Is Coconut Oil Good for Dogs?
Coconut oil is a trendy ingredient in human diets, but is coconut oil good for dogs? Short answer: yes! Coconut oil is packed with Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) that offer a range of health benefits for dogs. Let’s dive into three key health benefits that make coconut oil a fantastic addition to your pup’s wellness routine.
Antifungal and Antibacterial Properties
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties. It can help combat infections and fungi in dogs, significantly benefiting pets with skin issues, fungal infections, and itchy, inflamed skin conditions like yeast dermatitis.
Supports Brain Health
Coconut oil contains MCTs, which provide cognitive benefits for dogs. The liver can readily break down MCTs into ketones, an energy source that is easy for the brain to use. Older dogs experiencing cognitive decline or canine cognitive dysfunction can particularly benefit from coconut oil. A steady supply of ketones from coconut oil can support brain function, improve mental clarity, and improve overall cognitive health. You may notice better memory and focus with regular use of coconut oil!
Lowering Cholesterol Levels
Coconut oil can also help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The MCTs in coconut oil help increase the amount of HDL (“good” cholesterol) and reduce the amount of LDL (“bad” cholesterol).
Healthy cholesterol levels contribute to a well-functioning heart and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Adding coconut oil to their diet can help support heart health and promote a healthier lipid profile for dogs predisposed to cardiovascular issues or those on a weight management program.
Is coconut oil safe for dogs’ skin?
Yes! Coconut oil can be applied directly to the skin to soothe irritated skin and create a barrier against harmful microorganisms. Topical application can help with dry and damaged skin and alleviate bites, stings, and itches. It is rich in Vitamin E, making it an excellent moisturizer. Just rub a little into the affected area. You can also put a small amount on your dog’s coat to boost shine and softness, just like people can for their hair!
Is coconut oil good for dogs’ paws?
Coconut oil is a fantastic moisturizer for dry and cracked paws. Its vitamin E content and MCTs are very hydrating, aiding in the restoration and repair of the skin barrier. With its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits, coconut oil is a powerful tool in maintaining your dog’s paw health.
Is coconut oil good for dogs’ teeth?
Coconut oil has been shown to have excellent oral health benefits. If you have heard of the “oil-pulling” trend among humans, you’ll already be aware of this. The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil, thanks to monolaurin and lauric acid, can decrease plaque buildup and help fight gum disease. If your dog will let you, you can use it with a doggy toothbrush as a toothpaste. However, if your dog doesn’t do well with teeth brushing, you can add coconut oil to their diet to see improvements.
How much coconut oil is safe for dogs to consume?
While it varies depending on your dog and their needs, a safe starting point is ¼ of a teaspoon per day per 10 pounds of body weight. From there, you can increase all the way to 1 teaspoon per day per 10 pounds of body weight. You can feed it by itself or mix it right into your dog’s meal!
Let Your Pet Experience the Benefits of Coconut Oil in Every Bowl of Steve’s Real Food
Introducing coconut oil into your dog’s diet can be a simple yet powerful way to boost their health and well-being. All of Steve’s Real Food recipes are carefully crafted with cold-pressed, organic, and non-GMO coconut oil.
