Can dogs eat coconut?

A tablespoon of grated fresh coconut, about 7 g, has roughly 25 calories. That is a reasonable treat for a medium dog, but a handful quickly adds up. High-fat foods can cause diarrhea and, in susceptible dogs, can trigger pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas.

Dogs with a history of pancreatitis or a sensitive gut should avoid coconut altogether.

For a small dog of around 6 kg (13 lb), a single teaspoon of fresh grated coconut is enough; larger portions give more fat than its gut can comfortably handle.

Coconut shell fragments are hard and sharp, and the fibrous husk can ball up in the gut. Some dog toys and chews are made from coconut fiber, and dogs who shred and swallow them can run into trouble.

Unsweetened coconut flakes are the easiest form to portion. Sweetened desiccated coconut used in baking is coated in sugar.

You will find plenty of claims online about coconut oil for dogs. It is pure fat, around 120 calories per tablespoon, and the evidence for health benefits in dogs is limited. Talk to your vet before adding any oil to your dog's food.

Coconut appears in many foods that are not safe for dogs. Coconut macaroons, chocolate bounty-style bars, sweetened coconut flakes and coconut curry sauces add sugar, chocolate, onion or spices. Coconut milk from a can is high in fat and belongs with drinks and cooking ingredients, not treats. Plain unsweetened flakes are the only easy option.