Use of specific omega oils for pet foods

Research increasingly recognizes the importance of certain oils in pet foods. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are two omega-3 fatty acids that are linked to brain function and learning, and so are important in young dogs and those in training. At the other end of the scale, they have been shown to improve dementia and maintenance of the nervous system in older animals. According to some claims, they even offer protection against seizures in affected individuals and breeds prone to having fits.

Important but differing roles

Both DHA and EPA are involved in the bilayer membrane of cells, where they increase fluidity. This forms the basis for improved learning capacity in mammals. However, they each play important but differing roles and are required together for best outcomes. DHA is more specifically involved in brain development and learning, whilst EPA has been linked to mood and behavior. Studies of Alzheimer’s cases have shown that DHA has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the formation of amyloid plaques, which are a feature of the disease.

Mammalian and human studies have stated that these oils are required to help prevent a variety of behaviors such as anxiety, aggression and hyperactivity. This can be useful in dogs that have separation anxiety or other problematic behavioral issues.

Dietary supplementation is recommended

Both DHA and EPA are derived from alpha-linolenic acid, but this is an inefficient process in dogs due to their metabolism. Therefore, dietary supplementation is recommended to attain the required levels. DHA and EPA are found in fish, krill and algae-derived oils, but levels vary. For example, Hoki oil contains a high level compared to tuna and cod oils, but lower than oil extracted from salmonids.

The currently quoted safe upper limit for DHA plus EPA for dogs is 208 mg/kg body weight. Although the precursor Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is included in AAFCOstandardized diets, care must be taken to ensure that adequate EPA plus DHA is available due to metabolic inefficiencies in conversion from ALA sources (which may be from grains such as flaxseed).

Further considerations

More direct research into the effective inclusion rates and measurable and specific benefits for dogs is required. However, supplementation is already being used in pet products for animals with existing neurological issues. As with all oils, antioxidant protection is required to prevent rancidity – which can lead to feed refusal – and to ensure optimally effective uptake and utilization in animals.