Ancient Egyptians used safflowers as a textile dye. Today, it is cultivated because the omega-6 fatty acids in safflower oil benefit dogs as well as people. Learn how this ancient plant can help support your dog's skin and coat
What Is Safflower Oil for Dogs?
Safflower oil for dogs is derived from the seeds of the safflower, an annual herbaceous thistle-like plant in the Asteraceae family. This large plant family includes asters, daisies, and other common garden flowers, including the sunflower.
For centuries, safflower has been prized as a clothing dye and a low-cost substitute for saffron. Today, thanks to its numerous health benefits for people as well as dogs, safflower oil is used as an ingredient in supplements. Rich in Vitamin E, safflower oil is a key component in maintaining a dog's healthy skin and coat.
Do Dogs Need Safflower Oil?
While safflower oil is safe for dogs, adding the store-bought oil to your dog's food is not recommended, as it may do more harm than good.
As active ingredient in natural supplements, safflower oil can help dogs in a number of ways by supporting:
- Healthy skin to relieve dry, itchy skin
- Improved blood circulation for heart health
What Are the Benefits of Safflower Oil for Dogs?
Safflower oil offers several health benefits for dogs:
- Rich in omega-6 fatty acids, for immune function and skin and coat health
- Vitamin E to help nourish and moisturize a dog's skin while alleviating dryness, itchiness, and irritation
- Antioxidant properties can help support skin repair in dogs
While the omega-6 fatty acids in safflower oil can be beneficial for dogs, it's important that it be consumed in the right balance with omega-3 fatty acids. For dogs, the ideal balance of omega-6 to omega-3 is about four to one.
That's why EverRoot dog supplements with safflower oil are formulated to include wild-caught Alaskan salmon and cod liver oil in the proper proportions. Those fish oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids to provide a healthful balance with the omega-6 fatty acids in safflower oil.
Should you give safflower oil for your dog's skin? With the right safflower supplement, dogs with itchy, flaky skin and a dull coat may show enhanced skin hydration, anti-inflammatory response, protection against external irritants and allergens, and softer and shinier coat texture. It may also help reduce shedding.
Signs Your Dog May Benefit from Safflower Oil
There are a few signs that a safflower oil supplement for dogs might benefit your furry friend, including:
- Unhealthy, flaky skin
- Dull coat
- Hair loss or bald spots
Flaky, itchy skin can impede the skin's ability to repair itself, resulting in hair loss and bald spots. A dull coat can indicate your dog could benefit from the safflower and fish oils in EverRoot Skin & Coat Supplements.
What Is a Good Source of Safflower Oil for Dogs?
Be sure your safflower oil is sourced with an NASC certification; most importantly, it is consumed in the proper proportion to omega-3 fatty acids. Giving too much omega-6 fatty acids may create inflammation, so adding store-bought safflower oil to your dog's food is not recommended.
Give your dog supplements developed by expert pet nutritionists, like the ones at Purina, to ensure your dog is getting safflower oil in the right ratio to oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
How Much Safflower Oil Should You Give Your Dog?
To ensure you are giving the correct dosage of safflower oil for your dog, choose EverRoot dog supplements that contain safflower oil. They are properly balanced with the right ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for the full nutritional potential of both.
The number of supplement servings depends on the size and weight of your dog. Keep in mind, EverRoot supplements are not treats. Don't give more than the amount recommended on the package for your dog's weight.
Side Effects of Safflower Oil for Dogs
Don't give your dog store-bought safflower oil. Too much safflower oil can result in gastrointestinal upsets, allergic reactions, and an inflammatory response.
To avoid those side effects, stick with EverRoot dog supplements, which are formulated by the expert nutritionists at Purina for the perfect balance of omega fatty acids and healthy ingredients.
Before starting any supplement, talk to your vet about possible benefits, interactions, or side effects. Because safflower oil can improve blood circulation, your vet will need to know if you are giving supplements that contain safflower oil before surgery and certain procedures.
Choosing a Safflower Oil Supplement for Dogs
To choose the ideal safflower oil supplement for your dog, consider how your dog may benefit. Does he have dry skin and a dull coat?
EverRoot dog supplements offer several products in different formulations that contain safflower oil.
For skin and coat health:
At EverRoot, every ingredient is carefully chosen for a purpose to provide what dogs need and nothing that they don't. Learn more about the ingredients in EverRoot dog supplements on our Ingredients page.