How To Know If Your Dog's Diet Contains Enough Fatty Acid

If you belong to the general category of pet owners who'd like to own a dog with an enviable looking silky coat but doesn't love their dog any less for looking as if it was something the cat dragged in, you're not the only one who can benefit from this article. It's as simple as knowing that hair and skin benefit from adequate moisture and oil balance so when your dog's diet contains sufficient fatty acids, the coat and skin are encouraged to look and actually stay healthy. This is because fatty acids are essential for preventing dry skin and other problems like dandruff, so if Fido's a candidate for the dull coat advert, do consider raising fatty acids in his diet.

Medical research indicates that EFAS (essential fatty acids) are considered so for a reason: they are important for maintaining the skin's healthy appearance as well as the hair's. The most important ones among these are Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids that are not produced by the dog's body and thus, need to be supplemented in the diet through various forms. These are typically diagnosed for dogs that have a skin problem and only on a qualified vet's advice should you go in for the recommended form of EFAs to boost your dog's diet for his better health.

At time, a vet may even suggest that the dog owner also include linseed or sunflower oil as fatty acids supplements and these additional changes should show definite results in about a month's time; of course, regular dietary supplements of such EFAs for 2 or more months is more likely to show desirable changes, but you do need to stick with the program!

The benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids are mostly for warding off cancer but they are equally good for improving heart health and joint problems while the tinned variety of dog foods are typically filled with Omega 6 fatty acids adequate levels.

You may be knowing that fish is a good source of Omega 3 fats but all kinds of fish is not good for dog diets, so you need to consult with your vet before supplementing your furry friend's diet with just any manner of fish! Flaxseed oil is yet another good source of Omega 3 fatty acids, but do not include this either without the nod from your local vet as the right balance of all nutrients are necessary for your dog to stay in prime health always and high doses can prove to be harmful for your pet.

Go with your vet's advice for improving your dog's diet – and looks – with learning about the additional benefits of fatty acids and other kinds of supplements besides the right proportions of each in your pet's daily diet.