Grab that jar of coconut oil you have in your spice cabinet. If you aren’t already using it daily for all its human benefits, you may want to jump on it! Even if you are already riding the love boat of coconut oil, have you considered the benefits that it may have for your dog? That’s right, coconut oil is not only safe, but it has a laundry list of benefits for your furbaby.

It is known that coconut oil boosts the immune system, acts as an anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal agent, helps the body maintain an appropriate weight, and positively impacts the brain. Most natural-minded animal activists, veterinarians, and researchers have been rallying for the use of coconut oil in the daily life of dogs for years.

The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs

90% of coconut oil is comprised of saturated (‘healthy’) fat. This aids in balancing the metabolism and provides increased energy supplies. According to the American Kennel Club, coconut oil provides the following benefits for dogs: 

• Lauric Acid – Lauric acid fights off viruses.
• Medium Chain Triglycerides – Some vets believe that the MCTs in coconut oil aid in digestion and can help heal digestive disorders, as well as improve brain energy and mental function in older dogs.
• Reduces coughing and helps eliminate hairballs.
• Topical Benefits – It's been known to help skin conditions like hot spots, bites, stings, or itchy, dry skin. Shampoos made with organic oils such as coconut oil can improve damaged skin and reduce allergens. Some pet owners have even made a DIY paw balm with coconut oil as one of the ingredients.
• Makes dogs' coats glossy and sleek.
• Eliminates doggy odor.
• Benefits metabolic function, weight loss, arthritis, and bone health.

While coconut oil seems like magic, and it is pretty close, it is not the end-all and be-all. Your dog needs more daily fats than it can provide, and not all ailments are ‘cured’ with the use of it. But including it in your dog’s daily life can be a game-changer.

How to Give Coconut Oil to a Dog

• Purchase an organic, cold-pressed, or unrefined (also known as ‘virgin’) coconut oil.
• Skip the greasy, runny poop and start your dog on small doses of coconut oil and build up to recommended amounts. Veterinarians recommend starting with as little as 1/4 teaspoon twice a day with food and building up to a tablespoon, depending on your dog’s size.
• Coconut oil can be used topically, too. Let it be absorbed and gently wipe your dog’s fur to prevent any oil from being rubbed on your furniture. If needed, give him a quick bath to eliminate the grease.

A few extra benefits of using coconut oil include:

Flea and Tick Repellent - applying it to your dog’s coat will create an environment in which mites, fleas, and ticks want nothing to do with.

Toothpaste - The anti-fungal properties of coconut oil can eliminate bad bacteria from your dog’s gums.