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The Role of Omega-3s in Ollie’s Fresh Food

Catherine Carchedi, MS, DVM

Lindsay Cassibry, MPH, DVM

Brittany White, PhD

OVERVIEW

As the demand for high-quality, human-grade pet food rises, pet parents and veterinary professionals alike are paying closer attention to the nutritional composition of dog food. One group of nutrients gaining increased attention is omega-3 fatty acids—particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). These fatty acids are critical for canine health, and Ollie Fresh Food includes multiple sources of these nutrients in its formulations to ensure optimal health outcomes (Tanprasertsuk et al., 2021).

UNDERSTANDING OMEGA-3 AND OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that are not synthesized efficiently by dogs and must be obtained through diet.  EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) are long-chain omega-3s predominantly found in marine sources like fish oil. Both have five or more double bonds, contributing to their fluidity and biological activity. They play key roles in reducing inflammation, supporting cardiovascular health, and aiding in brain and retinal development.Omega-6 fatty acids, by contrast, have their first double bond at the sixth carbon from the omega end. While also essential, omega-6s tend to promote pro-inflammatory pathways when not balanced with omega-3s. Linoleic acid (LA) is the most common omega-6 in canine diets and serves as a precursor to arachidonic acid (AA), which is involved in immune and inflammatory responses.

Keeping the right balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids—ideally between 5:1 and 10:1—helps manage inflammation and supports your dog’s overall health.

Dogs can convert alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid, into EPA and DHA, but the conversion rate is very low. This makes it important to include EPA and DHA directly in the diet (Tanprasertsuk et al., 2021; National Research Council, 2006).

OMEGA-3 AND OMEGA-6 SOURCES IN OLLIE FRESH FOOD

Ollie uses a variety of ingredients and supplements that naturally provide both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids:

  • Fish Oil: Added to all Ollie recipes; a rich source of EPA and DHA, long-chain omega-3s known for their anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits.

  • Animal Fats and Plant Oils: Ingredients such as chicken, beef, pork, and sunflower oil contribute omega-6 fatty acids, primarily linoleic acid (LA), which supports skin barrier function and immune health.

These ingredients are carefully chosen to help maintain a healthy balance between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, which is essential for managing inflammation and supporting long-term health in dogs (Hall et al., 2010). While omega-6 fats play an important role, an excessive amount can drive inflammation, making proper ratio control key.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF OMEGA-3S FOR DOGS

Skin and Coat Health

  • Role of Omega-3s: Omega-3s help reduce dry, itchy skin and improve coat shine. EPA, in particular, has been shown to reduce skin inflammation associated with allergies.

  • Key Reference: Freeman et al., 2013

Joint Support

  • Role of Omega-3s: Omega-3s possess anti-inflammatory properties that aid in managing arthritis and improving mobility, especially in aging or large-breed dogs.

  • Key Reference: Bauer, 2011

Cognitive Function

  • Role of Omega-3s: DHA is critical for brain development in puppies and cognitive maintenance in senior dogs. High-DHA diets may delay cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).

  • Key Reference: Tanprasertsuk et al., 2021

Cardiovascular Health

  • Role of Omega-3s: EPA and DHA support heart function and may reduce the risk of arrhythmias, thrombosis, and other heart conditions.

  • Key Reference: Freeman et al., 2013

Immune Modulation

  • Role of Omega-3s: Balanced omega-3 intake can modulate immune responses, lowering the risk of chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease.

  • Key Reference: Hall et al., 2010

NUTRITIONAL TRANSPARENCY AND STANDARDS

Ollie follows AAFCO nutrient guidelines and works closely with veterinary nutritionists to ensure all recipes meet or exceed nutritional standards for dogs. Each formula is tested for omega-3 levels and the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, which are published in the nutritional analysis for full transparency to consumers and veterinary professionals.

CONCLUSION

Omega-3 fatty acids are an integral part of a well-balanced canine diet, supporting a wide range of physiological functions. Through the strategic inclusion of ingredients like fish oil, Ollie Fresh Food delivers a high-quality source of omega-3s that contributes to the health and vitality of dogs at every life stage. For pet parents seeking transparency and veterinary professionals recommending whole-food-based diets, Ollie offers a compelling choice.

REFERENCES

  1. Bauer JE. Therapeutic use of fish oils in companion animals. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2011;239(11):1441–1451.

  2. Freeman LM, Chandler ML, Hamper BA, Weeth LP. Current knowledge about the risks and benefits of raw meat–based diets for dogs and cats. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2013;243(11):1549–1558.

  3. Hall JA, Wander RC, Gradin JL, Du SH, Jewell DE. Skin and coat responses in healthy dogs fed diets containing omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. J Am Vet Med Assoc. 2010;236(1):59–66.

  4. National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2006.

  5. Tanprasertsuk J, Tate DE, Shmalberg J. Roles of plant-based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl). 2021;105(Suppl 1):20–33.