Can I give my dog coconut oil?
In one word, yes.
We can’t write enough about how good coconut oil is for your furry companion, both inside and outside.And a healthy happy dog is a happy dog owner. Read on to know the many benefits of coconut oil for your dog, as well as tips on the right ways of administering the healthy food to your pooch.
So, what makes coconut oil so healthy for pets?
This superfood mainly consists of fats. It contains 90% saturated fats that classify it as a ‘superfood’. Now when we say fat, you might raise an eyebrow and wonder why would we recommend feeding your dog fat when everything in your brain is screaming “No!”.
As you might already know, there are good fats and not-so-good fats. Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCT), which is the good kind of fat.Components of MCT include lauric acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, myristic acid and palmitic. These acids are known to have antiviral, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.A dog’s body uses up MCTs efficiently and energises your pet.All in all, coconut oil is what makes your dog health, happy and energetic.
Benefits of coconut oil for dogs
There are numerous
benefits to feeding your dog coconut oil. It works from within and even on the outside of your pet. Here’s what you gain when you add coconut oil to your dog’s diet:
Better skin
- Skin conditions such as contact dermatitis, eczema, flea allergies and itchy skin clear up
- Decreases allergic reactions and improves skin health
- Coats becomes sleek and glossy
- Goodbye doggy odour.
- Treats and prevents recurrence of yeast and fungal infections
- Cleans cuts and wounds, and aids faster healing of hot spots, dry skin, bites and stings
- Repels fleas, ticks and mites
- Moisturises and heals dry cracked pads and elbow calluses
Improved digestive system
- Better digestion and nutrient absorption
- Soothes and helps recover from digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis
- No more doggy breath
- Kills parasites
Robust immune system
- Works as an antiviral, anti-fungal and antibacterial agent to prevent infections and disease
- Can help reduce risk of cancer
Stable endocrine/ metabolic system
Stronger musculoskeletal system
- Builds stronger bones
- Can ease inflammation and helps with arthritis discomfort
Improved brain, eyes, ears and mouth
- Better nerve and brain function and averts dementia
- Can cure ear and eye infections (melt and then use as eye drops and also in the ears)
- Improves oral health and can also be used to clean teeth
- How much coconut oil should I give my dog?
- As with introducing anything new, start slow. Ask your vet for advice.
Add a small amount to your dog’s food. Give the body time to adjust to the addition to the diet.Too much coconut oil too soon can result in diarrhea or greasy poop.
Begin by offering ¼ teaspoon to smaller dogs and 1 spoon for a larger, full-grown one. You could even just add a small blob if your dog has a sensitive tummy.
Keep at this for a few days and increase the amount gradually. At no point in time should you be giving your dog more than 1 teaspoon per 5 kgs of body weight daily.Remember, too much of even the good stuff can be bad.
Can I apply coconut oil directly on my dog's skin?
Just like we would use coconut oil for our skin or hair, you can apply this wonderful food to your dog’s fur directly. The skin and hair will become super soft, and also shine with health. You can give your dog coconut oil treatment once a week for healthy skin and nails.
After you’ve applied it, let it get absorbed in the skin for 5 minutes (if your pooch doesn’t lick it off!). Wash with a mild shampoo and rinse. If it still feels oily, you can do a second round of the shampoo.
Coconut oil is a winner!
There is no doubt about it. It is as close to an all-natural health supplement that your dog can get, both inside and out. And the best part, most dogs love the taste, so if your dog is a fussy eater, this is the best way to get them to chomp down on their chow.
Use coconut oil regularly, and you will be the proud owner of a
happy and healthy dog!
