Coconut is among the most staple food in India. We Indians love to have it in our chutneys, smoothies, sweets and curries! We enjoy every part of it whether it is coconut meat, milk or oil. But is it something we can feed to our pups? The short answer is yes, of course! The dense, white coconut fruit is high in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Whether it is raw, dried, blended into milk, or pressed into oil, coconut is a fine addition to your dog’s diet as long as it's fed with care and in moderation, you know even the good things in excess can cause problems.
We love coconut for its rich, tropical taste and its numerous health benefits. The flavour of coconut is also well accepted by majority of the dogs and the following benefits of coconut give your dog’s health a boost:
1) Highly Nutritious
Coconut is mainly high in healthy fats, Medium chain fatty acids, that reduces inflammation in the body and boost immunity. It is also high in manganese, which is essential for bone health and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and cholesterol. Copper and iron present in coconut helps form red blood cells in the body.
2) Antibacterial
Some studies have found that coconut could help block the growth of certain bacteria strains. Coconut especially the oil, has natural antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Coconut is also an amazing healer, you can apply the coconut oil on your dog’s wounds or scratches and watch them heal fast!
3) It’s great for the skin and coat
Coconut is high in healthy fats and hydrates the body from within. Studies show that coconut hydrates the skin and increases skin surface lipid levels.
4) It may improve your dog’s gut health
Coconut Meat is high in fiber and supports the good bacteria in the gut and help maintain bowel health. In a research study comparing several different oils, coconut oil showed the greatest impact on stopping the growth of yeast in the gut.
5) It can help to clean your dog’s teeth
Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, coconut makes the perfect natural teeth cleaner. It helps eliminate the harmful bacteria that live in your dog’s mouth. This can help prevent plaque from forming and avoid dental disease.
6) Coconut contains powerful antioxidants
Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that can help protect cells from oxidative damage. The main phenolic compounds identified include (24):
- Gallic acid
- Caffeic acid
- Salicylic acid
- P-coumaric acid
Lab tests on coconut meat have shown that it can neutralize harmful compounds called free radicals, which contribute to chronic disease. (https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10942912.2015.1099042)
The antioxidants in Coconut can also help protect against DNA damage. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29558429/ )
Products of coconut dogs can eat
Your dog can eat almost every product of coconut as long it is unsweetened except the husk and shell
Coconut meat: Whether raw or dried, coconut meat is usually sold shredded or in flakes.
Coconut milk: Unsweetened coconut milk is safe as a dog treat as long as it is given in small amounts
Coconut Flour: This alternative to wheat flour is dog-safe and can be used to bake dog treats.
Desiccated Coconut: Unsweetened desiccated coconut can be added to your dog meals or treats to enhance the flavour.
Coconut Water: Natural coconut water can be a hydrating beverage for your dog, and it provides many beneficial vitamins and nutrients. You can freeze coconut water in an ice cube tray to offer your pet a refreshing dog treat on a hot day. Coconut water should be given in moderation as it is very high in certain minerals.
