What human food is good for dogs with itchy skin
Coconut Oil for Dogs: Is it Really Good for Them?
Coconut oil has become a popular supplement for people. In humans, some evidence suggests that consuming coconut oil in limited amounts may offer possible benefits, including boosting the immune system, aiding in weight loss, acting as an anti-inflammatory and antifungal agent, and improving cognitive skills in patients with Alzheimers disease. Today, many experts debate how helpful eating coconut oil may actually be for people.
But pet owners are asking can coconut oil be beneficial to dogs? The answer is maybe. But that doesnt mean you should immediately feed your pet coconut oil or apply it to their skin. Heres what you need to know about coconut oil and dogs.
Science Behind Coconut Oil
Coconut oil comes from the meat of coconuts harvested from the coconut palm tree. Coconut oil consists of at least 90% saturated fats, most of which are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). Besides coconut oil, MCTs are often found in palmer kernel oil, butter, yogurt, milk, and cheese.
What are MCTs? MCTs are fatty acids that can be considered good fat. When consumed in moderation, MCTS can provide several benefits, including reducing skin inflammation. MCTs also metabolize quickly and provide an immediate source of energy. MCTs in coconut oil may help battle fungi and infection, support brain health, and lower cholesterol.
Can Dogs Have Coconut Oil? Pros and Cons
Can dogs eat coconut oil? Its possible consuming some coconut oil may offer internal benefits for dogs. The main MCT in coconut oil is lauric acid. Lauric acid has antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Coconut oil also has amounts of capric and caprylic acids, which are known for their antifungal effects. The oil also has both polyunsaturated and monounsaturated (fatty acids that support brain health and help lower cholesterol). Some research indicates that coconut oil may be helpful in aiding canine digestion, improving brain activity and mental function, and assisting with weight loss.
But is coconut oil good for dogs? These benefits dont mean you should go out and feed your dog coconut oil without veterinary approval. There hasnt been extensive research proving that coconut oil will definitively aid in many aspects of canine health. Vets may also debate how widely applicable (or relevant) these studies results are. Furthermore, feeding your dog coconut may work against some of the same conditions coconut oil is said to cure. For example, instead of helping with digestion, the fats in coconut oil can cause upset stomachs or diarrhea in dogs.
Additionally, coconut oil doesnt meet your dogs daily fat requirements. The acids in MCTs dont have enough omega-6 and omega-3 acids, and what it does contain isnt processed very efficiently. As for claims that MCTs protect against bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while the lauric acid in MCTs does kill germs in lab tests, there is no clear evidence that it can be used in sufficient quantities to offer dogs much protection.
When Applied Topically
You may be asking, Can I put coconut oil on my dog? In fact, applying coconut oil to your dogs skin may be helpful. Coconut oil can help soothe irritated areas like hot spots or restore moisture to itchy, dry skin. If your pet has dry, cracked paws, try a DIY paw balm with coconut oil as one of the ingredients.
To add some shine to your dogs coat, try using shampoos formulated for dogs that include coconut oil as an ingredient. A moisturizing dog shampoo containing coconut oil is ideal for hydrating dry fur, while a dog conditioner with coconut oil will help soften the hair.
Can I Use Coconut Oil as a Topical Antifungal Treatment?
If you think your dog may have a fungal issue, talk to your vet immediately and follow their recommended course of treatment. While coconut oil does have antibacterial and antifungal properties, it is unclear how well this translates to canine skin disease, Dr. Linda Simon says. The vets treatment will depend on the species of fungus causing infection, how serious or widespread the infection is, and the age and health of the dog, notes Dr. Jamie Whittenburg. She explains that most mild to moderate fungal infections can be treated topically with a combination of shampoos and creams.
If your dog has a musty smell or greasy skin (resulting from an overgrowth of yeast), your vet may recommend using a medicated wash. For severe or widespread fungal infections, especially in dogs with immune system dysfunction, your vet may prescribe oral medications. These medications can cause liver issues, so serial blood work should be performed to monitor the pets health, Dr. Whittenburg adds.
Your vet may recommend coconut oil as part of a skin supplement regime to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce itchiness or dry skin, according to Dr. Simon. Dr. Whittenburg adds, In most cases, theres no harm in utilizing topical coconut oil on a dog. However, it is messy, can clog pores, and may cause the dog to lick the affected area more, leading to increased pain, inflammation, and infection.
How Can I Safely Give Coconut Oil to My Dog?
Before applying coconut oil topically or giving your dog some to eat, discuss these options with your vet. If they approve of you giving coconut oil to your pet, choose unrefined coconut oil, also called virgin coconut oil. Better yet, look for cold-pressed oil, which uses a method to preserve nutrients.
If youre feeding it to your dog, be aware that oils have different smells and tastes. Some have a bold coconut taste, while others are bland. Some are buttery and smooth, while others are nutty. You may have to experiment a bit to find one your dog likes. Alternatively, your vet may recommend trying coconut oil skin and coat supplements designed specifically for dogs.
If you do put a small amount of coconut oil on your dog and they lick it off, that likely wont cause much harm. But feeding it to them can definitely lead to both weight gain and gastrointestinal disturbances, Dr. Whittenburg says. Dr. Simon agrees, explaining that long-term feeding of coconut oil can lead to obesity in dogs and even trigger pancreatitis (a potentially life-threatening condition caused by inflammation of the pancreas). In the short term, your dog may experience greasy stool or diarrhea.
To use coconut oil topically, apply it to the skin about once a week, and let it be absorbed for a few minutes. After five minutes or so, rinse your dog off. If they still feel greasy or oily to the touch, you can follow up with a light shampoo and rinse.
Because of the potential risks associated with the topical or internal use of coconut oil, Dr. Whittenburg doesnt recommend that dog owners select products specifically for their coconut oil content. In the case of hardened noses or paw pads, for example, using soothing products made with coconut oil can help soften.
5 Home Remedies for Your Dogs Itchy Skin
One of the most frustrating things to manage in our canine companions is itchiness. Though the occasional scratch at the ears or collar is very normal for dogs, truly itchy dogs will scratch and lick constantly. This behavior is not only annoying for both dog and pet parent, but it can lead to painful skin infections and hot spots if allowed to continue.
Itchiness (also called pruritus) has many potential causes. Most commonly, itchy dogs are allergic to something in their environment or food. Parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites (mange) can also make pets very itchy. Some dogs may be born with dry, flaky skin, which can lead to mild pruritus.
If your dogs skin is itchy, some at-home treatments may help. But consult your veterinarian if your pups skin doesnt start to feel better, as treating skin disease can get quite complicated.
1. Flea and Tick Control
The most common reason that dogs go to the vet for itchy skin is because of parasites. Fleas arent just itchy when they are crawling through the skinmany dogs are allergic to flea saliva and can have an allergic skin reaction after just one bite.
For itchy skin on a dog, the first step is to make sure they (and all of their furry housemates) are current on their flea and tick preventatives. Fleas and mites prefer clean, healthy haircoats, so grooming is not adequate prevention!
Topical prevention like Advantix II and Seresto collars may be best at repelling fleas for allergic dogs. Longer-acting products like Bravecto chews will help make sure there is no break in prevention during the flea lifecycle. Bravecto and other isoxazoline products have the added benefit of treating demodectic and sarcoptic mange.
Always talk to your veterinarian about which method is best for your dog.
2. Fish Oil
Fish oils are the best source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve skin health and reduce inflammation in certain canine skin diseases. While most pet foods already contain omega-6 fatty acids like linoleic acid and arachidonic acid, there is no requirement for commercial dog food to contain omega-3 fatty acids like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Most veterinarians recommend finding a fish oil product made from anchovies or sardines. Farmed salmon have poor-quality oils, and other sources are not easily renewable. If you find giving capsules to your dog difficult, some products can be mixed directly with their food.
Use caution with higher doses of fish oils or with pets who have a sensitive stomach, as gastrointestinal upset and pancreatitis can occur.
3. Oatmeal Shampoo
Oatmeal has been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in both human and veterinary products. Used topically, it helps improve the skin barrier, moisturizes, and may even have UV-protective and antifungal activity. Colloidal oatmeal is produced by finely grinding oats and then boiling them to isolate useful compounds. It can be a great home remedy for an itchy dog.
The most effective oatmeal products for dogs are shampoos. It is best to use products formulated specifically for dogs; products made for people may irritate your dogs skin further.
4. Non-Shampoo Topicals
There are also great products for itchy dogs that are a little harder to bathe regularly. For example, a mousse product can be helpful in maintaining your dogs skin barrier without a lot of tub time. These products can be applied all over their body or just to problem areas, such as the armpits and lower belly.
Many veterinary dermatologists also recommend spot-on therapies like Dermoscent to moisturize dry, flaky skin and help prevent bacterial infections.
5. Special Diet
Skin health is closely linked to nutrition. Make sure your pets food is well-balanced and meets the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), as missing vitamins and nutrients can lead to many skin issues.
For dogs already eating a well-balanced diet that still need extra support, look for a sensitive skin and sensitive stomach diet. These often have a higher omega-3 fatty acid content and antioxidants to boost skin health.
Sometimes, itchy skin on a dog can be linked to food allergies. The most common dog food allergies are protein-based (chicken, beef, pork, etc.). You may have success finding a limited-ingredient or single-protein source diet. Try to choose a protein your dog has not had before.
Your veterinarian can help guide you if you suspect your dog has food allergies, and they may recommend a prescription diet.
When To Call the Vet About Itchy Skin on a Dog
Unfortunately, most home remedies for itchy dogs work best as prevention. In cases where your dogs skin is already red, scabby, smelly, or painful, see your veterinarian as soon as possible. These are signs of a bacterial or yeast infection, and antibiotics or antifungals may be necessary to help alleviate symptoms and address the underlying cause.
Severely itchy dogs may also benefit from systemic medications to help decrease inflammation and allow the skin to heal properly. Steroids, Apoquel, or Cytopoint may be prescribed by your veterinarian to provide your itchy dog relief.
Featured Image: Jirakan/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
WRITTEN BY
Jamie Lovejoy, DVMVeterinarian
Dr. Jamie Lovejoy graduated from Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in 2012 after an undergraduate degree in Marine Biology....
