Why Coconut Oil is Amazing for Your Dog’s Itchy Skin
Humans have been in love with the humble coconut for centuries.
And coconut oil is all the rage these days, dominating supermarket shelves across the globe. Widely considered a superfood, coconut oil has super benefits, from cooking it to applying it to your hair.
But if it is so good for humans, what about our fur-kids? The answer is simple. Coconut oil is fabulous for dogs, especially pups suffering from bad skin, with the oil acting as a natural itch relief.
So what are you waiting for, it's time to go loco for some coco!
*Disclaimer: This article provides general information that is not a substitute for professional advice from a vet. For an accurate diagnosis of your dog’s health condition, please consult a vet.
How to Soothe My Dog’s Itchy Skin?
Plenty of natural beauty products contain coconut oil. The Medium Chain Triglycerides inside coconut oil are good fats with antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a fabulous moisturizer for pups.
How it works is that the oils penetrate the fur, directly lubricating the skin. If your doggo is suffering from eczema, allergies, yeast infections, or insect bites and stings, apply a bit of coconut oil and massage the coat and skin for quick relief.
Other topical uses include the neutralisation of dog odour (pssst, we love that smell) and encouraging a shinier coat! You can also add a few drops to your pup’s shampoo or conditioner for hydration or even try massaging their dry skin and cracked paws.
One caveat is that coconut oil is not quickly absorbed. Make it a point to have a towel ready to wipe your pup before the furry critter goes scampering back on a carpet or couch.
What Are Other Natural Benefits of Coconut Oil?
Besides soothing itchy skin, coconut oil is perfect for adding to your fur pal’s diet. These additions can be in the form of liquid, capsules, or even paste.
Depending on your preference, you can serve coconut oil to your furry friend in its natural form or mix it in their regular food as a meal topper. Pro tip: do start small as you are introducing something new to your pet’s diet.
A good rule of thumb to follow is starting with a quarter of a teaspoon once a week. Following that, slowly increase the dose to a full teaspoon per 4.5kg of body weight once a week.
Ingesting coconut oil is known to kick the metabolic system into gear, reduce inflammation, bolster normal thyroid functions, strengthen bones, and improve dental health.
Always monitor your dog for any changes in their skin, coat, and stool. Even though coconut oil is non-toxic, try not to spam your pet with it.
Remember, too much of a good thing is never a good thing.
Where to Buy Coconut Oil?
Besides your local grocery store or supermarket chain, there are plenty of places to get coconut oil, specifically those made for dogs.
Kin+Kind’s Raw Coconut Oil (236ml/473ml) is suitable for both dogs and cats. Available on perromart, this oil has natural and organic ingredients that are GMO and grain-free, with a generous amount of good fat rich in medium-chain fatty acids.
Absolute Plus’s Organic Raw Virgin Coconut Oil (180ml) is another option to get from Pet Lovers Centre. This oil can be used topically for sore and itchy skin and orally to ease indigestion.
Don’t Forget About Top Top
Are you looking for a quick, all-in-one solution to solve your pet's itchy skin woes? We got your back.
Try Top Top’s Delicate Dog Shampoo, formulated with all sorts of antibacterial properties. One vital ingredient in this shampoo is, you guessed it, coconut oil. It also comprises chlorhexidine gluconate, allantoin, and menthol crystals to hydrate skin while eliminating bacteria.
Free from soaps and parabens, as well as pH-balanced for sensitive skin, all you need is to bathe your dog with Top Top’s Delicate Dog Shampoo and let the results speak for themselves.
After all, we at Top Top love helping paw-rents make their dogs feel happier and healthier in any way possible.
If you have any questions, please contact the Top Top team at tikipharma@gmail.com.