Many humans already know that coconut is a great food, rich in minerals, fibers and vitamins. If that wasn’t enough, it’s still as rich and tasty a source of water as its pulp.
Because it is so popular and loved by humans in many parts of Brazil, it is normal that you want to know if your pet can also enjoy the flavor and all the benefits of this fruit. After all, can you give your dog coconut water? In this Animal Expert article we explain that you should be careful when offering this food to ducklings and how they can benefit from all its properties without risk.
- There are controversies over the use of coconut water for dogs.
- Although not a food or liquid considered toxic.
- Coconut water is rich in potassium.
- Which can cause imbalances in the canine organism when consumed in excess.
- According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty against Animals (ASPCA).
- [1].
The dog can drink coconut water in small amounts. It can be offered in moderate doses to dogs, preferably always with the indication of a veterinarian, since each dog can have its own intolerances to organisms. However, coconut water for dogs can never be offered as a substitute for fresh mineral water, it is a healthy liquid rich in potassium whose excessive consumption can cause mineral imbalances in the body and diarrhea. Therefore, coconut water cannot be given to a dog suffering from diarrhoea without veterinary supervision. You can see more information in the article on home remedies for diarrhea in dogs.
Coconut, like fruit (its “meat”, is listed as a food that can be complementary to the dog diet and is not toxic to dogs, according to the American Kennel Club [2]. However, its index of fats and triglycerides can interfere with the balance of intestinal flora and cause swelling.
In other words, you can also give coconut to the dog, in moderation. Under normal conditions (when the dog is not sick), the properties of fruit and coconut water are also beneficial for dogs and can prevent problems. Dog coconut strengthens the immune system against diseases, parasites, fungi and viruses such as influenza, giardia, among others and has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain and prevent arthritis problems, for example. As it should be offered in small amounts, use it as a “premium” for positive reinforcement.
Both by offering coconut water to the dog and the meat of fruit, it is essential to separate them from the skin. Some larger dogs may even have fun playing with the green coconut, but a piece in their mouth is very fibrous and can cause fatal suffocation and blockages of the digestive system. In addition, the natural shell of coconuts, when not cleaned, may contain viruses and bacteria that are harmful to the health of the dog.
To avoid problems, offer coconut water directly in your small pot of water, as if you were offering water. Despite the indication of moderation, there is no recommended official amount of coconut water for dogs. Since the directive is not to exaggerate, do not offer more than half a glass.
A simple and creative option for hot days is to prepare ice cubes based on coconut water and place them in your pot of water to cool off and give it a special touch.
At first, if the composition of coconut water in a box consists only of “natural coconut water”, there is no problem in giving coconut water from a can to a dog. However, it is always ideal to consult the veterinarian for a more balanced and healthy dog diet.
Drinking and fresh water is a vital and obligatory part of any dog’s diet and should always have it at its disposal to drink it whenever you want.
The amount of water a dog should drink each day varies depending on its food. If you have a home-cooked diet, eat wet foods, for example, end up drinking less water because you’re already a little more hydrated with food. In the case of dry food, which is one of the most common options, the amount of water that the dog should drink will be the result of a 2.5 times increase in the weight of the food consumed. The amount of food, in turn, has other variants. We explain this topic in detail in the article on the ideal amount of dog food.
Wet foods, sugar-free natural yogurt, dog-approved fruits and small amounts of coconut water are options to enrich this diet and make you more hydrated. The dog ice cream recipe, in the video below, is a creative and healthy option to refresh and moisturize it on warmer days, always offered in moderation.
If you think you’re looking at a picture of a dehydrated dog, consult an emergency veterinarian. Dehydrated dog serum at home may be a momentary option, but it doesn’t replace professional care.
If you want to read articles similar to Can you give coconut water to your dog ?, we recommend that you visit our Balanced Diets section.