Volume: 5, 2026
5th International PhD Students’ Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland:
ENVIRONMENT – PLANT – ANIMAL – PRODUCT
Abstract number: A006
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL5.A006
Published online: 22 April 2026
The role of omega-3 fatty acids in preventive healthcare in dogs according to owners’ opinions
Agnieszka Dobosz*, Aleksandra Gąsior, Wioletta Samolińska, Karolina Jachimowicz-Rogowska
Institute of Animal Nutrition and Bromatology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka St. 13, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
* Corresponding author: agnieszka.dobosz@up.edu.pl
Interest in dietary supplementation in dogs is increasing, reflecting growing owner awareness of animal nutrition and preventive healthcare. Particular attention is given to omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) due to their role in modulating immune function, supporting skin and coat condition, and promoting overall health. Despite their wide availability on the market, decisions regarding the use of supplements remain varied and appear to be influenced, among other factors, by the health condition of the animals and the knowledge of their caregivers. This justifies the need to analyze feeding practices in this area. The aim of this studywas to assess dog owners’ awareness and their practices regarding omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.
The study was conducted using the CAWI method (February – April 2025) among 148 dog owners. The analysis encompassed data on omega-3 supplementation, sources of information, motivations for use, and perceived health outcomes. The collected data were compiled using Microsoft Excel 2019 and subjected to statistical analysis with Statistica 14.1.0.4 software. Differences between groups were assessed using Pearson’s chi-square (χ²) test (p<0.05).
It was demonstrated that more than half of the respondents (52.7%; n=78) declared using DHA and EPA in their canine diets, while 47.3% (n=70) did not use this type of nutritional support. Among owners not using supplements, the main barriers were a lack of knowledge about the effects of omega-3 fatty acids and a lack of conviction regarding their necessity. Among those supplementing, 66.7% reported regular use (n=52), while 33,3% reported occasional use (n=26). The most common source of DHA and EPA in canine diets was fish oil (69.2%), followed by krill oil (14.1%). Only a small percentage of owners reported using linseed oil or other plant-based sources of omega-3 (5.13%). Among preferred supplementation forms, oils/emulsions (83.3%) and pastes (12.8%) predominated. The main reasons for introducing supplementation were improvement of skin and coat condition and support of overall health. The most frequently observed effects of omega-3 supplementation were improved coat quality (60.3%) and enhanced immunity (21.8%).
The results confirm the widespread use of DHA and EPA supplementation among dog owners, indicating a strong relationship with the level of owner knowledge and the type of information sources used. This highlights the key role of nutritional education and professional support in shaping informed dietary practices among dog caregivers.
Keywords: canine nutrition; fatty acids; dietary supplementation; omega-3; PUFA
How to cite
Dobosz A., Gąsior A., Samolińska W., Jachimowicz-Rogowska K., 2026. The role of omega-3 fatty acids in preventive healthcare in dogs according to owners’ opinions. In: 5th International PhD Students’ Conference at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland: Environment – Plant – Animal – Product. https://doi.org/10.24326/ICDSUPL5.A006