Question submitted by the audience in our recent webinar: "The Itchy Dog":
Flaxseed (and its oils) is a common ingredient in foods and supplements for dogs; however, I have heard that it can cause itchy skin. Is Flaxseed OK to use for dogs without itchy skin or will it cause itchy skin?
Answer by: Andrew Hillier, BVSc, MANZCVS, DACVD
It is very unlikely that flaxseed oil is causing itching. Flaxseed oil is a source of omega-3 fatty acids which in fact can have anti-inflammatory properties and may help in reducing itch. But if I were to use fatty acid treatment, I would definitely prefer the fish oils as my source of omega-3 fatty acids over flaxseed oil - they are far more likely to be beneficial.
