Overview
Cod liver oil is nourishing to bones, eye health, and joints of canines. However, it should not be consumed in large amounts. Excessive cod liver oil consumption can provoke many health issues in dogs.
Can dogs have Cod liver oil?
Benefits
• Cod liver oil is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, reducing inflammation or degeneration of joints. They can also help ease arthritic pain. Dogs that are supplemented with omega-3 have better mobility. • The anti-inflammatory properties of cod liver oil can help with skin diseases, reduce itchiness, and alleviate skin allergies in dogs. Cod liver oil can also help to moisturize the skin and make the coat softer and smoother. • Cod liver oil contains Vitamin A, which helps maintain eye and skin health, and bone growth. It is also rich in Vitamin D, essential for bone and joint health.
Risks
• Cod liver oil supplements formulated for humans typically have 1,000 mg of cod liver oil per tablet. This is significantly higher than the 300 mg cod liver oil supplement made for pets. This can cause an overdose in dogs. The excessively high vitamin D in the body can lead to the hardening of tissues. In some cases, it can cause severe inflammation of the heart, arteries, and kidneys. • When dogs are fed with a high dosage of cod liver oil, there is too it leads to vitamin A toxicity, which can result in a rare and irreversible form of arthritis. New bones can form around the joints, which can cause stiffness. • Giving too much cod liver oil to dogs can also cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. • Cod liver oil may interact with dogs' prescription drugs, such as anticoagulants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and doxorubicin (a chemotherapy drug).
Servings
- Cod liver oil specifically formulated for canines can be given to dogs in liquid or capsule form. Always follow the recommended dosage on the packaging.
- Consult your vet before giving cod liver oil to your dog if he is on any medication or has any health conditions.
