Olive oil is a staple in many people’s diets. It is everywhere in the kitchen pantry. Then Can dogs also eat olive oil?
Of course, dogs can eat olive oil. But there are many things to consider when deciding to add olive oil to your puppy’s diet. While there are many benefits to giving it to your dog, you need to take precautions.
As always, always consult your veterinarian before adding, removing, or replacing anything in your dog’s diet to make sure it doesn’t harm their health. Here’s what you should know about feeding olive oil to dogs.
What are the benefits of olive oil for dogs?
When added to the human diet, olive oil has many benefits. Dogs get similar benefits when consumed.
- It can help your dog lose weight. The monosaturated fat in olive oil actually promotes weight loss by breaking down the fat inside fat cells, which helps eliminate belly fat and reduces insulin sensitivity.
- It’s good for their coat and skin. Olive oil contains phytonutrients, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin E, all of which help keep your puppy’s skin moisturized and well nourished. They also add shine and strength to your dog’s coat.
- It improves the immune system. The polyphenols and carotenoids in olive oil help improve their overall immune system. Adding olive oil can help your dog fight harmful pathogens, which can help prevent your dog from getting sick.
- It’s good for the brain. Olive oil can help prevent cognitive decline associated with aging in dogs. This is a great staple to add, especially for advanced dogs. There are many animal studies that show that olive oil can promote brain health in dogs.
- It’s a good source of energy. Adding a dose of olive oil can help improve blood circulation and breathing in dogs. By increasing blood flow, it can reduce the effects of asthma. Bulldogs and brachycephalic animals in particular can benefit from olive oil in their diets.
When is olive oil bad for dogs?
Some doctors believe that olive oil may negatively affect the gastrointestinal tract of dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs. If you notice your dog vomiting or diarrhea after eating olive oil, avoid feeding them olive oil again.
Olive oil also contains a lot of fat and calories. If your dog suffers from pancreatitis, excess fat may cause flare-ups.
While olive oil is considered safe and even beneficial for dogs, adding it to your daily diet has some potential side effects. Always consult your veterinarian before giving it to your dog.
How much olive oil should I give my dog?
How much olive oil you give your puppy depends mainly on their size.
If your puppy weighs between 20 and 50 pounds, a teaspoon of olive oil will do. If your dog weighs 90 pounds or more, a tablespoon per day or week is good for them. Make sure to mix the olive oil well into their daily food.
Similarly, be sure to consult with your veterinarian before changing or adding anything to their diet for maximum health benefits.