Coconut oil is often used to treat skin problems. This oil has antibacterial, antifungal properties, and is easy to buy. Although more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of coconut oil in treating skin, you can use it on dogs. Some people believe that feeding your dog coconut oil or rubbing it can reduce symptoms of skin disorders and improve the appearance of your dog's coat.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Feeding Coconut Oil to Dogs
Step 1. Buy virgin coconut oil (extra virgin)
Since your dog will digest the oil, choose the best quality coconut oil. If possible, buy organic oil. Do not buy coconut oil that is refined, bleached, and deodorized (refined, bleached, and deodorized aka RBD) because the processing removes nutrients.
You can use high-quality coconut oil at supermarkets, pharmacies, and natural food stores
Step 2. Give your dog the oil with a spoon or mix it in his food
You can give 1 teaspoon (4 g) of coconut oil for every 4 pounds your dog weighs, and increase the amount gradually. Start by feeding the dog this amount for a few days before increasing the amount. Feed coconut oil directly into the dog's mouth with a spoon, or mix it into dog food.
- If you immediately give too much coconut oil, your dog can develop diarrhea and indigestion.
- For example, if your dog weighs 9 kg, start with teaspoon (2 g) of edible oil for a few days. Increase the amount gradually to 2 teaspoons (8 g).
Step 3. Balance omega-3 oils with your dog's diet
Consider the dog's diet as a whole and make sure the dog is not getting too much of the essential fatty acids (omega-3) contained in coconut oil. If your dog is taking supplements containing omega-3s, alternate days of supplementation and coconut oil. Excess omega-3 will cause indigestion, blood clots, and insulin sensitivity.
For example, if you give omega-3 oil 3 times a week, alternate it with coconut oil on the other four days
Step 4. Ask your vet about long-term use of coconut oil
Some veterinarians doubt the benefits of coconut oil on dog skin. Ask your doctor about including coconut oil in your dog's diet. If your dog is overweight, your doctor may recommend that the oil only be given on a short-term basis because coconut oil contains 120 calories per tablespoon (12 g).
Method 2 of 2: Applying Coconut Oil to Dog's Skin
Step 1. Buy high quality coconut oil
Look for unrefined, pure, organic coconut oil because it contains more nutrients than refined coconut oil. Do not use refined, bleached and deodorized (RBD) coconut oil. Don't forget that coconut oil will melt if it's warm, but will harden when it's cold.
Purchase high-quality coconut oil at convenience stores, pharmacies, and natural grocery stores
Step 2. Heat the oil between the hands
If the coconut oil is still runny, pour teaspoon (2 g) of coconut oil into the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together so they are greased with oil. If you are using dense coconut oil, take a small amount with a spoon and rub it in both hands for a minute. The coconut oil will soften and melt.
Step 3. Rub the oil on the dog's skin
Rub your greasy hands on the dog's back, lower legs, and belly. You will need to rub the oil on any dry, itchy, reddened, or tick-bitten skin. Apply the oil once or twice a day when your dog has skin problems.
Pour the oil back into the hands as needed
Step 4. Rub coconut oil all over the dog's coat
If your dog has fleas, you will also need to take care of your dog's coat. Rub more oil in your hands and work it all over the dog's coat. Do not forget to rub the oil on the fur under the dog's stomach. Give coconut oil once or twice a day when your dog has fleas.
You can use coconut oil for a few days or weeks. Continue to apply coconut oil until all the lice are dead
Step 5. Put a sweater on your dog
Don't worry if your dog licks coconut oil straight from his coat, as this oil is safe to digest. However, if you're concerned about the coconut oil not soaking into your dog's coat and skin from being licked, put a sweater on your dog. The sweater will prevent the dog from licking the oil.
