Can Dogs Have Avocado Oil?

 

The avocado tree produces both a healthy and tasty oil that is popular for human consumption, and also coveted for technological applications. It is a rich source of antioxidants, unsaturated fats and vitamin E. It is also highly resistant to oxidation, which makes it stable in high-heat cooking and other processing methods. In addition, it is a versatile ingredient for a wide range of foods, including guacamole.

Despite its versatility, the avocado plant contains toxic components that make it unsafe for dogs, including a fungicidal toxin called persin. The highest concentration of persin is found in the avocado peel, leaves and pit, although small amounts are present in the flesh as well. If ingested in large quantities, persin can cause vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. It can also lead to a dangerous build-up of fat in the stomach, which may trigger pancreatitis.

While there are many vegetables, fruits and herbs dog parents can safely share with their pups, avocado isn’t one of them. Most dogs should be given only the flesh of the avocado, as the skin and pit contain a toxin that’s harmful to them. Some dogs can develop an allergy to avocado, but this typically happens over time and with repeated exposure.

In some cases, it’s best to leave avocado off the table entirely. Its high calorie and fat content can cause gastrointestinal issues in dogs that are already at risk for pancreatitis, as well as obesity. And it doesn’t provide significant health benefits to dogs, especially when compared to other healthy fats and oils, such as salmon oil.

That being said, some pet owners Can dogs eat olives use avocado oil as a natural remedy to treat skin and coat problems in their dogs. While this isn’t a bad idea, it’s important to use the oil in moderation. It should only be used to treat a specific condition and should not replace the regular diet in any way.

The good news is that commercial avocado oil is typically safe for most dogs to eat in small amounts. This is because the oil doesn’t contain persin, and it doesn’t contain any of the other parts of the avocado that are poisonous to dogs. Additionally, the avocado oil in most commercial dog foods isn’t derived from the avocado flesh, but instead from the pressed seeds or skins of the fruit.

While it’s still important to talk to your veterinarian before adding any supplements or new ingredients to your dog’s diet, some dogs benefit from using avocado oil to moisturize their fur and skin, promote healthy bowel movements and provide relief from seasonal allergies. If you do decide to give your dog avocado oil, always start with a very small amount and monitor them closely for any adverse reactions. And, of course, be sure to follow proper calorie guidelines so your dog doesn’t overeat or gain weight.