The coconut (Cocos nucifera) earned the title as the tree of life for humans, but what about dogs? The coconut research centre has gathered successful stories and benefits they got from coconut products. Nigel Markey, one of the respondents, shared a story about him and his mastiff dog. Nigel had gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, whilst his dog had water retention problem. Drinking coconut water helped improve their health conditions.
But can dogs eat coconut? Or is it just the coconut’s water and oil? Science has revealed that the oil comes from the meat itself. As such, it is safe to consider coconut meat as beneficial as the coconut oil. When properly prepared and served in adequate amounts, it’s not only a delicious treat but a nutritional one as well.
Overall benefits of coconut for dogs
- It boosts the immune system.
- It aids red blood production.
- It decreases inflammation.
- It is beneficial for the canine’s skin and coat.
Coconut meat for dogs
Can dogs eat coconut meat? Yes! It is considered non-toxic. Can dogs eat coconut flakes? Flakes contain triglycerides which can lead to digestive problems, stomach ache, and bloat. Therefore, coconut as a food to your pet should be kept in moderation and should be closely observed for food reactions.
- Coconut meat can decrease the intensity of inflammation.
Coco meat contains anti-inflammatory properties and lauric acid, which makes an excellent source of energy. This will help in fast recovery in cuts, hot spots, and other forms of wounds. With reduced inflammation, it lessens the joint pains of dogs that have arthritis. This may not serve as a cure but will make the pain bearable and will aid your dog’s movement. - Coconut meat can boost the immune system.
It supports the body with extra defence against viruses, harmful bacteria, infections, parasites, and fungi. - Coconut meat can improve coat and skin.
It improves his odour and coat quality, keeping the coat smooth and glossy. Moreover, it is also beneficial to skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory content. This will reduce the risk of any infections, hot spots, dry, itchy skin, and flea allergies.
Raw coconut is the best way to feed to your pooch, but take extra caution with its shell. There are other owners who purposely give coco shells as a chew treat but it is generally risky. It is best to remove the shell before giving the coconut meat. The shell can cause intestinal irritation or blockage when embedded in his oesophagus.
Further, feed coconut in moderation as it contains medium chain triglycerides that can cause bloating. Be mindful of your dog’s reaction upon feeding mature coconut. There are some breeds that cannot digest well, which can lead to stomach ache.
Coconut water for dogs
Can you give coconut water to dogs? Some would say that coconut water for dog dehydration is effective. Let’s take a look at its nutritional content. Coco water provides vitamins, potassium, enzymes, electrolytes, and minerals.
- Coconut water has energy-boosting nutrients.
- It can keep your dog dehydrated.
- It can be a nice treat for your dog.
How much coconut water should I give to my dog? Know that water from baby coconut contains 50 per cent glucose and 35 per cent sucrose and fructose for the remaining percentage. It might be alarming at first glance but a hundred millilitres of coco water contains only 2.9 grams of sugar. Thus, 200 mL of fresh coco water provides your pet with only an average of 5.8 or 6 grams of sugar with glucose, fructose, and sucrose.
Moreover, beware of giving your canine bottled coco water as they are often processed with artificial sweeteners that can increase the level of sugar. To provide healthier nourishment, choose the freshest coconut available.
Coconut milk for dogs
Can you give your dog coconut milk? Similar to the aforementioned coconut products, coco milk is not toxic to dogs. In fact, it is beneficial to the dog’s health.
- Coconut milk can help fight off virus.
- It boosts the immune system.
- It adds glossiness and smoothness to the dog’s coat.
- It contains certain enzymes that lessen your dog’s stinky breath.
However, feeding milk to your pooch should still be kept in moderation. Know that coco milk is creamy, which might upset your dog’s stomach. In addition, coconut milk is often sold processed with several additives that might not be health-beneficial. That being said, it is healthier to provide natural coconut products such as the coconut water rich in electrolytes and nutrients and coconut oil full of healthy fats.
Coconut dog treats
Remember that when introducing new food to your dog, it should be done gradually. Here are some ideas on how to introduce coconut in meals:
- Add coconut chips with their dog food as treats.
- Dip treats in coconut oil.
- Add coconut milk or coconut water in your dog’s food or water bowl.
- Give raw pieces of coconut flesh.
Did you find this article helpful? Read more pet nutritional advice .
