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Discover the ideal Omega-3 dosage (EPA & DHA) to improve mobility, reduce inflammation and preserve your dog's joints on a daily basis.
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Omega-3Joint disorders are common, particularly in ageing dogs, large breed dogs and those with a genetic predisposition. Faced with these painful degenerations, the search for natural and well-tolerated solutions has led to evaluating the effects of Omega-3s. But what dosage is truly effective in improving a dog's mobility and joint comfort? Here is what veterinary clinical studies say.
Joint disorders particularly affect elderly dogs, large breeds or those that are genetically predisposed. To limit pain and preserve mobility, veterinary research has examined Omega-3 fatty acids, notably EPA and DHA, for their natural anti-inflammatory properties.
These two fatty acids, which dogs cannot produce on their own, are found in oily fish, green lipped mussels from New Zealand or in marine microalgae.
EPA is a fatty acid that plays a key role in regulating inflammation. In practical terms, it acts as a natural brake: it limits the production of substances responsible for pain and inflammation in the joints, known as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
These substances are generally produced from another fatty acid (arachidonic acid), which is highly inflammatory. By taking its place, EPA enables the production of molecules that are far less aggressive to tissues.
It also promotes the production of 'resolvins', compounds that help the body naturally extinguish inflammatory processes.
DHA acts at a deep cellular level, particularly on cells of the brain, nervous system and immune system. It helps keep cell membranes flexible, allowing cells to communicate effectively with one another.
In cases of joint disorders, DHA contributes to reducing inflammation, but in a more lasting way than EPA. It also helps block the activity of certain enzymes that damage joint tissues, such as cartilage. It therefore plays a protective role and preserves joint integrity over the long term.
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177 arthritic dogs received EPA+DHA-enriched food for 3 months at various doses (up to 4 g/1000 kcal). The groups receiving the highest doses showed a significant improvement in lameness, pain on palpation and mobility. The benefit was dose-dependent.
74 dogs with osteoarthritis received 69 mg/kg/day of EPA+DHA for 12 weeks. Result: significant reduction in pain and joint stiffness on the visual analogue scale (VAS), and better functional assessment by owners.
Synthesis of 23 randomised clinical trials in dogs and cats. Conclusion: EPA and DHA have proven efficacy on pain, locomotion and quality of life in joint disorders, particularly from 60 to 100 mg/kg/day.
While osteoarthritis remains the most widely documented indication, several clinical trials have also highlighted the benefits of EPA and DHA in other disorders: skin condition (allergic dermatitis), eye health (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), coat improvement, cardiovascular disease and even certain cancers (lymphoma).
The table below summarises the dosages observed to be effective in the scientific literature:
| Condition | Effective EPA + DHA Dose | Minimum Duration | Observed Clinical Effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osteoarthritis / Joint Disorders | 60-100 mg/kg/day | 6 à 12 semaines | Reduced pain and stiffness, improved mobility |
| Allergic Dermatitis | 50-90 mg/kg/day | 8 à 10 semaines | Reduced itching, erythema, and secondary skin lesions |
| Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye) | Ratio EPA:DHA 1,5:1 | 6 mois | Improvement in clinical ocular signs |
| Dull Coat / Poor Coat Condition | EPA : 16 mg/kg DHA : 10 mg/kg | 3 mois | Improved seborrheic index and overall coat quality |
| Valvular Heart Disease / Chronic Heart Failure | EPA : 27 mg/kg DHA : 18 mg/kg | 4 à 8 semaines | Improvement in echocardiographic cardiac parameters |
Even without apparent joint symptoms, moderate Omega-3 supplementation can help maintain joint flexibility, support the immune system and preserve skin and coat quality.
In healthy adult dogs, a daily intake of 14 mg of EPA+DHA per kilogram of body weight is recommended.
To help with daily dosing, here is a reference guide by dog size:
| Weight Range | Average Weight | Recommended Daily EPA + DHA Intake |
|---|---|---|
| Under 10 kg | 7 kg | 98 mg/day |
| 10–20 kg | 15 kg | 210 mg/day |
| 20–30 kg | 30 kg | 420 mg/day |
| Over 40 kg | 45 kg | 630 mg/day |
These intakes can be provided through enriched food or through a supplement containing a quality Omega-3 source (such as green lipped mussel oil or algae oil), well tolerated over the long term. They help maintain inflammation-regulating mechanisms and support healthy ageing.
EPA and DHA are now recognised supplements in the management of joint disorders in dogs.
Scientific data allow us to define an optimal dosage of between 60 and 100 mg/kg/day to achieve significant results on pain and mobility.
For healthy dogs, an intake of 14 mg/kg/day provides excellent ongoing support.
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This article was written by the R&D team at Laboratoire Sensilia, specialists in animal nutrition.