While dogs can eat canola oil, it’s not healthy for them and shouldn’t be part of their regular diet. Although canola oil isn’t necessarily toxic for dogs, it should only be given in very small amounts. There are better oils that can be used as dietary supplements. In general, it’s best to keep your dog away from fatty foods such as cooking oils.
As always, you must ask your regular vet before sharing any human food with your beloved pooch. Here’s what you need to know.
When is canola oil okay for dogs?
Thankfully, canola oil isn’t technically toxic for dogs. So if you discover that your pup has consumed some — or managed to scarf down some food that has been cooked in it — there’s a high chance that they will be okay.
Just keep an eye out for any immediate symptoms such as an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In terms of nutritional benefits, canola oil can provide your pup with linoleic acid, which is considered to be a beneficial nutrient.
When is canola oil bad for dogs?
The main point of contention around giving canola oil to dogs is that it’s often made in a much more processed manner than other oils, such as olive oil. Additionally, canola oil is often made using genetically modified crops.
In general, unless your veterinarian has advised otherwise, it’s best to keep your dog away from too many fatty foods, such as excess oil. If your dog consumes too much fat, they risk developing canine obesity, which can lead to many other health problems over time. Too much fat can also cause pancreatitis in dogs.
If you decide that your pup could benefit from an oil supplement — after consulting your vet, of course — consider options like fish oil, olive oil, or coconut oil first.
