Can a Dog have Coconut?

Of Course Fido Can! The probability that you’ll find coconut on a list of food dogs can’t eat is slim. The trick is that you just need to serve it correctly and in moderation. But, exactly what am I suggesting? Simply put, never feed a dog coconut that is still in its shell. It’s extremely dangerous for a dog to eat parts of the outer coconut shell. It is very likely to cause an intestinal obstruction. And, this could lead to Fido needing an operation or worse, pass away due to your negligence.

The so called “meat” of the coconut (the inner portions), however, is safe for a dog to eat. You can feed coconut to your dog in various ways…. Dried, raw, or even as coconut flakes. Just remember not to give him too much. While coconut is safe for Fido to eat (we are talking about a spoonful as a treat and not large amounts).

Remember that there are certain types of triglycerides in coconut – which isn’t poisonous for a dog. But it can, and most likely will, irritate his gastrointestinal tract, especially if your dog has a delicate stomach, and may cause bloating and stomach aches. Not to mention diarrhea. This, then, could lead to dehydration and even more issues with her.

 

Can a Dog Eat Coconut Water and Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil is pretty popular and has often been promoted as an alternative remedy for bacterial and fungal infections. The benefits of coconut oil really have not been proven yet for humans. However, some scientists have mentioned that coconut may have good benefits for your dog? If you aren’t convinced by scientists, just know that your dog can eat the internal parts of coconut – as long as you don’t give him too much. Also, keep in mind that coconut oil can be fattening, no matter what its health benefits.

There are only a handful of scientific studies to prove a coconut’s nutritional benefits, we aren’t entirely sure if coconut oil is dog-friendly, which means your Fido could consume it in moderation. We, however, tend to shy away from giving dogs coconut oil. There are animal nutritionists and holistic veterinarians who tout the positive effects of coconut oil when added to a dog’s diet – which includes improving your dog’s coat and skin. It’s worth mentioning again and again that too much can and most likely will irritate your dog’s stomach lining causing them to have cramping, diarrhea, and loose stool.

There are studies that indicate coconut oil may cause an adverse auto-immune response as well as inflammation increase of the amount of toxicity in lipopolysaccharide or LPSj, Interestingly enough, there are studies where coconut can also help stop inflammation. It just depends on how your dog reacts.

Finally, there is coconut water, which is another form of coconut that your dog can eat or rather drink. Coconut water is 100 percent pure and natural making it safe – ish for your dog. If you purchase coconut water from your local market you MUST sure to check the ingredients. If there are added ingredients – additives, preservatives – even sugar is most likely dangerous for your dog.

 

 

Feeding Tips Feeding Dogs Coconut Milk

Only give your dog organic coconut milk

THIS MATTERS. Anything non-organic most likely uses pesticides that may be harmful to your dog. Look for natural/organic coconut milk only. This will always be the best choice for coconut milk since it will not have been processed.

If you decide to feed Fido coconut, keep this basic guideline in the back of your mind. 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of your dogs body weight. No more than in a single day. Also, it’s best if you start out with a half teaspoon and wait a couple of hours to see how your dog reacts to it. If there is a lot of gas. Stop. If there is nausea and/or diarrhea Stop. If your dog walks away from it. Stop! Hopefully, you are catching on here.

 

Final Thoughts