3 Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Dogs

There are multiple and varied benefits of coconut oil for dogs. Coconut oil is good for your dog’s digestion, and for the health of their fur and skin. In addition, coconut oil can help prevent infections.

It’s important to emphasize that you should follow a professional’s instructions before giving your dog coconut oil. Like many other things, too much coconut oil can have negative effects on your dog. However, a small portion of coconut oil can be very good for your dog’s health.

The immense benefits of giving a dog coconut oil have to do with the types of fats it contains. Coconut, and in particular coconut oil, is one of the few foods that have been classified as “superfoods”. Superfoods are foods with much higher nutritional value than other foods. In fact, more than 90% of coconut oil fats are saturated fats.

Coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides or TCM. TCM is considered “good” fat. Human and canine breast milk contains medium and long chain triglycerides. Therefore, the TCM in coconut oil is especially beneficial for the health of humans and dogs. 

Medium chain triglycerides have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Plus, TCM is easily metabolized by the body. This improves your dog’s digestion and vitamin and mineral absorption.

Benefits of coconut oil for dogs

The following reasons explain the beneficial properties of coconut oil for dogs:

1. Fur and skin

Coconut oil can help heal irritations and other skin conditions your dog might have. Also, it can considerably reduce contact dermatitis and allergies caused by flies. In addition, it reduces diseases like eczema and other breakouts in a short time.

Using coconut oil for dogs can also reduce that awful “dog” smell. When applied topically, coconut oil converts straw-colored and opaque fur into bright, soft fur. Due to its antiseptic properties, coconut oil can disinfect superficial cuts.

Coconut oil softens the skin, especially areas with calluses and roughness. A dog’s paw pads and elbows are very dry areas. Using coconut oil topically moisturizes these areas, which will alleviate an elderly dog’s discomfort.

2. Digestive and metabolic system

When ingested in small amounts, coconut oil is very beneficial for a dog’s digestion. Coconut oil increases the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract. Therefore, all the foods in your dog’s diet will be more beneficial to their body.

The consumption of coconut oil significantly reduces bad breath in dogs. It also expels and kills any intestinal parasites a dog might have. When dogs suffer from colitis, consuming coconut oil can reduce the symptoms. 

Coconut oil can regulate and balance insulin in your dog’s body. That means it reduces the risk of canine diabetes. On the other hand, the oil promotes regular thyroid function, which prevents any hormonal disorders.

While your dog’s metabolism accelerates, the consumption of coconut oil will increase their energy, which in turn helps dogs lose weight.

3. Immune system

Coconut oil has antibacterial and antiviral properties. In addition, this oil also combats certain fungi and microbes, as well as parasites. Ingesting coconut oil strengthens your dog’s immune system, so consuming it prevents infections and other diseases.

Some experts suggest that consuming coconut oil may reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic illnesses. Arthritis and inflammation can also decrease by consuming it.

Means and quantities to take

A veterinarian should determine the exact amount of coconut oil you should give your dog. However, we can give you some advice. At first, you should only give your dog very small amounts of coconut oil.

Your dog needs time for their body to get used to processing the coconut oil. Therefore, if you give your dog large quantities, they might react negatively.

During the first few days, the amount of coconut oil should be close to 1/4 teaspoon for small dogs and puppies. On the other hand, for medium and large-sized dogs, the amount should be 1/2 teaspoon. If your dog is very small, like a Chihuahua or a Yorkshire Terrier, the quantity should be even less.

As your dog’s body gets used to the coconut oil, you can increase the dosage. Keep in mind that your veterinarian should always determine the exact amount your dog consumes.