Coconut oil has some benefits for dogs, just like it does for humans. However, in both cases, the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed. From relieving tummy problems and soothing irritated skin to preventing infections and reducing allergic reactions, coconut oil has also been shown to have some benefits for dogs. Before offering coconut oil to your pet, be sure to consult with your veterinarian and weigh the pros and cons of coconut oil. Here are five ways to use coconut oil on your dog.
How to Use Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is extracted from ripe coconuts and is an edible oil that is commonly found in food and beauty products. This is because it’s rich in saturated fats and medium-chain triglycerides, a form of saturated fatty acids that have several health benefits, from weight management to enhanced cognitive function. Using coconut oil in small amounts is beneficial for some dogs. It can be added to your dog’s food, used to wrap pills, applied to the skin, and even used to keep teeth clean.
Add Coconut Oil to Meals and Snacks
After consulting with your pet’s veterinarian, you can consider adding coconut oil to your pet’s meals as a way to restore the balance of thyroid activity, which means it can help some overweight dogs lose weight and help sedentary dogs feel more energetic. Studies have also shown that coconut oil can improve nutrient absorption, help fight digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis, and reduce overall inflammation in the body. However, it should be used in moderation as it is higher in saturated fat.
Coconut oil may make your pet’s whole food tastier, but because it contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), coconut oil is absorbed directly by the gastrointestinal tract and goes directly to the liver, where it is metabolized. Some studies in humans and rodents have shown that diets containing medium-chain fatty acids can help reduce the size of fat pools and may help prevent weight gain while also providing extra energy.
How to Feed
For smaller dogs, don’t start with more than 1/4 teaspoon – larger breeds can handle up to a tablespoon. Make sure your pet doesn’t have weight problems, or is a breed that is prone to pancreatitis, as coconut oil’s high saturated fat content can lead to weight gain if used incorrectly. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), coconuts and coconut products may not cause any serious harm to dogs if consumed in small amounts. However, the pulp of fresh coconut and the oil contained in milk may cause stomach upset, loose stools, or diarrhea. Therefore, coconut oil should be used with caution.
Choose organic, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil, and if you notice any signs of stomach upset, such as diarrhea or an allergic reaction, stop serving coconut oil to your dog immediately. If your dog does have an allergic reaction to coconut oil, alternatives like salmon oil and flaxseed oil can provide some of the same benefits as coconut oil, as these oils contain omega-3 fatty acids.
Tip: Do you like to make your own dog food? Always consult your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet, including food. If your dog’s veterinarian has given you the “green light,” you may want to consider adding coconut oil in moderation. When mixed with health-promoting, anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, delicious foods prepared for Rover may contribute to its health.
Apply Coconut Oil to Your Dog’s Skin
Just like humans, applying coconut oil to a dog’s skin can help lubricate the skin (which is especially important during harsh winter months) and prevent flaking or other signs of irritation. If your dog’s skin is already dry or has dandruff, coconut oil will increase lipid levels on the skin’s surface.
If you live in a wooded area or enjoy hiking with your dog, coconut oil can also serve as a natural way to repel fleas and ticks and ensure that your pet is safe from disease. When coconut oil is applied to your dog’s fur, it can protect against some harmful pests.
Simply rub a small amount of coconut oil on your hands, massage it into the skin, and stroke your pet’s fur with your fingers, coconut oil will also help your dog’s coat appear smoother and shinier. Be aware that your pet may lick itself more often.
Use Coconut Oil as a Coating for the Pills
Anyone who has ever had to give their dog medicine knows that it’s not always the easiest task. If your dog finds out that the lump of peanut butter you offer is actually masking the pill (and therefore refuses to take it), then coconut oil can also be used as a handy trick to get your pet to take the pill. Used as a coating for pills, it can make the medicine more enticing and tasty and can help make it easier for your pet to swallow the pills.
Use Coconut Oil to Soothe Small Wounds
Coconut oil is believed to have natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, so it can be used as a natural topical antimicrobial if your dog’s paw pads are cracked, slightly cut, or have areas of skin irritation to help heal and soothe these wounds. However, do not use coconut oil on open wounds that are bleeding or oozing pus, and see a veterinarian as soon as possible to have more serious wounds examined and treated.
Dogs with seasonal allergies may get some relief when applying coconut oil to areas that have become inflamed by chewing and scratching. Be aware, however, that the oil may actually encourage some dogs to lick and chew more.
Brush Your Dog’s Teeth with Coconut Oil
The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil make it a natural and delicious way to clean your pet’s teeth. Human studies have shown that the same benefits can be obtained from using oily toothpastes as common oil pulling. Toothpaste made with coconut oil can help eliminate harmful bacteria from the mouth and prevent plaque, which can lead to the development of dental disease. You can add a small amount of oil to your dog’s toothpaste, or try applying it directly to your dog’s teeth, just like you would with commercially available dog toothpaste.