How to Add Healthy Fats to Your Dog’s Diet Naturally

I used to think I had to buy expensive “premium” dog food to give Toby what he needed. But you know what changed everything? A single drizzle of fish oil over his food. That one small, nourishing step started Toby’s journey from itchy, sluggish, and uninterested—to healthy, shiny-coated, and full of joy.

Adding healthy fats doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, it can be one of the simplest ways to show your dog love—with every bite.

Why Add Fats to Homemade or Store-Bought Meals?

Even if you’re feeding a “complete and balanced” kibble, that doesn’t always mean optimal. Sometimes, the fats are low-quality or overly processed. And with homemade meals, you might be missing key fatty acids unless you add them intentionally.

Natural fats:

• Help your dog absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K
• Soothe dry skin and itchy coats
• Give picky eaters more flavor (and joy!)
• Support joints and brain function, especially in seniors

If your dog’s food smells stale, their skin is flaky, or they’re not finishing meals—it might be time for a fatty upgrade.

Best Natural Sources of Healthy Fat for Dogs

Let’s be real: not all fats are created equal. Here are some safe, vet-loved sources:

Fish Oil (Omega-3 powerhouse)

• Supports joints, skin, and heart
• Use wild-caught salmon oil (not cod liver oil, which can have too much Vitamin A)
• Start with 1 tsp per 20 lbs of body weight

Flaxseed Oil

• Great plant-based option for skin and coat
• Use cold-pressed only
• Best added fresh daily (it spoils quickly)

Chicken Fat or Skin

• High in Omega-6, adds irresistible flavor
• Use only cooked, unseasoned pieces (no garlic, onion, or spices)
• A spoonful mixed into rice or meat does wonders

Coconut Oil

• May help digestion and reduce inflammation
• Start with ¼ tsp per 10 lbs of dog weight
• Watch for diarrhea if overused

How I Added Fats to Toby’s Diet

After learning the hard way what happens when dogs don’t get enough quality fat, I slowly started:

• Mixing fish oil into his morning meals
• Saving plain chicken drippings from dinner
• Swapping out dry treats for little egg bites or sardine pieces

I kept it simple. And I watched him transform. His tail wagged faster. His eyes sparkled. His skin calmed down. And I finally felt like I was feeding him with love, not just routine.

If you’re just beginning, you might want to read:
Healthy Fats for Dogs: What Every Caring Dog Parent Should Know
Crude Fat in Dog Food: Is It Good or Bad?

These two guides helped me understand not just what fat is—but what it means for our dogs.

Final Thought

You don’t need to overhaul your dog’s diet overnight. Just a spoon, a drizzle, a single mindful addition can change everything. Because food is love—and fat is part of that love.

One bowl at a time.