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Olive oil is a staple for many people in their diet. It’s found in kitchen pantries everywhere. So can dogs have olive oil, too?
The quick answer is yes, dogs can have olive oil. But there many things to consider when deciding to add olive oil to your pup’s diet. While there are many benefits to giving it to your dog, you need to take precautions.
As always, before adding, taking away, or substituting anything in your dog’s diet, make sure to consult your veterinarian to make sure it won’t harm their well-being.
Here’s what you should know about feeding olive oil to dogs.
What Are The Benefits Of Olive Oil For Dogs?
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There are many benefits olive oil provides when added to a human diet. Dogs also reap similar benefits when they consume it.
- It can help your dog lose weight. The monosaturated fats in olive oil actually encourage weight loss by breaking down the fat inside fat cells, which helps get rid of 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, which all help keep your pup’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 found in olive oil can help improve their overall immune system. Adding olive oil can help your dog fight harmful pathogens which helps prevent your dog from getting sick.
- It’s good for the brain. Olive oil can help prevent cognitive decline associated with aging in pooches. It’s a great staple to add, especially for senior dogs. There have been a number of animal research studies which show olive oil boosts brain health in dogs.
- It’s a good source of energy. Adding a dose of olive oil can help improve circulation and breathing with dogs. By increasing blood flow, it can lessen the effects of asthma. Bulldogs and brachycephalic breeds can benefit from olive oil in their diet.
When Is Olive Oil Bad For Dogs?
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Some doctors believe olive oil might have a negative effect on the gastrointestinal tracts of dogs with especially sensitive stomachs. Avoid giving your dog any more olive oil if you notice them vomiting or having diarrhea after consuming it.
Olive oil also contains lots of fat and calories. If your dog suffers from pancreatitis, the extra fat might cause a flare-up.
While olive oil is considered safe and even beneficial for dogs, there are some potential side effects of adding it to their daily diet. Make sure to consult your vet before giving it to your dog.
How Much Olive Oil Should I Give My Dog?
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How much olive oil you give your pup depends mostly on their size.
If your pup is between 20 to 50 pounds, a teaspoon of olive oil is fine. If your dog is 90 pounds or more, then a tablespoon daily or weekly is good for them. Make sure to mix the olive oil well into their daily food.
Again, before changing or adding anything into their diet, make sure to consult your vet to get the maximum health benefits.
What do you think of adding olive oil to your dog’s diet? Has your dog ever tried it before? Let us know in the comments below!