5 USEFUL USES OF COCONUT OIL FOR DOGS

Coconut oil may have many benefits for dogs and humans; however, in both cases, the benefits should be carefully weighed against any risks. Coconut oil, extracted from mature coconuts, is an edible oil commonly found in food and beauty products. That's because it's high in saturated fat and medium-chain triglycerides, a type of saturated fatty acid that has many health benefits, from weight management to enhancing cognitive function. , coconut oil has also been shown to have some benefits for dogs. Here are five ways to use coconut oil for dogs. Check with your veterinarian and be sure to weigh the pros and cons of coconut oil before feeding it to your pet.

Add coconut oil to meals and snacks

After consulting with your pet's veterinarian, you may consider adding coconut oil to your pet's meal to restore the balance of its thyroid activity -- that is, it can help overweight dogs lose weight and help sedentary dogs feel more energetic. Research has also shown that coconut oil can improve nutrient absorption, help fight digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis, and reduce overall inflammation in the body.

For small dogs, start with no more than 1/4 teaspoon—larger breeds can use up to one tablespoon. Make sure your pet doesn't have weight issues or is prone to pancreatitis, as the high saturated fat content in coconut oil can lead to weight gain if not used properly. According to the ASPCA, coconut oil coconut products are unlikely to cause serious harm to dogs if consumed in small amounts. However, the pulp of fresh coconut and the oils in the milk can cause abdominal pain, loose stools, or diarrhea. Therefore, coconut oil should be used with caution.

Want to make your dog food? Always consult your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog's diet, including junk food. If the veterinarian who examines your dog gives the green light, consider adding coconut oil in moderation. When mixed with health-promoting anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, Rover's delicious treats also support his health in some ways.

Just make sure you choose organic, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil and stop giving it to your dog immediately if you notice any signs of an upset stomach, such as diarrhea or an allergic reaction. If your dog seems to be allergic to coconut oil, alternatives like salmon oil and flaxseed oil may offer the same benefits as coconut oil because of the omega-3 fatty acids in these oils.

Coconut oil may make your pet more palatable, but because it's made up of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), coconut oil is absorbed directly into the digestive tract and directly into the liver, where it's absorbed and transformed. Several studies in humans and rodents suggest that diets containing MCFAs help reduce the size of fat stores and may help prevent weight gain -- while providing extra energy.

Apply coconut oil to your dog's skin

As with humans, applying coconut oil to your dog's skin can help lubricate your furry friend's skin -- especially important during harsh winters -- and prevent flaking or other irritation, among other signs of irritation. If your dog already has dry skin or dandruff, coconut oil can increase lipid levels on the skin's surface.

Just apply a small amount to your hands and massage into the skin, running your fingers through your pet's fur - coconut oil can also help your dog's coat look shiny and silky. Be aware that your pet may lick itself more often!

If you live in a wooded area or enjoy hiking with your dog, rest assured that coconut oil can also be used as a chemical-free way to repel fleas and ticks and protect your pets from disease. Coconut oil can help ward off harmful pests.

Using Coconut Oil as a Drug Coating

Anyone who has had to give a dog medication knows that it's not always the easiest task. Coconut oil can also be used as a useful tip for getting your pet to dose if your dog finds that the peanut butter you offer actually covers the pill (and therefore refuses to take it). Used as a coating for pills, it can make pills more attractive and palatable, and make them easier for your pet to swallow.

Use coconut oil to soothe wounds

Coconut oil is considered to have natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, so if your dog has cracked skin or other minor cuts or bruises, it can be safely used as a natural antibiotic to help heal and soothe those wounds. Dogs with seasonal allergies -- and therefore tend to gnaw their paws or scratch their ears more often -- can also relieve ulcers caused by coconut oil.

Brush your dog's teeth with coconut oil

The antibacterial properties of coconut oil make it a natural and delicious way to clean your pet's teeth. Human studies have shown that oil-based toothpaste can be used to achieve the same benefits as traditional oil pulling. Toothpaste made with coconut oil can help eliminate harmful bacteria in your mouth and prevent plaque that can lead to the development of dental disease in the first place. You can add oil to your dog's toothpaste or try applying it directly to the teeth, the same way you use commercial dog toothpaste.