Virgin coconut oil (unrefined oil) is safe for both humans and dogs and has a wide variety of uses and benefits for your dog. Coconut oil has amazing health benefits and is known to aid the healing processes of many ailments. Coconut oil can prevent infections from occurring and help to heal some existing infections such as yeast infections. It has also been found to reduce the risk of cancer and is a great source of nutrients.
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Coconut oil can be eaten as a treat or applied to your dog externally and is very good for skin conditions. It has healing properties and can help to patch up cracked paws, infected cuts, and hot spots. Coconut oil can also disinfect cuts and wounds and reduces their healing time. It can clear up rashes and relieve the pains of arthritis and similar aches and pains. Coconut oil works to improve digestion and contains medicinal properties that aid the recovery of upset stomachs.
Coconut Oil can Prevent Infections
The main component of coconut oil is saturated fats which comprise around 90%. Most of the saturated fats found in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) which are shorter chain fatty acids. These fatty acids do not negatively affect cholesterol and are mostly compromised of lauric acid (around 40%).
MCTs also contain fatty acids: Capric acid, Caprylic acid, Myristic acid, and Palmitic acid. In addition, coconut oil also contains around 2% linoleic acid (polyunsaturated fatty acids) and around 6% oleic acid (monounsaturated fatty acids).
Most of the benefits of coconut oil actually come from these aforementioned MCTs. Lauric acid, most commonly found in mother’s milk, helps build the immune system. Lauric acid has also been found to contain anti-fungal properties as well as antiviral and antibacterial properties too.
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Capric acid and Caprylic acid also contain similar healing properties and are known best for their anti-fungal properties. All of these acids are naturally occurring in coconut oil. MCTs, metabolise fast, so they provide an immediate source of fuel and energy as well as helping inactive dogs feel energised.
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Perhaps one of the greatest things about coconut is that dogs love the taste of it, so you’ll have no trouble giving them a treat that’s packed full of healthy benefits. It would help if you tried our new Soopapet Coconut dog treats we’ve recently added to the itchy dog shop. If you’re looking to add coconut to your dog’s main diet, then caution is advised. Dogs don’t react well to sudden dietary changes and can become quite ill if we’re not careful with their diets.
The recommended amount of coconut to feed your dog per day comes to 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of dog or 1 tablespoon per 30 pounds of dog. If you’re introducing coconut into your dog’s diet, start by only adding a quarter of the recommended amount and gradually build up over several weeks.
