Can dogs have olive oil
Can Dogs Have Olive Oil? Vet-Approved Health Facts & FAQ
The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.
Learn moreYouve undoubtedly heard of the benefits of olive oil on human cardiovascular health. Research has also shown it has anti-inflammatory properties, contains antioxidants, and may help protect against or treat a variety of conditions in people, including rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Of course, you want the best for your dog and may wonder if its a suitable addition to your pets diet.
Olive oil is safe for dogs and can be a healthy source of fat as part of a balanced diet. However, this statement comes with a few caveats. Adding olive oil as a supplement to your dogs diet should be carefully considered based on your pets individual needs and health concerns and discussed with your veterinarian.
Why Can Dogs Eat Olive Oil?
Olive oil is the pressed extraction from the fruit of the Olea europaea tree. The unrefined product is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). This fat is an integral part of the Mediterranean diet. It offers the most health benefits as opposed to refined versions.EVOO contains monounsaturated fat, which accounts for much of its value. This macronutrient provides an excellent source of energy.
The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends that puppies and pregnant/lactating females get a minimum of 8.5% of their total caloric intake from fat.1 Adults should get at least 5.5%. Fat is vital for our bodies to absorb and store fat-soluble nutrients, like vitamins A and D. Its also essential for hormone production and cell function. It does the same for dogs.
Benefits of Feeding Olive Oil to Dogs
While fat is necessary for canine and human health, it boils down to the type. EVOO is a monounsaturated fat. That speaks more to its chemical composition and the fact that it remains a liquid at room temperature.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects
EVOO is rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols. Antioxidants break down free radicals within the body, which helps reduce cell damage caused by them. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants is, therefore, beneficial for your dogs overall health.
EVOO also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce some harmful inflammation that your dog has as a result of an injury, illness, or both. Olive oil contains roughly 36 phenolic compounds. Scientists have identified one called oleocanthal that shares anti-inflammatory properties with ibuprofen (although ibuprofen should never be given to dogs).2
Digestive Health
Another benefit of fat is satiety. You feel full longer after eating a meal containing fats than one without. Research has revealed a similar effect in dogs.3 Adult canines fed a diet containing olive oil had slower stomach emptying and improved protein digestibility compared to sunflower oil. The latter is also a monounsaturated fat. However, this study found a difference between the two, making olive oil the preferred fat in this case.
The Danger of Olive Oil: Fat and Caloric Content
Olive oil is a fat and packs a hefty caloric punch. A mere tablespoon contains 124 calories and 14 grams of fat.4 It doesnt offer much nutritional value other than the fatty acids and phenolic compounds it contains. Lets put those figures in context. An adult dog weighing 20 pounds should consume between 325400 calories daily for maintenance.5 A serving of olive oil runs the risk of tipping the scales in the wrong direction, leading to obesity. This condition could negate any health benefits this fat provides.
Another concern is digestive upset. A dog used to getting a low-fat diet may have issues if you suddenly add olive oil to their food. Signs of a food intolerance include nausea, vomiting, and GI distress. Pancreatitis is also a risk, this serious condition causes pain and vomiting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Do I Choose Which Oil Supplement to Give My Dog?
Often, when supplementing oils into a dogs diet for health reasons, you are looking to increase the amount of the omega-3 essential fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Essential fatty acids are fatty acids that dogs cant make themselves and, therefore, must get from their diet. The anti-inflammatory effects of DHA and EPA have been widely studied in dogs, and they can be of benefit in a variety of health conditions, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, osteoarthritis, and atopy (allergic skin disease).
Oils from marine sources such as fish oil are the best sources of these omega-3 fatty acids, rather than olive oil. When looking into oil supplements for your dog, we advise discussing the best option with your vet.
How Should I Give My Dog Olive Oil?
As discussed above, we advise consulting with your vet before adding olive oil to your dogs diet to make sure it is a suitable addition for their individual situation and health concerns. If given the go-ahead, moderation is key. Begin with a small amount of about 1 teaspoon. You can mix it with their food or with their treats. Then, observe your pups reaction before offering it again. Ensure your pooch isnt having problems digesting it.
Can I Give My Dog Olive Oil Without My Pet Gaining Weight?
Keep the calorie count in mind when planning your pets diet, and seek advice from your vet. You may need to adjust the portion size to account for the extra fat, but it is important to make sure you dont disrupt the overall balance of essential nutrients in your dogs diet.
Do Dogs Generally Like Olive Oil?
Many pups are non-discriminating in their tastes. However, they have a keen sense of smell. Some pets may find the scent of olive oil too strong. Observe how your dog reacts and let them decide.
Conclusion
Olive oil can be a source of healthy fats in your dogs diet. Canines have adapted to the foods we give them as pet owners. However, its always best to consult your vet before trying anything new to make sure it is a suitable dietary addition for your pup. The appropriate type and amount of oil supplement for your dog will differ significantly depending on their nutritional requirements and any health conditions they may have.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
12 Surprising Benefits & Uses of Olive Oil for Dogs
Olive oil is a must-have ingredient in every kitchen. It brings out the best flavor in your salad and nourishes your body. As a dog owner, you might also be wondering if olive oil for dogs shares the same benefits. The most straightforward answer is yes, but theres a lot more to it than that.
Lets learn about everything olive oil does for your pet:
Benefits of Olive Oil for Dogs
We can safely say that olive oil supports your dogs overall health, both physical and mental. But how does it do that?
1. Olive Oil for Dogs Joints
25% of dogs in the US suffer from some type of arthritis. Most susceptible are:
- older, obese, or malnourished dogs
- some large dog breeds
- dogs that have suffered injuries
At least thats what statistics say. But in reality, any dog can develop the symptoms.
Even if the issue worsens over time, proper treatment can help your pet live a long and comfortable life. For instance, joint supplements for dogs are the most common therapy that slows the progression of arthritis.
But can dogs have olive oil to ease the symptoms? They can. Olive oil contains oleic acid and antioxidants that have an anti-inflammatory effect, similar topain medications. Also, the Omega-3 fatty acids provide joint lubrication. So regular doses of olive oil will reduce the pain, swelling, and stiffness in arthritic joints. That can work wonders in combination with glucosamine for dogs.
Suppose you give anti-inflammatory drugs to your dog long-term. That can cause significant side effects on the liver and kidneys. Thats why olive oil is an excellent natural alternative.
2. Olive Oil for Dogs Skin
A healthy dogs skin should be soft and smooth, without any bumps, dry flakes, pimples, or itchiness. These could be symptoms of medical issues, so you should take them seriously. If you notice any changes in your dogs skin, its best to consult a vet.
Before treating your dog, youll need to find out the underlying problem. For example, if your dog has an allergic reaction to food, adding olive oil to its diet wont do it any good. Veterinarians recommend olive oil for itchy dogs only after ruling out allergies, parasites, and infections.
Hopefully, your dogs skin condition is a mere reaction to cold weather or low humidity. In this case, the Omega-3 fatty acids in olive oil will moisturize the skin and clear the flakes.
3. Olive Oil for Dogs Coat
While regular grooming and a sensitive shampoo improve the look of a dogs coat, real health comes from within. So, its essential to feed your dog a nutritionally rich diet.
To keep your puppys coat healthy, consider adding supplements with vitamin E and Omega fatty acids to its diet. And guess what! Olive oil is full of them.
We highly recommend olive oil for dogs with dull or damaged coats. It could take up to a month to see the results, but it will definitely make your dogs hair stronger and shinier.
4. Olive Oil for Dogs Shedding
Shedding is a natural and healthy process that promotes new hair growth, and you cannot eliminate it. But it wouldnt hurt to reduce the amount of hair that ends up on your furniture.
Regular baths and a proper brush usually do the trick. They help you remove the loose or brittle hair before it falls on its own.
But when a skin or hair condition leads to excessive dog shedding, its much wiser to address the underlying health issue rather than the symptoms. And thats where olive oil comes in.
Using olive oil for dogs with skin problems will ultimately make shedding more manageable. After all, firm, healthy, supple skin means stronger hair follicles and less shedding.
5. Olive Oil for Dogs Ears
Did you know that dogs with floppy ears are more susceptible to ear infections? Thats because long ears trap dirt and moisture, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
But theres no need to worry too much. Ear infections are usually mild, and you can treat them yourself. If you dont have any dog ear cleaner, olive oil for ear infection in dogs is your second-best option. It will reduce the swelling and help fight the bacteria.
Heres how you can use olive oil to ease your dogs ear discomfort:
- Gently warm a dropper of olive oil in a bowl of hot water.
- Check the temperature of the oil. It shouldnt be too hot.
- Pour a few drops into your dogs ear.
- Rub it to make sure the oil goes deep inside.
- Dab the inside of the ear with a cotton ball to remove debris or excess oil.
If your dog is in great pain and refuses to eat, or its ear is particularly red or smelly, its better to go to the vet. Severe ear infections can damage a dogs hearing and balance.
6. Olive Oil for Dogs Constipation
Olive oil is a handy home remedy if your dog has constipation and youre wondering how to make your dog poop. It lubricates the digestive tract and enables easier passage. Just a spoonful of olive oil in a dogs meal can help clear mild constipation.
In contrast, olive oil for dogs that are severely constipated isnt as effective since food takes at least one day to reach the intestines. If thats the issue, contact your veterinarian and consider administering an enema.
7. Olive Oil on Dogs for Fleas
Unlike other insect repellents, olive oil doesnt contain lauric acid that kills fleas. Still, its high-fat content might suffocate the fleas. Heres what you can do to free your dog from these annoying and gross pests:
- Mix a few drops of lavender into a handful of olive oil.
- Massage your dog with the mixture.
- The smell of lavender can be overwhelming, so dont overdo it.
- Avoid the eyes and the face.
- Leave the oil for three to four hours and rinse it off.
You can use the same mixture of lavender and olive oil for dogs as prevention during flea season. Just spray it on your dogs collar or around the fleas favorite hangouts, like the armpits and groins.
8. Olive Oil for Weight Control
With 120 calories per teaspoon, olive oil is a calorie-dense substance, meaning too much of it in your dogs diet will result in weight gain. If so, can dogs have olive oil and reap all its benefits without gaining pounds? Yes, and the answer lies in moderation.
Paradoxically, moderate amounts of olive oil can even help your dog lose some weight. Like in humans, the monounsaturated fats in olive oil break down the fat cells in the canine body. Whats more, the fat will curb your dogs appetite by keeping it satiated longer.
9. Olive Oil for Cardiovascular Health
Research shows that a daily intake of half a tablespoon of olive oil lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease by 15%. Then, can dogs have olive oil for the same purpose? Science says yes.
The monounsaturated fatty acids in olive oil reduce cholesterol to a heart-healthy level and increase blood flow. Plus, the antioxidants neutralize the effect of free radicals and prevent over-oxidation, which can damage your dogs cell membranes and lead to cardiovascular diseases.
Dietary supplements can get expensive. But using olive oil is a low-cost way to protect your dogs heart.
10. Olive Oil for Brain Boost
Olive oil offers a significant supply of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your dogs mental development. They can improve attention, memory, and learning ability.
We highly recommend using olive oil for older dogs. Thanks to its richness in oleocanthal, it can prevent or delay the onset of CCD (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction) a cognitive disorder similar to Alzheimers disease.
11. Olive Oil for Stronger Immunity
Extra virgin olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, such as vitamin E, polyphenols, carotenoids, and chlorophyll. These ingredients improve your dogs immune system and help it fight off viruses and diseases.
12. Olive Oil for Longevity
Its fair to say that olive oil can help your dog live longer by warding off certain diseases. Lets go through some life-prolonging effects of olive oil for dogs:
- Its monounsaturated fats prevent and decrease the impact of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
- The oleic acid, alongside squalene and terpenoids, could protect against cancer, which kills half the dogs over the age of ten.
- By preventing free radical cell oxidation, olive oil could also fight premature aging.
What Kind of Olive Oil Is Best for Dogs?
For the best results, you should use extra virgin oil. Its made from cold-pressed, high-quality olives, which help it preserve most of its precious nutrients.
In contrast, pure and light olive oils come from low-qualityolives processed with heat or chemicals, which destroys their beneficial properties.
Plus, extra virgin olive oil has lower acid levels, so its gentler on the canine digestive system.
How Much Olive Oil for Dogs Is Optimal?
More doesnt always mean better, and too much olive oil can have some side effects, too.
The olive oil dosage for dogs depends on their size. The recommended daily intake is one teaspoon for every 20 pounds of your pups body weight.
How to Give Olive Oil to Your Dog
Dogs like the flavor of olive oil, so dont hesitate to add a splash to their tasty wet dog food. Also, its a clever way to change the consistency of dog food and cover-up dry or stale meals. You could also use olive oil to make homemade dog biscuits.
Potential Side Effects
Is olive oil safe for dogs? Lets find out the possible side effects and how to avoid them:
Olive oil can reduce your puppys weight only if you give it a moderate amount. Its a highly caloric ingredient. So too much of it can have the opposite result. If you decide to add olive oil to your dogs diet, make sure to reduce calories from other sources.
Some pet owners report that their dogs vomit after consuming olive oil. To avoid irritating your dogs stomach, introduce olive oil in smaller doses and work your way up.
Can dogs have olive oil again after such a reaction? Certainly, but first, allow your dogs stomach to rest. You can reintroduce olive oil with a smaller dose and do it gradually.
Olive Oil vs Coconut Oil for Dogs
Both are healthy for your dog and have similar positive effects:
- They moisturize your dogs skin and make its coat shinier. Also, coconut oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. So you can apply it topically to soothe cuts and wounds.
- Both improve cognitive function and prevent dementia.
- You can use them to repel and kill fleas. The lauric acid in coconut oil does the job in 20 seconds.
- These oils contain ingredients that could reverse arthritis symptoms, relieve pain and improve your dogs mobility.
- Using coconut or olive oil for dogs will boost the immune system.
Although they contain the same amount of fat per tablespoon, these oils have different fat profiles. Olive oil is much higher in polyunsaturated fats, which are healthier by far than the saturated fats prevailing in coconut oil.
In terms of antioxidant power, olive oil is also a clear winner. While extra virgin coconut oil has antioxidants, the benefits are outweighed by the high-fat content.
It seems like olive oil is the better choice. But can dogs have olive oil for bad breath? No, thats where coconut oil shows off its versatility. You can use it to clean your dogs teeth, eliminate the harmful bacteria in the mouth, and prevent dental disease.
Conclusion
The benefits of olive oil for your dog are impressive. They range from repelling fleas to preventing severe diseases and serving as a natural substitute for heavy medications.
But why wait for a health issue to emerge? Take preventive measures and give olive oil for dogs a try today.
