Introduction
Many dog owners look for ways to supplement their pet’s diet with healthy fats. Two popular oils used for this purpose are olive oil and coconut oil. Both oils provide benefits, but also have some drawbacks. This article will provide an overview of using olive oil versus coconut oil for dogs. It will cover the nutritional profile, health benefits, risks, absorption, cost, convenience, taste, and recommendations for each oil. By the end, you will understand the key differences between these two oils and which may be better for your dog.
Nutritional Profile
Olive oil is high in monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which makes up 55-83% of the total fat content. It also contains polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-3, as well as vitamins E and K. Olive oil contains no cholesterol and is low in saturated fat.
In comparison, coconut oil is very high in saturated fatty acids, which make up 82-86% of the total fat content. The main type of saturated fat is lauric acid. Coconut oil contains only small amounts of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It does not contain any fiber, protein, or carbohydrates. Coconut oil provides vitamins E and K, but in lower amounts than olive oil.
Overall, olive oil is lower in saturated fat and richer in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats than coconut oil. It also contains more antioxidant vitamins. This gives olive oil an advantage over coconut oil nutritionally (https://brightland.co/blogs/field-notes/olive-oil-vs-coconut-oil).
Health Benefits
Both coconut oil and olive oil offer health benefits for dogs. Some of the ways olive oil benefits dogs include:
– Moisturizing skin and coat – According to Rover.com, olive oil contains nutrients like vitamin E and omega-3s that help keep a dog’s skin hydrated and healthy.
– Reducing inflammation – Olive oil is rich in oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve joint pain and arthritis in dogs (1).
– Supporting heart health – The monounsaturated fats in olive oil can help improve cardiovascular function (2).
Coconut oil also provides several health benefits:
– Improving skin and coat – The lauric acid in coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects that can improve skin and fur condition (3).
– Aiding digestion – The medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil are easy to digest and can help dogs absorb nutrients (4).
– Boosting cognition – Early research shows MCTs may improve brain energy metabolism and reduce cognitive decline in dogs (5).
(1) https://www.howimetmydog.com/index.php/blog/uncoiling-the-truth-about-natural-oils-for-our-pets
(2) https://www.rover.com/blog/5-healthy-oils-give-dogs-coat-brain-boost/
(3) https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dog-eat-olive-oil/
(4) https://www.rover.com/blog/5-healthy-oils-give-dogs-coat-brain-boost/
(5) https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dog-eat-olive-oil/
Risks and Drawbacks
Olive oil has very little risks or downsides for dogs. However, it does have a strong flavor that some dogs may not enjoy. Olive oil should also be given in moderation, as too much fat can lead to pancreatitis according to PetMD
Coconut oil is generally safe for dogs but has some potential risks and downsides. The high fat content means it should be fed in limited amounts to avoid pancreatitis or diarrhea, according to Healthline. Coconut oil may also cause dry skin or a greasy coat in some dogs. It is important to introduce coconut oil slowly and monitor your dog’s health and reactions.
Both olive oil and coconut oil should only be given occasionally and in moderation. It’s best to consult your vet before giving either oil regularly.
Absorption
Dogs absorb dietary fats and oils through the small intestine. Fatty acids and triglycerides are broken down into smaller molecules by bile salts and pancreatic lipase before being absorbed into the bloodstream (1).
Medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) like those found in coconut oil are more easily absorbed than longer chain fatty acids. MCTs do not require emulsification and can be directly absorbed into the portal vein and sent to the liver for energy production or ketone body synthesis (2).
Olive oil is high in oleic acid, which is a long chain monounsaturated fat. Monounsaturated fats are moderately well absorbed compared to saturated fats. However, oleic acid may be less well absorbed than other monounsaturated fats (3).
Overall, the medium chain triglycerides in coconut oil are more rapidly absorbed than the longer chain fats in olive oil. However, both can be adequately digested and absorbed by dogs.
Cost
When comparing the costs of olive oil and coconut oil for dogs, coconut oil tends to be more budget-friendly. A 16 oz jar of virgin coconut oil costs around $8-12 at most grocery stores, while a 16 oz bottle of extra virgin olive oil costs $10-20. Buying in bulk sizes brings the per ounce price down for both oils. However, coconut oil remains the less expensive option. For example, a 54 oz tub of coconut oil averages around $17-20, compared to a 33.8 oz tin of olive oil for $20-30.
According to Amazon, an 8 oz bottle of coconut oil formulated specifically for dogs runs about $15, while most 8 oz bottles of olive oil for dogs cost $17 and up. When feeding larger dogs who require more oil, those few dollars make a noticeable difference. Pet owners looking to save money while still providing their dogs with healthy oils tend to prefer coconut oil.
Convenience
When it comes to convenience, coconut oil has some advantages over olive oil for dog owners. Coconut oil has a very long shelf life compared to olive oil. Unopened coconut oil can last 2-5 years without going rancid, while olive oil lasts just 6-12 months before spoiling. Coconut oil doesn’t need to be refrigerated like some olive oils, so it’s easier to store.
In terms of ease of administration, both coconut oil and olive oil can simply be mixed into a dog’s food. However, coconut oil melts at 76°F, so it liquefies at room temperature or with a dog’s body heat. This makes coconut oil easier to pour and mix compared to olive oil which stays viscous at room temperature. Coconut oil is also flavorless, while some dogs may reject the strong taste of olive oil. So coconut oil may be simpler for dog owners to administer.
Taste
Both olive oil and coconut oil have tasty flavors that appeal to dogs. Olive oil has a rich, aromatic taste from the olive fruit. Many dogs enjoy lapping up small amounts of olive oil. Coconut oil also has a pleasant, mild coconut flavor. It contains fatty acids like lauric acid that dogs can easily metabolize and enjoy. Most dogs will readily eat coconut oil off a spoon or mixed into their food. So both olive and coconut oils can be fed to dogs without much fuss. However, some finicky eaters may prefer one oil over the other depending on their taste preferences. It’s a good idea to offer them in small amounts at first to gauge your dog’s reaction. But overall, dogs seem to find both olive and coconut oils quite tasty.
Source: https://www.rover.com/blog/can-dog-eat-olive-oil/
Recommendations
Both olive oil and coconut oil can provide benefits for dogs, but each has advantages in certain situations:
Olive oil may be preferred when:
- Seeking an oil rich in omega-3s and omega-6s to improve skin and coat health. Olive oil contains high levels of these essential fatty acids (Source).
- Looking for an oil that’s easy to pour and mix into food. Olive oil has a thinner consistency than coconut oil.
- Wanting a cost-effective option. Olive oil is typically cheaper than premium coconut oil products.
Coconut oil may be preferred when:
- Seeking potential cognitive/brain health benefits from medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). Coconut oil contains high levels of MCTs (Source).
- Looking for potential anti-inflammatory, antibacterial or antifungal properties. Coconut oil contains lauric acid which provides these benefits.
- Wanting a thicker oil that’s easy to mix into treats or solid foods. Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature.
Conclusion
In summary, both olive oil and coconut oil provide health benefits for dogs when given in moderation. Olive oil is higher in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, making it excellent for skin and coat health. Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can improve digestive health. However, it does not contain as many essential fatty acids as olive oil.
When it comes to absorption, olive oil is more readily absorbed than coconut oil. Olive oil also has a higher smoke point, making it better for cooking. Coconut oil has a sweet taste that many dogs enjoy more than olive oil.
While both oils have their advantages, olive oil is richer in compounds like polyphenols that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The higher content of essential fatty acids also gives olive oil the edge for long-term health benefits. Olive oil is also readily available and cost effective. Ultimately, regular use of olive oil is recommended over coconut oil for most dogs.
