Disclaimer: Before we get started, it’s important to note that this article is for informational purposes only. You should always consult your vet before making any additions or adjustments to your dog’s diet.
Do you wonder if olive oil is good for dogs? While it is well known that olive oil has numerous health advantages for humans, what about our furry canine companions? This article will educate you on the top advantages of olive oil for dogs and explain why it is an excellent addition to their eating regimen.
As producers of one of the most healthy olive oils, we are knowledgeable about its properties and advantages. This guide is intended for dog guardians who prioritize their pet’s health and desire only the finest. If you already have a understanding of olive oil or are just beginning to learn about its benefits, continue reading for further information.
So, is olive oil good for dogs? Let’s dive in!
There are studies that have shown that olive oil is good for dogs, and can be beneficial if given in small quantities. This is because extra virgin olive oil contains antioxidants and fatty acids, which can help your dog maintain a healthy skin and fur, as well as promote good digestion.
Do dogs like olive oil?
Although every dog has its own personality and taste preferences, generally dogs like the taste of olive oil. To this fact should attest that many dog owners use extra virgin olive oil to improve the taste and consistency of dry food.
What happens if a dog eats olive oil?
Olive oil is not harmful to dogs when consumed in small amounts, and can be consumed regularly. From my research, most vets recommend up to a teaspoon of olive oil per 20 pounds (~9 kilograms) of bodyweight per day, although this depends on various factors, including your dogs health. Although olive oil is considered to be good for dogs, if your dog consumed a larger quantity or suffers from health issues, it’s never a bad idea to call your local vet clinic and discuss your particular situation.
Is it safe to give olive oil to dogs?
Nutritional value of olive oil
A teaspoon of olive oil contains around 4-5 grams. According to the USDA this corresponds to about 40 calories, with 0.621 grams of saturated fats, 3.28 grams total monounsaturated fats, and 0.472 grams total polyunsaturated fats.
| Saturated fats | 0.621 grams |
| Monounsaturated fats | 3.28 grams |
| Polyunsaturated fats | 0.472 grams |
How much olive oil should you give your dog?
From my research, most vets recommend up to a teaspoon of olive oil per 20 pounds (~9 kilograms) of bodyweight per day. Although olive oil is considered good for dogs, this also depends on various factors, including your dogs health.
What olive oil should I give to my dog?
Because olive oil should only be given to dogs in small amounts, it’s possible to give olive oil of the highest quality without breaking the bank. Personally, the only olive oil I would trust to give to my dog is organic extra virgin olive oil of the highest quality. Extra virgin olive oil is a raw, natural product, compared to “olive oil” which is refined (processed). And if you’re looking for the absolute best olive oil for dogs, I’d choose a certified organic, extra virgin olive oil of traceable origin.
How should you feed olive oil to your dog?
The easiest way to feed olive oil to your dog is to spray it over dry food. Because servings should be limited to one teaspoon per 20 pounds of bodyweight per day, I recommend using a measuring dispenser to control how much olive oil you add to the food, or an olive oil sprayer bottle to ensure both the right quantity and even distribution of the olive oil over the food.
Benefits of olive oil for dogs
Good for the overall health of your dog
The benefits of olive oil are well-documented. Olive oil is rich in monosaturated fats (healthy fatty acids) and antioxidants that are essential for the overall health of your dog, and can help prevent disease. Moreover, olive oils rich in polyphenols have strong natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Healthy skin and fur
The coat is your dog’s natural defence against the elements, and when it is not properly cared for, skin health can suffer as well. Although regular grooming is essential, often a healthy coat always starts with a healthy diet.
Olive oil contains many of the nutrients that your dog needs for maintaining a healthy skin and coat, such as Omega-3 fatty acids. Moreover, it helps moisturize your dog’s skin and combat dog dandruff.
Can help with constipation
Constipation is a common problem in dogs. It can be an indicator of an unbalanced diet, stress, or underlying health issue, and it’s important to discuss any such symptoms with your vet. Nevertheless, adding a small amount of olive oil in your dog’s food, can help with constipation by lubricating the digestive tract and enabling easier passage of food.
Final thoughts
Olive oil has been used by humans for thousands of years as an ingredient in their diet. So it’s no surprise that small amounts of olive oil are good for dogs too! Olive oil is a great source of healthy fats and can bring a great many benefits to your dog’s health. Just remember to use with moderation, and always consult your vet before making any additions or adjustments to your dog’s diet.