Can Dogs Taste Coconut Water?

Coconut water is a delicious, fresh and nutritious beverage that most people really enjoy. It is great on its own or is perfect blended in smoothies or homemade popsicles. Coconut water is particularly good in the summertime because it is able to hydrate the body so well due to its natural electrolyte content. 

Since coconut water is so good and has so many benefits, you may be wondering if your dog can share some with you as well. Luckily enough, coconut water is a fantastic addition to your dog's diet and it is perfectly safe for your dog to consume!

Coconut water has a very mild and slightly sweet taste and does not taste overwhelming like coconut, so your dog will likely love this refreshing beverage. Most dogs really love the flavor of coconut, so you can feel quite confident knowing your dog will like coconut water.

However, all dogs are different so there is a chance your pooch won't be too crazy about this drink and its flavor. If you find your dog does not like coconut water, we recommend not trying to force it into their diet as there are other foods your dog can have that have similar benefits to coconut water, but that they may actually enjoy. 

If your dog does like coconut water, you will certainly be able to tell by their body language and mannerisms. Many dogs will often bark, whine, and cry when they are begging if they really enjoy a food/beverage and want more. You can also see if they keep staring at you, if they drool a lot, if they pace around in front of you, stare at your while you have the food, or many dogs will even paw at you like they are asking for more. Also, ears up and forward and an alert looking head and posture are often signs they are interested in the food you have. 

Coconut water has been around, and it has been used by humans for thousands of years. It is believed that coconuts originated in both the Pacific basin and the Indian Ocean basis at different times. Furthermore, there is also evidence that coconuts were in the Americas well before there was any exploration of this part of the Earth, suggesting coconuts became cultivated and produced in the Americas separately. 

Coconuts were such a popular and high demand food because they are high in calories, have a heart flesh to eat, have nutritious and hydrating coconut water on the inside, the shells could be used as bowls or for digging, and the fibers on the outside could even be woven into strong rope. 

Coconut water has become extremely popular within the last couples of years. It has become recognized as a superfood and people cannot seem to get enough. Coconut water has transitioned from an exotic beverage you get on vacation on a tropical island to a beverage that is carried across the United States in all major grocery stores. There are no signs that the sales of coconut water are slowing down and we can expect to see a continued increase in coconut water demand. 

Now, let us take a look at all of the health benefits coconut water can have for your dog. Coconut water is packed full of natural electrolytes that are perfect for keeping your dog hydrated, especially in the summertime. Natural coconut water also does not have any added sugar, making this one of the best sources of electrolytes. Coconut water is also full of potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, iodine, sulfur, B-vitamins, and vitamin C. 

Coconut water can also help dogs that suffer from recurring UTI's and it can help to reduce the size of kidney stones. Although you should not rely solely on coconut water to help prevent UTI's or reduce the size of kidney stones. 

Getting your dog to like coconut water will not be very difficult, but just giving coconut water to them straight may not be the best idea. They likely would not want to stand there and drink a bowl of it by itself! It is also important to note that if your dog does not like coconut water, do not force them to drink it. They either do not enjoy that taste or it may make their tummy feel off, so never force your dog to eat something they do not have to. 

However, if your dog does enjoy coconut water, there are so many fun things you can do to have your dog enjoy this healthy beverage even more. If you are making dog treats, you can replace the liquid in the treats with coconut water for added nutrition and electrolytes. It can also help give their treats a natural sweetness without adding in any additional sugars. 

You can also make little puppy popsicles with the coconut water. You can use any kind of mold you want and fill up your mold or ice cube tray with the coconut water. Add in any healthy, dog-friendly extras you want. Some great additions to these puppy popsicles would be blueberries, pieces of chicken, chopped carrots, apples, or any other fruits, veggies, or meats they enjoy the most. Just pop them in the freezer and give one to your dog for a special treat, after a hot walk, or if they need some extra hydration! 

If you are just trying coconut water with your pup for the first time, be sure to start them with small amounts. This way you can see how their tummies react to the new food without making them too sick if it does not sit well.