There is a lot of talk about how several common cooking oils we use on a daily basis are bad for our pups so you might be wondering whether coconut oil is good for dogs. Many oils are high in bad fats but coconut oil actually contains the fats that dogs need. Yes, dogs can eat and have coconut oil – it is safe and healthy for most dogs who do not have an allergic reaction. In fact, there are many health benefits for dogs.
You can even apply coconut oil topically to add moisture, reduce flaking, treat itchy skin, and generally improve your dog’s skin and coat. To use this topically, you should apply lightly on your hands and gently rub onto your dog’s coat and skin. From all the uses to how much to put on your dog, read on to learn all the reasons you should be giving coconut oil to your dog.
Contents
Health Benefits of Coconut Oil For Dogs
Coconut oil provides many benefits for both humans and dogs. For starters, it is great for the skin, and can clear up many skin conditions, including eczema, allergies to insect bites, contact dermatitis, and even itching caused by dry skin. Here are all the health benefits of coconut oil for dogs.
Shiny Coat
Coconut oil can make your dog’s coat sleek and shiny, and help eliminate pungent odors.
Infections
Coconut oil can help treat and prevent yeast and fungal infections, such as candida.
Wound Healing
Coconut oil can help disinfect cuts and promote faster healing of wounds.
Digestion
Coconut oil is known to help improve digestion, and help the body properly absorb nutrients from food sources.
Immune System
It contains many properties that help prevent infections and disease, including antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties.
Diabetes Prevention
Coconut oil can help regulate insulin levels, and control and even prevent diabetes.
Thyroid Function
This oil promotes healthy thyroid function, and can even increase energy and help overweight dogs lose weight.
Bone Health
The nutrients in coconut oil can help build strong, healthy bones, as well as ease inflammation and discomfort associated with arthritis.
Brain Function
Coconut oil is beneficial for nerve health and brain function, and can also aid in preventing dementia in older dogs.
Eye and Ear Health
Coconut oil can be used to treat infections in the ears and eyes.
Oral Health
Coconut oil can improve your dogs’ oral health and also be used to help keep their teeth nice and clean.
One of the great things about coconut oil is that it is good for everyone, including dogs. You can also give it to your other pets, including cats, birds, guinea pigs, rabbits, hamsters, and even larger animals like horses and cows.
How Much Coconut Oil Should I Give My Dog?
Although coconut oil is safe for most dogs, you should be aware that some dogs are allergic to it, which can lead to some negative consequences.
In addition, coconut oil is high in fat and calories so you shouldn’t give it to dogs that suffer from pancreatitis. Too much coconut oil in a dog’s diet may also lead to to diarrhea so like most things you give your dog, you should only give it to them in moderation.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Coconut Oil
Before giving coconut oil to your dog, it is best to check with your veterinarian to make sure you are not giving them too much. In most cases, it is perfectly safe for dogs, and there is very little risk that they are going to overdose on coconut oil.
Of course, if they happen to eat an entire jar, be prepared to have a few messes around the house because they are likely going to end up with a bad case of diarrhea.