What is DHA in Pet Food and Why Does My Puppy Need It?

DHA is have a long chain omega-3 fatty acid essential for the nutrition of pets, especially for puppies because of their development. DHA is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) with 22 carbon atoms and 6 double bonds. DHA is a very fluid and active fat in biological systems. It is a major component of the cell membranes of the brain and the retina. These membranes are highly permeable and conduct cell signaling.

DHA can be incorporated into pet foods by natural or supplemental means. Fish oils (cold-water fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sard ines) are commonly used in commercial puppy foods because they are highly concentrated in omega-3 fatty acids, and contain DHA. An algae-based oil, also high in DHA, is becoming an increasingly viable and sustainable alternative.

DHA is important for the brain and eyes of your puppy and for your adult dog to function properly. DHA is a major component of the neural tissues and the photoreceptor cells in the eyes. It is critical to ensure that your puppy has adequate DHA intake in the early life, while the young animal is going through the rapid development of the neurological system and senses.

Importance of DHA for Growing Puppies

During the early developmental phase of puppies their nervous system and senses are rapidly growing. DHA supports a number of key developmental processes in puppies during this time.

DHA supports the cognitive development of young puppies. Research findings have indicated that young pups fed on DHA-rich diets possess better learning capacity, greater memory and ability to solve problems. DHA is incorporated into the neuronal membranes which in turn increases the synaptic plasticity and thereby aids in better communication between brain cells.

DHA also increases the visual acuity of your puppy. DHA is a major component of the rod and cone cells in the retina of the eyes. These cells are responsible for highest sharpness and for the processing of all visual information. Puppies who have been supplied with the required amount of DHA during their growth have the best eyesight.

DHA supports the growth and development of the nervous system of puppies. DHA is incorporated into the fatty acid chains of certain molecules that are used to myelinate nerve fibers, i.e. to form a myelin sheath around them. The myelin sheath increases the speed with which messages are conducted along the length of the nerve fiber. This is particularly important for refining motor skills and for developing certain reflexes.

How DHA is Included in Puppy Diets

DHA in puppy diets can come from two sources: natural and supplemental. The natural fish oil is in bioavailable form and can be of great benefit to the body. DHA in natural form from ingredients can vary greatly, even within the same species of fish. This variation can occur for a number of reasons, including the quality of the fish and where it was harvested.

Puppy foods on the market today can also be supplemented with DHA. The purified fish oil and microalgae oils are two of the more common sources. This form of DHA is a good way to make sure that your puppy is getting enough DHA in his diet.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and other regulatory bodies set minimum levels of DHA for the growth stage puppy diets. A minimum of 0.1% DHA (on a dry matter basis) is needed to support brain and vision development for growing puppies.

When choosing a puppy food look for a puppy food that has been specifically formulated for growth (as for weaning or for growing puppies) or for the all life stages (Adult & Puppy or for all Life Stages) and have DHA as an ingredient or supplement to their foods, such as the fish oils.

Benefits and Considerations of DHA Supplementation

DHA also provides long-term health benefits to the dog beyond the growth stage. Studies have proven that dogs fed with DHA in their early development have better neurological development and a more efficient immune system and less inflammation. DHA has also been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties and as a result DHA can provide joint and overall health to the dog

Lack of DHA in a puppy’s early life can cause a variety of problems. The biggest problems with a lack of DHA are impaired learning and memory, vision problems, and slow development of the nervous system. These problems can have long term effects on the behavior and health of your pet.

For puppies also there are constraints concerning DHA supplements. Generally DHA is well-tolerated. However, very high amounts of DHA can lead to an unbalanced composition of the essential fatty acids and also to other side effects. As a rule, only proven amounts of the essential nutrients must be administered.

Keep track of your puppy’s development and always consult with your Veterinarian regarding your puppy’s growth and needs. The Veterinarian can inform you of the proper amount of DHA needed to supplement your pet. He or she can also assist in developing a special diet for puppies on special diets or even those on homemade dog food recipes.

FAQ’s

At what age do puppies need DHA the most?

Puppies at the neonatal and early postnatal stages of life (the time from birth to 6 months of age) require the highest levels of DHA. The brain and eyes of the puppy are growing rapidly during these stages of life and DHA is required for optimum growth.

Does DHA help puppies learn faster?

Research indicates that DHA can promote better cognitive function. As a result, young dogs will learn new commands quickly, and are able to easily adapt to their training. DHA is only one of the elements that influence a young dog’s learning of new behaviors, however. Other elements include a puppy’s environment, as well as their genetic makeup.