Coconut oil for dogs? Really? Well, that's the question pet parents often ask us.
We thought of putting together a few valuable insights here, so you could better understand how coconut oil can benefit your doggo and the right way to feed it to them.
Coconut oil when applied on the dogs’ skin or fed as a part of their meals in moderation, is found to provide awesome health benefits, resulting in overall health and well-being.
Plus, using virgin coconut oil is the safest and most preferred option for dogs, considering the natural goodness it can add to their diet.
Keep reading till the end as we explore more about the nutrients, benefits, and feeding guide of coconut oil for your pup.
What is coconut oil? What makes it a superfood?
Coconut oil is made from fresh coconut meat or dried coconut meat called copra. This natural product has gained significant recognition in the pet world as a superfood, but why?
Coconut oil is composed of mainly saturated fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). These MCTs are the reason why it is hailed as a superfood for dogs.
Let’s study about MCTs and other vital components of Coconut Oil:
A) Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs): They are a special category of fatty acids that make up a significant portion of coconut oil.
Their rapid digestion and conversion into energy, along with their potential cognitive and antimicrobial benefits, are what make coconut oil such a valuable addition to your dog's diet.
B) Lauric Acid: It’s a type of MCT, which is particularly rich in organic coconut oil. Its antimicrobial properties help to combat harmful viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
C) Vitamins and Antioxidants: Coconut oil contains small amounts of vitamins E and K, as well as antioxidants which play a crucial role in protecting cells and tissues and maintaining healthy skin and bone.
Well, that’s not it, the superfood status also comes because of the following health benefits.
5 Health Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs
1. Quick Energy Boost:
Our Doggos always surprise us with the vitality they have. Be it walks, swimming, or running around the house, and whatnot, they keep going.
MCTs in coconut oil serve as a quick source of energy for dogs. When consumed, it gets metabolized rapidly into energy, thus keeping them active and alert.
2. Promotes healthy skin & coat:
MCTs contribute to a glossy and lustrous coat for dogs. These fats nourish the skin and hair follicles, promoting a shiny and healthy appearance.
3. Relieves allergic reactions:
Doggo shampoos like our Veda Shed Control Shampoo are made from coconut oil. It's an excellent way to treat your dog's coat and skin issues.
Lauric acid, an MCT present in coconut oil possesses antimicrobial properties. It helps address dogs’ skin-related issues such as minor infections, itching, dryness, and cuts and wounds.
4. Aids joint health:
While not a replacement for prescribed treatments, some studies suggest that coconut oil's anti-inflammatory properties may have a positive impact on joint health.
Thus it helps alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like arthritis, making it a complementary option for joint support in dogs.
5. Helps improve brain function:
The metabolism of MCTs leads to the production of ketones, which are molecules that can serve as an alternative energy source for the brain. Ketones have cognitive benefits and support brain function in dogs.
This is very beneficial for older dogs to retain their brains’ efficient functioning like their younger self.
How to choose the best coconut oil for Dogs?
As mentioned earlier, Virgin coconut oil is generally considered safer and of higher quality for dogs, mainly due to the healthy processing methods, higher retention of nutrients, aroma, flavor, and fewer contaminants when compared to regular coconut oil made from copra.
Check out Himalayan Natives Virgin Coconut Oil, one of the finest coconut oil brands in India. This oil is cold-pressed and extracted from fresh coconut meat. Thus ensuring the nutrients are retained and reduce contamination.
4 practical & safe ways to use coconut oil on fur babies!
1. Brush their coat:
Take out a small amount of coconut oil in your hands, and gently massage it into your dog's fur, focusing on areas that may be dry or tangled.
The oil's moisturizing properties can alleviate dry skin and reduce flakiness. Additionally, coconut oil can act as a natural detangler, making brushing more comfortable for both you and your furry friend and also keeping their coat shiny and skin healthy.
2. Use as a dietary supplement:
Adding a small amount of coconut oil to your dog's food like 1 teaspoon for small dogs or 1-2 tablespoons for larger breeds. This can provide them with the numerous health benefits of MCTs and other nutrients.
A word of caution. Do check with your Vet before introducing coconut oil into your Doggos’ diet, this will help to avoid any allergies or ensure to take the best care of existing health conditions.
3. Apply on wounds & skin irritations:
Coconut oil's natural antimicrobial properties make it a gentle and effective solution for minor wounds, cuts, and skin irritations on your dog.
Simply clean the affected area, apply a thin layer of coconut oil, and cover if necessary to prevent your dog from licking it off.
And, if you're in search of 100% Ayurvedic Dog Shampoos to address your pooch's skin irritation or allergies, be sure to explore our Veda range. It's a fantastic addition to your dog's skincare routine and will help provide relief and nourishment for their skin.
4. Use for Paw pad massage:
If your dog's paw pads are dry or cracked, a soothing paw massage with coconut oil can provide relief. Coconut oil's moisturizing properties can help soften and heal the pads. Rub a small amount of coconut oil onto each paw pad, massaging it in gently.
A quick note before we move to the FAQs on coconut oil.
Doggos can eat coconut meat, it is really nutritious and has several health benefits. Check out our blog on 7 Health Benefits of Adding Coconut to Dog’s Diet to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. How long should I leave coconut oil on my dog's fur?
Answer: You can apply coconut oil to the dog’s coat once a week, and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Groom the coat well using a pin or rake brush to remove dead fur and then rinse off.
2. Will coconut cause allergic reactions in dogs?
Answer: Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs. Allergy could be caused if it's consumed or used without proper precaution or due to any prevailing health issues.
Signs of allergic reaction include upset stomach, skin rashes, and vomiting. In case you observe these signs in your pooch, consult a vet and take the right treatments.
3. Is coconut safe for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Answer: MCT fats, the major component in coconut oil are easily digestible, moreover, they contain anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and are used as a remedy to promote smoother digestion in dogs.
Hoomans let’s go coconuts!
Coconut is one amazing superfood mother nature has to offer. Not just for humans but also for our Doggos.
Despite the awesome benefits of coconut oil for our fur babies, do ensure to feed or apply it topically in moderation and with consultation from a veterinarian. Thus ensuring your pets’ well-being and happiness.
We at Dogsee believe your pet deserves the best of nature always, do check out our range of healthy chew cheese bars, ayurvedic shampoos, flavourful fruits & veggie treats, and more!
And if you are someone who loves to read insightful pet parenting tips, be sure to follow us on our social platforms followed by more than 50k pet parents worldwide. Here are the links⬇️🐶
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogseechew/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dogseechew/
Thank you for reading this blog, hope you liked it. Wishing all pet lovers and their pets a great day! Woof!
