With autumn often comes the big return of shedding and all those hairs that seem to appear everywhere in the house! You may have heard that salmon oil could stop your dog's hair loss and that all you need to do is add a little to his bowl. But is it really that simple? False… or rather very exaggerated! Salmon oil does not remove shedding and is not a universal treatment for shedding. So, before changing your dog's bowl with this food supplement, let's take stock of what it can really provide, but also of these dangers.
Salmon oil: how to use it without excess?
Salmon oil can be an interesting ally for the skin and coat of your 4-legged companion, in particular thanks to its omega-3, essential fatty acids which help maintain healthy skin and a good skin barrier.
But be careful: more does not necessarily mean better! The dosage must be adapted to the animal, the product used and its usual diet. In excess, fats or omega-3s can indeed cause adverse effects and, in some cases, contribute to health problems such as pancreatitis. Salmon oil must therefore remain a one-off supplement, without ever replacing a complete and balanced diet.
Be careful of oxidized oil!
Salmon oil also deserves a little attention in terms of conservation. Rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, it is particularly sensitive to lipid oxidation when exposed to air, light or heat. Poorly stored or too old oil can lose quality and cause digestive problems for your faithful companion.
To preserve its properties, choose a well-packaged product, follow the storage recommendations and carefully close the bottle after each use. And if the oil has an unusual smell or appearance, it is best not to give it to your dog.
Woopets info – When to worry about hair loss in dogs?
Shedding is completely natural for your dog, but there are certain signs that you should pay attention to:
- Sudden or very significant hair loss;
- Hairless areas or patches without hair;
- Severe itching or repeated scratching;
- Redness or lesions on the skin;
- An unusual change in coat or general condition.
These signs may be linked to parasites, allergies, a dermatological problem, stress or illness. In this case, it is better to seek advice from your veterinarian rather than relying solely on a dietary supplement such as salmon oil.