Dog Aggression and Fish Oil

There appears to be a link between low levels of omega-3 fatty acids and aggression in canine behavior.  Italian scientists specifically point towards low levels of omega-3 fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid (better known as DHA on fish oil supplement facts), in the bloodstream of aggressive dogs.  The Italian study states the following:

"Compared to normal dogs, aggressive dogs showed lower docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 n-3) concentrations and a higher omega6/omega-3 ratio."

For dog owners with aggressive, or even hyperreactive dogs, the study comes as good news, as more solutions to medical-based canine aggression and hyperreactivity may present themselves in the future.  The Italian study concludes:

"Altogether, our results suggest that low omega-3 fatty acids may adversely impact behaviour in dogs, resulting in greater propensity to aggression."

The Abstract of the Italian study by Re, Zanoletti, Emanuele can be found here:

Aggressive dogs are characterized by low omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid status

Furthermore, articles on the correlation between low omega-3 levels and aggressive/hyperreactive canines can be found at Purue University's "Omega 3 Learning and Education Consortium" and Vital Choice's Newsletter "Vital Choices" (Issue 177).

Your current own conclusion may be drawn from this news.  Keep in mind that many people feed their dogs salmon oil as a supplement to enhance skin and coat.  Perhaps more omega-3s can help calm Fido down as well?  Consider a fish oil supplement that is highest in omega-3, DHA.