A few years ago, the world witnessed an explosion of sorts. Hitherto unnoticed by the West, coconut oil suddenly became everyone’s go-to miracle product for every problem under the sun. After losing out for too long to fancier oils such as olive, argan and avocado, coconut oil finally shed its underdog image to become the super-oil it is today. People began to use it for everything from hair care, cleansing and moisturizing to digestive health and even dental hygiene. With all the hype around coconut oil, it was really only a matter of time before we realized it’s just as wonderful for our pets too. Here are seven reasons why you should start sharing your coconut oil obsession with your dog.
1. It Keeps Their Coats Shiny
A healthy amount of good fats in their diet will help keep your dog’s coat soft and glossy. Coconut oil contains monounsaturated fatty acids which are essential for a healthy coat. Add a tablespoon of the oil to your dog’s food every day and you will notice a definite improvement in his fur within six weeks.
2. Fights Skin Infections
Dogs are not immune to skin conditions like eczema, yeast and fungal infections. Coconut oil has strong anti-microbial qualities making it the perfect natural alternative to treating your dog’s skin problems. Wipe the affected area with coconut oil multiple times a day and distract your dog for a few minutes until it absorbs so he doesn’t lick it off. Always consult your vet first though to make sure your dog’s specific condition can be treated this way. It also fights dog odor, so rub your dog with coconut oil before giving him a bath to keep that doggy smell away.
3. Heals Cracked Skin
Your dog’s paws need some TLC too. Walking on rough surfaces all day can make them dry and cracked. Damaged paws make it very difficult for your dog to go on long walks without experiencing some pain. To keep his paws healthy, dab them with coconut oil at least twice a day. This will give them the moisture they need to become smooth and healthy again.
4. Keeps Their Digestive Tract Healthy
Simply adding one tablespoon of coconut oil into your dog’s meals every day could vastly improve his digestive health. Coconut oil lines his digestive tract and makes it easier for him to digest his food. It also kills any parasites lurking in his stomach which he could have ingested by eating from the garbage when you weren’t looking. This will greatly reduce his risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome and colitis.
5. Increases Their Metabolism
If you don’t closely monitor your dog’s diets or take him for long walks every day, he might be at risk of becoming obese. Coconut oil can speed up his metabolism, helping him burn fat faster and stay at a healthy weight. You will, of course, still need to exercise him properly, but adding coconut oil to his diet could be a great cautionary measure against him becoming overweight.
6. Prevents Diabetes
Coconut oil regulates and controls the secretion of insulin which puts your dog at a lower risk for developing diabetes. Diabetes in dogs of late, has become an increasingly common occurrence. To keep your dog safe, feed him a healthy diet mixed with one tablespoon of coconut oil and take him for walks frequently.
7. Improves Neurological Health
Brains require a good amount of healthy fats to function properly and you dog’s brain is no exception. Making sure he has an adequate dose of healthy fats like those found in coconut oil every day, could stop him from developing dementia later on.
