The Importance of Oils in Dog Food

Why Healthy Fats Are the Key to Your Dog’s Shine, Strength, and Longevity

When most people think of dog nutrition, they focus on protein — chicken, beef, fish. But there’s a powerful ingredient that’s just as essential: healthy oils.

Oils aren’t just calories — they’re the foundation for skin health, energy, hormone balance, brain power, and even your dog’s mood. The right fats can transform a dull coat into a glossy shine and help keep joints, heart, and mind in top shape.

Let’s dive into why oils matter so much — and how to choose the best ones for your pup.

🌿 Why Oils Matter

Healthy fats provide essential fatty acids — nutrients your dog’s body can’t produce on its own. These include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which work together to keep your dog thriving:

🐶 Skin & Coat Health:

Prevents dryness, flaking, and itchiness while boosting shine.

🧠 Brain & Eye Development:

Crucial for puppies, seniors, and working dogs.

🦴 Joint Mobility:

Reduces inflammation and stiffness, supporting smooth movement.

❤️ Heart & Immune Health:

Strengthens the immune system and helps balance hormones.

🔥 Cellular Energy:

Fats are a concentrated source of long-lasting fuel.

🐟 Examples of the Best Oils for Dogs

Here’s a look at some of the most beneficial and nutrient-rich oils you can add to your dog’s diet — whether homemade or commercial.

Sardine, Herring, or Pollock Oil

Packed with omega-3s (EPA and DHA) and naturally lower in heavy metals than salmon oil. Supports shiny coats, reduces inflammation, and strengthens immunity.

Krill Oil

Highly bioavailable and rich in antioxidants (astaxanthin). Supports brain, heart, and cellular health — ideal for senior dogs or those with joint issues.

Flaxseed Oil

A plant-based omega-3 source (ALA) that’s great for vegetarians or when rotating oils. Dogs convert ALA less efficiently than fish oils, so use as a complement.

⚖️ Balancing Omegas: The Secret to Health

Most commercial dog foods are too high in omega-6 and too low in omega-3, often due to cheap poultry or vegetable oils. This imbalance can trigger chronic inflammation, itchy skin, and even arthritis.

Aim for an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio around 5:1 or lower. Adding a small daily amount of fish or krill oil can help restore the ideal balance.

Introduce gradually and watch for loose stools — a sign you’re adding too much too soon.

⚠️ Safe Use Tips

·         Store oils in dark, cool places to prevent oxidation or rancidity.

·         Choose cold-pressed, wild-sourced, or purified oils for quality.

·         Avoid cheap vegetable or cooking oils as well as all GMO based oils.

·         Consult your vet before adding oils if your dog has pancreatitis or digestive issues.

Not Recommended:

The following oils may be used by commercial dog food companies in their respective dog foods, but we do not recommend them for the reasons detailed in The Ramses Series - The International Glossary of Dog Food Ingredients. These include :

Generic Fish, Tuna, Salmon, Grapeseed, Coconut, Wheat germ,  Rosemary, Oregano, Canola/Rapeseed , Corn, Palm kernel and Palm , Rice, Carrot,

Coriander, Shark liver, Cottonseed, Mineral, and garlic.

✨ The Bottom Line

Healthy oils are one of the simplest, most effective ways to boost your dog’s overall well-being. From a shiny coat and stronger joints to sharper cognition and balanced energy — the right oils nourish your dog from the inside out. So next time you prepare your dog’s meal, remember: A little good fat goes a long way.

To see the full listing of best oils for dogs go to www.RamsesSeries .com .