EPA and DHA are the omega-3 fatty acids that most dogs would benefit from adding to their diet.  This is partly due to the fact that the conversion of Alpha Linoleic Acid (ALA), to EPA and subsequently DHA is low in dogs and almost non-existent in cats.

This is why, even though EPA and DHA are not technically essential nutrients for adult dogs, the benefits of Fish Oil supplementation (EPA and DHA) are widely recognized.

EPA & DHA Anti-Inflammatory

The benefits of including more omega-3s, and more specifically EPA and DHA, are that both EPA and DHA produce potent anti-inflammatory metabolites called resolvins, and protectins. It's these compounds that make Fish Oil a valuable addition for conditions where reducing inflammation is paramount. This is why no reputable company would use plant or seed oils such as Flaxseed or Chia seeds to help manage arthritis because relying on the conversion is wholly ineffective for anything other than possibly improving the skin and coat where it has more to do with the addition of dietary fats and the sparing effect of ALA on the omega 6 fatty acid LA than the conversion of ALA to EPA. 

While for the management of certain conditions, fish, algal, krill oil is preferred due to the dosing required, there is a benefit to giving whole fish. While most extracted fish oils are in the ethyl ester form, when consuming fish they are in their natural triglyceride and polar lipid form. Which research indicates is more biologically available than those provided in ethyl ester form.  

Bioaccumulation

Sardines, Mackerel, Anchovies and Smelt are each planktivores, located lower on the trophic scale, meaning they are lower in mercury and other toxins that accumulate in larger fish. 

Small Dog Friendly and Suitable for Training

Given the small size of both the smelt and anchovies it can be a fantastic option for small dogs and cats. The Freeze-Dried Smelt can also be used for training as fish is a high value treat for many dogs. Reward your pup with a snack that's packed with flavor and nutrition it's a win-win for both of you! Plus, with its small size, these treats are the paw-fect size for any pup or kitty.

Easy Chew or Pill Pocket 

Both the Sardines and Mackerel can make a great option as a healthier and more effective (Palatable) pill pocket. No more struggling with those stubborn pups! Make giving medication easier and more enjoyable by breaking up the Mackerel or Sardine and placing the pill inside. Goodbye, stress—you won't have to fight with your pup about pills anymore.

Given the Size of both the Mackerel and Sardines, they can also be used as an easy chew. It's the perfect size for a healthier and yummier pill pocket, plus it can be used as an easy chew. 

Other Nutrients of Interest

While we don’t have data on the CoQ10 and Taurine levels in Smelt, both Sardines and Mackerel are valuable sources of both CoQ10, and Taurine. The benefit of giving the whole fish is that the head, and other organs comes with it. The head is significantly higher in EPA, DHA sphingolipids such as Sphingomyelin, Plasmogens, than the rest of the body. Sphingolipids, as a whole, have been gaining more attention in recent years, particularly in relation to cognitive function and gut health. The whole fish is also a source of both Type I & II Collagen. 

While we don’t have data on the CoQ10 and Taurine levels in Smelt, both Sardines and Mackerel are valuable sources of both CoQ10, and Taurine. The benefit of giving the whole fish is that the head, and other organs comes with it. The head is significantly higher in EPA, DHA sphingolipids such as Sphingomyelin, Plasmlogens, than the rest of the body. Sphingolipids, as a whole, have been gaining more attention in recent years, particularly in relation to cognitive function and gut health. The whole fish is also a source of both Type I & II Collagen. 

Both the Sardines and Mackerel can make a great option as a healthier and more effective (Palatable) pill pocket. No more struggling with those stubborn pups! Make giving medication easier and more enjoyable by breaking up the Mackerel or Sardine and placing the pill inside. Goodbye, stress you won't have to fight with your pup about pills anymore.

Given the Size of both the Mackerel and Sardines, they can also be used as an easy chew. It's the perfect size for a healthier and yummier pill pocket, plus it can be used as an easy chew. 

Given the small size of both the smelt and anchovies it can be a fantastic option for small dogs and cats. The Freeze-Dried Smelt can also be used for training as fish is a high value treat for many dogs. Reward your pup with a snack that's packed with flavor and nutrition it's a win-win for both of you! Plus, with its small size, these treats are the paw-fect size for any pup or kitty.