Many people across the globe use coconut oil due to its properties that are proven to be beneficial to one's health. This edible oil is also one of the primary components in food and beauty products. And if you've been using coconut oil as a part of your beauty regimen or an essential ingredient in your food, you are keeping a healthy lifestyle.
But, as a responsible furry parent, you also make sure that your four-legged companion is living its life the healthiest way possible. So, if you think coconut oil contributes a lot to your well-being, will it also benefit your dog? Is it really safe? Or will it just put your furry friend's health at risk?
Is it Really Safe?
There has been a debate whether the coconut oil is safe for dogs or not. However, some experts supported the claims about the benefits of coconut oil for dogs. Dr. Pema Malu, a veterinarian of Holistic Veterinary Healing in Germantown, indicated that coconut oil is a good relief for physical and digestive diseases.
Dr.Oz of the Dr. Oz Show stated that it has the ability to cure bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Thus, giving your dog the right amount of coconut oil as an addition to their diet or as a part of their hygiene routine is not really a bad idea. And yes, it can be safe for dogs.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs
If you are still uncertain about the effects of coconut oil for your dog, take a look at these benefits.
1. It can help prevent bad breath.
Dogs do not easily give in when you brush their teeth which could be pretty challenging. If it becomes difficult to include brushing to your regular routine, it may cause bad breath on your furry friend. But brushing your dog's teeth with coconut oil can do a little trick! It can help prevent bad breath. And because dogs love its taste, brushing becomes easy!
2. It soothes the digestive system.
Your dog may also encounter digestive problems which could lead to discomfort or pain, especially for those who have sensitive bellies. As the Dr. Pema Malu stated, fatty acids such as coconut oil is easily and "directly absorbed in the GI tract". It then goes directly to the liver which is "metabolized into utilizable energy" and hence, aid digestive problems on dogs.
If you are also trying to help your dog with its medication, the coconut oil can be used as a coating on tablets or pills. This assists your dog to easily swallow the medicine.
3. It can provide relief to dry and itchy skin and paws.
As you know, dogs are prone to skin allergies which can cause dryness and itchiness to their skin and paws. There are a lot of available remedies for such allergies or skin problems. But if you prefer a more natural way to do it, coconut oil would be a great option. It can be a great relief for dry and itchy skin and paws.
Coconut oil contains lauric acid. This substance has the ability to kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses. That's why it can be a reliable remedy for your dog's skin problems or allergies.
If your dog has yeast infections, such as candida, or ear infections, coconut oil would be a great aid.
4. It improves the look, texture, and smell of the dog's coat.
As much as you want to maintain your dog's soft and shiny coat, it is sometimes a bit difficult to find the most suitable product that can do so. However, certain hygiene products, such as shampoos or soaps, have used coconut oil as their primary ingredient.
Coconut oil has the ability to improve your dog's coat and make it much softer or shinier. It also contains properties that can get rid of the unpleasant smell from your dog's coat.
5. It can help minor cuts and sores.
There will be times when your dog gets minor cuts, scratches, or sores from playing around or getting into a fight with another dog. If you want to help their wounds heal faster, coconut oil is an excellent natural remedy.
6. It can slow cognitive dysfunction in dogs.
Cognitive dysfunction is a mental disease that can affect your dog's memory and motor functions. Senior dogs usually suffer from this disease where they could forget some of their daily routines or trained behaviors. If Alzheimer's are for humans, cognitive dysfunction is for dogs.
While this cannot always be preventable, this process can slow down with the help of coconut oil. According to a proven research, Fatty acids, such as coconut oil, can help cognitive dysfunction in dogs.
7. It can boost their health.
If you want to add a little twist to your furry pal's dog food, coconut oil would be a tasty and healthy ingredient to add. Virgin, organic, or cold-pressed coconut oil is recommended for dogs. But make sure that the right amount should be added or else, it can cause health problems in the long run.
The amount you give to your dog depends on its size. Typically, coconut oil is given 1 to 2 times a day. But it is best to start gradually with coconut oil when they are young. But since coconut oil has high-fat content, it is not really advisable for obese dogs.
Are there Any Risks?
Although coconut oil is proven to be beneficial for dogs, furry parents should still be aware of the possible risks. Adding too much coconut oil to your dog's diet can cause diarrhea or digestive problems. Some dogs may also have an allergic reaction to it. Pancreatitis is also another health risk due to the coconut oil's high-fat content.
Conclusion
Coconut oil can truly be beneficial for your dog's health. It can provide relief to various infections and diseases. It also has the ability to keep your dog healthy for the longest time possible. However, do remember that adding too much coconut oil to your dog's diet may cause health risks.
If you are still wondering whether coconut oil is good for your dog or quite uncertain on how to use it, it is always best to consult your vet for professional advice.
