegan diet, algal oils can fill that gap: they’re derived from marine algae rather than fish and offer EPA/DHA in a more sustainable way.

What the research says

In a 2024 placebo-controlled trial in dogs with atopic dermatitis, those given a fish-oil product showed lower itch scores, better coat quality, and a reduced need for prescription medication (3). Results do vary between studies and between dogs, but several trials have shown similar patterns: owners often report noticeable improvements in their dog’s comfort or coat condition when omega-3s are added to a wider care plan.

That’s an important detail, because owner-rated improvements often capture the changes that matter most day to day - things like less scratching, calmer skin, or a happier dog on the sofa - even when clinical scores only shift a little, or are impossible to track at home. Researchers increasingly use these owner questionnaires because they reflect quality of life, not just clinical appearance. A small drop in itch score can translate to a full night’s sleep for the household, so those observations carry real weight.

A layered approach to omega-3 supplementation

ICADA (International Committee on Allergic Diseases of Animals) guidance highlights trigger control and skin hygiene alongside supportive care such as the inclusion of essential fatty acids, as a combination of useful interventions for chronic itching in dogs (1). 

As with most things, it’s important to think of ‘layered’ support: identify and reduce flare factors, keep basic skin care and skin hygiene steady, and layer in nutrition strategies. This mirrors how most vets approach long-term skin management. 

It also means patience - healthy skin turnover takes several weeks, so consistency usually beats intensity. Owners who track their dog’s scratching or comfort on a simple scale each week often find the progress more obvious over time.

Tips for choosing an omega-3 product

Check the omega-3 source on the label: as mentioned above, ALA are not ineffective, but marine EPA/DHA or algal oil is typically used for targeted skin support. Look for transparent reporting of total omega-3 content, and stick to the storage advice to protect oils from going off. It can also be worth checking whether the product includes vitamin E - this antioxidant helps protect the oils from oxidation and is commonly paired with fish oil in formulas.

It’s important to keep expectations grounded. Research trials commonly report gradual changes over a period of weeks, rather than overnight shifts, and whilst the benefits are not universal across all dogs (2, 3), a layered approach with targeted nutrition is a sensible, well-rounded plan. 

Gut-skin-immune links

Your dog’s body is incredibly complex and their systems interlinked. Some dogs with sensitive skin also have sensitive tummies. A stable gut pattern and a simple, balanced diet can help to support their overall comfort, whilst their skin plan is an ongoing ‘work in progress’. Dermatology guidelines emphasise that management is multifaceted, which is why nutrition often complements rather than replaces other care. A healthy gut microbiome can reduce inflammatory signals that influence the skin, so supporting digestion often supports calmer skin too.

Safety notes

Oils are calorie dense, and can affect the balance of other nutrients if over-used, especially for dogs who struggle with their weight. A tailored, slow-and-steady approach, alongside veterinary advice is the most sensible approach (1).