Omega-3 fatty acids are "good fats" that are essential for optimal health. Omega-3 must be obtained from the diet as it is not produced by the body. Insufficient omega-3 intake can have a signifcant impact on overall health, and today most dogs have an essential fatty acid (EFA) imbalance as their diets contain too much omega-6 and too little omega-3. An omega-3 to omega-6 imbalance (currently 1:15 instead of the optimal 1:1) results in an increased risk of degenerative disease. One of the most damaging effects of EFA imbalance is the development of chronic inflammation. Clinical research has established a link between chronic inflammation and a broad range of degenerative conditions such as heart disease, cancer, immune dysfunction, arthritis and behavioural disorders.