Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants, all of which can support canine health in a variety of ways. So, while olive oil can be beneficial to dogs in various ways, it's not necessarily the best option in all cases. The same can be said about many human foods for dogs.
You can give your dog olive oil in moderation, but the health benefits may not be as noticeable as your hoping. The most prominent health benefit comes in the form of skin & coat health, with pet owners claiming visible benefits in terms of topical applications as well as dietary supplements. If you're looking to support your dog's mobility health, there are more reliable alternatives to olive oil.
This article explores some of the key considerations when giving your dog olive oil. Let's take a look.
Is It Safe to Give Dogs a Little Olive Oil?
Olive oil is generally safe for dogs when used in moderation (dosage discussed below). It provides healthy fats and essential nutrients that can support their overall health, including skin and coat condition. However, it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.
How Much Olive Oil Can Dogs Have?
For most dogs, a small amount is sufficient—typically 1 teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 tablespoon for larger dogs. Olive oil can be given daily, but it's crucial to avoid overdoing it, as excessive amounts can lead to weight gain, diarrhea, or upset stomachs. Always consult your vet for specific recommendations based on your dog's size and health.
Does Olive Oil Provide Significant Canine Health Benefits?
Olive oil has potential health benefits for dogs, including improved skin and coat condition, better digestion, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the degree to which these benefits occur can vary depending on the dog’s overall health, diet, and how much olive oil is incorporated. While it’s not a cure-all, many pet owners report seeing positive results with consistent use.
Most Prominent Health Benefit: Skin and Coat Health
One of the most noticeable benefits of olive oil for dogs is its ability to improve skin and coat health. The healthy fats and antioxidants in olive oil can help reduce dryness, flakiness, and irritation.
For the best chance to see skin & coat health benefits, add a small amount of olive oil to your dog's food, or apply it directly to their skin and coat for extra hydration and shine.
What's The Safest Form of Olive Oil for Dogs?
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the safest and most beneficial option for dogs. It is the least processed form, retaining the highest levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats.
EVOO is cold-pressed and typically free from harmful chemicals and additives, making it a better choice than refined or processed alternatives.
EVOO can be found in most grocery stores, typically in the olive oil section, and is also available online. While there are no specific olive oils made exclusively for dogs, high-quality, organic EVOO from reputable brands ensures your pet gets the purest form of olive oil. Always avoid flavored or processed oils, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to your dog.
Conclusion
Olive oil can be safely incorporated into your dog's daily regimen. That said, dietary olive oil may not be the most effective option for you to use. Your dog could benefit from other home remedies to help overall wellness.
In terms of topical application, olive oil could very well be an effective way to improve your dog's condition. All dogs will respond differently, however, and it's a good idea to talk with your veterinarian before starting your dog on any new supplements such as olive oil.
