Omega Fatty Acids are really incredible!  Many types of fatty acids can be produced by your dog's body from foods, but some have to be eaten to be acquired, like the Omega-6 Fatty Acid.  It's found in fresh foods, naturally.  Amazingly, your dog's body can make whatever other fatty acid is needed from this single fatty acid! So it seems the key to a healthy dog is to make sure your pup is getting enough fatty acids, specifically Omega 6, in his or her diet. 

Okay, neat fact, but why are these fatty acids so important to my dog's health? 

If your dog is deficient, he or she may be more likely encounter a variety of different health issues.  Like what? Hair loss, wounds that don't heal, skin lesions and incessant scratching are a few issues that can arise.  What else?  Major organs (including the heart, kidney, and/or liver) can suffer from degeneration or other problems.  Arthritic symptoms, general weakness, slow growth and sterility are other potential health issues.

Don't most dogs get enough fatty acids in their diet without the need to supplement? 

Actually, most pets are slightly or mildly deficient in fatty acids, so the above symptoms aren't encountered.  Instead, dogs may suffer from a dull or dry coat, hair loss, greasy skin, itching/scratching, or tendencies toward ringworms. Dogs may also be more prone to inflammation or allergies, too. 

Fatty acid deficiencies are fairly common because although fatty acids are incredibly valuable in helping maintain overall health, they are also very fragile and tend to break down more quickly than other nutrients. Also, dog food that is highly processed also tends to have less fatty acids intact because heat and preservatives can cause these fragile acids to break down.

What are the sources for fatty acids?

Omega 6 fatty acids are found in a variety of sources, from sunflower oil  to corn to poultry fat to dried beans to, more ideally, certain fish, such as salmon, sardines and tuna. 

Omega 3 fatty acids are found in cold-water fish, including salmon, halibut, sardines, and dried beans (soybeans, for example).

Is there any preferential method of getting enough fatty acids into your dog's diet? 

Feeding a natural diet, rich in fresh meats and vegetables, is always a great idea.  Also, supplementing with a natural salmon oil is a terrific option.  Cold-pressed salmon oil retains more of the essential fatty acids that break down when heated excessively, making it an ideal option.