EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)

What Is EPA and Why Does It Matter for Dogs?

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is a long-chain omega-3 fatty acid most abundant in cold-water marine fish like sardines, anchovies, and pollock. It plays a key role in managing inflammation and is frequently used to support dogs with joint stiffness, itchy skin, digestive sensitivities, or age-related decline. Because EPA is classified as an essential fatty acid, dogs can’t make it on their own—it must come from their diet or supplements.

That doesn’t mean your dog is deficient, but many modern diets—especially kibble-heavy ones—are low in EPA and high in omega-6 fats. While both types of fats are necessary, too much omega-6 without enough omega-3 can contribute to a system that stays stuck in inflammation mode. EPA helps bring that system back into balance.

EPA and the Inflammatory Response

The body uses fatty acids to create eicosanoids, molecules that help regulate inflammation, immune activity, and tissue repair. The type of fat available influences what kind of signals are sent.

EPA and Eicosanoids

Eicosanoids are signaling molecules made from fatty acids that help regulate inflammation, immune response, and tissue repair. The type of fatty acid available—such as omega-6 or omega-3—affects the kind of eicosanoids the body produces.

EPA serves as a precursor to eicosanoids that are generally associated with more controlled, less damaging forms of inflammation. In contrast, diets high in omega-6 fats tend to favor the production of eicosanoids that can escalate or prolong inflammatory activity.

Supporting immune balance through fatty acid pathways

When the body is constantly flooded with inflammatory signals, it can become harder for tissues to stay comfortable, for joints to move freely, or for the gut lining to remain supple and supportive. Over time, this can create a cycle where the body reacts more intensely than necessary to everyday stressors like allergens, physical strain, or minor immune triggers. EPA helps interrupt that cycle by contributing to a more balanced signaling environment, giving the body space to heal and adapt rather than staying stuck in overdrive.

Many dogs today experience a chronic, low-grade inflammatory state driven by:

• Omega-6–heavy modern diets
• Environmental irritants or allergens
• Psychological stress or under-stimulation
• Lack of exercise or poor metabolic health

EPA is one of the nutritional tools we can use to help bring that response back into equilibrium.

Inflammation isn’t inherently harmful—it’s part of how the body repairs itself. The problem arises when that inflammatory response doesn’t turn off.

Related Nutrients: DHA, and ALA… What’s the Difference?

EPA is part of a trio of omega-3s that also includes DHA and ALA. While related, they serve very different roles in the body, and not all are equally effective in dogs.

EPA and DHA: Direct-Acting Omega-3s

EPA helps regulate inflammation and supports joint, skin, and gut health. DHA plays a more targeted role in brain development, vision, and nerve function. Together, they offer comprehensive support across systems, especially in aging or high-needs dogs.

ALA: The Plant-Based Precursor

ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), found in flaxseed and chia, is often marketed as a plant-based source of omega-3s. While technically true, dogs convert very little ALA into EPA or DHA, which limits its usefulness when it comes to inflammation or cognitive support.

Comparing the Three:

Note:Flaxseed and chia can still contribute fiber, lignans, and antioxidant compounds—but they aren’t meaningful omega-3 sources for dogs.

Why EPA Belongs in a Dog’s Diet

For dogs managing inflammation or simply aging well, EPA provides meaningful support that plant-based omega-3s can’t match. It’s one small addition that can make a big difference across the body.