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Keeping a Raw Paws tub of Virgin Organic Coconut Oil for Dogs and Cats around the house is a convenient way to tackle multiple external issues your dog may encounter, from cracked paws and irritated noses to dry, itchy skin and areas of hyperkeratosis. The container contains 100 percent raw coconut oil in its basic form which can be used as a solid or liquid, giving you the most flexibility when it comes to application methods. 

We like that the product can be scooped or spooned directly out of the container, making it easy to measure out a precise amount of coconut oil—something that can be tough to determine when you’re using a blended product where coconut oil is one of many ingredients. (This is especially important if you decide to use it as a supplement or digestion aid since there are limits to how much coconut oil a dog can safely ingest.) Use your hands for application, and beware that a little goes a long way.

Start with a smaller amount than you think you’ll need, warm it up on your fingers, and rub it onto the affected area of your dog’s skin, nose, or paw pads. If you’re applying it to the paws, give it a few minutes to absorb fully into the paw pads so it doesn’t track, collect debris, or smear off. 

Raw Paws brand is a small, family-owned business, and we love that they contribute to animal-centered charities. Plus, the jar can be easily stored without refrigeration and will stay good for up to three years after opening. In fact, this product can also be used topically for humans, for those looking for even further value.

_{Flavors: Unflavored | Primary Ingredient: Organic virgin coconut oil | Volume/Quantity: 4 or 16 ounces}

Dog noses are sensitive spots, so if you’ve got a pup that suffers from frequent dry, cracked, or flaky nose issues, it’s best to reach for a product like the Natural Dog Company’s Snout Soothing Nose Balm Stick that is specially formulated for treating nose dryness and irritation. This stick-style nose balm comes in two sizes for easy direct-to-nose application of small and medium-to-large noses.

We love that it’s made with all-natural, plant-based ingredients like chamomile, rosemary extract, coconut oil, and kukui nut oil that work to soothe, moisturize, and protect snouts. Both sizes are easy to transport and can be packed in carry-on luggage, making this a great go-to travel balm for noses—and, in a pinch, paws. A downside, however, is that you’ll likely have to apply it several times a day for at least a week to see a significant change in already-distressed noses, so it may run out faster than expected. 

_{Scent: Unscented | Primary Ingredient: Hemp seed oil, kukui nut oil, coconut oil | Volume/Quantity: 0.15 or 2 ounces}

This stick-style paw balm is one of our favorites because of its easy application, effectiveness, quality, and portability. This creamy product works particularly well for dogs that are constantly gnawing at their dry, rough, and cracked paws by providing near-immediate relief. Vet-reviewed ingredients like shea butter and sweet almond oil help to reduce irritation and itchiness, while coconut oil and carnauba wax work to retain moisture and provide a layer of protection.

Applying is as easy as swiping the stick over the affected paw a few times and massaging any excess into the paw pad. Just make sure to allow about 10 minutes for the balm to absorb properly—and keep the top on when not in use so it doesn’t dry out. Even though this balm bears the NASC quality seal and is dye-, paraben-, and cruelty-free, you shouldn’t use it on dog noses or puppies under 8 weeks old. 

_{Flavors: Unflavored | Primary Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, carnauba wax, coconut oil | Volume/Quantity: 2.4 ounces}  

A finger brush can seem less invasive and intimidating for dogs who hate or fear toothbrushes. Cocopup Coconut Oil Finger Wipes work like a finger brush and are designed to gently clean hard-to-reach areas in a dog’s mouth. They are well-saturated with 100 percent organic cold-pressed coconut oil, with a textured surface on one side for brushing and a smooth one on the other for wiping.

The coconut oil smells and tastes appealing to most dogs and works well at removing plaque, reducing tartar buildup, and freshening breath. However, it may take more than one wipe to brush your dog’s teeth, as they do tend to tear. Plus, some users find that coconut oil makes them a little messier to separate into individual wipes.

_{Flavors: Unflavored | Primary Ingredients: Organic cold-pressed coconut oil | Volume/Quantity: 50 count}

This gentle dog shampoo gives a one-two punch by tending to sensitive or irritated skin and a scruffy coat. Oatmeal and natural oils moisturize and soothe your dog’s skin while the lather-friendly surfactant cleanses the coat—and it all rinses without leftover residue. The pleasant jasmine-vanilla scent smells sweet and fresh, and we appreciate that it isn’t overpowering, since dogs have more sensitive noses than humans—an important factor to consider when choosing any dog shampoo.

The shampoo washes clean with no lingering residue but still manages to keep the coat soft and silky, even if you don’t follow it up with a conditioner. However, it’s not really strong enough to noticeably soften extremely coarse hair. It’s also free from harsh and sometimes irritating ingredients like alcohol, parabens, sulfates, and dyes so it’s safe to suds up on dogs in all life stages—plus, one bottle is good for the whole family. 

_{Scent: Vanilla and jasmine | Primary Ingredients: Water, sodium C-14-16 olefin sulfonate | Volume/Quantity: 16 or 128 ounces}  

BioSilk’s SilkTherapy Conditioner for dogs is made from the same ingredients as their human version, but rest assured: this product is pH-balanced just for dogs. This lightly scented conditioner uses vitamins and organic coconut oil to re-moisturize dried-out fur without weighing your dog’s coat down or irritating its skin. Not only does this conditioner soften coat texture, but it also functions as a detangler for fewer knots and pulls during brushing sessions.

We especially like how this formula has a mild lathering property, which helps indicate how much product you’ve applied so you don’t over-apply. There’s also a detangling spray if you’re looking for a different application type (and a coconut oil dog shampoo, too). While there are no harmful parabens or sulfates, this product isn’t meant for use on dogs 8 weeks old and under.

_{Scent: Fresh | Primary Ingredient: Water, natural moisturizing ingredients, organic coconut oil | Volume/Quantity: 12 ounces}  

These pre-moisturized cleansing sheets offer a convenient solution for managing minor messes between bath days. The moisture level works great for wiping off dirt, pollen, or dingleberries, and the sheets are tough yet remain soft against the skin. These wipes are free from harmful irritants and safe to use on delicate areas like the ears, bum, and nose.

They are especially useful to have on hand after walks in the rain, visits to the dog park, or romps in the yard (keeping a pack stashed in the car is like a secret weapon). We also like that the vitamin E and coconut oil help keep your dog’s skin and coat moisturized and the scent is ultra-mild—perfect if you’re not into heavy scents. Each sheet measures 8 by 9 inches, which is great for large dogs or heavy soiling, but can seem almost too large for smaller breeds or messes. 

_{Scent: Coconut | Primary Ingredient: Ionized water, coconut oil, vitamin E | Volume/Quantity: 100 or 300 count}  

When using coconut oil as a dietary supplement for your dog, it’s important to choose one of the highest quality. This one from Zesty Paws, a reliable brand known for its line of functional pet supplements, consists of 100 percent USDA-certified organic, non-GMO extra-virgin coconut oil. It smells pleasantly of coconut and has a delicious flavor most dogs love.

One teaspoon of this coconut oil (4.5 grams)—recommended per every 10 pounds of body weight—delivers 30 milligrams of omega-6 and 180 milligrams of omega-9, which can support the immune system and metabolism as well as aid cognitive health. Start with one-fourth of the recommended dosage if your dog is new to consuming coconut oil, then gradually increase to the suggested amount over two to three weeks. It’s easy to simply mix it into your dog’s food—just be aware that it may arrive completely melted and not in scoopable solid form.

_{Flavors: Coconut oil | Primary Ingredient: Organic extra-virgin coconut oil | Volume/Quantity: 16 ounces}