Can Coconut Oil Help with my Dog's Allergies?

Coconut oil has become increasingly popular as a holistic remedy for both people and pets. It can be applied topically or ingested in small amounts. There are many different types of coconut oil available in stores. It is important to know what is best for your dog and how to use it properly.

The main types of allergies in dogs can be broken up into three categories: flea allergies, called Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD), food allergies caused by their diets, and environmental allergies both indoors and outdoors.

Grass can cause skin irritation in dogs just like in humans. It may cause redness and bumps, as well as itching. Usually, dogs that are allergic to grass will have reactions when they make contact with it by rolling around or laying in it.

At certain times throughout the year, the pollen count in the air gets extremely high. You may notice your eyes watering, more sneezing and sniffling, and even sore throat or chest congestion. Pollen can affect your dog the same way

Bee Stings can cause a reaction in dogs. You may see redness at the site of the sting. More seriously you may notice swelling or even hives. Just like when a bee stings you, your dog may feel sensitivity and itching at the sting site.

Household products can contain chemicals to aid with cleaning or add fragrance. They may not bother our skin, but dogs can be more sensitive. If they lay on the floor in a spot that has been cleaned with chemicals, it can make them itch. If you wash their bedding with detergent or use dryer sheets with fragrance, their skin can also become irritated.

Congestion is a common symptom of dog allergies. They may sneeze and cough just like humans! They may also get watery and itchy eyes. You may even notice changes in their activity levels. Allergies can make your dog feel very lethargic.

Many dog owners have seen their dogs scratching and itching. However, it can be more difficult to notice when these actions become excessive. If you notice your dog’s skin becoming red and/or bumpy, it may be due to allergies. Also chewing and licking themselves, especially their feet, can be a sign of an allergic reaction.

Coconut oil is made by pressing the flesh of the coconut. The flesh can be fresh or dried. This is how it is classified as virgin or refined. Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids and these are what most of the health benefits are thought to be derived from.

• Coconut oil contains the types of fats that have shown evidence of reducing cancer risk in humans and dogs. 
• These fats can also help lower cholesterol in obese dogs.
• Coconut oil can help balance your dog’s gut health. It can improve symptoms of IBS, Crohn’s disease, and ulcers.
• Many aging dogs suffer from joint issues like arthritis. Coconut oil has been shown to alleviate these issues.
• It is often combined with CBD oil which can give the pain relief your dog needs while waiting on the anti-inflammatory qualities to activate.
• Some dogs are prone to fungal and yeast infections in their ears. Coconut oil can be given orally to treat these issues from the inside out. It is antimicrobial and antifungal.
• If your dog is especially prone to ear infections, coconut oil can be used preventatively. 
• The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil are a very healthy and high-yielding source of fat. This can help dogs with diabetes get the nutrition they need without the bad stuff.
• If your dog’s breed is prone to obesity or diabetes, you can use coconut oil preventatively as well.

Although there have not been many clinical trials on the effects of coconut oil on dogs’ allergies, there are countless first-hand experiences from people whose dogs have benefited greatly.

Coconut oil can be used topically to help soothe your dog’s skin when they are suffering from skin allergies.

Some dogs have allergic reactions to flea and tick bites, even with their preventative medicine. Preventative medicines usually kill fleas once they have bitten your dog. If your dog is allergic to flea bites, they may have a skin irritation caused by this. FAD can be treated with topical application of coconut oil to the affected areas.

Outdoor allergies can be caused by pollen, grass, and even things like poison ivy. If you notice any redness or bumps on your dog’s skin after they come in from outside, you can apply coconut oil to the irritated skin. Coconut oil can also be given orally to help with seasonal allergies.

Allergies to household products like laundry detergent and cleaning products can also cause skin irritation. Topically treatment or oral ingestion can help with these issues.

Dogs get stung by bees more often than we realize. They usually chase them or think a bee is something to play with so often these stings are on their faces or in their mouths. Coconut oil when applied to a sting can alleviate symptoms of bee sting allergies like itching and swelling. If your dog is stung in the mouth, it may be better just to give them coconut oil as a treat.

Bee stings can cause a dangerous allergic reaction. You should contact your vet immediately if you notice your dog having a reaction after being stung by a bee.

Regular Coconut Oil will work for most pups, but those with extra needs could benefit even more from CBD-infused coconut oil. CBD is a naturally occurring compound in hemp that has many holistic benefits, such as reducing inflammation, giving pain relief, and much more! CBD infused coconut oil can be used topically or given as a food topper, providing a whole slew of extra benefits as opposed to regular virgin coconut oil!

Coconut oil is a great natural remedy for many ailments our dogs suffer on a daily basis. It tastes good to most dogs and can be found at most grocery stores. It is important to know what type of coconut oil is best for your dog, and what issues it will help with. If you’re looking for a holistic approach to your dog’s health, coconut oil is a great item to add!