Omega-3 Dosage Calculator for Dogs (EPA + DHA)
What this Omega-3 for Dogs calculator does
This calculator estimates a daily target for EPA + DHA (the active long-chain omega-3 fatty acids typically sourced from fish oil or algae oil) and converts the target into an easy-to-use supplement amount based on your product label.
Why EPA + DHA matters
Many products advertise “fish oil” or “omega-3,” but labels can vary widely. For consistent dosing, the most useful numbers are the milligrams of EPA + DHA per capsule (or per mL for liquids). This calculator focuses on those active amounts, not the total oil weight.
Inputs and what they mean
Dog weight
Weight is converted to kilograms internally so the dosing equations can be applied consistently.
Goal
Different goals use different dosing models:
- General Supplement - a moderate range designed for routine supplementation.
- Therapeutic Range - higher targets intended for anti-inflammatory use under veterinary supervision.
- Osteoarthritis max dose - a metabolic-body-weight approach that produces a “start” value and a higher maximum value.
EPA+DHA per unit
Use the label’s active omega-3 value:
- Capsules - mg of EPA+DHA per capsule
- Liquid - mg of EPA+DHA per 1 mL
Formulas used
Weight conversion
If weight is entered in pounds: \[ \text{Weight}_{kg} = \frac{\text{Weight}_{lb}}{2.2046226218} \]
mg/kg/day dosing model
For goals expressed as mg per kg per day: \[ \text{EPA+DHA}_{mg/day} = \text{Dose}_{mg/kg/day} \times \text{Weight}_{kg} \]
Metabolic body weight model
For the osteoarthritis max-dose model, metabolic body weight is: \[ \text{MBW} = \text{Weight}_{kg}^{0.75} \] The maximum target is: \[ \text{Max}_{mg/day} = 310 \times \text{MBW} \] The starting target is: \[ \text{Start}_{mg/day} = 0.25 \times \text{Max}_{mg/day} \]
Convert target mg/day into supplement amount
\[ \text{Units/day} = \frac{\text{EPA+DHA}_{mg/day}}{\text{EPA+DHA per unit}_{mg}} \]
How to interpret results safely
Higher targets can increase the risk of gastrointestinal upset and other issues in some dogs. If your dog has a medical condition, takes medications, is scheduled for surgery, or you are targeting therapeutic doses, consult a veterinarian and monitor tolerance.
Practical label tips
- Use EPA + DHA - not “fish oil” grams.
- For liquids, confirm whether the label is “per 1 mL” or “per teaspoon.” This calculator uses “per 1 mL.”
- If the product lists EPA and DHA separately, add them to get EPA+DHA.