Can Dogs Eat Coconut? When it is or isn’t an Emergency

Yes, most dogs can eat a coconut as long as it’s in moderation. This, however, doesn’t mean it’s safe for dogs to eat all parts of the coconut. Different rules may apply for coconut-based products like coconut oil, coconut cream, coconut flour, and coconut water.

What part of the coconut can a dog eat?

The safest part of the coconut a dog can eat is the flesh and meat. Dogs can enjoy a bit of coconut meat in dried and raw form as long as it doesn’t contain harmful additives. The coconut flesh should be given in tiny pieces or as tiny coconut flakes. Ingesting a large amount of coconut can increase the risk of a gastrointestinal upset as the dog’s stomach might not be able to handle the high fat and fiber content.

How much coconut can you give a dog?

Dogs, especially smaller-sized breeds like Shih Tzus, pugs, and French bulldogs, shouldn’t be fed more than a small pinch of coconut flesh. They might make good occasional additives to a dog’s meal if your dog enjoys the taste of coconuts. While raw coconut flesh does offer a variety of health benefits to dogs (such as anti-inflammatory properties), your dog should already be getting most of the critical nutrients from his regular food so there isn’t a need for your dog to eat human foods (like coconuts) too regularly.

Can dogs have coconut milk?

Yes, coconut milk is another part of the coconut that most dogs can have as long as it’s in moderation and it’s in unsweetened form. Feeding your dog too much coconut milk, however, may lead to the development of gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea because of the oils that coconut milk and coconut meat contain.

Can dogs have coconut oil?

There is some skepticism on the benefits of coconut oil to dogs. Dogs might be able to eat a small amount of coconut oil as long as they aren’t allergic to it. You may want to consult with your vet the next time you are at the clinic whether it is appropriate to feed your dog a bit of coconut oil.

Can dogs have coconut water?

Yes, a small amount of natural coconut water could make a nice treat for dogs. It’s important that you don’t let your dog drink too much coconut water as they do contain a decent amount of potassium. Too much potassium can have an adverse effect on your dog’s health. It could, for example, lead to health conditions like hyperkalemia.