Hi, I’m Dr. Candy Akers. Many pet parents ask me about coconut oil for dogs. It can help in a few specific ways when used correctly, but it is not a cure-all. Below I explain what it does, how to use it, and when to skip it.
Quick takeaways
- Coconut oil can support skin comfort and coat shine, and may help the body’s natural defenses.
- Start tiny, go slow, and watch for stomach upset or weight gain.
- Skip coconut oil if your dog has a history of pancreatitis, high triglycerides, or struggles with weight.
- When in doubt, book an online holistic consult with me for a tailored plan.
What is in coconut oil and why it matters
Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs): a group of fats that are easy to digest. The main one in coconut oil is lauric acid.
- Lauric acid: supports the body’s normal response to microbes. Think: helps the skin’s natural barrier and the gut’s healthy balance.
- Other MCTs: caprylic and capric acids, which also support skin and GI comfort.
Vitamin E: a natural antioxidant that helps protect cells.
Trace minerals: very small amounts that are not a primary reason to use coconut oil but are present.
Potential benefits
Skin and coat
- Adds light moisture for dry, flaky areas.
- Can reduce the look of dull coat and support softness.
- For itchy dogs, pair with a full plan: diet audit, probiotics, and targeted supplements. Coconut oil is one tool, not the whole toolbox.
Immune support
- MCTs, especially lauric acid, help maintain a healthy microbial balance on skin and in the gut.
Digestion
- Small amounts may support comfortable stools in some dogs. If your dog develops loose stools, reduce or stop.
Real talk: Results vary. If your dog has ongoing itch, ear gunk, or chronic tummy issues, we should look for root causes like food sensitivities, yeast overgrowth, or thyroid imbalance.
When to avoid or use caution
- Pancreatitis history: high-fat foods can trigger flare-ups. Avoid.
- High triglycerides or overweight dogs: extra fat can worsen labs and weight. Use only if approved by myself in an online consultation or your vet.
- Sensitive stomach: start with a dot on the spoon and increase slowly, or skip.
- Allergies to coconut: do not use.
How to give coconut oil by mouth
Start low and increase slowly over 1 to 2 weeks while watching stools, energy, and weight.
- Toy and small dogs: begin with 1⁄8 tsp daily.
- Medium dogs: begin with 1⁄4 tsp daily.
- Large and giant dogs: begin with 1⁄2 tsp daily.
Usual ceiling: up to 1 tsp per 10 pounds of body weight per day, only if tolerated and your dog’s weight is stable. Many dogs do well on far less.
Tips:
- Mix into food once daily.
- Adjust calories elsewhere to prevent weight gain.
- If loose stools, vomiting, or greasy stools appear, cut back or stop.
How to use coconut oil on the skin
Topical use is best for dry, flaky patches and dull coat.
- Patch test: apply a pea-sized amount to one area once daily for 2 to 3 days.
- Massage lightly: use a thin film so the coat is not greasy.
- Prevent licking: use a T-shirt or brief distraction time after application.
- Rinse option: for long coats, apply before a bath, let sit 5 to 10 minutes, then shampoo out.
Do not apply to deep wounds, hot open sores, or infected skin. Those need veterinary care and a full plan.
Side effects to watch for
- Digestive upset: loose stools, vomiting, or greasy stools.
- Weight gain: coconut oil is calorie dense.
- Greasy coat or clogged pores: use less or rinse out.
- Allergic reaction: rare, but stop if redness or itch worsens.
How to choose a good coconut oil
- Unrefined, virgin or extra-virgin: keeps more natural compounds.
- Organic: reduces pesticide exposure.
- Jar label: look for a single ingredient, “coconut oil,” with no additives.
- Storage: cool, dark place with lid tightly closed.
Smart ways to combine therapies
- Itchy, inflamed skin: coconut oil can moisturize, but the core plan often includes diet cleanup, targeted omega-3s, gentle medicated rinses, and probiotics.
- Cold laser therapy: for dogs with chronic skin irritation, hot spots, or lick granulomas, photobiomodulation (cold laser) can reduce local inflammation and support tissue healing. I often pair laser sessions with a skin-support diet and topical care.
- Gut imbalance or yeast: use probiotics and a low-sugar, clean ingredient diet. Coconut oil alone will not fix a microbiome problem.
If you want a step-by-step plan for your dog’s skin or GI health, schedule an online holistic consultation with me. We will personalize dosing, diet, and supportive care.
Final reminder
Coconut oil can be a helpful add-on for select dogs, used carefully and in small amounts. If your pup has ongoing itch, ear infections, or tummy trouble, let’s find the root cause and build a plan that truly helps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coconut oil is safe for most dogs when used in small, controlled amounts. Start slow and monitor for any stomach upset. Always check with your holistic vet before adding new supplements, especially if your dog has a health condition or is on medication.
Coconut oil adds gentle moisture to dry skin and helps calm irritation. The lauric acid in coconut oil supports a healthy skin barrier and may ease itching. When used properly, it can give your dog’s coat a natural, healthy shine.
Start with a very small amount—about ¼ teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 teaspoon for larger dogs. Over time, you can increase slowly to about 1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight if tolerated. Always introduce it gradually to avoid digestive upset.
Yes. Massage a small amount into dry or flaky areas, hot spots, or rough patches. Use just enough to lightly coat the skin without making the fur greasy. Let your dog relax afterward to minimize licking.
Too much coconut oil can cause loose stools, vomiting, or weight gain. Some dogs may be sensitive to it. If you notice any digestive upset or skin irritation, stop using it and reach out to your holistic vet for personalized guidance.
