Functional oils are an everyday addition to the diet that provides fatty acids supporting the skin, coat, immunity and joints. Herbs act in a more targeted way and are a good choice for dogs that should not have extra fat, e.g. with pancreatic disease or excess weight. It is best to treat oil as the foundation and add herbs during periods of greater need, after consulting your vet if your dog has a chronic illness.
As conscientious owners, we look for ways to support our dog’s health naturally. At Syta Micha we have both functional oils and DOGTOR herbal supplements. Which will be better for your dog: oil, herbs, or perhaps a combination of the two?
In this guide we explain when an oil works well, when herbs are the better or safer choice and how to combine them sensibly.
Oil for dogs - an everyday addition to the diet
A good oil for dogs is cold-pressed, pure and matched to the dog’s needs. Our oils are an addition to a daily, balanced diet. They work from within, providing essential fatty acids, which are the building blocks of the body’s cells.
A functional oil is worth considering in two typical situations (after consulting your vet, if there are grounds to).
Dull coat, dandruff, excessive shedding
Owners ask: ‘My dog is shedding, which oil should I give?’ or ‘My dog has dry skin’. This is where a skin and coat oil with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids works well. It helps moisturise the skin from within, supports its protective barrier and can improve the shine of the coat.
Immunity and joint prevention
Owners ask: ‘I am looking for an oil for my dog’s immunity’ or ‘I want to support my active dog’s joints naturally’. This is where an immunity and joint oil works well, rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), known for helping the body calm inflammation. Given regularly, it supports the immune system and helps keep the joints in good condition.
When to be careful with oil and consult your vet
Oils are 100% fat. Valuable as they are, not every dog should have them. Their high calorie content can encourage weight gain, and in dogs with a sensitive pancreas they can trigger a relapse. Always discuss adding oil with a vet or animal nutritionist if your dog:
- has pancreatic disease, e.g. has had pancreatitis,
- is overweight, obese or has trouble maintaining a healthy weight,
- has a chronic illness.
Herbal supplements - targeted action
When a problem calls for more targeted action, it is worth reaching for DOGTOR herbal supplements. These are concentrated herbal blends that support a specific organ or system. They are also a safe choice for dogs that cannot have extra fat.
Joint pain and stiffness in a senior or a dog with a diagnosis
Owners ask: ‘Natural joint support - oil or herbal supplement?’. Here a duo works well. The base (if there are no contraindications) can be the immunity and joint oil, complemented by the DOGTOR herbal supplement for joints, which contains, among other things, devil’s claw and MSM, supporting joint comfort when there is inflammation.
A sensitive digestive system
Owners say: ‘My dog has a delicate stomach, I need something safe’. In this situation the first choice will be the DOGTOR supplement for gut protection. Oil can be too heavy with acute inflammation, while a blend of herbs and probiotics supports the gut flora and helps soothe irritation.
How to combine oils and herbs wisely
Instead of asking ‘which is better?’, ask: ‘how do I combine them to support my dog well?’.
- The foundation: give a functional oil every day, if there are no contraindications. Add a measured dose to the meal, and always choose the amount according to the directions on the label.
- Targeted action: add a DOGTOR herbal supplement during periods of greater need, e.g. in the allergy season, during a flare-up of joint problems or during recovery.
- The whole diet: supplementation is only part of the picture. The foundation is good food and healthy extras, e.g. training treats, and for sensitive dogs single-protein treats.
Syta Micha Skin & Coat oil for dogs 250ml · 49,90 złSyta Micha Joints oil for dogs 250ml · 49,90 zł
Syta Micha Immunity oil 250ml · 49,90 zł
Syta Micha Digestion oil for dogs 250ml · 49,90 złWhat our animal nutritionist recommends
Treat functional oils as an everyday addition to the diet that supports immunity and the body’s condition, always after making sure your dog’s health allows it. Keep DOGTOR herbal supplements to hand for specific needs.
Used thoughtfully, together they form a natural support programme that helps your dog stay in good shape every day. A supplement does not, however, replace a visit to the vet when your dog has worrying symptoms.
Products mentioned
You collect HAU DOLCE points for your purchasesFrequently asked questions
Can every dog have oil added to its food?
No. Oils are 100% fat, so caution is needed in dogs with pancreatic disease and in overweight or obese dogs. With chronic illnesses, it is always worth discussing oil with a vet or animal nutritionist.
How should I give my dog oil and how much?
A measured dose is added to the meal. Always choose the amount according to the directions on the product label.
When are herbs a better choice than oil?
When a problem needs targeted action or the dog cannot take extra fat. With a sensitive stomach, oil can be too heavy, while a blend of herbs and probiotics supports the gut flora.
Can oil and herbs be combined?
Yes. Oil can be the everyday foundation (if there are no contraindications), and a herbal supplement is worth adding from time to time, e.g. in the allergy season, during a flare-up of joint problems or during recovery.
