Can dogs eat coconut? The short answer is yes! In fact, dogs can eat coconut oil and coconut meat, as it’s non-toxic for them. There are a few things to watch out for since eating too much can make your dog sick. Like other human foods, moderation is key.
Before trying new foods with your dog or giving them anything containing coconut, be sure to talk to your veterinarian first. Together, you can decide what’s the best plan when it comes to your dog’s diet and trying new foods. Otherwise, your dog will surely a little coconut added to their meals.
What are the health benefits of coconut for dogs?
Even though coconut should be given in moderation, the benefits outweigh the risks, which is a good sign. Coconut can do wonders for your pup as it contains various vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which is great for your doggo’s digestive system.
Reduces inflammation
The coconut has anti-inflammatory properties, which will speed up the healing process for cuts and other wounds. It will help aching joints and help prevent arthritis. So, coconut is a great treat for aging dogs. In addition, it has lauric acid, which is a fatty acid. This will help your pooch fight off viruses and remain healthy.
Boosts their immune system
Coconut is packed with antioxidants to help give your doggo a boost to their immune system. It has anti-viral properties, so while it’s not a cure, coconut can help fight against bad bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites.
Benefits their skin
Coconut oil can be ingested or used on your dog’s skin or coat. This will help reduce many issues such as yeast infections, hot spots, flea allergies, and dry or itchy skin. In addition, it will keep your pup’s coat shiny and healthy.
What are the risks of feeding dogs coconut?
There are only a few things to watch out for when feeding coconut to your pup. For example, all dogs are different, and some digestive systems might not agree with coconut. So, if you notice your pooch is getting an upset stomach after having coconut, then stop giving it to them. It simply might not be agreeing with them. One way to help with better digestion is to give your doggo young, fresh coconut meat. Older coconuts will be harder for them to digest.
In addition, keep the coconut shell away from your dog. This is difficult to chew, and if they happen to break off any pieces, it can become a choking hazard. Or, if they manage to swallow it, it could cause an intestinal blockage.
Too much coconut can make your dog sick with an upset stomach or cause bloating, which is uncomfortable for your dog and make them feel under the weather. This is why it’s always best to feed coconut to your pooch in moderation and only small bits at a time.
What parts of the coconut can dogs eat?
So, we now know that your dog can safely snack on the coconut flesh or meat and stay away from the coconut shell. What else can your doggo eat that has coconut in it?
Sweetened coconut
It’s best to stay away from this. Unsweetened coconut typically has added sugar and other ingredients that may not be safe for your dog to consume. When buying a coconut, make sure it’s unsweetened and organic. You can buy unsweetened coconut flesh that’s raw or dried. It typically comes in flaskes or shredded, making it easy to add as a food topper to your dog’s dinner.
Coconut oil
You can certainly add about a teaspoon of coconut oil on top of your dog’s commercial dog food. It will give them some added nutrients and boost the flavor of the food. In addition, you can apply coconut oil topically to help with their coat and skin.
Coconut water
Your dog can safely drink coconut water as long as it’s fresh. Bottled coconut water may have artificial flavors and preservatives that aren’t healthy for your dog to consume. Coconut water is packed with extra nutrients containing zinc, manganese, magnesium, calcium, and iron. It also has other vitamins, enzymes, and electrolytes. Coconut water is great for active dogs.
Fun coconut recipes to try with your dog
Since dogs can have coconut in many different ways, you can add it to their diet through homemade dog treats. This is a fun way to add the extra nutritional benefits through training treats or something simple on the go.
- Coconut Delight Gluten-Free Dog Biscuit Recipe
- Grain-Free Pumpkin Coconut Dog Treats
- No-Bake Coconut Dog Treats
- Peanut Butter Coconut Oil Dog Treats
Should you give your dog coconut?
So, can dogs eat coconut? Absolutely! Coconut meat, oil, and water all pack a punch nutritionally. As long as you talk to your vet first about trying this new human food with your furry friend, your pup will surely love it.
Similar reading: other tropical food your dog can enjoy
