Is Coconut Oil Good or Bad for Dogs? 7 Benefits & Side Effects (2024)

FAQs

Is Coconut Oil Good or Bad for Dogs? 7 Benefits & Side Effects? ›

Yes, dogs can eat coconut oil, but that doesn't mean they should. It can add excess fat and calories to their diets without much benefit. So while it's not likely to make your dog sick, he's better off without it.

While in very small amounts coconut oil is not likely to cause an issue for your dog, regular use in dogs is not recommended.

Side Effects of Coconut Oil for Dogs

If you give your dog too much coconut oil, they can get diarrhea. Your veterinarian will let you know a healthy amount to give your dog. In some cases, your dog might have an allergy to coconut oil. Signs of an allergy include an upset stomach and itching.

In fact, the ASPCA advises owners not to give their dogs coconut oil because it can irritate the gut lining, which may cause stomach upset, loose stools or diarrhea. Research also says adding coconut oil can also increase both the amount and the toxicity of LPS.

Coconut oil consists of medium-chain triglycerides (mainly lauric acid), while salmon oil consists of long-chain Omega 3s. While lauric acid has perfect antimicrobial properties, the long-chain fatty acids from salmon oil will provide your dog with the essential Omega 3s.

To use coconut oil topically, apply it to the skin about once a week, and let it be absorbed for a few minutes. After five minutes or so, rinse your dog off. If they still feel greasy or oily to the touch, you can follow up with a light shampoo and rinse.

Aside from feeding it to your pup, coconut oil can also benefit your dog's skin and coat when applied topically. Not only can coconut oil make your dog's coat look glossy and polished, but it can also help soothe irritated, itchy skin, Pendergrass says.

He acknowledges that coconut oil can raise levels of what some consider to be “good cholesterol,” but notes that it also raises “bad cholesterol” at the very same time. “This is not a problem for pets,” he writes, "since cholesterol has nothing to do with canine heart disease.

Unfortunately, feeding coconut oil regularly will also increase the overall fat in the diet, which may not be ideal for some pets. Coconut oil can also worsen pancreatitis and hyperlipidemia (elevated levels of lipids or fats in the blood), so its oral use is very controversial.

The biggest concerns with your dog eating too much coconut oil are digestive upset and weight gain. Because coconut oil is so high in fat, it can be more difficult for your dog to digest. This can cause diarrhea and/or fatty, greasy stools, so use care when dosing it out.

Is peanut butter good for dogs? ›

Whether speaking to new or seasoned pet parents, veterinarians are often asked 'can dogs eat peanut butter? ' The good news is that regular peanut butter is safe to give your dog as a treat. Just make sure to avoid peanut butter with Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in lower or sugar-free products.

Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts or have applied to their skin or fur. When it comes to selecting a brand, virgin coconut oil is best, as most of coconut oil's benefits have been observed with this type.

Another benefit of fish oil is that it helps dogs across the span of their lifetimes. DHA, a component in omega-3 fatty acid, aids in the proper brain and eye development of puppies. DHA may also improve cognitive function in older dogs dealing with canine cognitive dysfunction.

What are the healthiest oils for dogs? Fish oil: Fish oil contains EPA and DHA, omega-3 fatty acids that help arthritis, and also has some anti-cancer effects, says Nancy Scanlan, DVM, CVA, MSFP, and executive director of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Foundation. Fish oil can also improve your dog's memory.

Unlike olive oil, coconut oil doesn't contain a high amount of omega fatty acids. While it does have some, it isn't enough for your dog to access as many of the benefits as other oils can. Coconut oil also isn't as easily digested and processed, which may render the few fatty acids that get through less helpful.

Eggs are high in protein and other important nutrients, which makes them a great supplement to your dog's diet. With a balanced diet, additional cooked eggs during the week can provide nutritional value. They can even be good for your dog's digestive system and can help calm an upset stomach.

There is one basic theory that explains the health benefits in dogs. Coconut oil contains a fatty-acid called lauric acid which is converted to monolaurin in the body. Monolaurin is antibacterial and antiviral. It may have antifungal and antiinflammatory properties, too.

For the best results, apply coconut oil to your dog's skin and coat weekly. Coconut oil is also great to use as a spot treatment for things such as bug bites, hot spots or patches of itchy or dry skin. How to apply: Apply a small amount to the skin and let it absorb for five minutes.

Coconut oil is rapidly absorbed, improving digestive health and helping your dog's body with absorbing important vitamins and minerals. This oil can also prevent any allergies from impacting your dog, such as seasonal allergies, inhalant allergies, and even food allergies.

Unlike olive oil, coconut oil doesn't contain a high amount of omega fatty acids. While it does have some, it isn't enough for your dog to access as many of the benefits as other oils can. Coconut oil also isn't as easily digested and processed, which may render the few fatty acids that get through less helpful.