Most dog owners are unsure about giving their dog coconut oil. If you are one of those dog owners who does not understand why you should give your dog coconut oil, we will help you understand the different benefits of coconut oil for your dog and also help you identify the best coconut oil for dogs. Just like pour previous post where we comprehensively covered the best cooling gel pads for dogs, we are going to look at the best rated coconut oil for dogs in the market today.
Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs
Coconut oil consists of monounsaturated, saturated and polyunsaturated fats. A combination of these fats provides you with a list of fatty acids that are beneficial to the health of your dog. Here are some of the benefits of giving your dog coconut oil.
Coconut Oil Helps With Weight Loss
The best coconut oil for dogs can help dogs that are suffering from obesity. Obesity is one of the most common problems that can have a long term health effect on your dog. Obesity in dogs is associated with health conditions such as; high blood pressure, joint problems or osteoarthritis, diabetes or insulin resistance, respiratory difficulties, and liver disease or dysfunction.
Including coconut oil in your dog’s diet can help your dog lose weight. Coconut oil can help boost energy thus enhancing athletic performance in your dog and helping with weight loss.
Disinfect Cuts and Wounds
Coconut oil has natural antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. You can, therefore, apply coconut oil as a natural topical antibiotic to help heal cuts and wounds on your dog’s skin. It is not uncommon for dogs to scratch their ears or even hurting their paws; applying coconut oil on the cuts and scratches can help soothe and heal them. Coconut oil is safe to eat; you will not feel worried about the dog licking it.
Help Grooming the Dog’s Skin and Coat
Coconut oil is a great moisturizer that can help keep the skin and coat of your dog healthy and shiny. Applying coconut oil on your dog’s skin can help hydrate it and avoid dryness which can cause itch. If you are a dog owner of a dog that has a thick coat, coconut oil can help it look glossy and help prevent bad smell.
Help Improve Brain Function
Old age can take a toll on your dog’s brain thus finding a way to stimulate his brain can help the dog not only to stay young but to also remain strong and active. Including coconut oil in your dog’s diet can help improve cognitive function. It provides the dog’s brain with energy in the form of ketones thus promoting good nerve and brain function and preventing dementia in older dogs.
Help to Clean Dog’s Teeth
Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties which make it great natural toothpaste. It can be used to eliminate harmful bacteria in the dog’s mouth and help prevent plaque and other dental diseases. The best coconut oil for dogs can prevent the growth of yeast. It is safe for dogs to eat and tastes good thus it is an ideal choice for the dental health of your dog.
Help Improve Gut Health
Due to its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil can help alienate allergies especially those associated with yeast growth in the gut. Coconut oil also helps to improve digestion and nutrient absorption in the gut. The best coconut oil for dogs helps reduce inflammation and heal digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel syndrome and colitis.
Acts as a Fleas and Ticks Repellant
Coconut oil is commonly known to repel insects such as ticks and fleas. You can apply coconut oil on your dog’s skin to help repel ticks and fleas.
Top 10 Best Coconut Oil for Dogs
Coconut oil may be full of so many benefits for your dog but it is important to ensure that the coconut oil you purchase is quality and safe for your dog. There are so many coconut oil brands available in the market today; making it hard for most dog owners to identify the best coconut oil for dogs. We have provided you with reviews of the best coconut oil for dogs. Here are reviews of some of the safest and beneficial coconut oil for dogs.
#1) Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is top-selling coconut oil in the USA. It is especially loved by most dog owners. The coconut oil contains 50% lauric acid and 62% triglycerides. It is made from coconut meat and is cold pressed to retain all the nutrients and even scent. The virgin coconut oil has not been refined, and does not contain cholesterol and is not hydrogenated.
The Nutiva Organic coconut oil is ideal for treating skin conditions on the dog’s skin and coat. Apply a generous amount of the coconut oil on cuts wounds or on the problematic skin area. The oil will help soothe and heal the skin condition on your dog’s skin. You can also use coconut oil to groom your dog’s coat to give it a sleek look.
Pros
- It has 50% lauric acid and 62% triglycerides.
- The coconut oil is made from coconut meat and is cold pressed to ensure that all the nutrients and even scent have been retained.
- It can be used to soothe and treat cuts and wounds on the dog’s skin.
- The coconut oil can be used to groom a dog’s hair and coat to give it a lustrous look.
- According to the manufacturer, it is safe to eat thus you do not have to worry about the dog licking it.
- It does not contain cholesterol and is not hydrogenated.
Cons
- It is not certified by the USDA as organic.
#2) Alpha Pet Zone Coconut Oil for Dogs
The Alpha Pet Zone Coconut Oil for Dogs is high-quality coconut oil for dogs that has 16 fluid ounces of USDA organic coconut oil. The coconut oil is available in a 32-ounce jar. It is raw, unrefined, centrifuged, chemical free and un-deodorized. The coconut oil melts and becomes liquid at 76 degrees F but will return to a solid below that temperature.
The coconut oil can be used for topical application to hydrate and moisturizer dog rashes, remove dandruff or reduce itching and scratching on the do skin and coat. It is great for grooming the dog’s coat to give it a sleek look and prevent bad odor. According to the manufacturer, the coconut oil can also be used as toothpaste for dogs and puppies.
Pros
- It is available in a 32-ounce jar which can last you for a long period of time depending with the number of dogs you have and your uses.
- The coconut oil is high-quality and has 16 fluid ounces of USDA organic coconut oil.
- It can also be used as toothpaste for dogs and puppies according to the manufacturer.
- The oil can be applied topically to hydrate and moisturizer dog rashes, remove dandruff or reduce itching and scratching on the do skin and coat.
- It melts and becomes liquid at 76 degrees F but will return to a solid below that temperature making it easy to apply and use in the form that you want.
#3) Petpost Coconut Oil for Dogs
Petpost Coconut Oil for Dogs is available in both a 16 and 32-ounce jar thus you can choose the amount that you want. If you have never used the product before, you can start with the 16-ounce jar and see if your dog likes it and later buy the 32-ounce jar when you are sure that your dog likes it.
It contains pure coconut oil with a combination of Vitamin K, Vitamin E, MTCs, and Lauric Acid. The coconut oil helps prevent the growth of bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections in your dog. The oil can be used either orally or topically on dogs of all ages according to the manufacturer. It is recommended to start with a small amount and then build up to 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight. The manufacturer of the coconut oil offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee and is an environmentally conscious company that uses organic ingredients and recyclable packaging.
Pros
- The coconut oil has a combination of Vitamin K, Vitamin E, MTCs, and Lauric Acid which provide your dog with healthy nutrients to boost their strength.
- It is available in both a 16 and 32-ounce jar thus you can start with the 16-ounce jar and see if your dog likes it and later buy the 32-ounce jar when you are sure that your dog likes it.
- The Petpost Coconut Oil for Dogs helps prevent the growth of bacterial, fungal, and yeast infections in your dog.
- It can be used either orally or topically on dogs of all ages according to the manufacturer.
- The coconut oil is from an environmentally conscious company that uses organic ingredients and recyclable packaging.
- The manufacturer offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
#4) Viva Labs Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
The Viva Labs Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is popular coconut oil for dogs that is certified by the USDA as organic. The certification is a proof that the coconut oil does not contain any harmful ingredients, such as pesticide, trans fats or bleach thus it is safe for your dog. The coconut oil is not refined and is gluten-free.
Organic coconut oil is commonly used by dog owners to increase the energy of their dogs and help dogs lose weight. The coconut oil is made using cold-press methods to retain all the nutrients and ensure that the oil is in its most natural form. You can include the coconut oil in your dog’s diet to boost his energy. However; you need to be cautious about the amount you add. If your dog suffers from any health condition, it is important to first consult with the veterinarian before including the oil in your dog’s diet.
Pros
- The coconut oil is USDA certified and is therefore safe from any harmful ingredients, such as pesticide, trans fats or bleach.
- It is made using cold-press methods to retain all the nutrients.
- Viva Labs Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is not refined and is gluten-free.
- It is commonly used to increase the energy of their dogs and help dogs lose weight.
#5) Raw Paws Pet Organic Virgin Coconut Oil Supplement for Dogs & Cats
Raw Paws Pet Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is available in three sizes; 4 ounces, 8 ounces and 16 ounces which make it ideal for people with different budgets or those who are trying the product for the first time. It is organic virgin coconut oil made from coconuts naturally grown in the Philippines.
The coconut oil contains only one ingredient which is organic coconut oil. The oil has a high percentage of medium chain triglycerides (MCT). According to the manufactures, when using daily, it can help reduce allergies, improve skin/coat, strengthen the immune system, support digestion and protect against fleas and ticks in dogs and cats.
Pros
- The Raw Paws Pet Organic Virgin Coconut Oil has a high percentage of medium chain triglycerides (MCT).
- It is made from coconuts naturally grown in the Philippines.
- The manufacturer claims that the coconut oil can help reduce allergies, improve skin/coat, strengthen the immune system, support digestion and protect against fleas and ticks in dogs and cats when used daily.
- It is available in three sizes; 4 ounces, 8 ounces and 16 ounces which make it ideal for people those with different budgets and first-time buyers.
#6) Zesty Paws Coconut Oil for Dogs
The Zesty Paws Coconut Oil for Dogs is quality coconut oil for dogs that are available in 16 ounces or 96 servings of 1 teaspoon each. The coconut oil is USDA certified as organic. It is made from 100% certified organic coconuts and contains 3000 mg of medium chain triglycerides (MCT).
The coconut oil can be given orally to dogs for internal benefits or used topically on the skin. According to the manufacturer, the coconut oil helps promote overall cognitive, digestive and immune health while supporting the dog’s skin and coat. The manufacturer offers you a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Pros
- The coconut oil is made from 100% certified organic coconuts and has 3000 mg of medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
- It has been certified as organic by USDA.
- Zesty Paws provides you with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- The oil can be used orally for internal benefits or used topically on the dog’s skin.
- It helps promote overall cognitive, digestive and immune health while supporting the dog’s skin and coat according to the manufacturer.
#7) CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil for Pets
The CocoTherapy Organic Virgin Coconut Oil for Pets is another great coconut oil for dogs that can not only be used for dogs but you can also use it on other pets such as cats. It is a completely natural virgin oil that is free from any harmful ingredients.
The virgin coconut oil can be used topically and orally, making it perfect for any issue. You can apply the oil on cuts, wounds and dry skin patches on your dog skin and coat. You can also use coconut oil to groom the coat of your dog. It can also be added to your dog’s diet to boost his energy and help with weight loss.
Pros
- The coconut oil is completely natural and is therefore free from any harmful ingredients.
- It can be used for dogs as well as other pets such as cats.
- The coconut oil for pets can be used topically and orally.
- It is a great moisturizer for grooming your pet’s fur and coat.
- The oil can be added to your dog’s diet to boost his energy and help with weight loss.
Cons
- The coconut oil is not certified by the USDA as organic.
#8) Island Fresh Coconut Oil
Island Fresh Coconut Oil is popular among dog owners. It is commonly used to help dogs lose weight. It is natural oil that contains MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) that help your dog have a more balanced metabolism, increased energy, and lower weight. The coconut oil can be added to your dogs’ diet to boost his energy levels, improve metabolism to help the dog to lose weight.
The Island Fresh Coconut Oil not only helps with weight loss in obese dogs but it also increases the dog’s mental acuity, which will allow you to train them effectively. It can be applied on cuts and wounds on your dog’s skin to soothe and heal them.
Pros
-
- It is a popular dog coconut oil that is mostly used to help dogs lose weight.
- The coconut oil can be used to soothe and heal cuts and wounds on the dog’s skin.
- It can be added to the dog’s diet to boost energy levels, improve metabolism to help with weight loss in obese dogs.
- Island Fresh Coconut Oil contains MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) that help your dog have a more balanced metabolism, increased energy, and lower weight.
- It increases the dog’s mental acuity, which will allow you to train him effectively.
#9) Natural Doggie 100% Organic Virgin Cold Pressed Coconut Oil
Natural Doggie Coconut Oil is 100% organic virgin cold pressed coconut oil. It is made from quality organic coconut fruits. The oil can be included in the dog’s regular diet to help aid in digestion, improve the dog’s coats and help prevent infection. It can help improve a dog’s skin and coat and reduces allergic reactions.
The coconut oil can be used topically or orally. When applied topically the coconut oil can help promote wound healing and also help with hot spots, dry skin, and hair, bites, and stings. If you are those dog owners who love their dogs but detest the doggy smell, applying the coconut oil on the dog’s skin can help minimizes doggy odor.
Pros
- It is 100% organic virgin cold pressed coconut oil
- The coconut oil can be added in the dog’s regular diet to help improve digestion, improve the dog’s coats and help prevent infection.
- It can help minimizes doggy odor when applied to the dog’s skin.
- The oil can be used topically or orally.
- According to the manufacturer, the coconut oil can help promote wound healing and also help with hot spots, dry skin, and hair, bites, and stings when applied on the dog’s skin.
#10) Nature’s Way Organic Coconut Oil
Nature’s Way Organic Coconut Oil is natural coconut oil for dogs that can be used both orally and topically. It is ideal for older dogs, as well as the overweight dogs that need more energy. The coconut oil contains good fat content and gives the dogs a lot more energy.
Nature’s Way Organic Coconut Oil can be applied on the dog’s skin and coat to moisturize and hydrate the skin and avoid it from becoming dry which can cause itchiness. It can also be applied to wounds and cuts to soothe and heal them. The coconut oil for pets can be purchased in both liquid and solid form.
Pros
- The coconut oil is ideal for older dogs, as well as the overweight dogs that require more energy.
- It contains good fat content and gives the dogs a lot more energy to improve their performance.
- The oil can be applied to the dog’s skin and coat to moisturize and hydrate the skin and avoid itchiness and to soothe and heal wounds and cuts.
- It can be purchased in both liquid and solid form.
Conclusion
The best coconut oil for dogs can have so many health benefits but it is important to first consult with your veterinary especially if your dog has a health condition. It is also important to follow the proper guidelines given by the coconut oil manufacturer. Coconut oil for dogs is usually safe for dogs but if your dog has any unusual reaction after taking coconut oil, stop giving him the coconut oil and take him to the veterinary as soon as possible.
Even if you are using the best coconut oil for dogs that is well rated, you need to stick to the recommended amount and avoid giving your dog too much coconut oil since just like anything good, too much of even a good thing can have negative effects. We hope that you now understand the benefits of coconut oil for your dog and that you can easily select the best coconut oil for dogs.
Dr. Candy, a holistic veterinarian and certified raw dog food nutrition specialist, graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2009 with a DVM and has since specialized in companion animal nutrition, advocating for species-specific diets. With a background in wildlife rehabilitation and oil spill response, she combines holistic health and conventional medicine in her unique approach to treating chronic diseases, allergies, and autoimmune conditions in pets. As the owner of a veterinary practice in Colorado and an author, Dr. Candy is dedicated to educating pet parents and improving the health and happiness of animals.
