Is Flaxseed Oil Beneficial To Dogs?
Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant or Linum usitatissimum. It is from this seed that the oil is extracted, which is very rich in fatty acids and antioxidants. Flaxseed oil for dogs can be a very beneficial supplement to your diet.
What is flaxseed oil?
Flaxseed oil is the plant source of alpha-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid, the basic component of omega 3 fatty acids. Flaxseed contains three times more omega 3 fatty acids than omega 6. Other components of flaxseed oil are fiber and lignin.
Other sources of omega 3 are dark green vegetables and certain vegetable oils that are less assimilable to animals.
Flaxseed Oil Benefits
Regular use of flaxseed oil reduces cholesterol, high blood pressure and is good for preventing heart problems. It also helps to strengthen the dogs’ immune system.
Flaxseed is recognized for its potential to reduce the risk of some chronic diseases, as well as to improve coat thickness and shine. It also better preserves processed products such as animal feed, protecting them from oxidation during the cooking process and increasing the shelf life of the product.
Flaxseed fatty acids (omega 3 and omega 6) have many beneficial effects, such as:
- Anti-inflammatory effects.
- Strengthens the immune system : it is beneficial for animals with allergies.
- Improves skin and hair.
- It improves osteoarthritis and joint problems.
- Reduces the constriction of blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.
- Helps the kidneys work.
- Reduces risk of heart attacks.
The fibers that are also part of flaxseed oil contribute to the prevention of constipation and support gastrointestinal health.
Lignin is another of its components and has antifungal and antiviral properties. It is also transformed in the intestine by bacterial flora into products usable by the animal. These transformed lignins have antioxidant properties and protect cell membranes while keeping cholesterol levels low.
How to incorporate in the diet?
Many feeds already include flaxseed oil in their composition and, if the feed is good, it also contains the recommended amounts of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids from different plant and animal sources. However, if you want to incorporate it into the diet, you need to take into account the animal’s body weight.
Flaxseed oil is available in capsules. It is more digestible than the seeds themselves and easier for the dog to ingest, but it is very important to follow the instructions on the package insert and not administer excess flaxseed in the dog’s diet.
It is advisable to consult your veterinarian before regularly incorporating a supplement to your pet’s diet, especially if he suffers from health problems such as diabetes, hypoglycemia or intestinal problems.
Other beneficial oils
Salmon oil, cod liver oil, olive oil, among others, are also beneficial to dogs for the same reason: they contain a high percentage of fatty acids that provide benefits for the dog’s health.
However, we shouldn’t confuse it with medications. Vegetable or animal oils can be a dietary supplement, a prevention to maintain the animal’s health, but they will never replace a treatment for any disease or a veterinarian’s diagnosis.
Flaxseed oil for dogs has many benefits, but it’s important to store it well after it’s opened to maintain its nutritional properties and prevent spoilage. Be sure to follow the instructions to give your dog the correct dose and keep the product in top condition.
