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Coconut oil has many benefits for our 4-legged friends too. Discover the 9 alternative uses for dog wellness
Coconut oil can be used for the well-being of the dog. Although not all veterinarians agree on the benefits ofcoconut oil for our furry friends, science is in favor of its use albeit in a moderate way.
Index
Why use coconut oil on dogs
Coconut oil can be used on our furry friends for:
- improve the smell of the coat
- treat dry or itchy skin, blemishes, and even insect bites or stings
- soften the coat and make it more shiny
- effective against the formation of hairballs
- promote digestion thanks to medium chain triglycerides (MCT for short). Some vets even claim that medium-chain triglycerides, such as coconut oil, can improve cognitive performance especially if the dog is older.
- help bones and joints, including calming the pains of arthritis
- fight and contrast viruses, fungi and microorganisms thanks to thelauric acid coconut oil which has antifungal and antiviral properties.
Obviously, it is important to point out that this product cannot completely eliminate viruses and bacteria, therefore, you must consider coconut oil as a great supplement, but not as a substitute for medicines. (Read also: Coconut oil: what if it's not so beneficial to health?)
9 ways to use coconut oil for your dog's wellbeing
Is coconut oil good for dogs? The answer is yes, but only when used properly and in small quantities. In fact, i benefits of coconut oil there are many, but how to introduce it into your furry friend's routine?
Below you will find 9 alternative ways to use coconut oil as well improve your pet's well-being.
Dietary supplement
One of the best ways to use coconut oil is to add it to your dog's diet like supplement; in this way, you will go to heal it from the inside and improve the skin and pores health.
How? Just pour a small amount of coconut oil directly into the bowl at the time of feeding. What is the right amount to use? Keep in mind that when you include coconut oil in your pet's meal, you need to start with a very small amount and increase the dosage progressively.
The reason? This ingredient if used excessively immediately can go to upset the dog's intestines. In case of doubts and concerns, we advise you to consult your veterinarian. (Read also: Coconut oil: 10 amazing alternative uses)
Disguise the medicines
Given the characteristic consistency of coconut oil, i.e. a bit like thick and full-bodied peanut butter, it can be used as a means to cover and disguise the medicines to be given to the dog.
Effective as a toothpaste for dog teeth health
Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties which make it a great replacement for dog toothpaste, especially for dogs who don't like the taste of classic toothpaste. How to use it? It's very simple, just apply a small amount on your finger or on a professional toothbrush and rub the oil directly on the pet's teeth for at least a couple of times a week.
Effective on pores, skin and hair
It has been shown that thecoconut oil improves the dog's coat, pores and skin when used correctly. Remember to rub coconut oil into your dog's pores, skin, and coat with your hands or with a large enough towel.
In case your dog has itchy or dry pores and skin, apply coconut oil and massage gently until completely absorbed. You can also rub it on your fingers, and then proceed by massaging the dog's coat; this is also a great way to let him relax and pamper him.
In case of allergy you can use coconut oil, but we recommend that you contact your veterinarian first. (Read also: Coconut oil is pure poison according to this Harvard professor (VIDEO)
Protection against fleas and ticks
Not only does coconut oil work like it natural moisturizer for the dog, but it can also be a natural repellent for fleas and ticks.
Obviously, in the case of fleas or other parasites, the advice is not to use coconut oil as a substitute for the classic repellent, but simply as a product to add to the cure.
Effective in case of injuries
Another effective way to use coconut oil for dog welfare is treat and heal wounds, as this product has property antibiotics. Vets in particular have found that coconut oil is good for cracked paws, cuts caused by playing in the park, and even against self-inflicted injuries from dogs nibbling on itchy paws especially during allergy season.
Improves digestion
Coconut oil improves digestion and eliminates the bad breath of the pet. Furthermore, it is also effective in the case of intestinal problems such as colitis and inflammatory bowel syndrome.
Strengthens the immune system
Thanks to his anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, coconut oil is excellent for strengthening the dog's immune defenses, and also acts as a prevention for some types of tumors.
Effective in weight loss
Coconut oil helps regulate thyroid function and, as a result, it is effective in ensuring weight loss. Furthermore, it contains medium-chain fatty acids much easier to absorb by the intestine, and able to regulate the body weight of the animal.
What's the best coconut oil for dogs?
The benefit of introducing coconut oil into your dog's wellness routine is that it's a food item you probably already have in your kitchen pantry.
However, there are best coconut oils respect to others; in particular, you need to look for a unrefined coconut oil, even better if it comes to organic and cold pressed coconut oil.
Coconut oil: contraindications
As mentioned above, coconut oil is bad for us when used excessively, and not just for our animal friends.
As for pets, if used in large quantities it can damage gut health of your furry friend. Therefore, the advice is to always monitor the faeces of the animal, and in case of diarrhea it is necessary to interrupt the administration for a few days, before trying again with a lower dose.
Also, it can happen that the pet is allergic to coconut oil; if so, if you notice any spots on the abdomen or other signs of allergic reactions, stop giving coconut oil altogether and try alternatives such aslinseed oil (good sources of omega-3 fatty acids).
Also remember that you shouldn't use coconut oil if you have a overweight dog, because it is a food very rich in fat and calories.
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