Although answering this question tends to be technical, it helps increase our knowledge of the role proper nutrition plays in the lives of our pets. Understanding fatty acid nutrition begins with defining nonessential and essential fatty acids. Nonessential fatty acids can be synthesized within the body of a dog and are not required in its diet. Essential fatty acids cannot be synthesized by a pet and must be supplied in its diet.

Dogs require one essential fatty acid (linoleic acid), which is classified as an "omega-6" fatty acid based on their molecular structure. It is found primarily in grain and animal fat and is provided at appropriate levels in high-quality pet foods to:

• help regulate the blood flow to body tissues;
• aid in clotting after an injury;
• aid in normal reproduction;
• help a pet's immune system respond to injury and infection;
• help a normal, healthy pet maintain a handsome haircoat and healthy skin.

If linoleic acid is provided at proper levels, dogs can produce all other needed fatty acids.

Another important class of fatty acids are the omega-3 fatty acids. Although structurally similar to omega-6 fatty acids, omega-3 fatty acids are not currently considered essential in companion animal nutrition.

Because of their structural similarities, omega-6 and omega-3 compete for the enzymes which convert these fatty acids into ‘metabolites,’ which serve as cellular signals important in a variety of biological processes including immune function, blood clotting and inflammation. Despite the similarities between omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, their respective metabolites differ in intensity as cellular signals. The omega-6 derived signals are generally more potent than those derived from omega-3 fatty acids.

The potential of omega-3 fatty acids contributing to the health of our pets is promising. A growing body of scientific research suggests that this class of fatty acids may benefit pets during certain life stages or when suffering from certain diseases. These studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids have the potential to help:

• manage severe inflammation associated with certain skin disorders;
• support the proper development of the nervous system and visual acuity;
• aid in the remission and decrease the side effects of lymphoma.

Understanding what omega-6 can do for pets and the potential benefits omega-3 may offer is a bit complicated; however, the bottom line is that at proper levels and in proper balance in pet food diets, these fatty acids provide health benefits to our pets.