So, you’re hearing all this hype. Coconut oil for dogs? Is this real? What’s all the fuss about?! Well, I’m here to tell you!
I started adding coconut oil to Wynston’s meals long before it was popular. He loves it, so I started taking advantage and adding it to his dinner and homemade treats. Now that I have Khloee, I also add coconut oil to her dinner, and she’s definitely a fan!
Coconut oil has many health benefits for dogs:
Digestion:
- Helps eliminate hairballs and coughing
- Improves overall digestion
- Helps absorb nutrients
- Does your dog have colitis? How about IBS (inflammatory bowel syndrome)? Coconut oil will help!
Overall immune health:
- Helps prevent infection and disease because of the fighting agents that coconut oil contains
- Reduces weight
- Helps with energy
- Fights diabetes
- Fights bad breath
- Helps dogs that suffer from arthritis or ligament problems
Skin health:
- Helps with itchy skin and clears certain skin conditions
- Adds shine to your dog’s coat
- Disinfects cuts
- Helps treat wounds
Coconut oil is less toxic than fish oils, which is also another popular remedy for the conditions shown above. It’s also more sustainable. Coconut oil contains MCT’s (Medium Chain Triglycerides) which have been shown to “improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs. Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs. I recommend 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily for basic MCT support” says Dr. Karen Becker. Dr. Becker is an Integrative Veterinarian and Naturopathic Doctor.
Wynston and Khloee get a small amount of coconut oil every single day. I love natural ways to boost their immune systems and aid in their health. It’s better to be proactive in our pets’ health, rather than wait for them to be sick. I buy my coconut oil at Sprouts, but you can buy it at almost any grocery store! Aside from mixing it into your dog’s meal, you can also use it if you’re baking homemade treats for your dog. It adds nutritional value and a delicious taste!
Do you use coconut oil in your dog’s meals or as a healing aid?
Kristen–well minded says
Great post, Amanda. We use coconut oil a lot in our house, too, and I do put it on N.A.S.H.A.’s food.
Amanda says
Thanks Kristen! Coconut is so awesome – for animals and humans!
Angela Smitj says
I enjoy reading all about natural remedies for our fur babies. I can see you truly care for your babies. Thanks for all the information you post.
Amanda says
I’m glad you enjoy them Angela! Thanks for reading!
Erica V. says
Thanks for this post, we have a lot of clients who use coconut oil with their dogs.
Erica V.
http://www.valleyofthesundogtraining.com