Olives! You either love them or you hate them — there is no in between, and it’s the same for dogs. Most dogs won’t go anywhere near an olive, especially if it has been seasoned and pickled. But, there are some dogs that will go absolutely nuts over olives. Oddly enough, some of the most finicky cats really love them. But, can dogs eat olives safely? And if so, can dogs eat both green and black olives?
Furthermore, dog owners often wonder if dogs can eat olive oil and whether olive oil is good for dogs. It really depends on how the olives and olive oils are prepared. They can be a healthy treat for dogs, when they are not loaded with additives.
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Are Olives Bad For Dogs To Eat?
Olives by themselves are safe for dogs to eat, and they can enjoy both black and green olives. The problem is, most of the time, olives are stored in brine, which is salty, and unhealthy for dogs due to the salt content. Just one olive can contain as much as 24mg of sodium. Considering that the maximum daily amount of sodium per day for dogs is about 10 mg, an olive soaked in brine is not a healthy option.
If your dog does like olives, they can have them, as long as they are not soaked in a brine solution. It is important to check the ingredients in a jar of olives before giving them to your dog. Some of the fancy varieties are stuffed with ingredients like garlic and onions, which are not good for dogs. Also, make sure that there are no pits in any olives you give your dog. They can pose a choking hazard, and they are hard enough to crack your dog’s teeth.
Health Benefits of Olives For Dogs
When you are giving your dog olives that aren’t soaked in brine or stuffed with unhealthy ingredients, your dog will be getting a lot of important nutrients. Olives can make a healthy snack, when given in moderation. Some of the nutrients in olives include:
- Protein
- Calcium
- Vitamins A, E, and K
These nutrients help to prevent a number of health conditions, and can help to improve your dog’s health in many ways, including:
- Better vision
- Healthy coat
- Good bone health
- Fighting and preventing various cancers
- Fighting inflammation
- Lowering cholesterol levels
You can give your dog one or two unsalted olives every so often as a treat. This is not meant to be an everyday food for dogs, but it isn’t going to hurt your dog if they has them once in a while.
Can Dogs Eat Olive Oil?
Olive oil is good for dogs and you can add it to your dog’s diet by putting it on dog food. However, olive oil should only be given once in a while, perhaps once weekly. Benefits of olive oil for dogs may include:
- Weight loss
- Cancer prevention
- Slowing the aging process
- Healthy brain function
- Good blood circulation
- Healthy skin and coat
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Olives in Moderation
If you want to give your dog olives for the occasional treat, and they are not soaked in a salty brine, it is perfectly safe to do so. You can also give your dog olive oil in moderation. If you are still unsure about giving your dog olives, ask your vet if it is alright.