Why Your Dog (and You) Need Omega‑3 Fatty Acids for a Healthy Heart

I want to share something personal with you today.

A few weeks ago, I got two pieces of news about my partner, Dean — one that stopped my heart… and one that made me breathe a huge sigh of relief.

The difficult part is this: Dean has had a congenital heart valve defect that we knew would eventually require surgery. And the most recent recheck results suggested, it was better to do the procedure now, while he is still healthy and fit. 

When I heard this news, I immediately dove into research, assessing the different procedures and success rates, pros and cons and also where to find the best surgeon. 

So, the need for a surgical repair is the bad news, despite a very good prognosis.

But the good news is Dean’s recent CT scan showed that his blood vessels are in perfect condition. Zero vascular disease, no clogged arteries, all is perfect with the exception of his congenitally weak heart valve that needs to be fixed.  

Why Omega‑3 Fatty Acids Are Essential for Heart and Vascular Health

For many years now, we have followed the studies and recommendations on vascular health and consistently taken high-dose omega-3 fatty acids.

Dean and I both take 3 grams (3000 mg) daily, and it seems to be working! Pax gets them too, and his daily dose is 1500mg.

And that’s not just based on my personal belief — it’s backed by a lot of good science. 

Research by the American Heart Association shows that omega-3s (especially EPA and DHA) support healthy triglyceride levels, help protect blood vessels, and support overall cardiovascular function.

And a study published last November found that people with the highest levels of EPA and DHA in their blood had nearly a 20% lower risk of dying from heart disease, and they also had fewer major heart problems overall, compared to people with the lowest levels.¹

Canine Heart Health: Why Your Dog Needs Omega‑3 Fatty Acids

From my clinical work, I’ve also seen how much heart health matters in dogs.

The heart is the hardest working muscle in the body and healthy blood vessels are the key to deliver oxygen and nutrients to every cell and organ in the body. 

When the blood vessels lose their elasticity and become congested and blocked, the whole body struggles: energy, breathing, mobility, organs and brain function and overall quality of life. 

That’s why I’ve always believed that protecting the heart and blood vessels is one of the most important parts of ensuring that we have many more happy moments with our beloved dogs and people. 

The heart itself is also a symbol of love. And taking care of the heart — both human and canine — is an act of love.

Here are a few of the many ways omega-3s guard and protect the cardiovascular system: 

How Omega‑3 Supports the Cardiovascular System (for You and Your Dog)

They help protect blood vessels

EPA and DHA help keep the lining of your blood vessels (the endothelium) healthy and functional. More elastic vessels handle blood flow better, put less strain on the heart, and are less prone to damage and plaque buildup over time.

In other words, the right omega-3s are scientifically proven to reduce the chances of heart attacks.²

They improve blood fat balance

Omega-3s are well known for helping lower triglycerides, a type of lipids linked to higher heart disease risk when elevated. Lower triglycerides = less stress on the heart and arteries.³ 

They calm down acute and chronic inflammation

Chronic, low-grade inflammation plays a big role in heart disease and artery damage. EPA and DHA help shift the body toward a less inflammatory state, which helps blood vessels and heart tissue stay healthy for the long haul.

They support stable heart rhythm

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential building blocks of cardiac cells. They support regular heart rhythm and ensure the electrical impulses are stable. This is one reason omega-3s are associated with a lower risk of dangerous heart arrhythmia.

They support healthier blood flow

Omega-3s can help make blood platelets less sticky, which helps blood optimal blood circulation and reduces the risk of unwanted clot formation that can trigger heart attacks or strokes.

Why Most Dogs (and People) Need Omega‑3 Supplements

Unfortunately, most North Americans aren’t getting nearly enough omega-3s from diet alone. 

In fact, a large study looking at omega-3 status around the globe found that people in the United States and Canada tend to have the lowest levels of EPA and DHA of any region in the world, even compared to other developed nations.⁴

That’s a big deal, because low omega-3 status has been linked to higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

The Best Omega‑3 for Dogs and People

That’s why I am so passionate about taking and recommending FeelGood Omega H+ for people and FeelGood Omega for dogs.

When I was looking for the best ingredients for an omega-3 supplement, I aimed to find a clean, highly potent, environmentally-friendly source that was high in both EPA and DHA, and low in heavy metals.

A wild-caught squid delivers superb amounts of EPA and DHA without the baggage of heavy metals as it is low on the food chain.

Unlike generic fish oils or krill products, FeelGood Omega is:

• • Sourced from wild-caught squid, naturally low in heavy metals and mercury
    
  • Sustainable and non-GMO, with minimal environmental impact
    
  • Highly potent — delivering over 1,430 mg of pure omega-3s (EPA + DHA) per teaspoon
    
  • Micro-filtered and lab-tested for purity and potency
    
  • Nitrogen-flushed and glass-bottled to protect freshness



My partner Dean and I both take 3 grams of FeelGood Omega H+ every day — three times more than the label dose, because the most recent research suggests higher daily levels for optimal benefit. 

Pax gets 1 to 1.5 grams of FeelGood Omega per day with his meals — and he loves the taste so much I don’t even have to convince him.

If you’d like to give your own heart — and your dog’s heart — a little extra support, FeelGood Omega H+ (for you) and FeelGood Omega (for your pup) can help.

Try the same omega-3s Dean, Pax, and I use every day

And as always, every order is backed by my Lifetime 100% Satisfaction Money-Back Guarantee, so you can try it with complete peace of mind.

Give your dog a hug for me, and if you currently don’t have a dog, perhaps there is a cat or a human nearby.

P.S. — I recently wrote a blog post about the many health benefits of omega-3s and why it makes sense to supplement. You can read it here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dog even need omega‑3 if I feed a good diet?

Modern diets, including many commercial foods and even some home‑prepared meals, are typically low in EPA and DHA compared to what wild canids would naturally consume. Population data shows that people in North America have among the lowest omega‑3 levels worldwide, and our dogs share the same environment and food chain. Supplementing with a clean omega‑3 helps restore this missing piece and supports heart, brain, joint, and immune health.

What makes FeelGood Omega different from regular fish oil?

FeelGood Omega is made from wild‑caught squid, which are low on the food chain and naturally lower in heavy metals than many large fish. Each teaspoon delivers over 1,330 mg of EPA + DHA, is micro‑filtered, lab‑tested, nitrogen‑protected, and bottled in glass to protect freshness and potency.

Many generic fish oils do not match this combination of purity, sustainability, and concentration, which is why I use this calamari oil omega‑3 as my preferred fish oil alternative for dogs (and people).

How much omega‑3 should my dog get each day?

I give my dog Pax receives about 1–1.5 grams of omega‑3 per day with his meals as a practical example. The ideal dose depends on your dog’s size, I usually recommend doubling the label dose as the most current research shows clear benefits of higher doses.

Can I use the same omega‑3 for myself and my dog?

Dr. Dobias uses FeelGood Omega H+ for people and FeelGood Omega for dogs, for simplicity of labeling,  however, you could give both products to your dog if they prefer capsules instead of liquid,  However, most dogs love the squid oil flavour, so either is fine.

How long does it take to see benefits from omega‑3 supplementation?

Human studies show that changes in blood triglycerides and inflammatory markers can begin within weeks of regular omega‑3 intake. For structural and vascular benefits, the real impact is seen over months and years of consistent use

Is omega‑3 safe to give long‑term to my dog?

High‑quality omega‑3 from a clean source like wild‑caught squid is formulated for long‑term daily use and is part of Dr. Dobias’s lifelong routine for himself and Pax.

Can omega‑3 help prevent heart disease in my dog?

Omega‑3s support heart health by improving blood fat balance, protecting vessel lining, calming chronic inflammation, stabilizing rhythm, and reducing the tendency for unwanted clots. While no supplement can “guarantee” prevention, these mechanisms are strongly associated with lower cardiovascular risk and healthier aging in both people and dogs.

Does my puppy need omega‑3 as well, or is this just for seniors?

Omega‑3s are structural building blocks for every cell membrane and are especially important for brain and eye development in young animals. Starting early with an appropriate dose sets the foundation for healthier heart, brain, and immune function over your dog’s lifetime.

Can I rely on fish, sardines, or raw diets instead of supplementation?

While fresh, low‑contaminant fish can contribute omega‑3, the overall intake in most modern diets still tends to fall short of optimal EPA and DHA levels. Consistency, purity, and potency are harder to guarantee from food alone, which is why Dr. Dobias recommends supplementing with a tested, high‑dose omega‑3.

My dog already has a heart condition and is on medication. Can omega‑3 still help?

Omega‑3s can complement conventional heart medications by helping vessels stay more elastic, calming inflammation, and supporting stable rhythm, but they are not a replacement for prescribed drugs.

Are there early signs that my dog might be low in omega‑3?

Guardians often notice dull or flaky skin, reduced coat shine, and slower post‑exercise recovery in dogs with suboptimal omega‑3 intake, although these signs are not specific. Over the long term, low omega‑3 status can contribute to higher cardiovascular risk and more inflammation‑related problems.

Is there a risk of giving too much omega‑3 to my dog?

Not really with the exception of ultrahigh doses causing softer stools.

How should omega‑3 fit into a broader heart‑health plan for my dog?

Omega‑3 is one pillar alongside species‑appropriate fresh food, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, spinal care, and targeted nutrients like magnesium, antioxidants, and organ support where needed. Dr. Dobias’s overall philosophy is to protect the heart by protecting the whole body – vascular system, spine, and immune balance together.

Does squid‑based omega‑3 help the brain and emotions as well as the heart?


DHA, one of the main omega‑3s in squid oil, is a critical structural fat in the brain and the blood brain barrier. It supports cognitive function and emotional balance in both dogs and people. 

Protecting the blood-brain barrier, and blood vessels that nourish the brain also indirectly supports mood, memory, and resilience.

How can I tell if an omega‑3 product is high quality if it’s not from Dr. Dobias?

Look for a clearly stated EPA + DHA amount per teaspoon or capsule, transparent sourcing (wild, low‑trophic species), third‑party testing, and packaging that protects from oxidation (dark glass, nitrogen protection). Avoid products with a strong rancid smell, unclear origin, plastic packaging or no lab‑testing information. 

Scientific References

1. Djuricic I, Calder PC. N-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA) and Cardiovascular Health - Updated Review of Mechanisms and Clinical Outcomes. Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2025 Nov 17;27(1):116.

2. Zehr KR, Walker MK. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids improve endothelial function in humans at risk for atherosclerosis: A review. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat. 2018 Jan;134:131-140.

3. Skulas-Ray AC, Wilson PWF, Harris WS, Brinton EA, Kris-Etherton PM, Richter CK, Jacobson TA, Engler MB, Miller M, Robinson JG, Blum CB, Rodriguez-Leyva D, de Ferranti SD, Welty FK; American Heart Association Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young; Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; and Council on Clinical Cardiology. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for the Management of Hypertriglyceridemia: A Science Advisory From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2019 Sep 17;140(12)

4. Torrissen M, et al. Global variations in omega-3 fatty acid status and omega-6:omega-3 ratios: insights from > 500,000 whole-blood dried blood spot samples. Lipids Health Dis. 2025 Aug 9;24(1):260.