Can Dogs Have Coconut Water?
When the temperature rises, we break out the popsicles and refreshing drinks. Ice, water, and tropical flavors fill our fridge as we battle the heat and try to cool down. One popular item for humans to consume during these warm months is coconut water. Coconut water is packed with nutrients that also rehydrates us with tons of electrolytes. So what about our pups? Surely they would love a treat too and you may be always looking for ways to help your best friend beat the heat. Can you give your dog coconut water?
Answer: Yes, But! Yes, you can give your dog coconut water. It is certainly a great way to help your pup rehydrate while giving them plenty of great nutrients. But it can also be harmful if you were to overdo it. In moderation it is perfectly fine.
Ultimately, there is some debate over whether coconut water is good for dogs. It primarily comes down to the amount you give your pup. A small amount can be a great treat on a hot day or simply the perfect way to reward your dog during training exercises. Give your pet too much and it may actually do a bit of damage.
Health Benefits
There is no doubt coconut water is full of electrolytes and nutrients like potassium, calcium, and vitamin C. Dog owners who give their pets coconut water have even found a boost in their pet’s mood. The benefits do not end there, it is also suspected dogs can benefit from coconut water in the following ways:
- Protection from infections and viruses
- Fight off harmful bacteria
- Promote a healthy immune system
- Promote the healthy growth of red blood cells
- Promote healthy skin
- Help maintain a healthy, smooth, and glossy coat
- Reduce bad breath
- Promote healthy joints
- Help with the healing of cuts, stings, and other skin wounds
There are clearly many ways coconut water can potentially help your dog live his best life, but what nutrients does coconut water contain? Coconut water provides potassium, magnesium, selenium, calcium, zinc, sulfur, iodine, vitamin C, and B. So many nutrients in a simple drink, it may be the best way for both you and your best friend to cool off.
Things to Consider
As mentioned, there is some debate over giving your dog coconut water. However, ASPCA has come out saying coconut water is ok to give your pet in small amounts. If you give your pal too much of the coconut flesh or milk your pet may end up with a disrupted digestive system and loose stools. Similar to bananas, coconut water is also high in potassium which is not always beneficial for your dog.
Coconuts are also high in fat, which can lead to obesity if too much is consumed by your dog. If you do have concerns or would like a second opinion, it is always a good idea to check with your vet.
If you do decide to begin introducing coconut water to your pet’s diet, begin with a small amount and so do slowly. Start with an ounce or two to see how your pup reacts, then go from there. But limit the coconut water your pet consumes like it is a dog cookie. Coconut water may be healthy but it is high in carbs, so you can still overdo it!
One preferred way to give your pet some coconut water as a treat is by pouring it into ice cube trays and freezing it. Then when the weather turns unbearably hot, pop one or two out and feed it to your pet. They can enjoy licking the cool ice cube as an entertaining way to spend their day in the sun.
Be sure that whatever coconut water you give your pet, it is natural and without added sugar. This can be common in a lot of coconut water products so be sure to thoroughly check the ingredients.
Most coconut water products come in prepackaged wrapping. So if you are the adventurous kind and are considering giving it to your pet straight from the coconut, know this can be a bit risky. While coconut water and flesh may be ok for your pet, the shell is certainly destructive to their digestive system. If you do decide to go this route, keep a close eye on your pet to make sure he does not eat any part of the shell!
Final Thoughts
We are always looking for ways to treat our pets and give them the best nutrients. Coconut water may be the best way to go! It is packed with fantastic nutrients and minerals that will keep your pet hydrated even during the hottest days — but proceed with caution. Coconut water is beneficial, but there are a number of important steps that need to be taken to ensure you are never putting your dog at risk.
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