Can Dogs Have Olive Oil? Benefits & Safe Serving Guide

Can Dogs Eat Olive Oil?

Dogs can eat olive oil in moderate amounts. Olive oil may add healthy fats to your dog’s diet and support skin, coat, and digestion, but it is important to know how much to give and which types are best.

Is Olive Oil Safe for Dogs?

• Olive oil is generally safe for most dogs when given in small amounts. It is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health and help keep your dog’s skin and coat shiny. Dogs may also get an immune system boost from these nutrients.
• However, it is important to be cautious. Too much olive oil can cause stomach upset or diarrhea. Dogs with certain health issues, like pancreatitis or obesity, should not have extra oils added to their food. Always talk to your vet before you make any changes to your dog’s diet.

Recommended Forms of Olive Oil for Dogs

• The best type of olive oil for dogs is extra virgin olive oil. It has lower acidity and contains more beneficial antioxidants. Extra virgin olive oil is less processed than regular or light olive oil, making it safer for your dog’s health.
• Do not use flavored or infused olive oils, as these may have added ingredients that are unsafe for dogs. Stick with plain, pure olive oil. Be sure to store the oil in a cool, dark place to keep it fresh. Avoid giving olive oil that looks cloudy, smells strange, or is past its expiration date.

Proper Amounts and Serving Recommendations

• Dogs only need a small amount of olive oil. For most dogs, about 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight per day is a general guideline. For small dogs, use just a few drops. Start with a smaller amount to see how your dog reacts.
• You can add olive oil directly to your dog’s meals. Mix it well with their regular food to help avoid stomach upset. Do not give olive oil by itself.
• If your dog shows any signs of diarrhea or vomiting after eating olive oil, stop giving it and contact your vet. To read more serving advice, check out this article on how much olive oil to feed your dog.

Health Benefits of Olive Oil for Dogs

Olive oil can help your dog in more than one way. It contains important fats, vitamins, and compounds that support your dog’s overall wellbeing, from their coat to their heart.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids Content

• Olive oil provides your dog with healthy fats, including both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These nutrients play a key role in the growth and repair of cells in your dog’s body.
• While olive oil does not have as many omega-3s as fish oil, it still offers a helpful balance of fatty acids. Monounsaturated fats in olive oil are especially good for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. This balance can make olive oil a smart addition to your dog’s meals when used in moderation.
• A mix of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also helps keep your dog’s immune system working properly. This may reduce the risk of some chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease.

Table: Fatty Acids in Olive Oil (per 1 tablespoon)

Support for Skin and Coat

• Adding olive oil to your dog’s diet may result in softer fur and healthier skin. The natural fats, especially omega-6 fatty acids, help prevent dry, flaky skin by keeping it hydrated.
• Dogs with itchy or dull coats can show improvement after getting a small amount of olive oil regularly. It is common for pet owners to use olive oil to help dogs with seasonal allergies or skin irritation.
• Vitamin E in olive oil also acts as a moisturizer. This can give your dog’s coat a shiny, smooth look. To avoid greasy fur, always use the recommended amount for your dog’s size.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

• Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols. These protect your dog’s cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants can lower the risk of some diseases and support long-term health.
• The anti-inflammatory effect of olive oil may help dogs with arthritis or joint pain. By reducing inflammation, your dog might feel more comfortable as they move. This can be helpful for older dogs or breeds likely to develop joint problems.
• Giving your dog a little olive oil may also lower inflammation in the digestive tract. This can promote better gut health and reduce mild stomach upset.

Cardiovascular and Heart Health Support

• The monounsaturated fats in olive oil can support heart health in dogs. Regular use of olive oil may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that olive oil can lower bad cholesterol while raising good cholesterol.
• Olive oil also helps blood vessels function better by making them more flexible. This can improve blood flow and support cardiovascular health. Dogs that have a history of heart problems may especially benefit from these effects.
• Combined with a balanced diet, olive oil can protect your dog against some risk factors for heart disease, like high cholesterol and inflammation.

Practical Tips for Using Olive Oil

Selecting the right olive oil, using it safely in cooking or as a raw topping, and measuring it carefully for home-prepared dog meals can help you get the most benefits for your dog. Paying attention to quality and storage also makes a difference in freshness and nutrition.

Storing and Choosing Virgin Olive Oil

• Extra virgin olive oil is less processed than regular olive oil. It contains more antioxidants and healthy fats, making it safer and healthier for dogs in small amounts. Look for bottles labeled “cold-pressed” and “extra virgin” for the purest product.
• To keep olive oil fresh, store it in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cabinet away from sunlight and heat. Air and light can break down healthy fats, so tightly seal the cap after each use. Use smaller bottles if you don’t use olive oil often. Write the purchase date on each bottle since opened olive oil is best within 3 to 6 months.
• Never use rancid or expired oil. It may smell sour or musty if it has gone bad. Fresh oil preserves more nutrients and tastes better for your dog.

Cooking and Raw Applications

• You can add olive oil directly to your dog’s food, but only use a small amount—usually 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight per day is safe for most dogs. Mixing olive oil into dry kibble or wet food can help boost flavor and texture.
• Avoid using olive oil when frying, as high heat can damage its nutrients. If you choose to cook with it, add the oil at the end of the process instead of during high-heat cooking. Olive oil works best as a simple finishing oil on meals after they are done.
• Using extra virgin olive oil in this way helps your dog get the natural healthy fats and vitamins without harmful breakdown from excess heat. Always measure to keep portions safe and appropriate.

Adding Olive Oil to Homemade Dog Meals

When preparing homemade meals, use olive oil as a supplement, not a main ingredient. Use a measuring spoon to control the amount. This helps avoid giving your dog too much fat, which can cause digestive upset or weight gain. You can drizzle olive oil over cooked rice, vegetables, or lean meats before serving. If your dog is new to olive oil, start with a small amount and watch for any stomach upset. Gradually increase if your dog tolerates it well.

Here’s a quick way to add olive oil to a homemade meal:

Always talk to your vet before adding any new oil or supplement to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has health issues.