Can Dogs Eat Coconut?

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Can Dogs Eat Coconut? Dogs can actually eat coconut oil and are sometimes supplemented with it by their owners, but what about the coconut meat itself? Are we to be feeding actual chunks of it to our dogs? The answer is a simple yes! Coconut meat is just as nutritious, if not more nutritious, as the coconut oil by itself. They are basically the same properties because they’re from the same location.

Coconut itself isn’t toxic for dogs, but the medium-chain triglycerides it contains can sometimes lead to stomach upset or bloating. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian before offering coconut to your pet.

Helps Reduce Inflammation

Can Dogs Eat Coconut? Coconut meat is rich in lauric acid, which belongs to the group of medium-chain fatty acids. This essentially means that the body can metabolize the molecules as a whole and utilize them as an instantaneous source of energy. The lauric acid is especially helpful in combatting viruses, like flu. It also treats yeast infections, ringworm, and Giardia.

What Coconut Foods Are Dogs Allowed to Eat?

Although coconuts are not poisonous for dogs, not all things coconut are safe for them to snack on.

Coconut Meat

Can Dogs Eat Coconut? Dogs find the flavor of coconut meat just as enjoyable as people do. That said, when giving coconut meat to your dog, use it as, well, a treat, and only sprinkle a handful of flakes atop their food. Treats in general, including coconut, should comprise only 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Coconut Oil

Can Dogs Eat Coconut? Coconut oil should probably be okay in very tiny amounts (as a convenient lubricant when medicating a dog) unless your dog is predisposed to pancreatic illness or GI illness. Be very careful with the amount you use, as giving too much coconut oil can cause diarrhea in dogs.

But you can safely apply coconut oil to your dog topically—as in, putting it on chapped paw pads and using it on their coat to assist in keeping it shiny.

Coconut Water

Coconut water can be a fun indulgence for your parched dog, but don’t make it your pup’s sole hydration. Carefully read the label on your fresh coconut water can before letting your dog have a sip. Some coconut beverages have ingredients in them that are poisonous to dogs, including xylitol.

Coconut Milk

Who could fight off a bowl of breakfast cereal with a dash of coconut milk? It’s a creamy and rich addition to your breakfast nutritional burden, but since coconut milk is so inherently fatty, do not give any to your dog. Fat foods can induce pancreatitis in dogs.

Coconut Husk

Although a white coconut meat is okay, the hard shell is not. Coconut husks are highly likely to be a choking hazard or an intestinal blockage risk, so never let your dog chew on one.

How Much Coconut Can Your Dog Eat Safety

Once again, treats in any form (even coconut) should only comprise 10% of the dog’s total daily calorie consumption. The remaining 90% must be from a well-nourished dog food diet.

Tiny dogs (2–20 lbs): roughly 1/8 teaspoon of coconut meat each day
Smaller breeds (21–30 lbs): around 1/2 teaspoon of coconut meat per day
Medium dog (31–50 pounds): 1/2 teaspoon coconut meat per day
Large dog (51–90 pounds): 1–1 ½ teaspoon coconut meat per day
Extra-large breed dog (91+ pounds): 1–1 ½ teaspoon coconut meat per day

Is Coconut Good for Dogs?

There is plenty out there on the health benefits of coconut for humans – it’s alleged to be heart-friendly, anti-inflammatory and a skin-friendly food. There isn’t much published research yet, though, to support health benefits in dogs. Coconut contains high levels of vitamins, minerals and fiber, but all of these your dog will be receiving from their complete and balanced diet, so there’s no need to supplement with coconut for these purposes.

All the major coconut health claims rely on the effect of the medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), an ingredient in coconuts. MCTs can also be a great brain source of energy when your dog gets old. But the MCT content can differ in different coconut products as well, so we cannot suggest giving coconut as some specific means to access the properties of these nutrients. Some dog food contains MCTs in exactly calculated quantities to promote health in older dogs.

Coconut oil is also externally applied in the majority of dog shampoos and conditioners to leave the skin and coat improved. Many people say it helps promote a glossy coat and supports skin health.

How to Feed Coconut to Your Dog

Before offering coconut to your pup, be sure to check with your veterinarian for guidance. They will inform you whether it is something that your dog requires based on their medical history, and they will advise you regarding the amounts that you may safely provide.

While feeding coconut to dogs, it is essential to throw away the shell since that can lead to blockage or harm to your dog’s intestinal tract if ingested.

Never give sweetened coconut – a staple in baking – since it is extremely sweet. But for adventurous bakers who are reading this, you can attempt baking dog treats with a minimal amount of coconut oil if you first get your vet’s permission – there are lots of wonderful recipes available!

Don’t forget to always use the 10% rule when giving your dog coconut and make treats no larger than 10% of their daily calorie allowance.

Image credit: iStock/Victor

What else can dogs safely eat?

Searching for an alternative to coconut for your dog’s snack time? Check out these tasty and nutritious choices!

Pumpkin – a healthy, high-fiber fruit that dogs adore for taste. Feed it fresh, plain, or as an added ingredient to a tasty grain-free dog food.
Watermelon – A refreshing, sweet treat ideal for staying hydrated, watermelon is yet another healthy snack to offer your dog in moderation.
Blueberries – Loaded with antioxidants, blueberries are a slobber-inducing, juicy dog treat.

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Can Dogs Eat Coconut?