Benefits Of Coconut Oil For Dogs
Coconut oil helps treat skin conditions like allergic reactions, eczema, dermatitis, and irritations. However, it will also improve skin health in general. As it also has antiviral, and antibacterial properties, it can help to disinfect any cuts and scratches on your dog’s skin and promote healing.
If it’s applied topically, it can ease skin irritations, and soothe cracked paws. It is also useful in treating and preventing fungal infections, and yeast infections, such as candida.
As coconut oil is full of vitamins, it can also increase the health and shine of your dog’s coat. It can be given as a supplement or added to your dog’s regular shampoo. The Lauric acid also has properties that allow it to penetrate the strands of hair more easily, and this allows the other nutrients to get into the hair as well.
It also moisturizes the skin, which can reduce dry skin and dandruff. This can also help reduce the ‘dog smell’, which can be unpleasant.
Coconut oil can give a number of endocrinological and metabolic benefits as well. It can help to keep your dog’s insulin levels balanced, which can help prevent diabetes, or control it if your dog is diabetic. It can also help to promote normal thyroid function.
Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help in building strong bones and muscles. These anti-inflammatory properties can be very beneficial in easing the discomfort caused by arthritis, joint pains, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
As already mentioned, coconut oil can reduce the dog smell by treating the skin conditions that can increase the smells. However, it can also be used to treat bad breath. Some dog parents give their pets a little coconut oil to freshen their breath and clean their teeth.
Stinging and biting insects often have no preference for where their victims come from. Some will bite or sting humans, and canines without any distinction between them. The anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and soothing properties of coconut oil can help ease the pain and discomfort.
What Are the Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs?
But, and this is a big “but,” there is skepticism among scientists and veterinarians about all of these claims. According to Dr. Kathy Boehme at the Drake Center for Veterinary Care in California, while coconut oil has beneficial topical uses, its not the cure-all some believe it is. Before you make the decision to use it for whatever ails your dog, talk to your vet and take into account that there have been no credible studies proving that coconut oil aids in thyroid dysfunction, weight loss, gum and teeth diseases, or cancer prevention.
Additionally, coconut oil doesnt provide the daily fat requirements your dog needs. The acids in MCTs dont have enough omega-6 and omega-3 acids, and what it does contain isnt processed very efficiently. As for claims that MCTs protect against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while the lauric acid in MCTs does kill germs in lab tests, there is no clear evidence that it can be used in great enough quantities to offer dogs much protection.
However, given that so many pet owners are wary of the overuse of pharmaceutical antibiotics and anti-fungals, you and your vet may decide its worth trying this natural and holistic approach.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Dog’s Skin Problems
Coconut oil can be given to dogs orally or applied topically onto a dogs fur and skin.
Coconut oil for dogs coat and fur: Including coconut oil in your dog’s diet can improve their health in general but for the best results regarding skin and coat health, coconut oil should also be used topically.
How To Fix Your Dogs Under Belly Rash With Coconut Oil
While the scent of coconut oil may be enough to trigger thoughts of warm, tropical breezes this versatile fat source may have many health benefits. There is evidence that it is beneficial for both humans and dogs. If you’ve ever enjoyed using coconut oil in the kitchen or for your skin you may have wondered if it is okay to share with your pup. We put together everything you’ll want to know before you share.