Is Olive Oil Good for Dogs? Written by Jennifer Lesser

 

Olive oil has an array of health benefits for humans, and many of these are also applicable for our four-legged friends. These range from boosting the immune system to improving coat and skin condition. Though it's always important to monitor your pet's caloric intake, olive oil might just be worth adding to your pet's diet in moderation.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil for Dogs

Among olive oil's many benefits for dogs (and humans) are the fact that it is rich in phytonutrients as well as vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. It can help keep Fido's skin moisturized as well as promote a shiny coat. However, that doesn't mean it's necessarily a good idea to apply olive oil directly to your dog's coat--it's far too tempting for most dogs, as they'll just want to lick it off.

Here are some other benefits of incorporating olive oil into your pup's diet.

Improved Appetite

If your dog has been balking at their kibble lately, a drizzle of olive oil should be enough to change the taste and consistency of their everyday food and could be all you need to kickstart your pup's appetite.

Potential Dangers of Olive Oil for Dogs

Even though it can have benefits for dogs, olive oil is very high in fat. This means there's always the risk of weight gain if your dog consumes too much on a regular basis.

You'll want to be sure not to offer olive oil to your pet if they already have a weight issue and, as always, be sure to consult your veterinarian before adding oil, or any other "people food", to your dog's diet.

If your dog consumes a large amount of olive oil, perhaps if a bottle is spilled on the floor or if you are not adding it to their diet with enough moderation, you will have to watch out for it causing stomach upset and possibly diarrhea. The consumption of too many fatty foods can also lead to a potentially serious condition called pancreatitis.

Olive oil can be offered on a weekly basis, or, with your vet's OK, even every day. A larger breed should be able to tolerate up to a tablespoon-sized serving daily. It is best to start with a smaller amount to ensure your dog doesn't have a bad reaction and to allow their system to get used to this new ingredient.

When choosing an olive oil for your dog, it's generally a good idea to go for extra virgin olive oil since it's lower in acidity.

Olive oil can also be swapped for fish oil or coconut oil, which can also offer an array of health benefits for your pooch.