Coconut Oil and Lauric Acid: The Bacteria Killer
The lauric acid in coconut oil is a natural powerhouse of anti-bacterial protection. Lauric acid can inhibit bad bacteria from forming, as well as reverse the growth of existing bacteria. Let’s delve a bit deeper into why lauric acid from coconut oil is good for cleaning dogs teeth.
Your dogs body breaks down lauric acid into a safe compound called monolaurin. Both lauric acid and monolaurin can kill harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses in dogs bodies.
These anti-microbial compounds are shown to improve immune responses, activating an anti-inflammatory immune response in the body[*].
Yeasts and molds are reported to be inactivated or killed by monolaurin and lauric acid, including some species of ringworm, and research suggests that lauric acid is more effective at killing these pathogens than any other saturated fatty acid[*].
What is Coconut Oil for Dogs?
Coconut oil is a fatty oil, and I know we tend to avoid fatty substances but there are two kinds of fats. The two types of fats that enter our body are Saturated and Unsaturated, Saturated fats are the ones that bring beneficial properties to the body and can help out our furry friends. Coconut oil, in particular, has what is known as medium chain triglycerides or MCTs which is what really makes this an amazing substance.
MCT consists of Capric Acid, Lauric Acid, Myristic Acid, Caprylic Acid, and Palmitic. Two other ingredients found in coconut oil are 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and about 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids).
These Acids all have ties to antibacterial and antifungal benefits that can help keep a dogs mouth and teeth fresh, clean, and healthy.
Dental Chew Toys
There are special chew toys out there designed to help your dog keep their mouth in tip-top shape. Kong makes a dental “stick” with ridges that help reduce plaque and remove food debris. For extra measure, you can spread dog toothpaste on their chew toys to make them extra enticing.
8 Reasons To Use Coconut Oil For Dogs
If keeping up with your dog’s mouth falls to the wayside, that leaves a gaping opening for health problems like gingivitis, tartar, bad breath, and gum disease. Chewing gum won’t keep your mouth free of dental health issues, and a dental chew for your dog every once in a while isn’t going to do the job either. It is important you start brushing your dog’s teeth daily.
Reward your dog with praise and treats and help them get used to brushing teeth. Learn about Wild Earth’s delicious and nutritious koji protein dog treats.
According to VCA Hospitals, it is estimated that over two-thirds of dogs have infections of the tissues surrounding the teeth. With regular brushing, such dental problems can be avoided. Read on to learn how to brush your pet’s chompers stress-free and keep their mouths clean and healthy.
To properly equip your home with the right dental tools for your pet, you will need:
Having dog-specific toothpaste is essential. You cannot use human toothpaste on your dog. Why? Think about how the human teeth-brushing routine.
Have you ever thought about why we have to spit out the toothpaste? It’s because it’s not edible. Since our fur friends can’t rinse and spit as humans do, they will instinctively swallow it.
Ingredients in human toothpaste (like fluoride) are toxic to dogs in large quantities. Dog toothpaste is specifically made to be safe for your dog to ingest while being an effective tooth cleaner. Plus they come in mouthwatering flavors like peanut butter. Once your dog gets used to the brushing process, they’ll be practically begging for more.