Herring Oil vs Salmon Oil for Dogs in Canada 2026: Benefits and Best Supplements to Buy

Adding a fish oil supplement is one of the simplest ways to support your dog's skin, coat, and joints — and two of the most common options Canadian owners ask us about are herring oil and salmon oil. Both deliver omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), but they differ in sourcing, sustainability, and taste. If you're ready to shop, browse our dog health and wellness collection for omega supplements, or read on to compare the two side by side.

Our team at Ashario Pets fields this question weekly, especially in winter when dry Toronto air leaves coats dull and flaky. Below we break down the science, the differences, and which fish oil fits your dog. You can also explore our full dog product range to pair a supplement with the right diet.

What's the difference between herring oil and salmon oil for dogs?

Herring oil and salmon oil are both marine sources of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, but herring is a smaller, shorter-lived fish that tends to accumulate fewer heavy metals, while salmon oil is more widely available and often higher in total omega-3 per serving. Both support skin, coat, joints, and heart health in dogs.

Key Takeaway: Salmon oil is the more common, higher-omega option most Canadian owners reach for, while herring oil is a cleaner, lower-contaminant small-fish alternative that's ideal for dogs with sensitivities. Both work — the "better" choice depends on your dog's needs and your sustainability priorities.

Omega-3s are essential fatty acids, meaning dogs can't produce them efficiently and must get them from food. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), complete dog foods must meet minimum fat content, but many standard kibbles fall short on the marine-based EPA and DHA that drive anti-inflammatory benefits. That's where a dedicated fish oil comes in.

Herring is a forage fish, typically 20–30 cm long, harvested in cold North Atlantic and Pacific waters. Because herring live only a few years and feed low on the food chain, they carry a lower cumulative load of mercury and other contaminants. Salmon oil, by contrast, is frequently a byproduct of the salmon-farming and wild-catch industries, making it abundant and cost-effective, with EPA/DHA concentrations that can run slightly higher per gram.

What are the benefits of fish oil for a dog's coat and joints?

Fish oil supports four main areas in dogs: a shinier coat and healthier skin, reduced joint inflammation, cardiovascular support, and cognitive health. The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are the active compounds responsible for these benefits, and a typical dose is 20–55 mg of combined EPA/DHA per kilogram of body weight daily.

Here's what the omega-3s in both herring and salmon oil actually do:

• Skin and coat: EPA and DHA reduce transdermal water loss and calm inflammatory skin responses. In our store we see customers return within weeks reporting less scratching and a noticeably glossier coat — one of the fastest-visible benefits of any supplement.
• Joint mobility: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory effects that complement glucosamine and chondroitin. For senior dogs or large breeds prone to stiffness, fish oil is a common addition to a joint-support routine.
• Heart and kidney health: Research summarized on NCBI/PubMed links dietary omega-3s to improved cardiovascular markers and renal support in dogs.
• Brain and cognition: DHA is a structural fat in the brain and retina, valuable for both puppies (development) and senior dogs (cognitive maintenance).

The American Kennel Club (AKC) notes that omega-3 supplements are among the most commonly recommended additions for coat and joint health. Always confirm dosing with your veterinarian, especially for dogs on medication or with bleeding disorders, since high omega-3 doses can affect clotting.

Herring oil vs salmon oil: which is better for Canadian dogs in 2026?

For most Canadian dogs, salmon oil offers slightly higher omega-3 content and easier availability, while herring oil offers a cleaner, lower-contaminant profile from a sustainable small fish. Dogs with fish sensitivities or owners prioritizing purity often prefer herring; owners wanting maximum EPA/DHA per dollar often choose salmon.

Both oils are guaranteed sources of omega-3, and neither is dramatically superior for the average dog. The practical difference comes down to three things: your dog's palate, your budget, and how much you value the lower-contaminant sourcing of a small forage fish. Sustainability-minded owners in the Yonge-Finch area often ask us about MSC-certified sourcing, and herring frequently ranks well on those measures.

How the omega-3 numbers stack up

A general guideline from veterinary nutrition sources is roughly 20–55 mg of combined EPA and DHA per kilogram of body weight daily for therapeutic skin and joint support. For a 20 kg (44 lb) dog, that's approximately 400–1,100 mg of EPA/DHA per day. Check the guaranteed analysis on any bottle — a quality salmon oil often lists around 300 mg EPA and 300 mg DHA per 5 mL teaspoon, while herring oils are frequently in a similar range. Always read the label rather than assuming, and consult the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or your own vet for dogs with health conditions.

Which fish oil supplements can I buy at Ashario Pets in North York?

Ashario Pets carries several brands that incorporate marine omega-3s through supplements and fish-forward foods, including MOJO Pet Supplements, Wellytails, Big Country Raw, Open Farm, and ZIWI. Our North York store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2 stocks omega and wellness products alongside 79+ pet food brands, open 7 AM to 11 PM daily, 365 days a year.

Here's how to think about the options we carry:

• MOJO Pet Supplements — targeted wellness blends including omega and skin-support formulas. A go-to when a customer wants a dedicated supplement rather than relying on diet alone.
• Wellytails — Canadian-made functional supplements that often combine omega-3s with joint and coat support ingredients.
• Big Country Raw — a Canadian raw brand whose raw dog food recipes and add-ons frequently feature fish content for natural omega-3 delivery.
• Open Farm — offers fish-based and omega-rich recipes with transparent sourcing, popular among owners who want food and supplement benefits combined.
• ZIWI — air-dried recipes built around New Zealand seafood and green-lipped mussel, delivering marine omega-3s through air-dried dog food.

Customers love that they can pair a supplement with the right base diet in one visit. When a customer comes in asking about a dull, flaky winter coat, we typically suggest starting with a fish oil and reviewing the fat content and omega ratios of their current food. You can compare Made in Canada options too — several of our omega products are produced domestically.

Not sure where to begin? Our best pet food for specific needs guide and our friendly staff can help you build a routine. As of 2026, fish oil remains one of the most requested add-ons at our North York location.

How do I add fish oil to my dog's diet safely?

Introduce fish oil gradually over 5–7 days, starting at half the target dose and building up, and give it with food to aid absorption and reduce the chance of loose stools. Store oils in the fridge after opening and use within 60–90 days, since omega-3s oxidize and go rancid once exposed to air and light.

A few practical tips our nutrition experts at the North York store share with customers:

• Match the dose to body weight, not a one-size-fits-all pump. A 5 kg Chihuahua and a 40 kg Lab need very different amounts.
• Watch for fishy breath, digestive upset, or oily stools — signs the dose may be too high.
• Look for products with added vitamin E, which helps stabilize the oil and offsets the extra oxidative demand omega-3s place on the body.
• Don't combine fish oil with other high-dose omega products without checking total EPA/DHA intake.

Because omega-3s can mildly affect blood clotting, the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine and most vets recommend pausing supplements before surgery and clearing use with your veterinarian for dogs on medication. Fish oil is a supplement, not a treatment — always seek professional veterinary advice for any medical concern.

The bottom line: herring or salmon oil for your dog?

Both herring oil and salmon oil are excellent, safe ways to deliver EPA and DHA to your dog for a shinier coat, calmer skin, and better joint comfort. Salmon oil wins on availability and value; herring oil wins on purity and sustainability. Either way, consistency matters more than the exact fish — a steady daily dose over weeks is what produces results.

Pair your chosen oil with a quality diet, store it properly, and dose to your dog's weight. If you'd like hands-on help, our team in North York is happy to walk you through the options in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is herring oil or salmon oil better for a dog's coat?

Both herring oil and salmon oil improve coat shine and skin health because they deliver the same active omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Salmon oil often has a stronger taste dogs prefer, while herring oil offers a milder flavour and lower contaminant load. For coat results, consistency at the correct dose matters more than which fish you choose.

How much fish oil should I give my dog per day?

A common guideline is 20–55 mg of combined EPA and DHA per kilogram of body weight daily. For a 20 kg dog, that's roughly 400–1,100 mg per day. Always read the guaranteed analysis on the bottle to calculate the right amount, and confirm the dose with your veterinarian before starting.

Can I give my dog human fish oil supplements?

Human fish oil can technically contain the same EPA and DHA, but dosing, concentration, and added ingredients like xylitol or flavourings may not be safe for dogs. Pet-specific formulas from brands carried at Ashario Pets are designed for canine dosing. Consult your veterinarian before using any human product.

Where can I buy fish oil for dogs in Toronto or North York?

Ashario Pets, located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2 in North York, stocks omega-3 supplements and fish-based foods from brands like MOJO Pet Supplements, Wellytails, Open Farm, and ZIWI. We're open 7 AM to 11 PM daily, 365 days a year, with GTA delivery via Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes.

Are there any side effects of fish oil for dogs?

Possible side effects include fishy breath, loose stools, or oily coat if the dose is too high, and omega-3s can mildly affect blood clotting. Introduce fish oil gradually and pause before surgery. Speak with your veterinarian before adding fish oil for dogs with health conditions or on medication.