Humans are not the only species to benefit from coconut oil. Yes, your canine friends will also enjoy its health benefits. For humans, coconut oil works wonders when used on hair, skin, teeth and even in diets. People use coconut oil for dogs for several helpful health benefits and uses. Thinking of treating your dogs to its amazing benefits? Read on to learn why and how.
What Makes Coconut Oil Great for Dogs?
Coconut oil has more than 90% of saturated fats, which are mostly Medium Chain Triglycerides. Coconut oil has 64% Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCFAs). The lauric acid content in coconut oil is 48%, the caprylic acid content is 8% and the capric acid is 7%.
Most of coconut oil’s awesomeness come from the lauric acid and the and MCFAs. Researchers have proven that lauric acid has antiviral, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Caprylic acid and capric acid are also equally useful, especially when it comes to anti-fungal properties.
The MCFAs are wonderful sources of instant energy and fuel. They enhance agility and promote weight loss. This means that coconut oil can help dogs lose weight and provide energy for perpetually tired dogs. Coconut oil may even help balance the thyroid in dogs.
Dr. Bruce Fife, president of the Coconut Oil Research Center and author of Coconut Therapy for Pets, says that coconut oil increases the metabolism and promotes increased energy and vitality. He also lists the benefits of coconut oil for dogs to include improved digestion, rejuvenation of the dog’s skin and coat, and reduction of allergic reactions.
Why You Should Give Your Dog Coconut Oil
- Immune System
As mentioned above, the properties of coconut oil make it a wonderful antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial agent. This means that regular use of coconut oil for your dog will help prevent infections and diseases. Coconut oil for dogs may also help prevent cancer.
- Coconut Oil for Your Dog’s Skin and Coat
Coconut oil does wonders for the dog’s skin and coat. The benefits of coconut oil on a dog’s skin include:
- It treats skin conditions like flea allergies, eczema and itchy skin
- Improves allergic reactions and improves the dog’s skin
- Stops unpleasant odors in dogs
- Polishes the dog’s coat and makes it healthy
- It takes care of infections like yeast infections and candida
- Disinfects wounds and makes it heal faster
- When rubbed on the dog, it heals cuts and wounds, moisturizes dry skin and hair, and soothes bites and stings
- It helps protect dogs against ticks, fleas and mites
- Coconut Oil for Dog’s Digestive System
- Coconut oil can greatly improve your dog’s digestive system.
- It can promote nutrients absorption, making it possible for your dog derive maximum nutrition from food.
- Do you need a cure for your dog’s inflammatory bowel syndrome or colitis? You can use coconut oil to fix that and many other digestive issues.
- Coconut oil will put an end to bad breath in your dogs.
- It can also kill parasites in the dog’s bowels.
- Coconut Oil for Dog’s Metabolic and Endocrine Systems
Coconut oil controls diabetes in dogs by regulating insulin. It is also known to promote thyroid function. Is your dog overweight and sluggish? Coconut oil will help weight loss and boost energy.
- Eyes and Ears
When treating eye infections in dogs, you can melt coconut oil and use it as eye drops. Ear infections will also disappear if you drop it in the dog’s affected ear.
- Brain
The ketogenic benefits of coconut oil could potentially help to prevent or aid with dementia.
- Teeth
Maybe you already know about coconut oil’s ability to improve gum health and plaque in humans, but do you know it is also wonderful for a dog’s oral health? Clean your dog’s teeth with coconut oil to help get rid of cavities and bad breath.
How Safe is Coconut Oil for Dogs?
Good news! Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs. Be absolutely sure to talk to your vet first, though, as there may be exceptions for your pet.
Dr. Bruce Fife writes that coconut oil is safe for all kinds of animals. In fact, he says that even if your dog were to consume a whole lot of coconut oil, all you would need to worry about is loose stool and temporary diarrhea.
However, you wouldn’t want your pet to consume too much or too often, as it is a fat and could have unintended consequences. Many studies show the oil’s benefits, but sometimes, too much can cause side effects.
Want to know the right kind to use? Virgin coconut oil is usually considered to be the best.
How Much Coconut Oil Should You Give Your Dogs?
Consult your vet about this for your pet specifically. The amount usually cited is 1 teaspoon per 10-20 pounds of a dog’s body weight, or one tablespoon per 30-40 pounds. You would have to start smaller and build up to the goal amount.
You can let your dog lick coconut oil from the spoon or mix coconut oil in dog food.
In summary, coconut oil has many uses for humans, but your dogs can also benefit from it’s amazing properties. Check out our full article on coconut oil for pets.
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