Can Dogs Eat Coconut?

Yes, dogs can eat a little plain, unsweetened coconut meat. It is not toxic. But it is rich, so too much can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea. Never give your dog the shell or husk, and skip sweetened coconut, because sweet treats can hold other things that are harmful.

Is coconut safe for dogs?

In small amounts, yes. The ASPCA says coconut and coconut products are not likely to cause serious harm. It also warns that the flesh and milk of fresh coconuts contain oils that may cause an upset stomach, loose stools, or diarrhea.

The AKC agrees that small pieces of plain, unsweetened coconut meat are okay. It adds that the main risk is stomach upset. Coconut is high in fat and potassium. So the AKC says it is not a good choice for dogs that are overweight or have pancreatitis (a painful swelling of the pancreas) or kidney disease.

How can I serve coconut safely?

• Offer a few small pieces of plain, unsweetened coconut meat.
• Take out all shell and husk first.
• Start with a tiny bit and watch your dog for loose stools or throwing up.
• Keep treats, coconut included, to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories, as the AKC advises.

Can dogs eat coconut shell or husk?

No. The shell is hard and your dog cannot digest it. The AKC says pieces can block the intestines and irritate the stomach and gut. Throw shells away where your dog can’t reach them. Call your vet if your dog swallowed a piece and starts throwing up, seems painful, or stops eating.

Other kinds of coconut

Coconut oil

The AKC says coconut oil is okay in small amounts, up to about a teaspoon for a large dog. Too much can cause diarrhea because it is so fatty. The ASPCA, though, warns that coconut oils may upset the stomach. Sources do not fully agree here, so talk to your vet before adding it to your dog’s food.

Coconut water

The AKC says plain, unsweetened coconut water is fine once in a while, but it must never replace fresh drinking water. The ASPCA advises against it. Because sources differ, plain water is the better pick. Skip any coconut water with added sugar.

Coconut macaroons

Macaroons are not a good treat for dogs. A macaroon is a sweet cookie made from coconut. The coconut itself is not the problem. The extras are. The AKC says to choose only unsweetened coconut and to avoid sweeteners like xylitol. Many macaroons are sweet, and some are dipped in chocolate.

• Xylitol: This sweetener is used in sugar-free sweets. The Merck Veterinary Manual says it is found in candy, gum, and baked goods. In dogs it can cause throwing up, weakness, seizures, and liver damage. Signs can start in 30 minutes, or be delayed for many hours.
• Chocolate: The ASPCA says darker chocolate is more dangerous. See our guide on whether dogs can eat chocolate.

If your dog ate a macaroon, read the package for xylitol and chocolate. If either one is in it, call your vet or a hotline right away. Don’t wait for signs.

What if my dog ate too much coconut?

Too much usually means loose stools, diarrhea, or an upset stomach. Offer fresh water and skip the coconut. Call your vet if it lasts, if your dog seems painful or tired, or if your dog has a health problem like pancreatitis.

Other treats to try

Many plain fruits and vegetables make easy treats. Try small pieces of apple (no core or seeds) or banana. For the full list of foods to avoid, see our guide to foods that are toxic to dogs.