Omega-3 for Pets: Salmon Oil vs. Green Lipped Mussel vs. Sardines

Šapice Pet Wellness
2026-04-01T15:59:03-04:00

Salmon oil, green lipped mussel, and dried sardines all provide omega-3s for pets — but each has different strengths. This guide helps Canadian pet owners choose the right source for their dog or cat.
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Omega-3 fatty acids are among the most researched and widely recommended supplements in veterinary nutrition. Their benefits for dogs and cats are well-documented: reduced inflammation, improved coat and skin health, joint support, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. But not all omega-3 sources are equal — and choosing the right one for your pet depends on their specific needs, life stage, and health goals.

At Šapice Pet Wellness, we carry three distinct omega-3 sources, each with different strengths. Here's how they compare.

Understanding Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The omega-3 fatty acids most relevant to pet health are:

EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) — primarily anti-inflammatory; supports joint health, skin, and immune function

DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) — critical for brain and eye development; supports cognitive function in all life stages

ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) — a plant-based omega-3 that dogs and cats convert to EPA and DHA very inefficiently; not a reliable primary source

Marine-sourced omega-3s (fish, shellfish) provide EPA and DHA directly in their most bioavailable form. This is why marine sources are strongly preferred over plant-based alternatives for pets.

Option 1: KRWN Atlantic Salmon Oil

Salmon oil is the most familiar omega-3 supplement for pet owners — and for good reason. Cold-pressed from Atlantic salmon, our KRWN Atlantic Salmon Oil delivers a concentrated, highly bioavailable dose of EPA and DHA in a liquid format that's easy to add to any meal.

Best for:

Daily omega-3 supplementation for dogs and cats of all ages

Coat and skin health — omega-3s reduce shedding, dryness, and itching

General anti-inflammatory support

Picky eaters — the aroma of salmon oil is highly palatable and can improve food acceptance

How to use: drizzle directly over food at the recommended dose based on your pet's weight.

Option 2: KRWN Green Lipped Mussel Powder

Green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) from New Zealand is one of the most researched natural joint supplements available. Our KRWN Green Lipped Mussel Powder provides a unique combination of omega-3 fatty acids (including ETA — eicosatetraenoic acid, a rare and potent anti-inflammatory), glycosaminoglycans (glucosamine and chondroitin), and antioxidants.

Best for:

Joint health and mobility support — particularly for dogs with arthritis or age-related stiffness

Active dogs and large breeds prone to joint stress

Senior pets needing comprehensive joint and anti-inflammatory support

Pets who need omega-3s in a powder format (easier to mix into wet food)

How to use: mix into food at the recommended dose. Can be combined with salmon oil for comprehensive coverage.

Option 3: Dried Sardines

Sardines are a whole-food omega-3 source — and one of the most nutrient-dense treats available. Our range of dried sardines provides EPA and DHA alongside complete protein, calcium (from the bones), and B vitamins, all in a minimally processed, single-ingredient format.

Dried Sardines 40g — ideal for smaller dogs or as a daily treat

Dried Sardines 90g — a versatile mid-size option

Dried Sardines 150g – Case of 10 — for multi-dog households or regular supplementation

Dried Sardines 340g — bulk option for larger dogs

Best for:

Owners who prefer whole-food supplementation over oils or powders

High-value training treats with nutritional benefits

Dogs who need omega-3s alongside a protein and calcium boost

Cats — sardines are highly palatable for most cats

Comparison at a Glance

| Salmon Oil | Green Lipped Mussel | Dried Sardines
Format | Liquid | Powder | Whole food treat
Primary benefit | Coat, skin, general omega-3 | Joint health + omega-3 | Whole-food omega-3 + protein
Joint support | Good | Excellent | Good
Palatability | Very high | High | Very high
Best for | All pets, daily use | Joint issues, seniors | Training, whole-food preference

Can You Combine Them?

Absolutely — and many pet owners do. Salmon oil as a daily base supplement, green lipped mussel for targeted joint support, and dried sardines as a high-value treat is a comprehensive and complementary approach. Just account for total omega-3 intake to avoid over-supplementation.

Explore our full Nutritional Care collection and Daily Support collection for all our supplement options.

Shop our Nutritional Care collection →