Oils for dogs: Complete guide to choosing the right oil according to your pet's needs
Oils for dogs and cats have become one of the most recommended nutritional supplements to naturally improve the overall health of pets. Rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and nutrients, they help care for the skin, coat, joints, immune system, and daily vitality.
If you have never used a natural oil, it’s normal to wonder what it’s really for, which one is best for your dog or cat, if it’s only for the coat, or if it can be given daily. In this complete guide, we explain what each oil provides, when to use it, and how to choose the most suitable one depending on your pet’s age, activity level, and specific needs.
What do natural oils provide for dogs and cats?
Oils of marine and vegetable origin mainly provide Omega‑3 and Omega‑6, essential fatty acids that the bodies of dogs and cats cannot produce on their own and that are fundamental for their well-being.
Among their main benefits are:
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Maintaining healthy skin and a strong, shiny coat
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Reducing joint and muscle inflammation
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Supporting the immune system
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Improving cardiovascular health
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Promoting brain and cognitive function
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Providing energy and daily vitality
They are especially recommended for dogs and cats fed with dry food, as many commercial diets contain low levels of healthy fats or use lower quality fats.
How to choose the right oil for your dog or cat?
Not all natural oils serve the same purpose. Choosing the most suitable one will depend on your pet’s life stage, activity level, and the specific needs you want to support: skin, joints, immune system, growth, or energy.
Below, we explain the most commonly used oils and when it is advisable to choose each one.
Salmon oil
The most complete for daily use
The salmon oil is one of the most balanced and versatile supplements for dogs and cats.
Choose salmon oil if your pet:
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Has dry, sensitive, or itchy skin
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Sheds a lot or has a dull coat
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Needs a balanced supplement for everyday use
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It is a healthy, active adult animal
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It is mainly fed with dry kibble
Why choose it?
Salmon oil provides a balanced combination of Omega‑3 (EPA and DHA) and Omega‑6, helping to improve skin health, coat shine, joints, immunity, and overall wellbeing.
Ideal for: continuous use, general maintenance, urban or active dogs and cats.
Cod Liver Oil
Vitamin boost and growth support
The cod liver oil is especially valued for its high content of natural vitamins.
Choose cod liver oil if your pet:
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Is a puppy or is in a growth phase
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Is a senior dog or cat with bone wear
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Needs an immune system boost
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Has nutritional deficiencies
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Is recovering from a period of weakness
Why choose it?
This oil naturally provides vitamins A and D, essential for the development of bones and teeth, eye health, and proper immune system function.
Ideal for: puppies, senior pets, cold seasons, or recovery periods.
Sardine Oil
Joints, inflammation, and high activity
The sardine oil stands out for its high concentration of highly bioavailable Omega‑3.
Choose sardine oil if your pet:
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Is very active, sporty, or a working animal
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Has joint stiffness or mobility issues
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Has chronic inflammation
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Needs extra concentrated Omega‑3
Why choose it?
Sardine is one of the richest sources of Omega‑3, with a powerful natural anti-inflammatory effect that helps protect joints, muscles, and the cardiovascular system.
Ideal for: sporting, working, hunting dogs, or senior pets with reduced mobility.
Vitality Oils
Energy, recovery, and overall balance
The vitality oils usually combine different natural oils rich in essential fatty acids.
Choose vitality oil if your pet:
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Has low energy or vitality
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Is in a recovery period
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Has gone through an illness or surgery
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Is under stress, changes, or cold
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Needs a natural energy boost
Why choose it?
It acts on metabolism, energy, and physical recovery, helping to improve the general condition without artificial stimulation.
Ideal for: pets with low vitality, periods of physical exertion or wear.
Frequently asked questions about natural oils
Can I use oils every day?
Yes. Used at the proper dosage, natural oils can be given daily as a nutritional supplement.
Are they only for fur?
No. Although the change in the coat is usually the most visible, the oils also act on joints, immunity, heart, brain, and energy.
Are they safe for puppies and older dogs?
Yes, as long as you choose the right oil and follow the recommended dosage according to age and weight.
Conclusion
Adding natural oils to the diet of dogs and cats is a simple and effective way to improve their health from the inside. Choosing the right oil according to their specific needs will make a difference in their well-being, vitality, and quality of life.
If you have doubts about which is best for your pet, start by observing their skin, energy level, and life stage. The right oil can become a great ally for their daily health. Visit our page of oils for dogs and cats