Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Is Coconut Oil Okay for Dogs? 8 Reasons to Try It (Vet Answer)

coconut oil in a glass

Coconut oil is produced by pressing the meat inside the coconut to extract the liquid used for making the oil. In its purest form, such as virgin coconut oil, it has wide-ranging health benefits compared to refined or processed oil. Therefore, there may be positive benefits to adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet. It contains fatty acids and saturated fats that may promote healthy skin, hair, and nails. There may also be anti-inflammatory properties that are useful for inflammatory conditions.

Not all dogs enjoy eating coconut oil, though, and it may also cause gastrointestinal upset. Before adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet, discuss this ingredient with your veterinarian to minimize any side effects or health issues that might occur.

Some dogs may develop diarrhea, and in others, it may trigger an allergic reaction if they are allergic to any of the ingredients. Coconut oil also adds calories, which may lead to weight gain. The high-fat content can be detrimental to dogs with a history or tendency to develop pancreatitis.

That said, if your veterinarian has deemed coconut oil to be safe for your dog, there are a few good reasons to try it. However, none of the touted benefits of coconut oil are guaranteed, as research efforts are ongoing, particularly in veterinary medicine.

divider single dog paw oct 2024

The 8 Reasons to Try Coconut Oil For Your Dogs

1. Decrease Inflammation

Applied topically or taken internally, coconut oil may help reduce inflammation in the body, such as inflammation due to joint disease and arthritis.

woman massaging dog's leg
Image Credit: msgrafixx, Shutterstock

2. Prohibit the Growth of Harmful Bacteria and Fungi

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil may inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms that could lead to infection. Lauric acid is a medium-chain triglyceride found in coconut oil that may help kill and/or limit the growth of certain bacteria. In this way, coconut oil may promote healing.

Always check with your vet before adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet.

Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1



3. Aid Digestion

The properties of coconut oil may improve your dog’s digestion and nutrient absorption.

English cocker spaniel dog eating in the kitchen
Image Credit: Switlana Sonyashna, Shutterstock

4. Improve Skin and Hair Coat

Coconut oil may decrease skin dryness and improve the appearance of the coat, whether applied topically or given orally as a supplement.


5. Prevent Odors and Bad Breath

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil may help inhibit the bad odors associated with bacterial and fungal overgrowth.

a happy woman with her jack russell terrier dog
Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

6. Decrease Cognitive Decline

The fatty acids in coconut oil may help prevent brain-aging changes.


7. Improve Energy

Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides, which are types of saturated fat. They can serve as a rapid source of energy.

happy and excited Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen running dog sports
Image By: Cavan-Images, Shutterstock

8. Help With Certain Medical Conditions

Antioxidants in coconut oil may prevent free radicals from forming in the body. This can reduce the risk of the development of chronic or degenerative diseases.

If you are seeking the best possible treatment for your pup, we recommend speaking with a vet.

divider single dog paw oct 2024

Final Thoughts

While coconut oil may have various benefits, including skin moisturization and antioxidant properties, it should be offered to your dog in moderation. Some dogs may experience diarrhea, pancreatitis, or weight gain or have an allergy to it. Research into the health benefits of coconut oil is ongoing, particularly in canines. As a precaution, it is best to discuss this topic with your veterinarian before adding it to your pet’s diet.


Featured Image Credit: Towfiqu barbhuiya, Unsplash

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Oregano Oil for Dogs: Benefits, Usage & Side Effects (Vet Answer)

In recent years, oregano oil has become more and more popular for use in humans. It is believed to have immune supportive and...

oregano-oil-on-the-table

Is Lavender Essential Oil Safe for Dogs? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Disclaimer: The information about these products has been fact-checked by one of our licensed veterinarians, but the purpose of this post is not...

Dogster_Is Lavender Essential Oil Safe for Dogs

Can Dogs Eat Palm Oil? Vet-Verified Facts & Info

You probably don’t have a bottle of it in your pantry. However, you probably consume palm oil every day. It’s big business, with...

Can Dogs Eat Palm Oil

7 Benefits of Salmon Oil for Dogs: Canine Health and Nutrition

Salmon oil is a healthy supplement for both humans and dogs. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil promotes heart health, a sleek...

man giving cbd oil to his dog

More related

Medication in kibbles or pet food

Tylosin for Dogs: Uses, Side Effects & FAQ (Vet Answer)

Tylosin is a useful antibiotic and anti-inflammatory medication for treating diarrhea and inflammatory bowel conditions in dogs. It can be given as an...

concentrated liquid colloidal silver being diluted in glass of water

Colloidal Silver for Dogs: Safety, Uses, & Risks

Colloidal silver is a suspension of tiny particles of silver in a medium such as water, a gel, or a cream. This remedy...

Shih tzu dog getting food from owner at kitchen

Are Homemade Dog Food Recipes Right for Your Dog? Pros & Cons (Vet Answer)

Since there are so many commercial dog foods, confusing labels, and differing opinions about what you should feed, wouldn’t it be simpler to...

Dogster_Is Lemon Essential Oil Safe for Dogs

Is Lemon Essential Oil Safe for Dogs? Vet-Approved Health Facts

You’ve probably noticed the surge in the use of essential oils in the past decade or so. You might even use essential oils...

Keep reading

11 Best Dog Foods for Small Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Who loves small dogs? We do! Small dogs are getting more recognition in the pet world as fantastic companions for many reasons. Their size makes them better suited for tiny homes and apartments. Also, small dogs usually have a longer...

French bulldog eating from bowl

Can Dogs Eat Saffron Rice? Vet-Verified Facts & Safety Guide

Saffron rice is a tasty and savory dish, and dogs may be tempted to eat it. Many dogs enjoy the taste of rice and may see no problem with eating saffron rice. However, the issue with saffron rice is that...

Can Dogs Eat Saffron Rice

How Much Calcium Do Dogs Need? 6 Best Sources

We tell our children that if they want to grow big and strong, they better drink their milk. Dogs need calcium as we do, and having the right amount in their systems gives them stronger teeth, nails, bones, and coats....

Boxer with a bone

6 Foods High In Thiamine for Dogs: Vet-Approved Vitamin B1 Sources

Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is an essential nutrient for dogs and humans. Dogs require it for carbohydrate metabolism, optimal growth, and efficient nerve function. Because dogs’ bodies don’t store the nutrient, they need to obtain it through what...

French bulldog eating from a bowl

Do Dogs Like Dog Food? Canine Taste Buds Explained

We all know how excited our dogs can get at food time. They hear their kibble bag rustling or the sound of a food can opening and come running from wherever they are in the home to eat their meal....

bulldog eating fresh food

Acana Dog Food Review 2025: Pros, Cons, Recalls & FAQ

Acana is a unique company that produces dog food in Alberta, Canada, and Auburn, Kentucky. It manufactures dog food for the American market in Auburn and formulas for Canada and Europe in Alberta. Champion Pet Foods, Acana’s parent company, has...

Dogster_Acana Dog Food Review

11 Best Freeze-Dried Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Freeze-dried dog food takes the preparation and the work out of feeding a raw, natural diet. The freeze-drying process preserves more of the original ingredients’ nutrients and retains the natural flavor to make it more palatable for your dog. Freeze-dried...

labrador-retriever-dog-eating

Can Dogs Eat Catfish? Vet-Verified Nutrition Info & FAQ

It’s always tempting to give our dogs some people food every once in a while. (And it has nothing to do with those begging puppy dog eyes, we swear!). But if you want to give your four-legged friend a bite...

Can Dogs Eat_catfish