3 REASONS TO INCLUDE OLIVE OIL IN YOUR DOG’S DIET

Olive oil, the staple of most kitchens, also makes a great addition to your dog’s diet. And that’s why, with the exception of another superstar fat coconut oil, the only fat we use in our Tribal daily dog treats is olive oil. Here are three great reasons to include olive oil in your dog’s diet.

Healthy on the inside and out

Unsaturated fatty acids play an important role in the life of our tribe to ensure proper development of the nervous system and skin. Olive oil has long been recognised for its unusual fat content, with approximately 75% of its fat in the form of oleic acid - a monounsaturated, omega-9 fatty acid. Compare this with sunflower oil which only has 20% of its fat in the form of monounsaturated fatty acids. Research has shown that diets that increase their monounsaturated fat intake tend to experience a decrease in their blood cholesterol. Olive oil's monounsaturated fat content (specifically, its high level of oleic acid) has now also been linked to reduced blood pressure. The remainder of the fat content of olive oil is predominantly made up of Linoleic Acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid. Linoleic Acid cannot be made by the body and so is considered essential for all mammals to get from their diet – ourselves and tribe included.

Anti-ageing properties

In addition to fatty acids, olive oil is a rich source of Vitamin E, an extremely important anti-oxidant that can prevent and treat the ageing of lesions in the cell membranes. Anti-oxidants like Vitamin E act to “mop-up” free radicals – the nasties that cause cell oxidation which can lead to premature ageing.

Anti-cancer properties

Cancer prevention has been one of the most active areas of olive oil research. Studies have now shown, that olive oil is effective in the prevention of certain cancers, based on statistical studies related to eating habits. In veterinary medicine, cancer has become increasingly important in recent times, especially in small animals. Whilst there is no study on the effects of olive oil on cancers in canines (yet), it is possible that the anti-cancer properties of olive oil can be applied to animals as well.

Do you include olive oil to your dog’s diet? Why not start with our natural Tuna & Olive Oil Rewards.