Used topically, coconut oil is an effective moisturizer and lip balm. But pet owners are asking: Is coconut oil beneficial to dogs?
The answer is a qualified “yes.”
Some holistic and naturopathic veterinarians believe that coconut oil has qualities that can aid in many types of canine conditions.
Will coconut oil help a sick dog?
While coconut oil certainly isn’t a food replacement option, it is something you can give your dog when he isn’t feeling well or if he has a history of getting an upset stomach.
Coconut oil actually promotes digestive health and can help with regularity
.
Do vets recommend coconut oil for dogs?
Many veterinarian recommend starting slow with the coconut oil
. A good starting dose is 1⁄4 teaspoon daily for small dogs up 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon daily for big dogs. However, if you have an obese or overweight dog, it’s suggested that coconut oil be provided no more than once a day because of its high fat content.
Is it OK to put coconut oil in dogs food?
It’s safe to feed your dog coconut oil
. But some potential reactions or digestive problems can occur. 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.
Will coconut oil hurt dogs?
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.
Does coconut oil help itchy dogs?
Topical Benefits –
It’s been known to help skin conditions like hot spots, bites, stings, or itchy, dry skin
. Shampoos made with organic oils such as coconut oil can improve damaged skin and reduce allergens. Some pet owners have even made a DIY paw balm with coconut oil as one of the ingredients.
Will coconut oil settle a dog’s stomach?
Adding coconut oil to your dog’s bowl can work wonders, too – by aiding digestion, boosting the metabolism to help maintain a healthy weight and providing an instant energy boost.
Some vets also recommend coconut oil for long-term digestive complaints such as colitis
– check with your vet first.
Will coconut oil help my dogs paws?
Dogs can suffer from sore paws just from walking, and running on different surfaces.
Coconut oil can help protect their paws from getting sore and irritated
. It not only moisturizes the skin on the paws, but it can act as a protective balm, and create a barrier between your dog’s paws, and any irritants.
How do I apply coconut oil to my dog?
Simply rub a bit of coconut oil between your hands and put it on your dog’s fur, like you are giving your pet a gentle massage. Use your fingertips to rub the oil on the dog’s skin as well. It is best to apply coconut oil once or twice a week.
Can I put coconut oil on my dog for fleas?
The short answer is No.
Coconut oil does not kill fleas
, but it serves as an excellent flea and tick repellant. One of the saturated fats that are found in coconut oil is called lauric acid, which is a critical ingredient in preventing fleas from feasting on the blood of your beloved pooch.
Are eggs good for dogs?
Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs
, Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your canine companion. They are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids that help support your dog inside and out. Remember that eggs are only as good as the chicken they come from.
Is fish oil or coconut oil better for dogs?
As a bonus,
coconut oil improves any dog’s skin and coat, improves digestion and reduces allergic reactions
. MCFAs do not have a negative effect on blood cholesterol and help protect against heart disease. Fish oils primarily have an anti-inflammatory effect and may help against heart disease and cancer.
Is apple cider vinegar good for dogs?
Apple cider vinegar is made from just apples and water, making it
completely safe for dogs
. It is slightly acidic, with a pH of 3.1 to 5, which gives it properties that can soothe a dog’s overly alkalized digestive tract. Add a teaspoon of ACV to your dog’s water bowl and see if he’ll drink it!
How do you mix coconut oil in dog food?
Start with Small Doses. Solid or liquid coconut oil can be added to food at any meal or given between meals. The optimum dose for dogs is about
1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight daily, or 1 tablespoon per 30 pounds
. These are general guidelines, as some dogs need less and others more.
Is coconut oil a natural antibiotic for dogs?
Coconut oil is considered to have natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties
,8 so if your dog has cracked pads or other minor cuts or bruises, it can be safely used as a natural topical antibiotic to help heal and soothe those wounds.
How do I get my dog to stop itching?
Oatmeal is an age-old remedy for our dry, itchy skin
that happens to be safe for use on our canine friends too! In fact, most doggy hypoallergenic shampoos include oatmeal as an active ingredient to soothe and fight irritation. Start by grinding plain oatmeal into a powder to sprinkle in your dog’s warm bath.
How long does it take for coconut oil to work on dogs?
Coconut Oil On Dog’s Skin
A coconut oil skin treatment about once a week can make a big difference in the health of your dog’s skin and nails. For good results, apply to the skin and let the oil absorb for
about five minutes
. After the five minutes, you can apply and a very light rinse.
What are the side effects of coconut oil?
Side effects can include
diarrhea, cramps, and gastrointestinal discomfort
. Coconut oil may also increase LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which can be dangerous for people with high cholesterol.
Can coconut oil cause bloat in dogs?
Coconut is non-toxic to dogs, but it does contain medium chain triglycerides, which
may cause some gastrointestinal upset and bloating
.
How do you clear a dog’s bowel obstruction?
Dog intestinal blockage surgery is a major procedure, requiring your dog to be anesthetized
. After the surgery, your dog will stay at the hospital and recover for several days. For the intestinal surgery, your vet will make an incision into your dog’s abdomen near the blockage site and carefully extract the object.
What happens if a dog licks coconut oil?
Topical use may be easily administered, but remember that your dog may lick it off the skin and ingest it anyway. Oral use should be done carefully, only giving your dog the amount recommended by your vet. Too much coconut oil can lead to
vomiting, greasy diarrhea, weight gain, and other illnesses
.
Why does my dog lick coconut oil?
Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial
. Winter is just around the corner and with it comes dry, cracked paws. Rub coconut oil on your dog’s paws thoroughly (because they will lick the yummy taste) before your dog turns in for the night and you’ll be amazed by their improved condition.
