4 Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs

Pet parents are always looking for natural and healthy ways to take care of their dogs, whether it is through treatment for a malady or providing the nutrition that their dog needs. They often turn to supplements, and one that has become very popular is coconut oil.

Today we’re looking at 4 benefits of coconut oil for dogs and how you can use it for a healthier dog.

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What Coconut Oil Does

Coconut oil is made up of fatty acids that are easily digestible for people and pets. It offers heart-healthy fats that are great for the fighting obesity and coronary problems. Coconut oil can be applied to the skin or served as a digestible supplement, offering benefits in both forms.

Some people rub coconut oil into their skin and others ingest it regularly for its health benefits. It can be used similarly for your dog, and you may see similar health benefits.

Dogs and Coconut Oil

Dogs easily tolerate coconut oil, in most cases. Coconut oil is classified as a superfood and is made up primarily of fat. It’s not the bad kind of fat that you want to keep away from your pets; it’s actually very good for them.

This kind of fat is called saturated fat, and these are saturated with good stuff that your dog needs for a heart-healthy diet.

Coconut oil can give your dog the added nutrients that she needs to stay healthy and active, providing strength for the heart and helping to prevent obesity.

Risks of Coconut Oil

Is it safe to use coconut oil with your dog, though? You may be concerned about side effects and potential health risks, but we can tell you that there is very little to worry about there. If you have questions, always reach out to your veterinarian.

Coconut oil isn’t something that your dog is likely to be allergic to, as is the case with some supplements. Coconut oil is healthy through and through and should not irritate even the most sensitive dogs.

How You Can Use Coconut Oil with Your Dog

There are a number of ways that you can use coconut oil on your dog to improve her life and health. Let’s look at just a few of them:

Better Heart Health. This is the big one, and it is the major reason why people will use this supplement on their dog. The fatty chain acids in coconut oil empower the heart and prevent blockages for a healthier, longer-lasting cardiac muscle.
Treat Cuts and Other Injuries. You can use coconut oil as a salve, and it may help the body heal faster. The natural antiviral and antibacterial characteristics of coconut oil make it a great disinfectant, and you can apply it to most types of wounds for better healing.
Nourish the Coat. Coconut oil is naturally hydrating and it helps your dog’s coat grow out to be silky and shiny. Applying it to the coat and skin as a moisturizer or feeding it as a supplement can produce similar results in the skin and fur of your dog.
Boosts Cognitive Function. Your dog may need some help staying mentally active and sharp as she gets older, and coconut oil can assist with that. It contains ketones that prevent dementia and help your dog’s brain operate in a healthy way.