Coconut Oil Anyone?

[Tait & Finn]

I'm sure there have been discussions on this but I don't know how to search for them so I apologize in advance. I've read good things about coconut oil for us and our furry friends. I'm wondering if I should add a tablespoon or 2 to Finn's food to help with stinky breath, doggy smell, etc. Anyone out there have any experience with this? And if so, how much? He's 70lbs. And should I go with refined or unrefined. I've read that nutritionally there isn't much difference, only the taste of unrefined is coconutty, which I guess could be a problem if he didn't like it.

Thanks.

[Jessica, Loki and Moose]

As far as I know, there is no nutritional value for a dog. The only thing I use it for is melting a little bit in my hands and lightly spreading it on their fur if it's really dry from the winter air, the same as I would do for my hair.

[Jessica, Loki and Moose]

For the doggy smell I use Earth Bath Vanilla and Almond spray. It's a strong smell when you spray it but quickly settles down and I find this really helps extend the time inbetween baths.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Coconut oil provides absolutely no benefit at all to dogs when given internally and in fact may even be harmful. Here's some information: http://www.doodlekisses.com/group/healthandmedicalissues/forum/topi...

In fact, there's little scientific evidence that taking coconut oil is of any benefit to humans, either, for that matter. But humans tolerate fatty acids from plant sources better than dogs do.

There are all kinds of breath fresheners (sprays and chews) made for dogs. If you have to use something, I'd look into that, or simply brush his teeth more often. Personally, none of my dogs have ever smelled offensive to me.  

[Tait & Finn]

I've just been thinking & reading about it lately. He's not terribly offensive and I wash his beard after each meal, I think that is the main problem. But I was just curious and wondering if anyone out there in Doodleland had experience with coconut oil. Thanks for the input. I will read your link.