Can Dogs Have Olive Oil? Benefits and Risks of Feeding Your Pooch This Healthy Fat

Olive oil is a staple of many human diets, as it is rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E. But can dogs have olive oil too? And if so, how much and how often should you give it to them? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and more, based on the latest scientific research and expert opinions. We will also discuss some of the potential benefits and risks of feeding your dog olive oil, and how to choose the best quality and quantity for your furry friend.

Benefits of Olive Oil for Dogs

Olive oil can have several health benefits for dogs, such as:

• Improving skin and coat condition: Olive oil contains phytonutrients and omega-3 fatty acids that can moisturize your dog’s skin and add shine and strength to their coat.
• Enhancing appetite and digestion: Olive oil can change the taste and consistency of your dog’s food, making it more palatable and stimulating their appetite. It can also act as a laxative, helping your dog with constipation or indigestion.
• Preventing diseases and aging: Olive oil has antioxidants, such as vitamin E, that can protect your dog’s cells from free radical damage and oxidative stress, which can lead to tissue damage, inflammation, and chronic diseases, such as dementia and cardiovascular disease. Olive oil may also improve your dog’s circulation and breathing, especially for brachycephalic breeds.
• Supporting immune system and brain function: Olive oil can boost your dog’s immune system and help them fight off infections and allergies. It can also support their cognitive function and prevent cognitive decline, as omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain health.

Risks of Olive Oil for Dogs

Olive oil is generally safe for dogs, but it is not without risks, such as:

• Causing weight gain and pancreatitis: Olive oil is very high in calories and fat, and can easily cause your dog to gain weight if given too much or too often. Excess fat can also trigger pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
• Worsening diarrhea and vomiting: Olive oil can help with constipation, but it can also have the opposite effect and cause diarrhea and vomiting if your dog has a sensitive stomach or is already suffering from these symptoms. Olive oil can also interfere with the absorption of some medications and supplements, so consult your vet before giving it to your dog.
• Causing allergic reactions and toxicity: Some dogs may be allergic to olive oil or have an intolerance to it, which can cause itching, hives, swelling, and breathing difficulties. Olive oil can also become rancid or contaminated with toxins, such as aflatoxins, which can cause liver damage and cancer. Therefore, it is important to choose high-quality olive oil and store it properly.

How to Choose and Use Olive Oil for Dogs

If you decide to give olive oil to your dog, here are some tips on how to choose and use it:

• Choose extra virgin olive oil, as it has the lowest acidity and the highest amount of antioxidants and phytonutrients. Avoid refined or pomace olive oil, as they have lower quality and may contain chemical residues.
• Check the expiration date and the origin of the olive oil, and look for a seal of quality or certification from a reputable organization, such as the International Olive Council or the California Olive Oil Council.
• Store the olive oil in a dark, cool, and dry place, away from heat, light, and air, which can degrade its quality and cause it to become rancid. Discard the olive oil if it smells or tastes bad, or if it has a cloudy or yellowish appearance.
• Start with a small amount of olive oil, such as a teaspoon for a 30-40 pound dog, and gradually increase it to a tablespoon for a 90 pound dog, depending on your dog’s size, weight, and health condition. You can give olive oil to your dog daily or weekly, but always consult your vet first and monitor your dog’s reaction.
• Mix the olive oil with your dog’s food, or drizzle it over their kibble or wet food, to improve the taste and consistency. Do not apply olive oil directly to your dog’s skin or coat, as they will likely lick it off and negate the benefits.
• Rotate olive oil with other healthy oils, such as coconut oil and fish oil, to provide your dog with a variety of nutrients and benefits.

Example of Homemade Chicken and Vegetable Dog Food with Olive Oil

I found this easy recipe that incorporates olive oil and I’m making it to my Beagle once a week!

Homemade Chicken and Vegetable Dog Food with Olive Oil

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of diced chicken, cooked
• 1 cup of brown rice, cooked
• 1/2 cup of carrots, diced and steamed
• 1/2 cup of green beans, diced and steamed
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the chicken thoroughly and then dice it into bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog’s size. Make sure to remove all bones.
2. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions until it’s soft but not mushy.
3. Steam the carrots and green beans until they are tender but still retain some of their crunchiness. This will ensure that they are easy for your dog to digest while still providing maximum nutritional value.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, brown rice, carrots, and green beans.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture. Olive oil is not only great for your dog’s coat and skin but also supports overall health.
6. Stir the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the olive oil.
7. Allow the food to cool to room temperature before serving to prevent any chance of burning your dog’s mouth.

This homemade dog food is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a wholesome meal for your pooch. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has specific health issues or dietary needs. Enjoy mealtime!

Conclusion of Can Dogs Have Olive Oil

Olive oil can be a healthy and tasty addition to your dog’s diet, as it can improve their skin, coat, digestion, immunity, and brain function, as well as prevent diseases and aging. However, olive oil is not a miracle cure, and it can also have some risks, such as weight gain, pancreatitis, diarrhea, vomiting, allergies, and toxicity. Therefore, it is important to choose high-quality olive oil, store it properly, and use it in moderation and under your vet’s guidance. Remember, olive oil is not a substitute for a balanced and complete diet, but a supplement that can enhance your dog’s health and well-being.