Coconut Oil for Dogs: Benefits & Drawbacks

Coconut oil is often touted as a miracle "superfood" for dogs, cats, people, and other animals. Coconut oil has many applications, and a number of them can be beneficial to your dog's health. Alternatively, there may not be a lot of evidence to support some of the other claims that are made about coconut oil for dogs. 

Just like other natural remedies for dogs, however, it's important to keep health concerns in mind and do your research before giving coconut oil to your dog because there are health risks with certain products and dosages. Let's take a closer look.

Fractionated Coconut Oil for Dogs 

Fractionated coconut oil is a processed form of coconut oil where the long-chain fatty acids are removed. This leaves primarily medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are liquid at room temperature and have a longer shelf life than regular coconut oil.

It is odorless, tasteless, and highly stable, making it an excellent carrier oil for supplements like CBD oil, as it enhances absorption and is easy for dogs to digest.

Benefits:

• Enhances absorption of fat-soluble nutrients like CBD.
• Easily digestible, making it gentle on sensitive stomachs.
• Provides quick energy through medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
• Supports healthy skin and coat.
• Contains antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Standard Coconut Oil for Dogs

Apart from specifically-processed coconut oil like fractionated coconut oil, there are a few benefits particularly for topical issues.

Regular coconut oil has some potential benefits for dogs, but its reputation as a "holistic solution" to various ailments is often overstated. Here’s a breakdown of potential benefits and limitations:

Benefits:

• May help moisturize dry skin and reduce itchiness when applied topically.
• Adds a shiny appearance to the coat.
• Contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
• Provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are a quick energy source.
• In small amounts, it may promote better digestion and help with minor digestive issues.

The Downsides of Coconut Oil for Dogs

The downside of using coconut oil for dogs is that it isn't always the safest or most effective option for our pups.

Downsides:

• High in Saturated Fat: Too much can lead to weight gain and strain on the pancreas.
• Not a Cure-All: Its antimicrobial benefits are modest and shouldn’t replace veterinary care for infections.
• Allergies: Some dogs may have adverse reactions to coconut oil.
• Overuse Risks: Excessive intake can lead to greasy coats, diarrhea, or pancreatitis.

Coconut oil shouldn't be a staple of your dog's nutrition, but it can be present in small amounts. The "healthy amount" changes depending on the size of your dog. Small dogs will be more sensitive to a teaspoon of coconut oil than large dogs, for example. 

Coconut's Key Benefit for Your Dog's Skin & Coat

The key benefit of topical coconut oil on your dog's skin & coat is hydration. If your dog is prone to flaky dry patches or their coat is getting a little rough in winter, coconut oil might be able to help. 

Here's a video of a man describing how to cook down and apply coconut oil to help your dog's skin & coat. The oil absorbs cleanly into the skin and can actually provide an anti-bacterial barrier.

One study showed that rats with skin conditions healed much faster when their dermatological issues were aided with virgin coconut oil.  

Can Coconut Oil Keep Flees Off Dogs?

Coconut oil does have some antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties, so it could be effective at keeping flees off of your dog. That said, there are much more effective options available such as once-monthly oral medications that work to systematically kill flees. 

Applying the proper amount of coconut oil to your dog's coat in order to kill and prevent flees would be time consuming, messy, and not as effective as other methods are.

Conclusion 

Coconut oil, while often labeled a superfood, has both benefits and limitations for dogs. Its application depends on how it's used—whether as fractionated coconut oil (MCT oil) for internal health or regular coconut oil for topical needs.

Key Takeaways:

• Fractionated Coconut Oil (MCT Oil): Enhances nutrient absorption, provides quick energy, and supports digestion.
• Regular Coconut Oil: May moisturize skin, add shine to coats, and offer mild antimicrobial benefits.
• Use With Care: Avoid overuse to prevent weight gain, digestive issues, or potential allergies.

While coconut oil isn’t a cure-all, understanding its proper use ensures your dog benefits safely and effectively. For more targeted internal benefits, fractionated coconut oil—like that in Lolahemp's CBD oil for dogs and cats—offers a safer, more efficient option.