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Is coconut oil truly safe for my dog, and what's the recommended dose?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

What's the recommended dose for coconut oil? I've read it's anywhere from 1/2-1 tsp per 10 lbs. my dog weighs 17 pounds and I've been giving her 1/4 tsp. Once per day. Will I still get the benefits at this dose? She also gets 1/4 tsp. Of fish oil daily, so that's 20 calories of oil which is about 8% of her diet. It seems like any more oil would be too much for her? Is what I'm doing ok?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 20th, 2017

There are no proven benefits of administering coconut oil to dogs orally or topically. However, there are risks of feeding dogs additional fatty foods and oils, such as the development of pancreatitis and anecdotal reports of causing coronary artery disease. I never recommend feeding coconut oil in any volume due to the risks and lack of benefit.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 26th, 2017

    You can give it to Daisy, but there are no proven effects on a dog's health. Plus too much can lead to serious health problems such as pancreatitis. I would not give Daisy more than half a teaspoon daily if you want to give it to her.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2019

    In all honestly, coconut oil is a fad. There have been on scientifically proven benefits of it, and if you give too much, it puts Oscar at risk of developing pancreatitis. If you really want to try it, do not give him more than 1/4 teaspoon a day. Best of luck.

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