As devoted pet owners, we want the very best for our dogs, from their shiny coats to wagging tails.
As passionate pet owners ourselves, we understand the importance of providing our dogs with the best care possible.
Amid the sea of pet products and dietary options, it's natural to seek simple yet effective ways to enhance their quality of life.
That's where extra virgin olive oil comes in—an unassuming yet powerful ally in promoting your dog's overall health and happiness.
A study was published in the journal Veterinary Dermatology in 2018. The researchers studied 30 healthy dogs, 15 of which were supplemented with extra virgin olive oil for 12 weeks. The other 15 dogs served as the control group and did not receive any olive oil supplementation. It showed giving dogs a small amount of extra virgin olive oil is beneficial.
So, let's embark on a journey to uncover the remarkable benefits of this golden elixir and how it can play a pawsitive role in your furry friend's well-being.
1. Nourishing Coats and Soothing Skin:
Extra virgin olive oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which play a vital role in promoting a lustrous coat and healthy skin for your canine companion.
The presence of olive oil in their diet can supply the essential nutrients to maintain soft fur and moisturized skin, decreasing itchiness and dryness.
2. Gentle on the Tummy:
For dogs with sensitive stomachs, extra virgin olive oil can offer a soothing solution. Its gentle nature can help ease digestive discomfort and alleviate constipation.
When introduced gradually and in appropriate amounts, this liquid gold can provide digestive support, promoting a happier and healthier tummy for your pup.
3. Supporting Joint Health:
As dogs age, joint issues can become a concern. The anti-inflammatory properties of extra virgin olive oil may aid in reducing inflammation and potentially alleviating discomfort in arthritic or senior dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the right dosage and suitability for your dog's specific needs.
4. Boosting Immune Defense:
Extra virgin olive oil's antioxidants protect against harmful free radicals, improving your dog's immune system and overall resilience.
5. Aiding Weight Management:
Struggling to maintain your dog's weight? Whether they need to gain or lose a few pounds, extra virgin olive oil can be a valuable addition to their diet.
It provides a healthy boost of calories for underweight dogs and can help manage weight when portioned appropriately for overweight dogs.
How to administer EVOO:
The best way to administer olive oil to dogs is to drizzle it over their food or mix it in with their wet food.
You can also add it to homemade dog treats. It is important to start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount as your dog gets used to it.
Here are some tips for administering olive oil to dogs:
- Start with a small amount, such as one teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight.
- Gradually increase the amount as your dog gets used to it.
- Do not give your dog more than one tablespoon per 20 pounds of body weight per day.
- Add the olive oil to your dog's food or treats.
- Do not give your dog olive oil straight from the bottle.
- Monitor your dog for any signs of stomach upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
If you have any concerns about giving your dog olive oil, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine if this oil is right for your dog and can give you specific dosing instructions.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when giving olive oil to dogs:
- Olive oil is a good source of healthy fats, but it is still high in calories. If your dog is overweight or obese, you should talk to your veterinarian before giving them olive oil.
- Olive oil can help to improve skin and coat health, but it is not a cure for skin problems. If your dog has a skin problem, you should talk to your veterinarian about the best treatment options.
- Olive oil can help to improve cognitive function, but it is not a cure for cognitive decline. If your dog is showing signs of cognitive decline, you should talk to your veterinarian about the best treatment options.
Overall, olive oil can be a healthy addition to your dog's diet. However, it is important to give it in moderation and to talk to your veterinarian before starting.
