Krill oil for dogs has become a popular supplement among pet owners looking to support healthy skin, a shiny coat, joint comfort, and overall wellness. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and the antioxidant astaxanthin, it may offer benefits that make it a useful addition to some dogs’ diets. Understanding how krill oil works can help you decide whether it is a good fit for your pup.

#1 – Has less mercury than salmon oil

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Krill is a small crustacean similar to shrimp that‘s the primary food source for the largest animals on earth – whales. Since krill is lower down the food chain than salmon, it’s less likely to absorb mercury and other heavy metals, toxins, and pollutants.

#2 – Higher absorption rate than fish oil

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Krill oil contains phospholipids, which are tiny packets of fatty acids that are the building blocks for your dog’s cellular membranes. This allows the fatty acids to easily pass through your dog’s intestinal wall cell membrane. This leads to a higher absorption rate.

Related: Which brand of krill oil for dogs does iHearDogs recommend?

#3 – Improves skin and coat

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Fat supplements in general and krill oil in particular reduce dander and shedding and promote healthy skin and coats. It may also reduce the itching, redness, and hotspots caused by chronic allergies.

#4 – DHA helps older dogs stay sharp

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Krill oil contains Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which studies suggest helps older dogs stay more alert, remember more, and retain the ability to stay sharp. DHA given to mother dogs during gestation and lactation is shown to improve the neurological development of puppies.

#5 – Sustainable food source

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Krill is among the species with the largest total biomass. They reproduce quickly and are at less risk for overfishing than other fish species. Krill is much more sustainable than most other seafood.

#6 – More concentrated than other fish oils

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Since krill oil is more concentrated and more easily absorbed than other fish oils, your dog only needs about one fifth the amount.

#7 – Helps reduce joint pain

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Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is a powerful anti-inflammatory that may help reduce joint pain, especially in dogs with arthritis. It also fights dry skin and noses as well as cracked skin on the pads of the feet.

#8 – Aids in brain and liver function

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Krill oil assists with the absorption of carnitine from the digestive tract. Carnitine is essential for mitochondrial function, which supplies the brain and liver with energy.

#9 – Contains antioxidants

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The natural antioxidant protection in krill oil helps to guard against the oxidation of Omega-3 fatty acids and damage from free radicals.

#10 – Promotes cardiovascular health

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While not proven to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, there is evidence that it can help lower cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, which helps keep your pooch’s heart healthy.

As pet parents ourselves, and also concerned about the lack of Omega-3’s in most canine diets, the team at iHeartDogs recently spent over a year working with a holistic vet to develop our own line of krill oil based Omega 3-6-9 powder. We can honestly say we believe this is the most complete formula on the market today. And even better, it’s the only product that also helps shelter dogs!

Learn More About the Honey Guard™ – Allergy & Itch Omega 3-6-9 Powder
for Dogs

Is Krill Oil Right for Your Dog?

Krill oil may provide valuable nutritional support, but every dog has different health needs. Choose a high-quality product made specifically for pets, follow the recommended serving amount, and consult your veterinarian before adding it to your dog’s routine. With proper guidance, you can determine whether krill oil is a safe and worthwhile choice for your companion.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional. 

(Sources: Dr. Mercola, iHeartDogs)