Coconut is an ingredient that is commonly used in Asian cooking. It has a rich taste and comes with myriad health benefits. We do know that dogs can eat coconut oil but can they eat coconut meat? While we eat raw chunks of coconut flesh and add it to our daily cooking can we do the same for our dogs? The answer is yes!

In fact, eating the coconut meat, either raw or cooked, is healthier than the oil. Also, coconut is non-toxic for dogs. But it contains medium chain triglycerides that may cause gastrointestinal and bloating. So, it is a good idea to consult your vet before introducing coconut as a part of a daily diet to your dog.

Health benefits of coconut

1)      Decreases inflammation – Coconut meat is rich in lauric acid which is a medium chain fatty acid. This means that the body can absorb the whole molecules and use them as a direct source of energy. Lauric acid is good for fighting viruses like the influenza. It can also help to treat yeast infections and ringworms. Coconut meat also have anti inflammatory properties. Since inflammation is the main cause of arthritis, feeding coconut to your dog will help to soothe their aching joints and their inflammation will reduce. But ensure that you give them only the flesh after cleanly removing the shell.

2)      Boosts the immune system – Coconut has antioxidants that support and improve the immune system. It helps the body to fight strongly against foreign microbes. So, regular consumption of coconut can equip the body to fight against bad bacteria, virus, fungi and other parasites. As they are known to reduce inflammation, coconut can be given as a snack for dogs that are slightly unwell or are recovering from an illness or injury.

3)      Good for skin – Coconut oil is good for the skin. It can be used internally as well as externally as it will greatly benefit your pet’s coat and skin. Even if they eat just the coconut meat it is good enough as it will improve their skin condition. As coconut has anti-inflammatory properties it helps to reduce yeast infections, hot spots, flea allergies and even soothes dry and itchy skin. The fatty acids present in coconut helps them to have a soft and healthy coat. The oil also acts as a moisturiser which can be applied on wounds as it will soothe the inflammation and help the wound to heal faster.    

As coconut comes with so many health benefits for your canine buddy you might as well make their mealtime or snack time more interesting and tastier by adding it as a part of their regular diet. But it is always a good idea to consult the vet before including it in your pet’s daily diet.