12 Omega-3 Rich Recipes for Shiny Coat of Dogs

Your dog’s coat is a mirror to their health. Soft, glossy fur, minimal shedding and a clear skin underneath mean your dog is healthy and thriving. On the other hand, a matted and dull coat, bald patches, skin irritation aren’t just the result of poor grooming. They’re indicators of underlying deficiencies and health issues.

If that’s what you’re dealing with, you need to move away from topical treatments and solutions, and shift focus to better nutrition, focusing especially on increasing your pet’s Omega-3s intake. In this article, I bring you not one, not two, but 12 Omega-3 dog food recipes that can help you be in control of your pet’s health and nutrition, without having to slave in the kitchen for hours. 

Top Omega-3 Rich Ingredients for Canine Diets

If you’re looking for homemade dog food for shiny coat, healthy skin, stronger joints and immune system, and overall good health, you need to incorporate Omega-3 fatty acids in their diet because dogs can’t produce these essential nutrients on their own. And that’s hardly a cause for concern, given that there are canine-friendly foods that are abundant in Omega-3s. Here are some of the best and readily available ones that you can use to prepare omega-3 rich dog meals:  

1. Salmon – The ultimate brain booster

Salmon is packed with EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)—the two most powerful forms of Omega-3s. These fatty acids are known for reducing inflammation, boosting brain function, and supporting heart health. It’s also an excellent protein source that keeps muscles strong!

“Fatty fish like salmon provide bioavailable Omega-3s, meaning your dog’s body can absorb and use them effectively. This is particularly beneficial for senior dogs dealing with arthritis or cognitive decline,” says Dr. Amy Caldwell, DVM

2. Sardines – Small fish, big benefits

Sardines might be tiny, but they’re packed with Omega-3s and low in mercury, making them one of the safest fish options for dogs. They’re also loaded with calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D—all crucial for bone health. “Sardines are an excellent whole-food source of Omega-3s and also provide CoQ10, which supports heart health in dogs,” says holistic veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker, Holistic Veterinarian. 

You don’t need elaborate fish-based dog food recipes to incorporate these in your pet’s diet. Just mash up a couple of canned sardines (in water, no salt) and mix them into their food!

3. Mackerel – Omega-3 powerhouse

Mackerel is another fantastic fish that’s rich in Omega-3s, vitamin B12, and selenium. It supports joint health, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain a healthy metabolism. “Adding mackerel to your dog’s diet provides essential fatty acids and antioxidants that contribute to long-term health and vitality,” says canine nutritionist Dr. Julie Evans. 

4. Flaxseeds – A plant-based omega-3 superstar

If you’re looking for a plant-based Omega-3 source, flaxseeds are your go-to! They’re rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), fiber, and antioxidants, which support digestion and promote healthy skin and coat.

“Flaxseeds are a good alternative for dogs allergic to fish but their Omega-3s need to be converted to be usable,” says Dr. Rebecca Parker, a canine dietitian.

If you’re looking to add natural omega-3 supplements in homemade dog food and fish isn’t an option, ground flaxseeds are the way to go.  

5. Chia Seeds – The hydration helper

Chia seeds are tiny but mighty! They contain more Omega-3s than flaxseeds, along with fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Plus, they absorb water, helping with hydration and digestion. “Chia seeds not only provide Omega-3s but also help regulate blood sugar and keep dogs fuller for longer, which can be helpful for weight management,” says Dr. James Holloway, veterinary nutritionist. 

Pro Tip: Always soak chia seeds in water to unlock their full benefits!

6. Hemp Seeds – The perfect omega balance

Hemp seeds offer a perfect 3:1 balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids, which is crucial for reducing inflammation while maintaining skin and coat health. They’re also packed with plant-based protein and amino acids.

“Hemp seeds are an excellent choice for dogs who need a well-rounded, plant-based fatty acid profile to support skin health and inflammation control,” says Dr. Linda Roberts, a holistic vet. These are non-allergenic and easy to digest, making them a great fit for dogs with sensitive stomachs. 

7. Fish Oil – The concentrated Omega-3 boost

Fish oil, one of the most potent and convenient sources of Omega-3s, is another great choice for natural omega-3 supplements in homemade dog food. Apart from supporting skin health, it also aids joint mobility and cognitive function and is especially helpful for dogs with allergies, arthritis, or chronic inflammation.

Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a veterinary nutritionist, maintains, “Fish oil supplements can be a game-changer for dogs with joint issues or dry skin, but dosage matters. Too much can lead to digestive upset, so always consult with your vet.” Along with dosage, quality also matters. Make sure you always use high-quality fish oil free of additives and heavy metals.

8. Krill Oil – The antioxidant-rich alternative

Krill oil is similar to fish oil, with one exception—your dog’s body can absorb it better. It’s also rich in astaxanthin, a powerful antioxidant that fights oxidative stress and supports eye health. “Krill oil is a great alternative to fish oil, as it’s more stable and less likely to oxidize. The added antioxidants make it a fantastic choice for senior dogs,” explains Dr. Rachel Greenfield, a canine wellness expert.

Watch this video to know the best source:

12 Omega-3 Rich Recipes for a Shiny Coat

Now that you have an abundance of ingredients to work with, let’s talk about how to make omega-3 rich dog food at home. Here are 12 easy omega-3 rich dog meals that pack a punch, both in terms of their nutritional value and taste. 

1. Salmon & sweet potato bowl

This fish-based dog food recipe combines the goodness of Omega-3s in salmon with the fiber and vitamin A in sweet potato, all of which are great for your pet’s skin and coat health. Flaxseed oil helps enhance the shine of the coat. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked salmon (boneless, skinless)
• ½ cup mashed sweet potato
• 1 tsp flaxseed oil
• ½ cup steamed green beans

Directions

Cook the salmon, steam the sweet potato and green beans, mix everything together, top it up with flaxseed oil and serve once it cools down.

Suggested Reading: How to Make Frozen Fruit Treats for Dogs

2. Sardine & quinoa power meal

If you’re looking for DIY dog food for healthy skin, you cannot ignore this power meal that not only packs a punch with its Omega-3 content but is also rich in protein. 

Ingredients

• ½ cup canned sardines (in water, no salt)
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
• ½ cup chopped spinach

Directions

Cook the quinoa in a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa—bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Add the canned sardines. Top it up with chopped spinach and ground flaxseed.

3. Chia seed & banana dog treats

One of the most nutritional recipes for dogs with dull coats where the goodness of chia seeds is augmented by the potassium-rich banana, and fiber-rich oats. Egg, which contains biotin, also contributes to fur health and strength. The best part? All of this is rolled into a delicious treat your pet will go bananas over. 

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana
• ½ cup oats
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 egg

Directions

Mash banana, mix in oats, chia seeds, and egg. Shape into small cookies and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. 

Watch the recipe in action:

4. Tuna & brown rice meal

No selection of the best fish recipes for dogs’ skin and coat health can be complete without a tuna-based option, given its vitality in promoting skin health, coat shine. In this recipe, it is balanced perfectly by brown rice, which provides slow-release energy that can keep your pet active longer. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• ½ cup canned tuna (in water, no salt)
• 1 tsp fish oil
• ½ cup steamed carrots

Directions

Cook the rice, steam the carrots. Once cooled, add the canned tune and fish oil. Mix and serve. 

5. Omega-3 doggy smoothie

Here is an out-of-the-box idea for DIY dog food for healthy skin—a doggy smoothie packed with Omega-3s. Apart from enhancing coat softness and reducing shedding, it is also great for gut and joining health.

Ingredients

• ½ banana
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tsp flaxseed oil
• ½ tsp turmeric

Directions

Blend everything together and serve as a topper for your dog’s meals or a midday snack. 

6. Mackerel & pumpkin stew

Add this stew to the list of homemade dog meals to improve fur shine. The Omega-3-rich mackerel helps combat dry, flaky skin, while pumpkin also helps keep fur glossy by improving your pet’s gut health. And olive oil provides hydration to the skin and coat.

Ingredients

• ½ cup cooked mackerel (boneless)
• ½ cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp olive oil
• ½ cup cooked green peas

Directions

Steam the mackerel and green peas, allow it to cool. Then add pumpkin puree and olive oil. Mix well and serve. 

7. Coconut & chia seed biscuits

With such omega-3 dog food recipes up your sleeve, you can make maintaining your pet’s skin and fur health a decadent affair. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut flour
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 egg
• ½ cup water

Directions

Mix all the ingredients together, roll out, and cut into shapes. Bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes. 

You can also spice it up with peanut butter like below:

8. Hemp seed & chicken bites

Among the various homemade dog meals to improve fur shine that I have tried over the years, this one has the most interesting mix of ingredients. Combining the goodness of hemp seeds with protein-rich chicken and fiber-rich brown rice is truly an inspired idea. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked chicken breast
• 1 tbsp hemp seeds
• ½ cup cooked brown rice
• 1 tsp coconut oil

Directions

Cut the chicken breast into small pieces. Toss it into a wok along with the brown rice, add coconut oil, water, and let it cook. Once ready, add the hemp seeds. If you don’t have the time to oversee the cooking process, you can also cook this dog meal in a slow cooker.

9. Sardine & oatmeal patties

If you’re specifically looking for nutritional recipes for dogs with dull coats, take note. Introducing sardines to your pet’s diet can be a great way of addressing underlying problems like dandruff and poor skin health that can make their fur dull. Oats also help soothe the skin while parsley provides Vitamin C, which is another great nutrient for skin health. 

Ingredients

• ½ cup mashed sardines
• 1 cup oats
• 1 egg
• ½ tsp parsley (for fresh breath!)

Directions

Mix, form small patties, and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes. 

10. Flaxseed & peanut butter dog treats

Whether its nutritional recipes for dogs with dull coats, healthy dog treats, it seems I cannot not include one with peanut butter. And why not! It’s nutrient-rich and dogs love it. So here is another healthy peanut-butter-based treat that will have your pet’s tail wagging and their coat flourishing. 

Ingredients

• ½ cup natural peanut butter (no xylitol)
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseeds
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 egg

Directions

Mix, shape, and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.

Suggested Reading: 10 Healthy Snacks You Can Share with Your Dog

11. Salmon & blueberry power bowl

A lot of omega-3 dog food recipes are centered on salmon, and with good reason. This one, however, has a unique flavor and nutritional profile. Combining salmon with blueberries and chia seeds might seem odd, but trust me, when I tell you, the final dish comes together beautifully (I’m basing this on my dog’s response, so think twice, before sneaking in a taste).   

Ingredients

• ½ cup cooked salmon
• ¼ cup blueberries
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• ½ cup cooked quinoa

Directions

Steam the salmon until cooked. Cook the quinoa in a 2:1 ratio of water to quinoa—bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy. Allow them to cool, and then mix with soaked chia seeds, and top with blueberries. 

12. Fish Oil & egg scramble

This is a great breakfast option for homemade dog food for shiny coat. Satiating, tasty, and nutrient-rich, it checks all the boxes for keep you and your pet happy. 

Ingredients

• 2 scrambled eggs
• 1 tsp fish oil
• ½ cup steamed spinach
• ½ cup cooked brown rice

Directions

Scramble eggs, mix in spinach and brown rice, and drizzle with fish oil. 

FAQs

1. Can I use fish oil supplements instead of whole fish in recipes?

The two aren’t equivalent. While fish oil supplements can be used to meet your pet’s Omega-3s requirement, whole fish offers additional nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals. Fish oil is a concentrated source of Omega-3s. That said, it can be a great alternative, especially for dogs with fish allergies or picky eaters. However, ensure you choose a high-quality, mercury-free supplement and follow dosage guidelines. Too much fish oil can cause digestive upset or blood thinning, so consult your vet for the right amount based on your dog’s weight and needs.

2. How often should I feed my dog omega-3 rich meals?

For optimal health benefits, Omega-3-rich meals can be fed 2-3 times a week, depending on your dog’s size, activity level, and dietary needs. If your dog has joint issues, allergies, or skin conditions, your vet may recommend daily supplementation. Balance is key—too much Omega-3 can lead to digestive upset or an imbalance in fatty acids. If you’re using fish oil or other concentrated sources, follow the recommended dosage and ensure Omega-6 intake is balanced for overall well-being.

3. Are there plant-based sources of omega-3s suitable for dogs?

Yes, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp seeds are excellent plant-based sources of Omega-3s (ALA). However, dogs convert ALA to EPA and DHA less efficiently than they absorb Omega-3s from fish. While plant-based options support coat and skin health, they may not provide the same anti-inflammatory benefits as marine-based sources. If your dog is on a plant-based or fish-free diet, consider algae oil, which contains DHA, a more bioavailable form of Omega-3 that supports brain and heart health.

Takeaway 

Including Omega-3-rich foods in your dog’s diet is one of the best ways to support their skin and coat. It also promotes joint and bone health, improves cognitive function, and promotes overall well-being. Whether you choose whole fish, high-quality supplements, or plant-based sources, a balanced and consistent intake is key. Every dog is different, so as always, I part with the advice that you must consult your vet about introducing these Omega-3s-rich meals in your pet’s diet and determine the right amount for your pup’s specific needs.