Introduction
The sweet, fresh pulp of a coconut can be the most appetising and refreshing, on a hot summer day. It is highly nutritious and contains protein, several important minerals and select vitamins. Its rich antioxidant properties may prevent multiple health issues such as heart disease, may control blood sugar levels and may protect damaged or dead cells caused by chemotherapy or oxidation.
While it has been proven that coconut meat is beneficial for humans, is it safe for your dogs to eat? The answer is yes – provided it is fed in moderation and in the right method.
Can My Dog Eat Coconut?
Dogs can eat the flesh of the coconut, as well as drink the water, and consume coconut oil. It is non-toxic for pets, and can be digested if fed in moderation. Much like for humans, coconut offers multiple benefits for dogs too – the primary being taste! The sweet pulp is refreshing and can prove quite the tasty snack for your pooch. The water is excellent to keep your pet hydrated during the summer.
The fruit is also high in vitamins, minerals and fibre so including the raw or dried and pressed coconut in your dog’s diet is beneficial. Another component of coconut is manganese, which is essential for bone health and metabolic functioning – thus adding more advantages for your dog. The pulp is also rich in immune-supporting antioxidants and contains lauric acid that reduces inflammation in the body boosts the immune system.
Using coconut by products: Coconut Oil and Coconut Water
One of the biggest advantages of coconut is that most of the fat content is in the form of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Some studies have found that consuming such MCTs rather than other types of animal-based fats can promote fat loss, because the body directly absorbs the MCTs directly from the small intestine to use it for energy. SO it is both safe and healthy for your dog to consume coconut in these forms:
Coconut flesh – it is safe for dogs provided fed in moderation. Some dogs may develop gastrointestinal issues or indigestion so keep a close watch on our pet’s reaction to coconut, or while introducing any new foods.
Coconut oil – mix no more than quarter teaspoon of coconut oil every day with our pet’s food. This can help in multiple ways such as providing energy, improving condition of coat and skin, helping to soothe old wounds or skin issues and so on.
Coconut water – since the water inside a coconut is rich in electrolytes, it is great to keep your dog hydrated especially on a hot day. However, it is high in carbohydrates so has to be fed sparingly. Ensure that no additives such as sugar are added and only natural coconut water is given.
Choking hazard: Remove Husk to Prevent Choking
One of the most important points to keep in mind is to clean the coconut pulp and water thoroughly before feeding your do. The outer layer of the coconut is a strong, hard shell which if broken incorrectly can result in sharp shards breaking away. Thoroughly clean the pulp and water, remove any such sharp shards to prevent your do from choking on it. The coconut’s outer layer also comprises a thick and rough husk – if your dog accidentally consumes this it cause choking, get stuck in the food pipe or cause intestinal problems. Hence, always remove the shell and husks and then give your dog coconut.
VOSD – Consult With A Vet Online
VOSD is India’s first, largest, best-designed and best-managed dog sanctuary. If you are looking for advice on medication for your dog, our entire experience of over 250,000 treatments for over 10,000 dogs of different breeds and health conditions is available to you on our website.
In addition, to help dog parents who are going through a tough time, we’ve introduced a ‘Telemedicine for Dogs’ service that allows you to seek online treatment for dogs from qualified veterinarians. You can consult the best medical experts over phone, Skype or your choice of communication. For emergency vet advice for dogs, please send us an email. To avail the best medical advice or a second medical opinion please visit vosd.in/our-services/vet-advice-for-dogs/.
