Can Dogs Have Sesame Oil? Safety and Benefits

If you cook with sesame oil at home, you might have wondered whether dogs can have sesame oil too. Perhaps your dog hoovered up some food cooked in it, or you’ve heard it might help their coat. The good news is that sesame oil is not toxic to dogs, and in small amounts, it can even offer some modest health benefits.

Is Sesame Oil Safe for Dogs?

Sesame oil is generally considered safe for dogs when given in appropriate amounts. It’s a plant-based oil pressed from sesame seeds and has been used in cooking and traditional medicine for thousands of years.

The nutritional profile of sesame oil includes:

• Omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid), supports skin barrier function
• Omega-9 fatty acids (oleic acid), a monounsaturated fat also found in olive oil
• Vitamin E: an antioxidant that supports skin health
• Sesamol and sesaminol: unique antioxidants found specifically in sesame
• Small amounts of zinc, copper, and iron

These nutrients can complement your dog’s diet, particularly when it comes to skin and coat condition. However, sesame oil is not a substitute for a balanced diet, and the quantities safe for dogs are too small to make a dramatic nutritional difference on their own.

How Much Sesame Oil Can Dogs Have?

Like all oils, sesame oil is calorie-dense, approximately 120 calories per tablespoon. For a small dog, that tablespoon could represent a significant chunk of their daily calorie allowance. Moderation is essential.

Here’s a general guideline based on dog size:

• Small dogs (under 10kg): quarter teaspoon, 2-3 times per week
• Medium dogs (10-25kg): half teaspoon, 2-3 times per week
• Large dogs (over 25kg): up to one teaspoon, 2-3 times per week

Mix the oil into your dog’s regular food rather than offering it on its own. This helps with absorption and reduces the chance of digestive upset.

How to Introduce Sesame Oil Safely

If you’ve decided to try adding sesame oil to your dog’s diet, a gradual introduction is important. Dogs’ digestive systems can be sensitive to sudden dietary changes, and oils are particularly likely to cause loose stools if introduced too quickly.

Week one: Start with just a few drops mixed into one meal. Watch for any signs of digestive upset, loose stools, excessive gas, or vomiting.

Week two: If your dog tolerated the initial amount well, increase to a quarter teaspoon for small dogs or half a teaspoon for larger breeds.

Week three onwards: You can settle into a regular schedule of 2-3 times per week at the appropriate dose for your dog’s size.

If at any point your dog shows signs of digestive discomfort, reduce the amount or stop altogether. Not every dog will benefit from or enjoy oil supplements, and that’s perfectly fine.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Sesame?

Sesame is now recognised as one of the major food allergens for humans, and dogs can develop sesame allergies too, though it’s relatively uncommon. Sesame allergy in dogs can manifest as:

• Skin reactions: itching, redness, hives, or hot spots
• Ear problems: recurring ear infections or excessive ear scratching
• Digestive symptoms: vomiting, diarrhoea, or excessive gas
• Paw chewing: dogs often chew their paws when experiencing food-related allergies

If you notice any of these symptoms after introducing sesame oil, stop giving it immediately and monitor your dog. Symptoms should resolve within a few days once the allergen is removed. If they persist, consult your vet, there may be another cause.

It’s worth noting that if your dog is already allergic to other seeds or nuts, they may be more likely to react to sesame. Introduce it cautiously and one new food at a time, so you can clearly identify the cause of any reaction.

When to Avoid Sesame Oil

While sesame oil is generally safe, there are situations where it’s best to avoid it entirely:

• Dogs with pancreatitis: extra fat of any kind can trigger a flare-up
• Overweight dogs: the added calories aren’t worth the modest benefits
• Dogs on a prescription diet: adding supplements can interfere with carefully balanced therapeutic diets
• Before surgery: some vets recommend avoiding supplements in the days before a procedure, as certain oils can affect blood clotting
• Dogs with known seed allergies: there’s a higher chance of cross-reactivity

If your dog falls into any of these categories, speak to your vet before adding sesame oil or any other supplement to their diet. There may be better alternatives that address the specific issue you’re trying to solve.

Sesame Oil vs Other Oils for Dogs

How does sesame oil compare to other popular oils for dogs? Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Fish oil: the best option for omega-3 supplementation, joint support, and coat health. Well-researched for canine use.
• Flaxseed oil: a good plant-based omega-3 source, though dogs convert ALA less efficiently than EPA/DHA from fish oil.
• Coconut oil: popular for topical skin use and provides MCTs. Limited research on dietary benefits for dogs.
• Olive oil: safe in small amounts, rich in monounsaturated fats. Similar to sesame oil but without the unique sesame antioxidants.
• Sesame oil: safe and provides unique antioxidants (sesamol, sesaminol), but lacks omega-3s. Best as an occasional variety rather than a primary supplement.

Ultimately, no single oil does everything. If you’re supplementing for a specific reason, coat health, joint support, or skin condition, fish oil is the most broadly recommended choice. Sesame oil works well as an occasional addition for variety and its antioxidant content.