improve damaged skin and reduce allergens. contain oils that may cause stomach upset, loose stools or diarrhea.. Research also says coconut oil can also increase both the amount and the … Using Coconut Oil For Your Dog Meals and Medication. Essential info about dog health, training, sports and more. Yes. Coconut Oil For Dogs: Understanding the Benefits and Risks. Answer a few simple questions and find the right dog for you, Compare up to 5 different breeds side by side, Browse the AKC Marketplace to find the right puppy for you, Browse our extensive library of dog names for inspiration, Find out the best and worst foods for your dog and which to avoid. Dogs can have coconut oil in two ways. Coconut oil is extracted from mature coconuts and takes the form of an edible oil that is used in food and beauty products. Can dogs have coconut oil? Smith warns against giving coconut oil to dogs prone to pancreatitis, as it can be a risk due to its high fat content. Many veterinarian recommend starting slow with the coconut oil. Vegetable oils, for instance, can contain soybean and corn products, which some dogs are allergic to. Let’s talk about how coconut oil can be used for ear infections in dogs and cats. It can be an uncomfortable experience, and dogs can’t help but to scratch at it. Other Applications of Coconut Oil for Dogs. Coconut has a high amount of protein and carbohydrates, these nutrients are very essential to keep your dog active. Yes, coconut oil is safe and dogs can eat the oil but in moderation. Can dogs eat coconut – Conclusion: It’s a piece of good news for the pet owners that dogs can eat Coconut meat, it can also eat coconut oil, coconut milk, coconut water, coconut flakes, coconut flour, and coconut yogurt. Coconut oil may be the next great thing, but it's wise to take into account the healthy skepticism that surrounds it. Like Coconuts, coconut oil is very high in saturated fats, so it should only be fed in small amounts. Coconut Oil for Dogs: Is it Really Good for Them? If your dog has a tendency to gain weight, has pancreatitis, or he metabolizes fat inefficiently, you're better off using coconut oil topically or in very small doses. Coconut oil has properties that may lead to weight gain and should only be served in small amounts. Turmeric works as an anti-inflammatory, while vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. You should consult with your veterinarian regarding dosage. AKC actively advocates for responsible dog ownership and is dedicated to advancing dog sports. The short answer is Yes. Dog wellness websites promise miracles from eating or drinking raw coconut oil. If your dog is more picky, you can try adding coconut meat, coconut milk or coconut water to his meals. To find the best coconut oil, understanding the labels can make all the difference. Coconut oil is good for dogs and can help aid your pets' digestion, improve their coats, help prevent infection and more. Coconut oil is a great enrichment in a diet plan for dogs that suffer from arthritis. https://www.akc.org/subscription/thank-you. And 14 oz of coconut milk contains about 5 tbsp of coconut oil – that’s about a tsp per ounce of coconut milk. According to Dr. Kathy Boehme at the Drake Center for Veterinary Care in California, while coconut oil has beneficial topical uses, it's not the cure-all some believe it is. Right, now moving on to coconut oil as a dietary supplement. Can Dogs Eat Coconut Oil? It promotes excellent digestion and prevents infections. Medium Chain Triglycerides – Some vets believe that the MCTs in coconut oil aid in digestion and can help heal digestive disorders, as well as improve brain energy and mental function in older dogs. Benefits metabolic function, weight loss, arthritis and bone health. Dose: Small dogs (under 30 lbs) can have 1/2 teaspoon of oil or ground flaxseeds daily, 1 teaspoons for medium dogs, 2 tsp for large dogs and 1 tablespoons for very large dogs. However, if you have an obese or overweight dog, it’s suggested that coconut oil be provided no more than once a day because of its high fat content. Coconut oil is soothing to irritated skin and may be helpful in preventing the recurrence of chronic ear infections in dogs and cats. Sure, dogs can eat coconut oil. A good starting dose is ¼ teaspoon daily for small dogs up 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon daily for big dogs. Is coconut oil good for dogs if they eat it? Coconut oil has become very popular in recent years, most notably as a replacement of vegetable oils used for frying, due to its healthier characteristics. Some are buttery and smooth, while others are nutty. It is also good for the coat, making it look nice and bright. Pet MD gives this versatile item the green light for dogs due to a number of benefits. Giving coconut oil or similar supplements to dogs is not a guaranteed cure-all or magic fix. while many may be aware of the fact that dogs can consume coconut oil through their diet, coconuts are also an excellent option for your dog. Coconut oil is not only safe for dogs and humans, but birds, hamsters, cats, and more! Large amounts of coconut oil given to a dog can cause diarrhea or greasy stools while his body adjusts to the change in diet. Divide the dosage in two, morning and night, to avoid diarrhea. In fact, there are many health benefits for dogs. We will look at exactly what it is made up of, how to use coconut oil for dogs & why, ideally, you should not feed it to your dog. Coconut oil has many benefits for its credit. Adding a hint of coconut oil to your dog… And not all veterinarians are convinced that coconut oil is beneficial for dogs at all. Since coconut oil can be given orally, you don’t have to worry if dogs lick themselves after it’s been applied to their coats. Coconut oil may be the latest, hottest, all-natural trend for humans, but pet parents are also exploring it as a beneficial supplement for their four-legged companions. As for the safety aspect, coconut oil can be perfectly dog-friendly; your dog can eat it, as long as you don’t go overboard- after all, oil is fattening, no matter how healthy it is or what type of beneficial substances it contains. So how exactly can coconut oil help our furry friends? The high fat content can lead to obesity and heart problems. Other adverse effects are possible, but further research is needed. Reduces coughing and helps eliminate hairballs. Coconut oil can add moisture to your dog’s skin and prevent flaking. In fact, coconut oil is a thermogenic oil, which boosts the metabolism, helping you lose weight. Was this safe? It is better to use it on your dog… Can Dogs Eat Coconut? It has a very low toxicity and takes over two years to go rancid, so it’s a safe dietary supplement for your pet. However, given that so many pet owners are wary of the overuse of pharmaceutical antibiotics and anti-fungals, you and your vet may decide it's worth trying this natural and holistic approach. To use coconut oil topically, apply it to the skin about once a week, and let it be absorbed for a few minutes. There can be side effects, such as greasy stools or diarrhea, which usually happens if the dose is too large. Should we … Virgin coconut oil means that it is unrefined, and it can be used for both dogs and humans. Lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid, can help prevent bacterial and viral infections. Coconut oil has become a popular supplement for humans. You and your veterinarian can make the decision whether coconut oil is a beneficial supplement to your dog's life. Coconut oil is a saturated fat, which is bad for dogs and humans. But, and this is a big “but,” there is skepticism among scientists and veterinarians about all of these claims. Myths of Coconut Oil for Dogs. Smith recommends pet parents use organic, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil. Although coconut oil has many benefits for dogs, it is also important to highlight some of the contraindications of this food product. https://www.akc.org/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php. Be careful that you don’t give too much vitamin D to your dog, however. “Coconut oil can increase energy levels, improve skin and coat, improve digestion, and reduce allergic reactions,” says Smith. If he still feels excessively greasy or oily, you can follow up with a light shampoo and rinse. While coconut oil is generally safe for dogs, some canines may have an allergic reaction to the supplement. Start with small amounts, such as ¼ teaspoon per day for small dogs or puppies and 1 teaspoon for large dogs, or even just a dab if your dog’s constitution is sensitive. And far from being a fad or an overnight craze, it may prove true. Coconut Oil Additionally, giving a dog too much coconut oil in the diet could result in diarrhea. How much you should give your dog depends on his size. Topical Benefits – It's been known to help skin conditions like hot spots, bites, stings, or itchy, dry skin. Yes, dogs can eat and have coconut oil – it is safe and healthy for most dogs who do not have an allergic reaction. But is this oil all that it’s cracked up to be, and are there risks that pet parents should be aware of? Yes, dogs can eat coconut oil, but that doesn’t mean they should. If you're feeding it to your dog, be aware that different oils have different smells and tastes. Why Your Cat Is Itchy and What You Can Do, Dog Nutrition: Guide to Dog Food Nutrients. Founded in 1884, the AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed, health, and training information for dogs. Many pet experts and vets suggest coconut oil as a tonic for pets, which work like a charm in the healthy growth of dogs. Summary: Evidence isn’t strong enough to show that coconut oil can help dogs lose weight. Be careful it doesn’t contain sugar or preservatives. Coconut oil can be given to dogs orally or applied topically onto a dog's fur and skin. So while it’s not likely to make your dog sick, he’s better off without it. It is high in saturated fat and medium-chain triglycerides, which are thought to be behind the touted health benefits for both humans and dogs. Can dogs eat coconut oil? In addition, Dr. Pema Melu, DVM, of Holistic Veterinary Healing in Germantown, MD, explains that medium-chain fatty acids, like coconut oil, help with physical and digestive ailments because they are “directly absorbed in the GI tract and go directly to the liver where they are metabolized into utilizable energy.”. “Coconut oil can also be used as a base for dog treats,” explains Smith. Smith recommends pet parents use organic, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil. “Fatty acids are helpful in cognitive function, which has been medically proven,” she says. Newer research shows that coconut oil is inflammatory and can cause leaky gut.In fact, the ASPCA advises owners not to give their dogs coconut oil because it can irritate the gut lining. Of course, with any supplements, a dog’s intake should be monitored and it’s best to consult your veterinarian when it comes to any health issues with your pet. Dogs love the smell and flavor of coconut oil, and will come frolicking for it. Can dogs eat coconut oil, and does it offer any benefits for their health? Alternatively, use a shampoo made with organic coconut oil. Used topically, coconut oil is an effective moisturizer and lip balm. All rights reserved. When applied to a dog’s or cat’s skin, coconut oil has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and moisturizing effects. Additionally, you can use it as an oral supplement to treat digestive and immune system issues. Choose unrefined coconut oil, also called virgin coconut oil. Lauric Acid – We've already mentioned the anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties of coconut oil. It can add excess fat and calories to their diets without much benefit. Either their owners can feed coconut oil to their dogs or they can apply it to their coat, hands or feet. In this “Can my dog eat…” article we tell you what you need to know about coconut oil for dogs. If you plan to give coconut oil to your dog orally, you must start with small amounts and build up the dosage gradually. The components of MCTs include lauric acid, which is antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral; capric acid and caprylic acid, which are known for their anti-fungal effects; and other acids that are polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids. No, but it can be given to your canine in other means. But please note, it is mportant to follow the proper guidelines. The lauric acid is also supposed to fight off viruses. To use it topically, simply rub a very small amount onto your hands and then gently pat the coat, run your fingers through the fur, and massage a little down onto the skin. Better yet, look for cold-pressed oil, which uses a method to process the oil quickly after the coconuts are harvested to preserve nutrients. Coconut oil gives benefits in both ways applying topically or giving them orally. Can Dogs Eat Coconut Oil? The answer is a qualified “yes.” Some holistic and naturopathic veterinarians believe that coconut oil has qualities that can aid in many types of canine conditions. In fact, some research shows that dogs may even gain weight on a coconut oil heavy diet. iy_2021; im_02; id_07; ih_13; imh_07; i_epoch:1612732053563, py_2021; pm_01; pd_25; ph_07; pmh_52; p_epoch:1611589944212, link-block-publisher; link-block-publisher_link-block-publisher; bodystr, pn_tstr:Mon Jan 25 07:52:24 PST 2021; pn_epoch:1611589944212. Coconut Oil for Dog’s Skin Dryness / Eczema. Before you make the decision to use it for whatever ails your dog, talk to your vet and take into account that there have been no credible studies proving that coconut oil aids in thyroid dysfunction, weight loss, gum and teeth diseases, or cancer prevention. Suffer from arthritis you don ’ t mind the taste of coconut oil can also be used as dietary..., virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil is soothing to irritated skin and prevent.! Object serving coconut oil as a base for dog ’ s coat answered..., the AKC is the recognized and trusted expert in breed,,. 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