The benefits and potential risks of feeding coconuts to dogs.

In the course of the past several years, coconuts have been falling in and out of favour in canine nutrition. Some people love them, others not so much.

But science and research on coconuts suggests there are many benefits when it’s added to your dog’s diet in small amounts.  The goal of this article is to provide us with a more in depth look at the nutritional and health benefits of coconuts for dogs.

What does research say?

Coconut oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which provide a source of energy for the body and brain.  It can also help manage digestive disorders in dogs.

Based on research coconut oil may also help improve our dogs’ skin and coat when applied topically, making the coat shinier and less prone to damage.

Another research study confirmed that coconut oil has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. This is due to the  MCTs (medium chain triglycerides), particularly lauric acid, that helps fight harmful bacteria and fungi in dogs.

Some studies suggest that coconut oil may have anti-inflammatory properties and it also has the ability to speed up the healing of cuts, hot spots, and other wounds in dogs.

Research indicates that the MCTs in coconut oil may also help improve brain function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline in dogs.

Are there any risks of giving coconuts to dogs?

In rare instances, high amounts of coconut oil may cause digestive issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach upset. For a medium sized dog, more than 1/2 of a coconuts flesh can cause such symptoms. 

I also do not recommend giving large amounts of coconut oil to dogs that have a history of pancreatitis or elevated pancreatic enzymes. A few teaspoons are fine, but large amounts may be aggravating.

Many sources exaggerate such risks and appear to disseminate such information without any scientific backing. This often happens when clinically inexperienced writers and non-veterinarians write articles and copy this information from each other. 

In summary, most dogs can benefit from small amounts of coconut oil or fresh and dried coconut fleah as a treat. Canines love fresh coconut and would eat it regularly in climates where they are available.

Can dogs gain weight eating coconuts?

Unless we give large amounts of coconut oil or coconut, weight gain should not be an issue.  However similar to other calorie dense foods, we must pay attention to the amount of calories we give our dogs if they appear to gain weight. 

Are coconut shells dangerous for dogs?

Most dogs instinctively leave coconut shells out. However, some dogs may chew off pieces which may carry a risk of an obstruction.  Always supervise your dog when giving coconut in a shell.

If your dog eats pieces of coconut shells, click here for first aid instructions.

Coconuts are also hard, which carries the risk of dental fractures. If you give your dog a coconut, either shell it first or monitor your dog to prevent them from chewing on the hard shell.

What types of coconut products are safe for dogs?

In general, all of the forms of coconut are safe.

Coconut oil and coconut milk have higher fat content so only small amounts are recommended. I have included certified organic coconut oil in JointButter – a joint and mobility support for dogs, for added benefits.

Coconut water is good for dogs, unless they are allergic to it, and it contains beneficial minerals and vitamins. Coconut meat can be given more frequently depending on our dogs’ tolerance.

A homemade coconut yogurt is another great option and treat for both you and your dog.

How can we give coconut oil to dogs? Can it be applied topically?

Coconut oil can be given orally but also applied topically. For example, it is one of the ingredients in FleaHex and TickHex, natural and chemical free flea and tick control for dogs.

It is known to make the coat more shiny and reduce the potential of bacterial and yeast overgrowth of the skin.

Is coconut a remedy for dog health issues like yeast infections or inflammation?

As mentioned above, research has shown that coconut has the ability to suppress yeast growth and reduce inflammation in dogs which makes it beneficial in small amounts.  However, it is unlikely to help completely resolve such issues.

Focusing on the underlying cause of infections and inflammation will provide the best results.

References:

1. Vecchiato, C.G., et al. (2023). Fecal Microbiota, Bile Acids, Sterols, and Fatty Acids in Dogs with Chronic Enteropathy Fed a Home-Cooked Diet Supplemented with Coconut Oil. *Animals, 13*(3), 502.

2. Pan, Y., et al. (2018). Efficacy of a Therapeutic Diet on Dogs With Signs of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome (CDS): A Prospective Double Blinded Placebo Controlled Clinical Study. *Frontiers in Nutrition, 5*, 127.

3. Trinidad, T. P., Mallillin, A. C., Valdez, D. H., Loyola, A. S., Askali-Mercado, F. C., Castillo, J. C., Encabo, R. R., Masa, D. B., Maglaya, A. S., & Chua, M. T. (2006). Dietary fiber from coconut flour: A functional food. Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 7(4), 309-317. 

4. Fernando, W. M. A. D. B., Martins, I. J., Goozee, K. G., Brennan, C. S., Jayasena, V., & Martins, R. N. (2015). The role of dietary coconut for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease: potential mechanisms of action. British Journal of Nutrition, 114(1), 1-14.

5. Kabara, J. J., Swieczkowski, D. M., Conley, A. J., & Truant, J. P. (1972). Fatty Acids and Derivatives as Antimicrobial Agents. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 2(1), 23-28. 

6. Eyres, L., Eyres, M. F., Chisholm, A., & Brown, R. C. (2016). Coconut oil consumption and cardiovascular risk factors in humans. Nutrition Reviews, 74(4), 267-280.