Olive oil can be found in just about any pantry and is an essential ingredient for the healthiest diet – the Mediterranean diet.
But while it has multiple health benefits for humans, you may be wondering whether your dog can eat olive oil as well?
The good news is that olive oil can have some health benefits for dogs and can be an excellent ingredient to add to their diet, but only occasionally and in moderation.
Like with any new human food you plan to add to the dog’s menu, it is advisable to speak to your vet first. The veterinarian will tell you whether it is a good idea or not, depending on your dog’s weight, age, and health.
Read on to find out how olive oil can benefit the well-being and health of your pup. Also included is info about when it can be harmful. We have added tips about the safe and recommended quantities of olive oil for dogs.
How Can Olive Oil Be Beneficial For The Health Of Your Dog?
Olive oil is one of the healthiest fats for humans, and it can also be good for the health of canines too.
In some cases, olive oil can help overweight dogs lose weight. This is due to the monosaturated fats in the olive oil. They help break down the fat in the dog’s cells and thus promote the reduction of its weight, belly fat, and insulin sensitivity.
Olive oil is also very beneficial for the pup’s skin and coat due to the high content of vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids, and phytonutrients. These nutrients help nourish the skin and hair and keep it healthy, strong, and shiny.
This healthy oil is known to boost the immune system of canines thanks to the carotenoids and polyphenols it contains. So adding some olive oil to your dog’s food can help keep it healthy and prevent various sicknesses due to harmful pathogens.
This type of plant oil is also beneficial for cognitive function, especially in aging dogs. Some olive oil in the dog’s menu can help prevent or slow down this decline in the cognitive function of older pups.
Research has shown that this oil can help reduce breathing problems and improve dogs’ blood circulation. This is especially good news for dogs with breathing problems such as asthma or for dogs from brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs.
Last but not least, olive oil is an excellent energy source.
When Can Olive Oil Be Bad For The Dog?
Some vets claim that olive oil can be harmful to dogs with sensitive stomachs. This is why you should monitor your pup closely after first adding some olive oil to its meals. Watch for digestive upsets such as diarrhea or vomiting after consumption. If you notice something of this kind, you should abstain from feeding it with olive oil in the future.
Plus, this type of oil has a high-fat content and is very caloric too. This can be problematic for dogs suffering from pancreatitis, as well as for overweight dogs.
Related: Can Dogs Eat That Food? The Answers in 2022
What Is The Safe Quantity Of Olive Oil For My Pup?
The safe and recommended quantity of olive oil which you can add to the dog’s diet depends on the pup’s size and weight.
For dogs that are from 20 to 50 lbs. a teaspoon of olive oil mixed up with their food is fine. Dogs that are 90 lbs. or more can safely eat two tablespoons of olive oil with their dog food.
As mentioned above, remember to speak with your veterinarian before starting to give your dog olive oil or any other human food!
Please share your experiences with olive oil and dogs and the recipes and ways you add this healthy fat to your pup’s menu!
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