Omega-6 : Omega-3 Ratio – The Importance of Balance for Dog Health

Imbalanced Omega-6 : Omega-3 Ratio – Impact On Dogs’ Health

Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for the overall health and well-being of our canine companions. Among the essential nutrients, omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids play vital roles in various physiological processes in dogs. The balance between these two fatty acids, commonly referred to as the Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio, is of utmost importance. This article explores the sources and properties of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, their physiological roles in dogs, the optimal ratio for canine health, and the implications of an imbalance in this ratio.

Omega-6 – Sources and Properties

Omega-6 fatty acids are a group of polyunsaturated fats that are essential for dogs, as they are for humans, as they cannot be synthesised by their bodies. Dogs must obtain Omega-6 fatty acids from their diet. Common sources of omega-6 fatty acids include:

1. Vegetable Oils: Vegetable oils such as corn oil, soybean oil, and sunflower oil are rich sources of Omega-6 fatty acids. These oils are commonly used in commercial dog foods and can contribute to meeting a dog’s Omega-6 fatty acid requirements.
2. Poultry: Poultry, including chicken and turkey, contains Omega-6 fatty acids. Chicken fat, often used in dog foods, is a source of Omega-6 fatty acids as well.
3. Eggs: Eggs, particularly the yolks, contain Omega-6 fatty acids. Including eggs in a dog’s diet can provide a natural source of these essential fatty acids.
4. Cereals: Cereals, such as corn and wheat, as well as soy, contain Omega-6 fatty acids. However, it’s important to note that the Omega-6 fatty acids from cereals may not be as bioavailable to dogs as those from other sources.

Omega-6 fatty acids have several important properties and roles in a dog’s physiology:

1. Cell Membrane Function: Omega-6 fatty acids, specifically arachidonic acid, are vital components of cell membranes in dogs. They contribute to maintaining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes, ensuring proper cellular function and communication. Dogs can convert linoleic acid (LA) to arachidonic efficiently.
2. Inflammation Regulation: Some Omega-6 fatty acids, like arachidonic acid, serve as precursors for eicosanoids, which are signalling molecules involved in inflammatory responses. These eicosanoids play a role in the immune response, injury healing, and blood clotting. While inflammation is a necessary process for healing, an imbalance in Omega-6 fatty acids can lead to excessive inflammation, contributing to chronic inflammatory conditions in dogs.
3. Skin and Coat Health: Omega-6 fatty acids play a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin and a glossy coat in dogs. They help in maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier, reducing water loss, and preventing dryness and itching. Omega-6 fatty acids also contribute to the production of sebum, the natural oil that keeps the skin and coat moisturised.
4. Reproductive Function: Omega-6 fatty acids are involved in reproductive processes in dogs. They play a role in fertility, hormone production, and gestation.

It’s important to note that while Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for dogs, an excessive intake of Omega-6 fatty acids relative to Omega-3 fatty acids can lead to an imbalance in the Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio. This imbalance can have negative health implications and highlights the importance of maintaining a proper balance between the two fatty acids.

Omega-3 Sources and Properties

Omega-3 fatty acids are another group of polyunsaturated fats that are crucial for a dog’s health. Dogs, similar to Omega-6 fatty acids, cannot synthesise Omega-3 fatty acids and must obtain them from their diet. Common sources of Omega-3 fatty acids include:

1. Seaweed, Kelp and Algae: Seaweed and algae are the ‘Mother’ source of Omega-3 fatty acids and where fatty fish derive their Omega-3 from. These ingredients are excellent sources of Omega-3 and are particularly rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These plant-based sources are the healthiest for your dog and the planet as they do not contain the toxic heavy metals that accumulate in fish and they are a more sustainable source than depleted fish stocks.
2. Fatty Fish: Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fish are rich in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), two essential Omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Fish Oils: Fish oil supplements derived from various fish species are commonly used to provide Omega-3 fatty acids in dog diets. These supplements are often available in liquid or capsule form and can be added to a dog’s food.
4. Flaxseed: Flaxseed is a plant-based source of Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). However, it’s important to note that dogs have a limited ability to convert ALA into EPA and DHA (between 5-15%), the more biologically active forms of Omega-3 fatty acids. (1)
5. Chia Seeds and Walnuts: Chia seeds and walnuts are other plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids that can be incorporated into a dog’s diet. However, as with flaxseed, the conversion of ALA into EPA and DHA in dogs is very limited. (2)

The very best source of Omega-3 for dogs is unquestionably from algae and seaweed (3)

Omega-3 fatty acids offer several important properties and physiological roles in dogs:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA, DHA and DPA, possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. They help to regulate and reduce excessive inflammatory responses, making them beneficial for dogs with conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
2. Cognitive Development: Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, are essential for brain development and cognitive function in puppies. Adequate levels of Omega-3 fatty acids during early development can support proper brain growth and enhance learning and memory.
3. Cardiovascular Health: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have cardioprotective effects in dogs. They can help lower blood pressure, reduce triglyceride levels, and improve overall heart health. These fatty acids also have antiarrhythmic properties, reducing the risk of abnormal heart rhythms. (4)
4. Joint Health: Omega-3 fatty acids have been associated with promoting joint health and reducing inflammation in the joints. They can help alleviate symptoms of arthritis and improve mobility in dogs with joint conditions. (5)
5. Weight Control and Management: A balanced omega-6/omega-3 ratio is important for health and in the prevention and management of obesity (6)

By incorporating adequate sources of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids into a dog’s diet, pet owners can ensure that their canine companions receive the necessary nutrients for optimal health and well-being. It is important to maintain a proper balance between these two essential fatty acids to support the various physiological functions and prevent health complications associated with an imbalance in the Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio.

The Optimum Omega-6 : Omega-3 Ratio for Dogs

The ideal ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids in a dog’s diet has been a subject of debate among researchers and experts. However, a general consensus suggests that a balanced ratio between 1:1 and 6:1 (Omega-6 : Omega-3) is optimal for canine health. At the lower end of ratios (<1.5:1), sufficient α-tocopherol levels in the diet is recommended to ensure decreasing amounts of lipid peroxidation. (Hall et al., 2002)

Importance of Balanced Ratio for Dog Health

Maintaining a balanced Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio is crucial for several reasons:

1. Inflammation Control: An imbalance in the ratio can lead to an excessive inflammatory response, which may contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory conditions and increase the risk of diseases such as allergies, arthritis, and autoimmune disorders.
2. Skin and Coat Health: A balanced ratio ensures healthy skin and a lustrous coat in dogs. An imbalance may result in dry skin, excessive shedding, and skin disorders.
3. Cardiovascular Support: The appropriate Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio helps maintain cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of blood clot formation, regulating blood pressure, and supporting heart function.
4. Cognitive Function: Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically DHA, are crucial for brain development and cognitive function in dogs. An imbalance in the ratio may impair learning, memory, and overall brain health.

Health Implications for Dogs of Imbalanced Omega 6 : Omega-3 Ratio

An imbalance in the Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio can have significant health implications for dogs:

1. Inflammatory Disorders: Excessive Omega-6 fatty acids and a high Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio can promote excessive inflammation, contributing to chronic inflammatory conditions, such as allergies, dermatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
2. Joint and Bone Issues: Imbalances in the ratio may increase the risk of joint disorders, such as arthritis, by promoting inflammation and interfering with cartilage health.
3. Skin and Coat Problems: A disproportionate amount of Omega-6 fatty acids can lead to dry, itchy skin, dull coat, and increased susceptibility to skin infections in dogs.
4. Immune Dysfunction: Imbalances in the ratio may impair immune function, making dogs more susceptible to infections and reducing their ability to fight off diseases effectively.
5. Neurological Disorders: Insufficient Omega-3 fatty acids and an imbalanced ratio may affect brain health and cognitive function in dogs, potentially leading to neurological disorders and cognitive decline.

Maintaining an optimum Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio of 1:1 – 6:1, is vital for promoting optimal health and preventing various health issues in dogs.

A diet that incorporates appropriate sources of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids in the right proportion is key to achieving this balance. By providing a well-rounded and balanced diet, pet owners can ensure their dogs receive the necessary nutrients for overall well-being, supporting their immune system, joints, skin, coat, and cognitive function. Consultation with a veterinarian is always recommended to determine the specific dietary needs of individual dogs based on their age, breed, and health conditions.

Bonza vegan dog food, is the only one that includes Omega-3 with DHA, EPA and DPA in its food. DHAgold®, a sustainable, algae based Omega-3 source, is considered the gold standard for Omega-3 ingredients.

Bonza also includes ingredients, rapeseed oil, spinach and kale, that provide plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acid ALA, which, while not as readily converted to DHA and EPA, nonetheless still offers some health benefits for dogs.

Bonza has an optimum Omega-6 : Omega-3 ratio of 1.89 : 1 providing the correct balance and with the unique inclusion of DHA, EPA and DPA, offers significant health benefits for dogs as outlined above.

Bonza is the only vegan dog food with Omega-3 and probiotics that provide significant health benefits for dogs throughout their lives.