Can dogs eat olive oil?

Raw, cooked and other forms of olive oil

• A littleExtra virgin olive oil, a little mixed into food PetMD says olive oil isn't toxic and can be a healthy addition in very small amounts, though it's not as good for skin and coat as fish oil. Chewy's vet-quoted guide calls cold-pressed extra virgin the best option.
• A littleRegular or light olive oil Same fat and calories as extra virgin; PetMD's advice to keep even 'healthy fats' very limited applies to any olive oil.
• Skip itOlive oil rubbed on her skin or coat Chewy's vet-quoted guide says applying it directly isn't recommended: most dogs lick it off, which cancels any benefit and can irritate the skin further.
• A littleOlive oil for constipation Chewy's vet-quoted guide says modest amounts may help because of a mild laxative effect. Too much causes diarrhea, so ask your vet if she's straining or hasn't pooped in a day or two.
• Skip itAny olive oil for a dog with pancreatitis, a sensitive stomach, loose stools or extra weight PetMD warns olive oil can trigger pancreatitis. Chewy's vet-quoted guide says to skip it for overweight dogs and that sensitive stomachs may not tolerate even small doses.
• Skip itOily leftovers, fried food or olive oil dressings Extra fat on top of seasonings; garlic and onion in dressings and marinades are toxic to dogs.

What to know about olive oil

Mostly fat (oleic acid), plus vitamin E and polyphenols. It adds calories fast, and a sudden load of fat is what can upset her stomach or set off pancreatitis. Its plant omega-3s are a form dogs use poorly, so PetMD's vets call fish oil more effective for skin and coat.

Signs to watch for after she eats olive oil

Too much usually shows up as loose stool, diarrhea or vomiting. Pancreatitis signs are repeated vomiting, a painful or hunched belly, not eating and low energy, typically within a day or two of a fatty meal.

What to do if your dog ate too much olive oil

If she lapped up a spill or got a big dose, give her plain water, skip any other rich food that day and watch her stool. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day, or right away if she has repeated vomiting, belly pain, won't eat or has had pancreatitis before.