Is Olive Oil a Good Essential Fatty Acid Source for Fresh-Fed Dogs?

When pet guardians dive into fresh feeding, one of the common questions that comes up is: “Can I use olive oil as an essential fatty acid source for my dog?”

The short answer is: Olive oil can be a healthy addition, but it is not an ideal source of essential fatty acids (EFAs).
While it offers antioxidants and can support coat shine and skin health, it lacks the full spectrum of omega fatty acids dogs require for optimal wellbeing.

Let’s break down why.

🌿 Understanding Essential Fatty Acids for Dogs

Dogs need omega-6 (linoleic acid) and omega-3 (EPA, DHA, ALA) fatty acids in their diet because they cannot make them on their own. These fats play key roles in:

• Skin + coat health

• Immune system function

• Brain + cognitive development

• Anti-inflammatory responses

• Heart and joint support

A balanced diet must include both — and not just in small amounts, but in the correct ratio. Ideally, the omega-6 : omega-3 balance should fall around 5:1 to 10:1 depending on the diet and dog’s unique needs.

🫒 Where Does Olive Oil Fit In?

Olive oil is high in omega-9, which is beneficial for general health but not essential because dogs can produce it naturally.

So while olive oil has nutritional value and can be used as a topper, it shouldn’t be relied on to meet your dog’s essential fatty acid requirements, especially in raw diets that require careful balancing.

✨ Benefits of Olive Oil (In Moderation)

Olive oil isn’t bad — it just isn’t complete. It can still offer some great perks:

• Improves palatability of meals

• Adds healthy monounsaturated fats

• Supports skin hydration and coat shine

• Contains antioxidants like Vitamin E

• May help with mild constipation

If you use it, think of it like a booster — a drizzle, not the main source of fat.

General guideline: ¼–1 tsp per 5kg of body weight, depending on overall fat content of the meal.

🐟 Better Essential Fatty Acid Alternatives for Raw-Fed Dogs

If olive oil is not ideal for EFAs, what is? Here are superior choices that offer the vital omega-3 and omega-6 balance dogs need:

🐟 1. Fish Oil (Best Animal-Based Omega-3 Source)

Salmon, krill, sardine, or anchovy oil provide EPA & DHA, the most bioavailable omega-3s for dogs.

Benefits:

• Reduces inflammation

• Supports heart, brain, and joint health

• Great for itchy, flaky skin

Tip: Look for sustainably sourced, low-oxidation oils stored in dark bottles.

Storage: Once you open the bottle – the oil must be stored in the fridge to prevent oxidisation

🌱 2. Hemp Seed Oil (Balanced & Plant-Based)

One of the most balanced oils for raw feeding with an approximate omega-6: omega-3 ratio around 3:1, making it easy to integrate.

Benefits:

• Supports immune health

• Contains GLA for anti-inflammatory support

• Suitable for daily use

🥜 3. Walnut Oil

Walnut oil offers both omega-6 and a modest amount of omega-3.

Benefits:

• Palatable and easy to rotate

• Supports cognitive health

• Pairs well with meat-based raw diets

Better used as part of a rotation rather than the sole oil.

🐚 4. Green-Lipped Mussel Oil or Powder

Not technically a liquid oil topper, but a powerhouse source of omega-3s and joint-supportive nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, and ETA.

Great for dogs with:

• Joint issues

• Arthritis

• Senior needs

🌻 5. Sunflower or Safflower Oil (Omega-6 Focused)

Useful when a diet is too heavy in omega-3 or meat is naturally low in fat.

Important: Must be paired with omega-3 sources to maintain balance.

🥄 How to Build a Balanced Oil Routine

To support a well-rounded raw diet, consider rotating or combining oils:

Example blend:

• Fish oil (primary omega-3 source)

• Hemp oil (balanced omega-6:3)

• Small amount of olive oil for antioxidants + flavour

This offers variety, bioavailable EFAs, and improved nutrient coverage.

Final Takeaway

Olive oil is a healthy addition for raw-fed dogs — but not a complete essential fatty acid solution.

Use it as a supplemental boost, not the core fat source.
For proper EFA support, prioritise oils rich in omega-3 and omega-6, such as fish or hemp oil.

A balanced approach helps promote:

✔ healthy skin & coat
✔ reduced inflammation
✔ strong immunity
✔ cognitive & joint support
✔ long-term whole-body wellness

Shop Essential Fatty Acid Oils for Dogs and Cats here