Can Dogs Have Avocado Oil?

 

You can safely share a wide variety of vegetables and fruits with your dog, but avocados aren’t one of them. The avocado pit and skin contain a fungicidal toxin called persin that’s very harmful to dogs in large amounts. Additionally, avocados are high in fat, which can lead to pancreatitis in susceptible dogs.

Fortunately, avocado oil does not contain persin and is safe for dogs to consume in small amounts. You may even find it in some complete and balanced commercial dog foods. Avocado oil is great for hydrating your pup’s skin, and it can also help treat common skin conditions like dryness, hot spots, itchiness, and dermatitis. It’s a great source of vitamin E, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and potassium, which is helpful for heart health.

However, it’s important to use avocado oil sparingly. Too much of it can result in gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, start with just 1/4 cup of avocado oil each day and increase gradually.

It is also important to be careful when using avocado oil topically. The oil contains high levels of potassium, which can cause skin irritation and itching if over-applied. To avoid this, only apply a small amount of the oil to your dog’s skin and always make sure to patch test it first.

If you’re using avocado oil for a ​Can dogs eat basil​ specific skin condition, ask your vet for recommendations. They might recommend doing a skin patch test or putting the oil on a small area of the body for 24 hours to see how your pup reacts.

When it comes to buying avocado oil, you’ll want to make sure that you’re getting pure oil. In the country’s first study on avocado oil quality and purity, UC Davis researchers found that 82 percent of the avocado oil samples they tested contained oxidized or unrefined oils. They also found that a number of brands falsely labeled their products as “extra virgin” or “pure,” which can be misleading to consumers.

You should only purchase avocado oil from a trusted retailer or manufacturer. Additionally, it’s a good idea to contact the manufacturer directly for information about the oil’s source and processing methods. This will help you avoid buying low-quality or contaminated avocado oil that could be harmful to your dog.