What are the benefits of rapeseed oil?
Rapeseed oil is a vegetable oil obtained by crushing rapeseed, this annual plant with yellow flowers of the Brassicaceae family.
Rapeseed oil contains:
- monounsaturated fatty acids, and in particular 61 to 63% oleic acid, belonging to the omega-9 family,
- polyunsaturated fatty acids including 19% to 20% linoleic acid from the omega-6 family and 8 to 10% alpha linolenic acid from the omega-3 family,
- about 8% palmitic and stearic acids, saturated fatty acids.
This composition makes rapeseed oil a balanced oil in omega-3 and 6. It thus provides the dog with essential fatty acids in good proportions.
These fatty acids are said to be essential because they are absolutely necessary for normal growth and the proper functioning of the body's physiological functions.
When and how to give canola oil to a dog?
It is useful to give rapeseed oil to a dog fed with a household ration in order to balance its ration in essential fatty acids and, in particular in omega-3.
The quantities of rapeseed oil to be distributed to a dog must be calculated on a case-by-case basis, according to the nutritional and energy needs of the dog.
Also read: How to calculate a household ration?Rapeseed oil must be given raw to the dog so as not to denature its precious polyunsaturated fatty acids.Rapeseed oil must also be stored well, away from light and heat (and ideally in the refrigerator), so that it does not oxidize. Oxidized oil can cause digestive discomfort and episodes of diarrhea in your pet. She can also make his food smell very unpleasant and make him reluctant to eat.
Does rapeseed oil replace fish oil?
No, rapeseed oil does not replace fish oil because it does not provide the same omega-3s as the latter.
Unlike rapeseed oil, fish oil contains eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docohexaenoic acid (DHA), fatty acids from the omega-3 family. The dog's body does not synthesize these two fatty acids very well, so it is best to provide them in its diet.
In a dog fed with a household ration, it is therefore useful to provide both rapeseed oil daily and fish oil, at least 3 times a week.