Coconut ice cream is a sweet, dairy-free treat made from coconut milk and sugar. It tastes delicious and many dogs love this dessert just as much as their owners. But, can dogs eat coconut ice cream?
Yes, dogs can eat coconut ice cream. It is fat-free and low in cholesterol, so it’s safe to give your dog a scoop now and then. Coconut also contains manganese, which helps with the healthy growth of bones and connective tissues, as well as copper to help with healing wounds or anemia. However, only give your dog coconut ice cream once in a while because it contains saturated fat. An increase in intake of saturated fats leads to an increased risk of diabetes.
Here are a few things you should know about dogs and coconut ice cream before deciding to share the dessert with your pup.
Can Dogs Eat Coconut Ice Cream?
Yes! Dogs can eat coconut ice cream. It contains no preservatives or artificial flavors, and it’s made from natural ingredients. You can feel confident feeding your dog this dessert.
The fat content in coconut is actually really good for dogs. It helps them maintain healthy skin and joint health, which is especially important for older dogs who are more prone to joint inflammation. The high water content in the dessert also helps support hydration needs, which can be especially important during warm weather or periods of exercise. And the high water-to-fat ratio also makes this treat an excellent choice for dogs at risk for kidney problems.
Coconut ice cream is made with coconut milk. Coconut milk helps naturally moisturize your dog’s coat. It also contains lesser amounts of fat than dairy-based ice creams, which makes it a good choice for keeping your dog’s skin and joints healthy.
It’s really important to note that some dogs do have allergies to coconuts, so it’s best to ask your vet if your dog is allergic before giving him/her any coconut products, including coconut ice cream.
Is Coconut Ice Cream Low-Calorie For Dogs?
Ice creams are usually about 20 calories per serving size, but depending on what you buy this can vary greatly. In general, the ice cream you buy as a treat will contain more added sugar and fat than those that are made from coconut milk. Coconut ice cream contains about 106 calories per 100 grams, which makes it a fairly low-calorie treat. That being said, you’ll still want to feed your dog a small amount of this dessert before ever thinking about sitting them down with a big bowl.
What Type Of Coconut Ice Cream Is Safe For Dogs To Eat?
Coconut milk is a common ingredient in many commercially available dog treats. This means that any type of coconut ice cream you’re choosing can be a relatively healthy choice for your pet. However, these desserts are often extremely high in sugar, so always check the ingredients list before serving your dog this treat.
There are two types of dessert on your shelf that might be okay to give your dog occasionally on a restricted diet. Either 100% fat-free coconut milk or light coconut vanilla ice cream. However, it’s best to only feed your dog this dessert once in a while as it can still be high in sugar.
Can You Feed Your Dog Coconut Ice Cream Every Day?
No. You’ll probably want to avoid feeding your dog too much ice cream. Ice cream is still a treat, and it contains a fair amount of sugar. It’s best to feed your pup ice cream in small amounts at least once in a while. The amount of sugar and fat can add up quickly, and lead to obesity, dental disease, and diabetes over time. This means you should limit the portion size and the frequency with which you give your dog this frozen dessert. Serve your pet ice cream in small amounts only occasionally with a balanced diet of low-calorie treats and healthy food.
Does Coconut Ice Cream Cause Tooth Decay?
The high sugar content of coconut ice cream does make it a potential source of tooth decay. However, don’t be too concerned about dental decay caused by eating this ice cream. It has a decent amount of protein and the sugar is bound with protein and fiber, which helps reduce the impact on their teeth.
Like any other sugary treat, you’ll want to keep an eye on your dog’s dental health. Make sure you brush your dog’s teeth regularly. The amount of dental diseases dogs get from this dessert is similar to that found in the human population. So, it is best to limit your dog’s sugar intake for optimal dental health.
What Other Ice Creams Can Your Dog Eat?
You can also give your dog other kinds of ice cream such as strawberry ice cream, but always check the ingredients list to make sure it doesn’t have any allergens in it before you serve your dog. For example, some brands of vanilla ice cream may have egg or dairy in them. Others are even high in sugar, so only use these treats once in a while. Also, know that chocolate is extremely dangerous for canines, so do not give your pup chocolate ice cream at all.
What Other Foods Can You Share With Your Dog?
There are lots of desserts out there that are safe for dogs to eat. Apple sauce, for instance, contains a lot of fiber and can help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy. Bananas also make a great snack. They contain healthy amounts of potassium and vitamins C and B6, which promote good heart health and keep your dog’s immune system strong. You can also share small portions of pumpkin or sweet potato with your pet.
Conclusion
In general, there is no need to worry about giving your dog ice cream on a restricted diet. If you’re looking to add a bit of sweetness to your pup’s diet, then coconut ice cream can provide a tasty treat without too many added sugars or fats. Just make sure to keep his/her intake low and feed him/her smaller portions frequently. The amount of sugar in the dessert can add up quickly, so cut back if needed.
Explore more coconut-related dog articles on coconut for dogs.
Have you ever tried sharing coconut ice cream with your dog? What was their reaction like? We would love to know. Please share with us your experience by leaving a comment below!