What is your opinion on the ideal omega 6 to omega 3 ratio for larger dogs?

by Winter
(Vermont, USA)

Hi, I have two large breed lab mixes one 70lbs, one 95lbs, I recently bought them a new brand of wheat, corn, soy free food which is great. The only problem is the nutrition information lists omega-6 as 2.5% and omega-3 as .20% this strikes me as not the best ratio since this site recommends 1:1 as best.

So my question. Can I offset the omega-6 in their food with an omega-3 supplement? Or should I just get my money back on the food? They get dry skin in the winter and the last thing I want is to make it worse.

Thanks!



Answer:

Dear Winter

Finding good dog food can be difficult. It can be difficult to find one type or brand
which is best on all.

The omega 3 and 6 ration is one you can make better yourself.

If you are very satisfied in all other respects , but the omega ration is out of balance - keep the food and give extra omega 3.

It can be difficult to know when you have the right balance. I advice you to by fish oil omega supplements of omega 3. Normally capsules can have more of the DHA and EPA, which is the main omega 3 fatty acids and very useful in the body.

Its better to give "too much" omega 3.

I normally recommend to give 2 capsules a day to dogs your seize. This goes for the capsules we can buy here in Sweden, it may be different other places.

You can buy one for humans or dogs. Both are fine.

As long they are as rich in omega 3 as possible.

DVM Per Schonbeck