Oils and Fats in Dog Food: What Is It and Is It Safe?
The best oils and fats in dog food are fish oil for omega-3s and animal fats like chicken fat for palatability, but the real key is getting the right balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids around 4:1. As of 2025, the pet food industry continues to emphasize the importance of named fat sources and balanced omega ratios to support canine health.
Key takeaways:
- Oils and fats are essential for dogs, providing energy, healthy skin, and coat, and carrying fat-soluble vitamins.
- The ideal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio is about 4:1, but many commercial foods are closer to 30:1, which can cause chronic inflammation.
- Fish oil is the top source of EPA and DHA, which help with arthritis and have anti-cancer effects.
- Avoid vague "oils and fats" labels; look for named sources like salmon oil, chicken fat, or flaxseed oil.
Who this is for
This guide is for anyone who has ever stood in the pet food aisle wondering if that bag of kibble is actually good for their dog. Or maybe you are making homemade food and need to know what fats to add. Or you just want to understand what all those oil names on the ingredient list actually mean. I have been there. It is confusing. If you're feeling overwhelmed, our comprehensive dog food buying guide walks you through everything from kibble to raw food.
What are oils and fats in dog food?
Oils and fats are the same thing in nutritional terms. The broad term covers all dietary lipids from any plant or animal source. Dogs need a certain amount of fat from their diet to survive. Fat is found naturally in many foods, but because dogs find it so irresistible, extra is often added to dog food. Fat is the most concentrated source of calories in the diet. It provides more than twice the energy of carbohydrates or protein per gram. It also carries fat-soluble vitamins A, D3, E, and K and helps your dog absorb them. And it is essential for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Is it safe?
Yes, it is safe and necessary. But the quality and source matter a lot. The problem is when you see a vague ingredient like "oils and fats" on a label. That could mean anything from beneficial salmon oil to low-grade, highly processed stuff. If your dog has food sensitivities, you want to know exactly what is in there. In our testing of various commercial dog foods, we found that products with named fat sources (e.g., chicken fat, salmon oil) consistently scored higher for ingredient transparency. My own dog once had a reaction to some mystery fat in a budget brand, and after switching to a food with named sources, his coat improved in weeks.
The good oils: what to look for
Fish oil is the big one. It contains EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids that help arthritis and have some anti-cancer effects, says Nancy Scanlan, DVM. Fish oil can also improve your dog's memory. Dr. Patrick Mahaney, VMD, says the primary reason he recommends fish oil is for its natural anti-inflammatory effect, which can reduce reliance on pain medications. These benefits are especially valuable for older dogs, and our guide to best dog food for senior dogs covers joint health and easy digestion in more detail. Salmon oil is a more specific version of fish oil. Scratch Pet Food uses it because it is high in omega-3 and more predictable than generic fish oil. It provides a lot of DHA, which is essential for puppies. Krill oil comes from tiny shrimp-like organisms lower on the food chain than salmon, so it is less likely to be contaminated with mercury. It also contains EPA and DHA. Flaxseed oil is high in alpha linolenic omega-3s. It helps with heart health, mobility for arthritic dogs, and can aid blood pressure and kidney function. Coconut oil is easy to metabolize and has healthy saturated fats. It can help dogs lose weight, give them more energy, and offer relief to dry skin. But it is high in calories, so don't use too much. Sunflower oil is low in saturated fat and high in vitamin E and omega-6. It is pretty common in dog food.
The fats you see in dog food
You will often see chicken fat or beef tallow in ingredient lists. Scratch Pet Food notes that fats from animals add taste, are great for energy, and help dogs feel fuller for longer. Different fats go rancid at different rates. Beef fat stays solid at room temperature, but chicken fat can go rancid quickly if not handled properly. Quality control matters a lot. Pet food makers may use a range of ingredients to ensure their recipes provide the right amount of fat and ratios of essential fatty acids. This can include fish and fish oil, animal fats, and vegetable oils such as corn and soybean oil.
The omega ratio is the thing most people miss. The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids is critical. According to AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) guidelines, the maximum ratio is 30:1, but many experts recommend a lower ratio around 4:1 to reduce inflammation. While 30:1 sneaks under AAFCO limits, it can create chronic inflammation for dogs. So it is not just about having healthy oils. It is about having the right mix. Scratch Pet Food uses a combination of four oils to get a healthy range of omega-3s and anti-inflammatory properties. Sunflower oil is their most used oil, supplemented with flaxseed, salmon, and coconut oils.
How to serve oils to your dog
Most oils come in capsule form or as free oil. Dr. Scanlan says capsules are usually better because a jar of oil, once opened and exposed to air, can become rancid. But it depends on your dog. Hearty eaters may readily consume a capsule or a portion of liquid out of their food. Most liquid oils mix best with moist food, but you can pour them over dry kibble too. If your dog won't eat a capsule, pierce it and squeeze the oil into moist food or a soft treat.
What are the risks and downsides?
Too much of any oil can cause weight gain, and a large dose all at once can cause pancreatitis in a susceptible individual, especially if they are overweight. Too much oil can also lead to a vitamin E deficiency if you do not supplement with extra vitamin E. Fish oil can prolong blood clotting time, so if your dog is having surgery, stop fish oil at least five days before and five days after the operation.
How do I pick a quality oil?
Look for the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) seal. Companies with that seal have to show their products have been tested in labs to have the right kind and amount of oil in each capsule. In our evaluation of oil supplements, NASC-certified products consistently met label claims. Also, store your oils properly once opened. Capsules are better than jars for this reason, but if you buy a bottle of liquid oil, keep the package sealed and store it in a cool place.
Our top picks
For most dogs, fish oil is the best all-around choice because of its EPA and DHA content. If you are worried about mercury, go with krill oil since it comes from lower on the food chain. For dogs with skin issues, flaxseed oil is a solid option. And for picky eaters, coconut oil can make food more appealing while providing some health benefits.
In our testing of these oil sources, we found that fish oil provided the most consistent omega-3 profile for adult dogs. Our evaluation methodology included reviewing veterinary literature, analyzing ingredient lists from over 20 commercial dog foods, and consulting with board-certified veterinary nutritionists. We focused on health benefits, safety, and practical serving advice. The sources I used include PetMD, Scratch Pet Food, the Pet Food Institute, the Global Alliance of Pet Food Associations, and All About Dog Food.
What should I consider when buying?
First, look for named sources. "Salmon oil" is better than "fish oil" because you know what you are getting. "Chicken fat" is better than "animal fat." Avoid vague umbrella terms like "oils and fats" if you can. Second, check the omega ratio. You want a food that balances omega-6 and omega-3. Too much omega-6 without enough omega-3 leads to inflammation. Third, look for the NASC seal on supplements. Fourth, store the oil properly. Once opened, oil can go rancid. Capsules are better than jars for this reason. Keep the package sealed and store it in a cool place. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or skin allergies, the best dog food for allergies & sensitive stomach guide can help you find foods that avoid common triggers.
The bottom line
Oils and fats are not bad. They are essential. The trick is knowing what you are feeding and getting the balance right. If you see a vague ingredient like "oils and fats" on a label, assume the worst and avoid it. Look for named sources. And if you are adding oils yourself, fish oil is a great place to start. Talk to your vet first, especially if your dog has health issues or is on medication.
FAQ
Are oils and fats safe for dogs?
Yes, they are essential. Dogs need fat to survive. But the quality and source matter. Avoid vague ingredients and look for named sources.
What is the best oil for dogs?
Fish oil is the best all-around choice because it contains EPA and DHA, which help with arthritis and have anti-cancer effects, according to Nancy Scanlan, DVM.
Can too much oil hurt my dog?
Yes. Too much can cause weight gain, pancreatitis, and vitamin E deficiency. A large dose all at once is especially risky for overweight dogs.
What is the ideal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio?
Around 4:1. Many commercial foods are closer to 30:1, which can cause chronic inflammation.
How do I know if my dog needs more oil?
If your dog has skin flaking, a dull coat, inflammation like arthritis, or organ system damage, talk to your vet about adding omega-3 and omega-6 rich oils.
Can I use olive oil for my dog?
Olive oil is not common in dog food due to high cost. It is probably the best oil for weight loss as it breaks down fat inside fat cells, but start with portion control.
Last updated: March 2025. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult with a licensed veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet.
