Can Dogs Eat Coconut?

The short answer: Yes, but with caution.

The long answer: Coconut is a tropical fruit that can be consumed by your dog in moderation. If coconut is integrated into his diet gradually, it can improve your pooch’s coat, skin, and digestion. Packed with healthy saturated fats, coconut can be fed to him in a variety of forms: raw, dried, flaked, oil, or flour. However, too much of the fruit can cause stomach upset, bloating, loose stools, and/or unnecessary weight gain.

A healthier alternative to more processed saturated and trans fats, extra virgin coconut oil has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that can help boost your dog’s immune system. It is also said to improve his bad breath, increase his energy, and help him lose weight.

How to feed coconut to your dog: Introduce the fruit to your pet in small doses, and see how his stomach reacts to it. The fresh meat of the coconut can be chopped and fed raw to your pet. You can also serve it as dried flakes for him to enjoy as added flavouring over a regular meal. Coconut juice or milk should be given sparingly because it is high in potassium and carbohydrates that might produce gastrointestinal problems.

Never let your dog chew on the hard shell of the coconut. The outer part can damage his teeth, while its husk may become a choking hazard. If swallowed, the coconut shell can become an obstruction in his digestive system.

Here are three ideas for coconut treats your dog will love:

Heat a spoonful of coconut oil and mix it into your dog’s food.
Reward your pooch for being a good boy with peanut butter coconut oil dog treats.
On a sweltering day, a frozen cube of coconut juice would be a refreshing treat for your dog!

In summary: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, coconut is a nutritious treat that your pooch can enjoy in modest servings. As long as your dog isn’t sensitive to coconut, he can enjoy the health benefits of this tropical fruit.

References:

Food dogs should not eat and some they should