We all know the benefits of coconut oil on humans.

But what about dogs? Can they also benefit from the virtues of this ancestral grandmother’s remedy ?

The answer is yes.

For skin, hair, breath, and general health, coconut oil is beneficial for our four-legged friends.

Here are the top benefits of coconut oil for dogs along with the best ways to use it.

 

Coconut Oil: What is it?

Coconut oil comes from the flesh of coconuts .

This oil of tropical origin is characterized by a firm and creamy white texture when stored at room temperature and liquefies from around 24°C.

It contains 100% fat , of which about 80% is saturated fat .

These are the famous fatty acids that make coconut oil so strong.

Coconut oil thus contains approximately:

• 48% lauric acid
• 8% caprylic acid
• 7% capric acid
• Myristic and palmitic acids

Antibacterial , antifungal and antiviral , all these acids contribute to the proper functioning of the body, and work together to preserve health and well-being .

They combat bad breath, weight gain, loss of energy, infections, dry skin, cuts and digestive problems, to name a few.

Coconut Oil: Is It Dangerous for Dogs?

Although research is still in its early stages, coconut oil is believed to be safe for dogs, both when used orally and topically.

However, it is essential to adapt the dose of coconut oil to the weight, size and state of health of the dog.

This is why it is recommended to seek advice from your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet or care routine.

 

Coconut Oil: 10 Benefits for Dogs

1. Protect, nourish and hydrate the skin

Coconut oil is a great natural solution for skin problems .

Thanks to the nourishing fatty acids it contains, it helps to hydrate and protect the skin of canines.

Linoleic acid (vitamin F) in particular helps the skin retain moisture , while lauric acid offers antibacterial properties .

Nourishing , protective and moisturizing , coconut oil can therefore be used topically on dogs in cases of:

• Dry skin
• Irritated skin
• Tight skin
• Itching (related to allergies or irritants)
• Films
• Skin conditions (eg eczema)

You can apply coconut oil directly to your dog’s skin.

Start by warming a small amount between your hands, then massage the skin until it is absorbed.

2. Disinfect and soothe wounds

Studies have shown that coconut oil has natural antiviral , anti-inflammatory , antibacterial and antifungal properties .

It can therefore be an excellent topical solution to help relieve:

• The cuts
• Superficial burns
• The injuries
• Cracks (related to the cold of winter for example)
• Insect bites
• Inflammations​

Tip : Coconut oil is ideal as a balm to protect, moisturize and repair pads weakened in winter (dry and cracked pads).

3. Improve the appearance of the coat

Coconut oil is great for dogs when it comes to coats:

• Dry
• Dull
• Bad health
• scaly

For a shiny, soft coat , you can add coconut oil to your dog’s diet or use it as a natural conditioner.

4. Promote weight loss

Obesity in dogs is a common problem, which can have long-term effects on health. If your dog is overweight , his body is under stress that can lead to:

• High blood pressure
• Joint problems or osteoarthritis
• Diabetes
• Breathing difficulties
• Liver disease or dysfunction

Adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet can balance the thyroid and aid in weight loss .

5. Strengthen the immune system

The antiviral and antibacterial properties of coconut oil help prevent infections and diseases .

It can therefore be an effective solution in the event of:

• Weakness
• Loss of energy
• Increased susceptibility to diseases

Tip: You can use coconut oil as a treatment during seasonal changes, which tend to weaken the immune defenses of dogs, as well as humans.

6. Improve digestion

Coconut oil is particularly effective in dogs to promote healthy bowel function .

Among its benefits, coconut oil can:

• Improve digestion
• Relieve the symptoms of colitis
• Alleviate inflammatory bowel disorders

Coconut oil actually promotes the overall absorption of nutrients and the proper functioning of the metabolism.

7. Participate in dental health

Coconut oil can also be used as a toothpaste , to promote dental health .

Brushing your dog’s teeth with coconut oil can actually:

• Fighting gum disease
• Reduce bad breath
• Prevent tartar build-up

Its secret weapon? Lauric acid (again) which kills bacteria that cause cavities and bad breath in your dog’s mouth.

You can clean your dog’s teeth with coconut oil in two ways: using a dog toothbrush or letting him do the work himself through a chew bone covered in coconut oil.

In the latter case, dip a chew bone in melted coconut oil and let it dry. Once dry, give the bone to your dog to chew on.

8. Repel fleas and ticks

If you take your dog camping or hiking in the woods, consider rubbing coconut oil into his coat to repel fleas, mites, and ticks.

Simply rub the oil between your hands to make it less thick and apply it all over your coat, right down to the roots.

The fat in coconut oil will prevent ticks and fleas from attaching to your dog’s hair.

Coconut oil is a natural, non-toxic alternative to chemical repellents.

9. Improve brain function

In a study published in 2010 , a team of researchers found that medium-chain triglycerides in coconut oil have lasting cognitive effects on aging dogs.

They stimulate the dog’s brain functions by providing energy in the form of ketones .

As we age, this alternative energy source promotes a healthy, active mind to maintain brain function and even prevent dementia .

10. Refresh the dog’s smell

Does your dog smell bad? Small amounts of coconut oil can deodorize your pet’s coat and keep it smelling fresh for a few days.

It’s not for nothing that coconut oil is a popular ingredient in deodorants and shampoos.

 

Which coconut oil should I choose for my dog?

In stores you will find virgin and refined coconut oil. The type of oil you buy is indicated on the label.

Virgin coconut oil is less processed than the refined version, which preserves its sweet, tropical, coconut-like flavor.

Refined coconut oil undergoes more processing, which gives it a more neutral odor and flavor.

The best coconut oil for dogs is unrefined, virgin, organic coconut oil .

The ideal coconut oil should in fact undergo only minimal processing, in order to preserve all of its benefits for your dog’s health.

 

How much coconut oil should I give my dog?

If used orally, the dose of coconut oil to give your dog should depend on:

• His weight
• Her size
• His health

This is why it is always recommended to seek advice from your veterinarian beforehand.

Overall, it is recommended to start by giving small doses of coconut oil to dogs and gradually increase :

• 1/4 teaspoon daily for small dogs
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) per day for large dogs

The increase in doses should be done gradually so that you can observe your dog’s reaction and potential side effects ( diarrhea , weight gain, allergic reaction, etc.).

After two weeks of observation, the consensus is to give 1 teaspoon per 4.5 kg of body weight.

 

Coconut oil and CBD, the winning duo

To accentuate the natural benefits of coconut oil, you can combine it with CBD .

This hemp extract will reinforce the different virtues of coconut oil, while providing complementary properties .

Healthy and effective , CBD for dogs allows you to:

• Relieve stress
• Reduce pain
• Combat nausea and vomiting
• Improve appetite
• Strengthen the immune system

BotaCalm Coconut Oil & CBD Spray

Botaneo’s BotaCalm spray combines coconut oil and CBD to provide a comprehensive wellness solution for dogs.

By combining these two natural remedies , BotaCalm spray promotes the proper functioning of the dog’s metabolism, while providing strength, support and harmony.

To be used as a treatment or occasionally , the spray can be sprayed directly into the dog’s mouth or into the food, depending on the animal’s preferences.

Discover CBD oil for dogs

BotaBalm Nourishing Balm Coconut Oil & CBD

BotaBalm nourishing balm combines the benefits of coconut oil with the virtues of CBD, shea butter and beeswax.

100% natural, it is ideal for nourishing, protecting, soothing and moisturizing dry and damaged skin caused by cold, intensive walking, hot sidewalks, frost, dry air and any other external aggression.

Perfect for: cracked pads, dry noses and elbows, minor injuries…