Just like humans, dogs experience mood changes, anxiety, and cognitive shifts. In fact, research estimates that 72.5% of dogs experience anxiety or some kind of problematic behavior on a regular basis.
When thinking about how to help dogs with their nutrition, one nutrient stands out for supporting the mind and body: DHA, otherwise known as docosahexaenoic acid. DHA is a type of omega-3 that is often found in fish, such as salmon. People often first hear about DHA when they’re told to increase their omega-3 intake for brain health. Due to its presence in human diets, DHA has sparked increased interest in its benefits for pets as well. With DHA education on the rise, we’re starting to understand that it’s not only essential for humans, but also for our beloved furry friends.
DHA is essential for dogs and is most commonly found in cold-water fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines, but harvesting them from fish isn’t always sustainable. There is a better way! That’s where marine microalgae comes in. As an environmentally friendly and sustainable source of omega-3s, we’re proud to incorporate marine microalgae as a primary ingredient in our Skin & Coat Meal Topper Mega Pack, Mini Skin & Coat Vegetable Broth, and Vegetable Brutus on the Go.
What is DHA, and why does it matter for dogs?
DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is essential for brain, eye, and nervous system development. It is effective for dogs of all ages, but dogs can’t produce enough of it on their own. For a young dog, DHA can support cognitive development and vision. DHA continues to support dogs in their adult years by fueling joint health and nourishing skin and coat. With regular use, DHAs can even reduce the chance of mental decline for dogs by the time they’re seniors.
The Relationship Between Diet, Mental Health, and DHA/Omega-3s
A dog’s diet plays a massive role in their mental health and behavior because diet can affect neurotransmitters. Since DHA plays a role in cognitive development, it has the potential to reduce anxiety and improve focus by supporting those neurotransmitters. By giving dogs a well-balanced, high-quality diet rich in essential nutrients like DHA, they’re more likely to experience less stress or behavioral issues.
Not All DHAs Are Created Equal
Most DHA supplements come from fish oil, but this source has its own set of problems, such as fishy odors and sustainability concerns. Since fish initially get their DHAs from marine microalgae anyways, doesn’t it make more sense to harvest DHAs from the source rather than contributing to overfishing and nasty smells?!
By giving your dog DHA from marine microalgae instead of fish, they can reap the same benefits without experiencing the problems fish oil poses. Brutus Bone Broth incorporates marine microalgae into our products for that very reason. By fortifying our meal toppers with these essential omega-3s, your dog can experience a tasty and sustainable health journey.
Daily DHA The Delicious Way
With Brutus Bone Broth products like our Skin & Coat Mega Pack or our Vegetable Broth, it’s easy to incorporate DHAs into your dog’s diet. Brutus Bone Broth’s products are convenient to use, and by incorporating DHA consistently, you can support your dog throughout their entire life. After all, the small steps we take toward improving our dogs’ lives are often the most important.
How To Easily Incorporate DHAs into Your Dog’s Diet:
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Drizzle Skin & Coat Vegetable Broth over your dog’s food at mealtime
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Sprinkle our Skin & Coat Mega Pack on top of your dog’s food for a delicious finish
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Use Brutus on the Go for a quick boost of DHAs when out and about with your pup
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Freeze Skin & Coat Vegetable Broth to make nutritious pup-cicles for your pet
You can find Brutus Bone Broth’s products with DHAs on our website or in a store near you. Don’t wait too long to start including DHAs in your dog’s diet – it’s such a convenient addition that will seriously level up their health journey.