There can be no denying that dogs go wild for the fresh fish flavor of wild Alaska Pollock. The tippy tap sound of delightedly dancing feet at the smell alone is proof of this. Fortunately, in the right formula, wild Alaska Pollock is also wildly good for dogs, courtesy of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, and high-quality protein. Like all new additions to your dog’s diet, however, there are some considerations when adding this fish to your dog’s dinner dish.
There is a series of simple steps to safely add Alaska Pollock to your dog’s dinner rotation. Before we dive into those, though, let’s address the most frequently asked question when it comes to this seafood ingredient. Can dogs safely eat wild Alaska Pollock?
Yes! Wild Alaska Pollock is absolutely safe for dogs (and humans). Indeed, it is rated as a “best choice” food option by the FDA as it is naturally low in mercury. More than this, it is good for you, being:
- Low in unsaturated fats.
- A source of nutrients that help maintain your dog’s healthy coat and skin – think EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids and high quality protein.
- Ideally suited for picky pooches who might find salmon too rich/strong, delivering all the same EPA and DHA benefits as salmon, but with a milder taste.
With this assurance in place, let’s look at how best to introduce wild Alaska Pollock to your dog’s dinner.
7 Tips to Add Alaska Pollock to Your Dog’s Diet
1. Quality matters
Look for high quality Wild Alaska Pollock dog food products that use only 100% wild and sustainably caught Alaska Pollock. Alaska Naturals® Wild Alaska Pollock Oil Formula food topper for dogs, and Wild Alaska Pollock Jerky Dog Treats* are both made using fresh wild pollock, sustainably caught in the pristine waters of Alaska.
2. Limited ingredients
Choose products crafted with limited, simple ingredients that are suitable for dogs. This means saying no to unnecessary preservatives, additives, or seasoning. Alaska Naturals® Wild Alaska Pollock Oil Formula food topper for dogs, for example, is made using just two ingredients, and contains no artificial colors or flavors.
3. Consult Your Veterinarian
If your dog has a history of stomach sensitivity, consult your veterinarian before introducing Alaska Pollock oil or jerky to their diet. They can help provide a schedule for feeding with the right amounts.
4. Start gradually
When introducing any new food to your dog, including Alaska Pollock, start gradually. Follow instructions on the package to slowly introduce your dog, and their digestive system, to this delightful diet addition.
5. Portion control
Too much of anything, even a good thing, can upset your dog’s stomach. Watch portion size and adjust it based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level, matching it to the veterinarian’s recommendations.
6. Variety is Key
While Alaska Pollock can be a fantastic fishy-flavored addition, you cannot rely solely on one protein source for their daily nutritional needs. Dogs benefit from a diverse diet that includes other proteins like chicken, beef, or lamb. (Side note: A really great way of including Alaska Pollock in their diet is with the addition of an Alaskan Pollock oil food topper.)
7. Balanced diet
Alaska Pollock should be part of a balanced diet; remember to combine it with other complete dog foods to meet your dog’s dietary requirements. And pet treats/food toppers should not exceed 10% of your dog’s calorie intake.
Bonus Tip!
When it comes to adding Alaska pollock to your dog’s diet, Alaska Naturals® Wild Alaska Pollock Oil Food Topper and Wild Alaska Pollock Jerky Treats come out tops! They are delicious, support skin and coat health, and come highly recommended – by pets and pet parents alike.
Guaranteed Analysis:
Alaska Naturals® Wild Alaska Pollock Oil Formula Food Topper for Dogs
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) (min) 6.5%
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EHA) (min) 7.5%
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min)* 20.0%
Alaska Naturals® Wild Alaska Pollock Jerky Dog Treats
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) (min) 0.5%
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EHA) (min) 0.25%
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (min)* 0.75%
* Not recognized as an essential nutrient by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.
Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
