Also known as Moroccan oil, argan oil comes from the nuts of the Argan tree that grows exclusively in the southwest region of Morocco, and it is considered the tree of life by local people. Argan oil has risen to popularity for cosmetic purposes. It’s a great natural moisturizer often used for the skin and hair, and is now being found in many products. Argan oil is known to combat dryness and renew skin with its rich nutrients and antioxidants. This makes it a highly sought after ingredient by many people, for both human use and dog alike.
What makes argan oil so beneficial is its high content of fatty acids and vitamin E. For dogs, argan oil is mostly used topically for softening and moisturizing their skin and fur. There are a lot of commercial products that are starting to introduce argan oil into its ingredients, but using 100% pure argan oil will be the best for your pup.
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Top Rated Argan Oils for Dogs
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Benefits of Using Argan Oil on Your Dog.
Just as with any new substance, it’s normal for a pet owner to wonder “is argan oil good for my dog?” Argan oil is very safe of humans, but not all that which is good for humans will be good for dogs. In general terms, argan oil does have many benefits for humans and dogs alike, but as with any other oil, it should be used properly and under the specified guidelines of your dog’s veterinarian.
Here’s a list of the benefits of argan oil for dogs:
- Hydrating for the skin and coat.
- Treats dandruff and dry skin.
- Reduced inflammation and itch due to allergies.
- Contains beneficial antioxidant and anti-inflammatory Vitamin E
- Reduced hair loss.
- Soothes and softens rough paw pads.
So, is Argan oil good for dogs?
Argan oil definitely has benefits for dogs! Just like humans, dogs can be allergic to things and they will have certain triggers for their allergies. Finding the right substance, or combination of substances to treat your dog naturally can sometimes be a challenge. Argan oil is great for this purpose thanks to its intensely moisturizing properties. It can soothe their skin and moisturize it to bring it back to optimal health.
Dangers/Risks of Using Argan Oil on Your Dog
It’s increasingly important to know about the safety of the ingredients that we feed/apply on our dogs, so it’s always logical to wonder whether something new can be harmful to your pet. Therefore, is argan oil safe for dogs?
The main side effects/concerns of using argan oil on dogs are the following:
- Pancreatitis
- Kidney problems
So, is Argan oil safe for dogs?
When used correctly, yes argan oil is safe for dogs. While these side effects are pretty serious, these can only happen if your dog orally consumes a large amount of argan oil. Argan oil is not recommended for internal use, and its topical use is only suggested in small amounts (besides being quite expensive as well). Make sure that when you apply argan oil on your dog’s skin, you’re using a very small amount and make sure that you dog doesn’t lick itself in that specific area.
As with any other new substance, remember to monitor your dog’s reaction and make sure that there are no adverse effects present. Dogs always have different sensitivities and may show allergies or adverse reaction to something new. Always consult with your veterinarian before using argan oil on your dog.
How to Use Argan Oil for Your Dog.
Argan oil is a highly moisturizing oil that can help your dog’s skin in many great ways. It’s recommended to ONLY use argan oil topically, as it can have adverse effects on your dog if it becomes ingested in large amounts. Keep in mind that I am not a veterinarian and that you should approach your pet’s healthcare provider first to determine whether the use of argan oil is right for your dog.
Take into consideration that dogs tend to lick themselves a lot, so the process of applying argan oil on your dog has to be well planned out. The Argan Oil Reviews website proposes a helpful way to apply argan oil on your dog’s skin:
“Argan oil is typically applied to your dog’s coat while the hair is still damp. Once the dog has completely shaken the wet from his coat and he has been towel dried, the oil is applied.
Since Argan oil is very expensive and is effective in small amounts, very little of the oil is necessary to create a beautiful coat.
The dog groomer quickly works the oil into the fur with a series of applications over the entire body. Once the oil is blended into the coat, heat is applied.
Most dog groomers use high powered hair dryers to allow the oil to attach to the shafts of hair. The net result is a silky smooth coat that your pup will actually love.”
The amount used will also depend on your dog’s size and coat length, but a little bit of argan oil will go a long way. You can also make your own dog conditioner that includes argan oil in it. The following recipe is provided by the website Paws Right Here for Holistic Dog Care Tips:
- 2 Tbs. of coconut oil
- 1 Tbs. of argan oil
- 1 Tbs. of raw organic honey
- 4 drops of lavender oil
Rub this nourishing conditioner into your dog’s fur and let it stay in place for a few minutes. Rinse thoroughly.
To soothe and soften your pups paw pads, just rub a drop of argan oil on them and wait for them to dry. It will be fast.
So if you opt to use argan oil on your dog, keep in mind that you need to find 100% pure argan oil. Use some for yourself too! Distract your dog while applying it in order to make sure that he/she doesn’t lick the oil. Whatever you choose to do, always consult with your veterinarian beforehand!
FAQ
- Why should I use argan oil for my dog?
Argan oil is an increasingly popular oil due to its highly moisturizing properties. It can be very beneficial for your dog if he/she has allergies, dry skin, limp and lifeless fur, dandruff, and itchy skin.
- Are there any side effects of using argan oil on my dog?
There are side effects that can happen if your dog consumes argan oil. Dogs tend to lick, so while you apply argan oil on your dog’s skin, make sure he/she doesn’t lick. Keep them distracted with a toy or with a treat. Also, the amount that you should use topically will be very small anyways, but this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take all the precautions necessary. There aren’t any side effects from using argan oil only topically, since it’s a small recommended amount and it should mostly be used before or after bath time.
- Can give my puppy argan oil?
Always check with your veterinarian before trying to add any new type of oil or substance to your puppy’s routine. It’s best to wait after 10 weeks of age to start using anything new.
- Can I use argan oil on my pregnant dog?
Using the argan oil as directed, only topically and with care, should be no problem for treating your pregnant dog’s skin.
- How do I use argan oil for my dog?
Argan oil has to be used in small amounts, due to its cost and also to its high effectiveness even in small amounts. It should only be used topically and allowed to completely dry before letting your dog stray from your supervision. Dog’s tend to lick themselves a lot and might try to lick the argan oil to take it off. It absorbs and dries pretty quickly, and it’s mostly recommended to use before or after a bath on damp fur.
- Can I use a product that contains argan oil?
For your pet, its best to always find a cold pressed 100% pure argan oil. This will ensure that you’re using top quality and avoiding other chemical based ingredient that can cause other side effects to your dog.
Conclusion
Argan oil is a great alternative to many chemical based moisturizers thanks to its high vitamin and fatty acid content. Although it is great for overall human use, for dogs it is limited to topical use for treating dry skin, itchiness, allergies, and such. It can also help moisturize paw pads but you must be careful not to let your dog ingest or lick any of it in order to avoid side effects. But do not fear, the recommended amount to use is very little and if in any case your dog beats your watchful strategy and does ingest some, it shouldn’t really harm him/her. Just try not to let it happen again. Always seek 100% pure argan oil for your dog, since other products will have mixed ingredients.
When used properly, argan oil can revitalize your dog’s skin and coat, and make it look beautiful and shiny as never before! This has been a trick of many owners of show dogs.
