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Can dogs drink coconut milk? Maybe you’ve wondered this if your dog tried to sneak a sip while you were reaching for some coconut milk in the kitchen. If humans can drink coconut milk, can dogs safely drink it too?
There is no short yes or no answer as to whether dogs can drink coconut milk safely. While it isn’t necessarily poisonous or toxic to dogs, the addition of extra ingredients in commercial brands of coconut milk, along with the amount of oil present, mean that it isn’t really a great option for your dog.
As always, you must ask your regular vet before sharing any human food or drink with your favorite canine, including coconut milk. Here’s what you need to know about coconut milk and dogs.
When Is Coconut Milk Okay For Dogs To Drink?
In small, regulated doses, coconut milk can be okay for a dog to drink. The ASPCA advises that when “ingested in small amounts, coconut and coconut-based products are not likely to cause serious harm to your pet.”
In some cases, it can even have a beneficial effect on the condition of your dog’s coat, along with often improving a canine’s breath.
For a refreshingly cool treat, you can also try freezing coconut milk in an ice cube tray and serving those to your dog during hotter weather months.
When Is Coconut Milk Bad For Dogs?
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There are a couple of drawbacks to serving coconut milk to your dog. First of all, the ASPCA points out that due to the amount of oil in coconut milk, there’s a chance that it could result a case of diarrhea or an upset stomach.
Actual coconut water has high levels of potassium in it, which makes that equally unsuitable for dogs to drink.
Secondly, if you look at the list of ingredients detailed on the labels of commercial brands of coconut milk, you’ll often notice that they might include extra additives and unhealthy ingredients. They could prove to have a negative effect on your dog’s health.
So if you’ve been considering adding coconut milk to your dog’s diet, it’s best to proceed with caution and only serve very small portions. As ever, always consult with your veterinarian before adding a human food or drink to your dog’s diet.
Has your dog ever tried a taste of coconut milk? Did they feel okay afterward? Tell us all about it in the comments section below!
