Seed Oils in Dog Food: Why to Use Them—and Why Not Scan almost any kibble label and you’ll see seed oils —sunflower, flaxseed, canola, soybean, safflower, and more. Are they helpful, harmful, or somewhere in between? The short answer: dogs do need omega-6 (linoleic acid) from fats for skin/coat and cellular health, but problems arise when seed oils dominate the fat profile without enough omega-3s to balance them. Why Seed Oils Are Used in Dog Food Essential fatty acids: Oils like sunflower and safflower provide linoleic acid (omega-6), required for skin, coat, and barrier health. 1 Alternative fat source: For dogs who don’t tolerate certain animal fats, plant oils can be easier to digest. Shelf life: Some seed oils help kibble stay fresh longer compared to animal fats. Cost: Plant oils are often cheaper than fish oil or animal fats, making foods more affordable. Why Some Pet Parents Avoid Seed Oils Omega imbalance: Too much omega-6 and not enough omeg...
Holistic Dog Nutrition and Wellness