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Your dog is a part of your family. Naturally, you want to treat your dog with the same amount of love and respect as every other member of the family. This includes making sure your dog has all of his nutritional needs met.
Many pet foods on the market fall short of being well-rounded and complete nutrition. If you are looking into supplements for your dog, one that is worth considering is oils. This is a common supplement used by humans. The benefits of oils can be just as useful for your dog as they can be for people.
Fish Oil for Dogs
Some of the many benefits attributed to fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids include possible reduction of risks of certain cancers, reduction of high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and beneficial impact on certain heart conditions. Currently, studies are being conducted to determine whether there is a positive impact on patients suffering from clinical depression and elderly patients exhibiting Alzheimer’s symptoms. Another major benefit of fish oil is a noticeable improvement in hair condition. But if this medical supplement is good for humans, can it have the same benefits for dogs? Is it safe to provide this type of supplement to pets?
Is it Dangerous to Give Dogs Oil Supplements Intended for Human Consumption?
In many instances, medications that are formulated for humans should not be given to dogs. In the case of these supplements, the supplement is fine for consumption by most dogs. In cases where a dog suffers from some sort of chronic health issue, it is recommended that a veterinarian be consulted before putting the dog on any regimen supplementation.
What are the Benefits of Taking Fish Oils?
One of the major benefits of the daily use of supplements for dogs is to alleviate the symptoms of canine allergies. Many dogs suffer from some sort of allergic dermatitis, and fish oil has been shown to decrease scratching caused by skin inflammation and irritation. Reduction of scratching will also help alleviate skin irritability and redness, and improve the condition of the dog’s skin.
Daily use of these supplements may also enhance the appearance of the dog’s coat, as it strengthens and softens the hair shafts. The dog’s coat will retain moisture, lending it a glossier appearance.
Other possible benefits to fish oil dog supplements
Ongoing medical studies are now being conducted to determine whether fish oil usage will produce additional benefits. It may improve kidney function, alleviate arthritis and lower cholesterol. Since fish oil supplements are believed to improve brain function in Alzheimer’s patients, it is also believed that they may improve brain function in older dogs. These supplements may also provide improve the dog’s immune system and cardiac health. Veterinarians are now recommending that dogs with cancer be placed on daily fish oil supplementation, as it is believed the omega-3 fatty acids slow the growth of cancer cells.
What is the Proper Dosage of Fish Oils?
Pet food stores often carry capsules made specifically for dogs; in such instances, it is easy to determine the proper dosage for a dog. If using capsules formulated for humans, the pet owner will need to determine the correct dosage for their dog. A veterinarian can assist pet owners in determining the proper dosage for their dog based on weight.
In many cases, adding the capsule to a dog’s food can be accomplished without the dog noticing the difference. In the case of a picky eater, however, the fish oil capsule can actually be punctured and the contents mixed in directly with the dog’s food. Another method that may prove effective is to hide the capsule in a piece of cheese or coat it with peanut butter.
Are There Any Negative Effects of Fish Oil?
Some dogs are very sensitive to dietary changes and may experience loose stools when placed on supplements. If this condition continues, discontinue the fish oil capsules and consult a veterinarian. It may be necessary to start the dog on a lower dose of fish oil to allow the dog’s digestive system to accommodate the increased fatty acids.
All in all, the benefits of fish oils are overwhelmingly positive. Pet owners may want to consider adding supplements to their dog’s daily diet to see if the benefits of fish oil for dogs.
You must draw your own conclusions based on your own dog and some good advice from a trusted vet for your fish oil supplements.
Salmon Oil for Dogs
Most of us are familiar with the benefits of Omega 3 fatty acids for humans, but did you know they can also be an important supplement for improving the health of your dog? Omega 3’s are not produced by the body, therefore your dog must obtain them through their diet. Adding this supplement to your dog’s food is important because most commercial dog foods rely on grain-fed meat for their ingredients. These meats contain lower levels of fatty acids than those found in the tissues of cold-water fish and salmon. Therefore, your dog is probably not receiving the required amount of Omega 3’s that is an essential part of their diet needed to maintain general health. Salmon oil can provide this. Omega 3’s are available in liquid or capsule format. They are easily added to your dog’s diet and quickly metabolized into their system.
Salmon Oil Benefits for Dogs
Omega 3 fatty acids offer many benefits. They improve cardiovascular health by reducing arrhythmia and triglyceride levels that can lead to heart disease. They can reduce blood pressure by decreasing atherosclerotic plaque, which can accumulate inside the lining of the artery wall. They can also provide support for dogs already diagnosed with heart disease. These fatty acids help improve kidney problems such as frequent urination and loss of appetite and may even help prevent renal disease.
Salmon Oil and Omega 3
Studies have shown that Omega 3 does not only protects your dog’s heart and kidneys but also reduces inflammation. When our dogs go outside, they are exposed to a wide variety of microscopic allergens and irritants. Salmon oil is known to help counteract the negative effects of skin allergies such as allergic dermatitis. Fatty acids decrease and control skin inflammation by reducing pain, swelling, and irritation. Dry flaky skin is eliminated or greatly reduced while creating a lustrous coat with an improved sheen. Healthy skin means less itching, eczema, and dermatitis. Omega 3’s are known to strengthen teeth and bones in older dogs, as well as help puppies, develop strong, healthy bones.
Salmon Oil is Known to Reduce Inflammation
Salmon oil also improves conditions such as joint pain and inflammatory bowel disease. Because fatty acids can slow cartilage damage, Omega 3’s are also standard prevention and treatment for canine arthritis. Salmon oil helps dogs produce more natural lubricants resulting in improved mobility, especially with dogs experiencing cartilage damage. This can increase zest and vigor, adding vitality to your dog’s normal routines. Another advantage to this salmon oil supplement includes aiding the mental development of fetuses and puppies. Cognitive function can even be aided in aging dogs.
Salmon Oil and Cancer
Though it is always recommended to consult with your veterinarian, these fatty acids have also been used to treat yeast infections, autoimmune conditions, and even some types of cancers. Salmon oil should be discussed as an essential building block for maintaining a balanced metabolism, Omega 3’s slow cancer cell growth, according to Dr. Oglivie, DVM, Colorado State School of Veterinary Medicine.
Your Vet and Salmon Oil
Your veterinarian can recommend doses based on various factors including your dog’s breed, size, and particular ailment or preexisting conditions. Be sure to notify your vet of all prescription medicines or supplements you are administering to your dog. In addition, liquid salmon oil should be kept refrigerated, in a dark bottle, and not exposed to heat, light, or air. Introduce it gradually into your pet’s diet in order to reduce the likelihood of loose stools. Other side effects to be aware of include bad breath, stomach pain, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. You should watch your dog for any of these gastrointestinal reactions. Slowly introducing this supplement into your dog’s system over time will allow them to become accustomed to the oils. Avoid cheap brands of salmon oil as they may contain toxic mercury or other harmful chemicals. Be aware that too much salmon oil could result in blood clotting problems and should not be administered prior to surgery.
Salmon Oil Can be Used as a Preventative Health Supplement
To promote a strong immune, nervous and cardiovascular system. It also can be used as a treatment for a medical condition such as heart or kidney disease, allergies, and arthritis. This multipurpose supplement should be pure oil, rich in DHA and EPA. It can improve the vitality of your pet and the appearance of their coat and skin. Salmon oil is a wonderful supplement that has a lot to offer in improving the overall health of your dog.
Olive Oil for Dogs
When you think of olive oil, you probably think of the healthy fat used in cooking your meals. This is one staple that is found in many kitchens worldwide. This beneficial fat is not only used for food preparation but dressings, sauces, and more. Olive oil obviously is derived from the olive that is grown on the Mediterranean Basin tree. Aside from cooking and kitchen use, the Greeks and Italians have been using olive oil for centuries for various other reasons including protection for the skin. Christopher Columbus introduced this amazing therapeutic oil to Americans, as immigrants imported it to the United States from their own countries.
Ancestors of Greece and Italy had to crush their own olives with stones or by foot in an attempt to create olive oil. The crushed olives were then placed on flat discs and stacked on top of each other, squeezing out the oil. More recently the process of obtaining the Olive oil is through a mechanical grinding of the olives, continuing with a chemical and motorized method in order to extract the oil. Such a process produces what is known as “virgin oil” as long as there is no heat, solvents, chemical interaction, or microwaves used in its production and process.
Benefits of Olive Oil for Dogs
Olive oil is not only beneficial for human use but is also a healthy addition to your dog’s daily diet. The dogs love the taste and mild odor of this oil, enticing them to consume all of their otherwise boring kibbles. For the best nutrition, choose a well-balanced diet along with omega-3 fatty acids and a dash of olive oil. Not only does it grace the palate, but olive oil can also promote a healthy weight by avoiding obesity, a common problem with many pets. In fact, it can help with weight loss which results from the process of the monounsaturated fats in the oil. It actually works to persuade the melting of fat cells and reduce insulin sensitivity.
More Benefits of Olive Oil for Dogs
The monounsaturated fats in olive oils can also promote optimal health in your dog because of its ability to prevent and lessen the chances of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, olive oil is believed to prevent cancer in dogs because of the oleic acid it contains, along with the compounds of terpenoids and squalene. At least 50 percent of dogs over the age of 10 are affected and die from some type of cancer each year.
Olive oil is filled with high levels of antioxidants, vitamin E, polyphenols, carotenoids, and chlorophyll which are a great combination in promoting your dog’s healthy immune system necessary in fighting off illness and disease. This is especially true during the change of seasons with the alteration of the environment, leading to allergies, skin problems, parasite issues, and more. What is also sad is when your dog starts going gray and becoming tired and drained before its time. Along with a healthy immune system, supplementing your dog’s daily diet can extend its life by preventing free radical cell oxidation that robs your dog of its youth prematurely.
A dose each day can help with cognitive function in your dog, despite its age and breed. Providing this supplement for your senior dog each day can help the animal to be more alert, attentive and happier with improved brain function. Gaining its newfound youth, your dog will also have an increased boost of energy.
This truly amazing substance in its natural form has a multitude of other benefits for your dog. A daily dose can improve circulation by increasing blood flow and can ward off the effects of asthma. It is especially beneficial for the Brachycephalic breeds of dogs that have difficulty breathing, such as the pug and bulldog, although all breeds can benefit from olive oil supplements.
Most of the benefits from this simple home remedy work from the inside out. It conditions the skin with moisture and brings luster to an otherwise dry coat of fur. Adding olive oil to your dog’s diet can promote a beautiful health shining coat and supple skin that is free of flakes and abrasions, not to mention good lubrication for healthy bowels. Administer about a ½ teaspoon of this natural oil from the olive per 20 pounds of a dog at each meal.
A daily dose can ward off the dangers posed by the sun and heat exposure. Dab a little olive oil on your dog’s burnt areas as protection and natural remedy; if it is licked off, it is not dangerous to the pet. Topical application can also relieve raw sores and flea bites. Massaging warm olive oil on burnt, tired, or cracked, sore foot pads can help soothe, relieve and soften your dog’s paws.
Olive oil in its purest form has many benefits for you as well as your canine family member. Provide for a longer, healthier, and happier life for everyone in the home including your dog.
Krill Oil for Dogs
Krill oil is derived from tiny shrimp-like crustaceans that exist predominantly in the North Pacific and Antarctic Oceans. Krill is the main diet for many sea creatures like mantas, baleen whales, and whale sharks. The research discovered that krill is an omega-3 oil that has many benefits similar to that of fish oil because of the content of fatty acids. It can help humans and animals alike with lowering cholesterol, decreasing swelling, and promoting better blood circulation to avoid blood clots.
Krill oil contains both docosahexanoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA)
which is similar to fish oil. It is believed that krill oil is more easily absorbed in the body quicker than fish oil because of its phospholipids structure. The phospholipids are a crucial component in the cell membranes to form lipids. Krill oil also contains the antioxidant astaxanthin that is attached to the phospholipids EPA.
How can Krill Oil Help?
Since krill oil is more easily absorbed in the body, there are less fish burps and nasty aftertaste. This oil also has a longer shelf life because of its antioxidant content. This can be advantageous for the health and well-being of humans and dogs alike. The quality of your dog’s life depends on what goes into its body and krill oil omega-3 is a favorable choice. A nutritional, balanced diet along with this supplement can help dogs with many problems such as behavior issues, dog moods, joint pain, sleeping patterns, and more. Dogs over time can lose mobility and suffer from tightness and pain.
The amalgamation of phospholipids, omega-3 fatty acids, and astaxanthin antioxidants work in combination to promote healthy brain function. These fatty acids also promote good vision along with healthy skin and coat since the antioxidant components protect damage from UV radiation.
Controversy in Krill Oil Used for Dogs
There has been some controversy between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and their benefits for your dog. It is believed that grain-fed beef carries excess omega-6 fatty acids that have been found to cause inflammation. If your dog begins to suffer from an auto-immune disorder, cancer, arthritis, atopic dermatitis, heart disease, allergies, impaired vision, ligament injuries, kidney disease, a low immune system, or stroke, along with other medical conditions, they can be remedied by adding omega-3 krill oil to the animal’s diet. Krill oil also improves the health of the nails, teeth, hair, and skin of your dog.
Many dogs, especially the larger and older animals seem to suffer from arthritis and joint pain. Joint pain is due to inflammation that most often comes with age. Adding the krill oil to the diet is essential and helps to balance out any excess omega-6 that may cause inflammation. The supplement can also improve brain function in puppies and young dogs during their development and as they age for better concentration, learning, and memory. In fact, providing the krill oil to a pregnant dog passes on the benefits to her pups while also increasing nutritious lactation in mom.
Other Benefits of the Krill Oil Omega-3
include healthy liver function and proper blood sugar levels in the body. With its ability to maintain healthy blood cholesterol levels, it can also fight off obesity in your dog, which is a common problem with many pets in recent years. Along with nutritious diet and the supplement, keeping your dog active is beneficial for its health.
Krill oil can be found in many forms to benefit the health of your dog
and with all the Krill oil options on the market, you want to choose the supplement of this omega-3 fatty acid that will promote a healthy happy dog. Look at the ingredients in the supplement along with the price and milligrams per capsule. The label on a high-quality supplement will state that it is 100 percent krill oil with no other additives. A recommended daily dose of krill oil for your dog is 1,000 mg, depending on the size of your animal.
Most krill oil omega-3 supplements come in a soft gel form of 300, 500, or 1,000 mg dosages. As long as the krill oil is pure and high-quality with no other additives, the strength of the capsules depends on the needs of your dog. When checking the dose of the capsules, also take notice of how much phospholipids there are per dose since this is what makes this supplement more beneficial than fish oil. The capsules can be given to your dog directly or can be camouflaged in a piece of food. If that does not work for your dog, pinch the capsule and spread it over the food. Your dog will be more active along with feeling healthier and happier with a nutritionally balanced diet and the addition of omega-3 krill oil
Flaxseed Oil for Dogs
What is Flaxseed Oil?
Flaxseed oil, also known as linseed oil, comes from the ripened seeds of the flax plant. To make the oil, the seeds are pressed, and the resulting liquid is partitioned. It contains both omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil also is a good source of soluble and non-soluble fiber.
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats are good fats that can improve the overall health of your dog. Because these fats are not naturally produced in the body, it is crucial to have them as a regular part of your dog’s diet.
What are the Benefits of Flaxseed Oil for Dog Supplements
There are many possible benefits to flaxseed oil supplements as follows:
- Fight Heart Disease with flaxseed oil
Omega-3 fatty acids are best known for their ability to help the heart. They can bring bad cholesterol down and boost good cholesterol. Flaxseed oil can also help prevent high blood pressure and heart rhythm problems in your dog.
- Fight Inflammatory Disease with flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil for dogs can be used to treat arthritis and other inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease. By feeding your dog flaxseed oil supplements on a predictable schedule, it’s possible to completely eliminate symptom flares.
If your dog has allergies, an oil supplement can help fight the inflammation associated with allergy attacks.
- Boost the Immune System with flaxseed oil
Over time, regular intake of a flaxseed oil supplement can help give your dog’s immune system a healthy boost. This is very beneficial for dogs with cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids help to fight cancerous cells. If taken as a preventative measure, cancer could possibly never occur. By boosting the immune system, your dog can fight the free radicals that would turn more cells into cancerous ones.
Dogs with allergies would also have a fantastic benefit from a boosted immune system. An oil supplement can help get rid of those allergies and prevent new ones from developing.
Coat and Skin Maintenance Benefits from Flaxseed Oil
The added healthy fats in your dog’s diet would help to keep his fur and skin soft. Healthy skin also would significantly reduce shedding.
Added fiber in flaxseed oil
Because flaxseed oil is so high in both soluble and non-soluble fiber, it can be used as a remedy for constipation. Regular intake of this supplement can prevent constipation from happening in the first place.
Added fiber can also be beneficial to overweight dogs. Fiber helps the dog feel fuller longer. This will encourage him to eat less and eventually lose some weight.
Are There Any Drawbacks in Flaxseed Oil for Dogs?
Because the type of omega-3 fatty acid is alpha-linolic acid or ALA, it must be metabolized in the dog’s body to EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) fatty acids. If you are not experiencing the expected benefits of flaxseed oil when giving the supplements to your dog, it may be because your dog’s metabolic system is not properly working with the oil. Consider either adding another supplement to work with your dog’s metabolic system or switch to Fish Oil supplements for the Omega-3 fatty acids. Fish Oil already contains high levels of EPA and DHA.
Processes of Obtaining Flaxseed Oil from Flaxseeds
The process of obtaining the oil from flaxseeds may not always be the most efficient. The fiber content could get lost in the process. Check with the manufacturer to ensure it is cold processed and without light for the best results.
Studies of flaxseed oil are still ongoing. While many studies suggest all of these benefits, they still have yet to be proven. Much of the information available is from personal testaments. What works for some may not work for all when using flaxseed oil for dogs.
Cod Liver Oil for Dogs
Cod liver oil is a nutritional supplement that is extracted from the livers of codfish. Users of this oil often take the supplement because it provides them with omega-3 fatty acids. Of particular nutritional importance are DHA and EPA. In addition, cod liver oil amply provides one’s daily recommended allowance of fat-soluble Vitamin A and Vitamin D. This oil has very few side effects and can be taken daily for health maintenance.
Cod liver oil can be used more heavily to lessen the pain associated with arthritis. Fish oils have an anti-inflammatory action that helps to lubricate joints and prevent blood clots. Science is increasingly showing that cod liver oil and omega-3 fatty acids help the heart, bones, brain, and immune system to perform more efficiently. Nordic Naturals manufactures oils specifically formulated to ensure that one’s cats and dogs never develop problems associated with omega-3 deficiencies. (1) Like essential amino acids, the body cannot endogenously produce omega-3 fatty acids; therefore, omega-3 fatty acids must be supplemented in the diet. The medical community has recently noted that humans, and even their pet companions, are frequently chronically deficient in omega-3 fatty acids.
What are DHA and EPA?
Both DHA and EPA are omega-3 fatty acids. EPA can be obtained either through fish oil or through oily fish like mackerel, salmon, and herring. DHA is another omega-3 fatty acid that is crucial for brain, heart, cell, and skin health. In fact, DHA is said to comprise the human brain, retina, and skin. The same holds true for dogs and cats. According to many studies, though, cats and dogs are less adept at
obtaining and metabolizing omega-3 fatty acids.
The Benefits of Cod Liver Oil for Dogs
Cod liver oil is believed to bolster cell health, brain health, cardiovascular function, skin health, and immune system function. Nordic Naturals recommends that five milliliters of cod liver oil per day be given to medium-sized dogs. (1) Furnishing one’s pet with a daily dose of cod liver oil will provide one’s dog or cat with critical omega-3 fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins.
Vitamin A, for instance, is considered an essential nutrient in the daily diet of cats and dogs. Vitamin A is in high abundance in Nordic Natural’s cod liver oil formulation. Vitamin A is critical for regular immune function, vision, growth, and differentiation of cells. Each teaspoon of cod liver oil typically delivers 1200 IU of Vitamin A.
Essential Nutrients
Many nutritional experts claim that dogs are not receiving adequate nutrition with today’s dog food, which is largely comprised of cheap meat, processed material, and crude fat. It is said to combat these dietary deficiencies and enhance the growth and exuberance of dogs. As most dog foods are still missing omega-3 fatty acids, supplementing with cod liver oil may be advisable. Interestingly, the ideal ratio of omega-3 fatty acids to omega-6 fatty acids in humans is said to be around 1:1, yet in dogs, the ideal ratio is 5:1.(2) These findings indicate that dogs are more in need of omega-3 fatty acids than humans are, and humans are chronically low!
In dogs, though, omega-3 fatty acids serve as the fodder by which a healthy coat is produced. Supplementing your dog’s diet with cod liver oil will likely improve your dog’s sense of vitality, eyesight and heart health. Cod liver oil can even ensure that proper calcium and phosphorous levels are maintained to yield robust bone health. Moreover, cod liver oil is actually more bioavailable and nutritious than plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Cod liver oil contains high levels of DHA and EPA as well as adequate amounts of Vitamin A and Vitamin D to bolster bone health and vitality.
Directions and Safe Dosages
Before starting your dog on a cod liver oil supplement, owners should check that their dogs are not already taking blood-thinning medication. Owners should also make sure that any cod liver oil they select is purified and concentrated. Nordic Natural is an excellent brand. As for the amount of cod liver oil owners should give their dogs, the exact amount varies by the dog’s weight. Dogs under 20 pounds can receive 1/4 teaspoon whereas larger dogs can safely receive one-half or one teaspoon per day.
Coconut Oil for Dogs
Supplement oils can be a confusing topic. Most dog owners have heard of the benefits of feeding fish oils. There are many oils that can be used to you and your dog’s benefit, each with different pros and cons. Here we will cover coconut oils for your dog.
Coconut oil is a supplement that has been used for years for human consumption. It is believed to provide benefits in treating diabetes, thyroid conditions, irritable bowel syndrome, and other digestive issues. It is also believed to improve thyroid efficiency, which can boost energy levels and increase endurance as well. Topical application has proven it to be a superior skin moisturizer.
What are the Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs?
Only in recent years has coconut oil been considered a supplement for dogs. Coconut oil contains lauric acid which is a fatty acid. Some of the many benefits attributed to ingesting coconut oil on a daily basis include a reduction of the risk of certain cancers, promotion of normal thyroid function, relief of arthritic issues, improved digestion, and promotion of healthy skin and coat.
Additional benefits can be gained from using coconut oil topically, including relief for symptoms of rashes on the skin. It is believed to act as a disinfectant for cuts. It also promotes speedy healing of wounds. It is a great substance to rub into the pads of your dog’s feet if your dog tends to get sore pads from walking and running on rocky ground or pavement. Since coconut oil also acts as a deodorizer, it should also control some of that doggy odor many dogs experience.
Coconut oils consist of more than 90% saturated fats,
with a few unsaturated fatty acids, such as monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the saturated fats in coconut oil are Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs).
What is the Recommended Dosage?
The proper amount of coconut oil to use on a daily basis is one teaspoon per ten pounds of dog or one tablespoon per thirty pounds of dog.
As with any supplement, if your pet has any medical conditions which are being treated by your veterinarian, or if you know of a chronic health condition suffered by your pet, you should check with your veterinarian to make sure it does not contraindicate any current treatment plan.
Most Coconut Oil Benefits
come from the MCTs or Medium Chain Triglycerides. For example, the lauric acid in coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. Capric and caprylic acid have similar properties and are best known for their anti-fungal effects.
In addition, MCTs are efficiently metabolized to provide an immediate source of fuel and energy, enhancing athletic performance and aiding weight loss. In dogs, the MCTs in coconut oil balance the thyroid, helping overweight dogs lose weight and helping sedentary dogs feel energetic.
According to a well-known certified nutritionist and naturopathic doctor, coconut oil gently elevates the metabolism, provides a higher level of energy and vitality, protects you from illness, and speeds healing. As a bonus, coconut oil improves any dog’s skin and coat, improves digestion, and reduces allergic reactions.
Can I Give My Pet Any Medical Supplement That I Take?
There are many substances that are beneficial to humans but can prove to be toxic to your dog. Just because you can consume something does not mean your dog can eat the same thing. In the case of coconut oil, unless there is a pre-existing medical condition as outlined above, this supplement is being recommended by many vets as a daily supplement for dogs, especially those with digestive disorders or skin conditions.
Importance of MCT’s
Integrative Veterinarian and Naturopathic Doctor, Dr. Karen Becker, says:
“Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have been shown to improve brain energy metabolism and decrease the amyloid protein buildup that results in brain lesions in older dogs. Coconut oil is a rich source of MCTs for dogs. I recommend 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight twice daily for basic MCT support.”
How Do I Feed This Supplement To My Dog?
Coconut oil has a good flavor, making it an easy supplement to pour over your dog’s daily ration of food. Most dogs will not even notice the addition of the supplement. Can I expect any reactions to the addition of coconut oil to my dog’s diet? If you begin adding the oil slowly, your dog will hopefully not suffer any negative effects. Occasionally a dog that is sensitive to changes in diet may experience loose stools after the addition of coconut oil to the diet. If this occurs, discontinue the oil for a day or two, and then re-introduce, using a smaller dosage than you tried the first time. If your dog continues to experience problems, stop using the supplement and contact your veterinarian.
Another side effect that occasionally occurs includes flu-like symptoms. If this occurs in your dog, discontinue using the supplement immediately and contact your veterinarian for suggestions on how to introduce this product into your dog’s diet over a longer period of time. It may take several days for your dog’s digestive system to get used to the product.
Considering the benefits of coconut oil, this product helps support overall good health in dogs and should be seriously considered as a reasonable supplement to add to your dog’s daily diet.
