Can dogs eat coconut oil?
Not recommended as a regular addition. A small lick is unlikely to cause harm, but coconut oil is mostly saturated fat: it can cause upset stomach, greasy stools and diarrhoea, and long-term feeding can lead to weight gain and even pancreatitis. Talk to your vet first.
Updated:
Why
Coconut oil consists mostly of saturated fats. Feeding it can lead to weight gain and digestive upset, and long-term feeding can lead to obesity and trigger pancreatitis. There hasn't been extensive research proving that it helps dogs' health. Another AKC article says daily feeding isn't recommended and small, occasional amounts are safer; we follow the stricter advice and rate it not recommended.
Signs to watch for
- Upset stomach
- Greasy stools
- Diarrhoea
What to do
If your dog licked a little coconut oil, it likely won't cause much harm. Before giving coconut oil to eat or putting it on the skin, discuss it with your vet.
Questions and answers
Can I put coconut oil on my dog's skin?
Coconut oil can help soothe irritated areas or dry, itchy skin, but it is messy and can clog pores. Discuss it with your vet before using it.
Is coconut oil good for dogs' health?
There hasn't been extensive research proving that coconut oil will definitely help many aspects of a dog's health.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- Coconut Oil for Dogs: Is It Really Good for Them? — American Kennel Club, Nandini Maharaj (updated 2025-10-28)
- Can Dogs Eat Coconut? — American Kennel Club, Sassafras Patterdale (updated 2026-08-11)
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.