The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs
Coconut oil can offer many benefits to your dog - ranging from health to beauty. Read about all the benefits and recommended dosage.
Dogs and humans are alike in many ways, and one similarity is how dogs positively respond to food as medicine. One so-called “nutraceutical” is coconut oil. The medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil impart several health benefits for our four-legged best friends, which will be discussed below.
Healthy Skin and Coat
If your dog suffers from dry, flaky skin and a dull coat, coconut oil is the answer. Coconut oil can be applied topically to your dog’s skin as a natural moisturizer, or fed to your dog with his or her food. If your dog suffers from hot spots, the natural anti-bacterial properties in the oil can relieve these itchy annoyances.
Improved Mobility
Coconut oil is often recommended for aging dogs that are suffering from arthritis. Again, the medium-chain fatty acids that make up 90% of the oil are the secret ingredient for improving joint health. As dog ages, the cartilage that provides a cushion to a knee and hip joints degenerates, leaving your dog with poor mobility and pain. The acids that are found in coconut oil, particularly lauric, oleic, caprylic, myristic and palmitic acids, ease inflammation and improve joint lubrication for enhanced mobility and decreased pain.
Increased Metabolism
If your dog is like most household pets and showing signs of obesity, a coconut oil supplement can help him or her shed pounds. Medium-chain fatty acids are efficiently metabolized by the digestive system to provide an immediate source of energy. The acids in the oil also help to improve digestive processes, giving your dog more energy, a better metabolism, and improved quality of life.
Fewer Allergies
In recent years, dogs have shown more signs of allergies than any previous generation of a canine companion. Whether your dog is allergic to fleas, pollen, ingredients in food, or other environmental factors, it is no fun to watch our pets suffer from itchy skin and yeast-filled ears. The acids that comprise coconut oil have antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that reduce inflammation pet (a key component of allergies) while improving your dog’s immune system.
How Much Coconut Oil Dhould I Give My Dog?
Now that you know the benefits of coconut oil, the next step is to know the proper dosage. The general rule of thumb is to provide your dog 1 tsp oil per 10 lbs of body weight, or 1 tbsp per 30 lbs. However, it is important to build that dosage gradually. Feeding too much coconut oil too soon can result in greasy stools or diarrhea. And if you want to be 100% sure about your doggy’s health, you should check the Actijoy solution.
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