Krill Oil
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Krill Oil Krill oil is extracted from tiny crustaceans (Antarctic krill) and provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) in phospholipid form, plus astaxanthin antioxidant.
What It Is
Krill oil is extracted from tiny crustaceans (Antarctic krill) and provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) in phospholipid form, plus astaxanthin antioxidant.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. fish oil: Krill oil provides omega-3s in phospholipid form (better absorption) plus astaxanthin antioxidant, while fish oil is triglyceride-form omega-3s without astaxanthin.
- vs. salmon oil: Both are marine omega-3 sources. Krill oil has phospholipid-bound omega-3s and astaxanthin, while salmon oil is triglyceride omega-3s from fish.
- vs. euphausia superba: Krill oil is the extracted oil from Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba), while whole krill includes the protein, shell, and other components.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include krill oil in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- Rich source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids
- Phospholipid-bound omega-3s (better absorption than fish oil triglycerides)
- Contains astaxanthin (powerful antioxidant)
- Supports joint, heart, and brain health
- Less fishy taste than traditional fish oil
Quality Considerations
When evaluating krill oil in dog products, it's important to understand protein density, amino acid profile, digestibility, and sourcing quality. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Krill oil is a premium omega-3 source with superior bioavailability compared to standard fish oil. The phospholipid structure allows better absorption, and astaxanthin adds antioxidant protection. Sustainability is a concern—Antarctic krill are a keystone species in the food chain. Quality krill oil should be sustainably harvested and tested for purity. More expensive than fish oil but may be more effective at lower doses.
Potential Concerns
While krill oil can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of allergies, protein digestibility, and quality variations between named and generic sources. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Krill oil is an excellent omega-3 source with advantages over standard fish oil—better absorption, built-in antioxidants, and less oxidation risk. The phospholipid form means dogs absorb more with less. However, sustainability is a real concern, and krill are critical to Antarctic ecosystems. We like seeing krill oil in premium formulas as long as it's from responsible sources (MSC-certified). For most dogs, sustainably sourced fish oil works great too, but krill oil is a top-tier option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is krill oil safe for dogs?
Yes, krill oil is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.
What does krill oil do in dog products?
Krill oil is extracted from tiny crustaceans (Antarctic krill) and provides omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) in phospholipid form, plus astaxanthin antioxidant. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide rich source of epa and dha omega-3 fatty acids and provide phospholipid-bound omega-3s (better absorption than fish oil triglycerides).
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