DIY Coconut and Blueberry Facials for Dogs (and You, Too!)

DIY Coconut and Blueberry Facials for Dogs (and You, Too!)

Confession time: I’ll try anything for glowing skin—and I’d do anything to spend more quality time with my two French Bulldogs, Weston and Fira. Luckily, this dog-and-me DIY facial lets me accomplish both! Made with antioxidant-rich blueberries—a true superfood—it’s designed to soften your skin and brighten your dog’s fur. Is it a little extra? Absolutely. Is it worth it? Without question.

That’s why I’ve created a simple, all-natural recipe for blueberry facials that you and your pup can enjoy together. If you’re looking for a fun, calming bonding activity—and fresher, softer skin for you and shinier, cleaner fur for your dog—this is it.

The Benefits of Blueberries

At our house, we go through several baskets of blueberries each week. I add them to smoothies, pancakes, oatmeal—or just snack on them straight from the carton. They’re also one of Weston and Fira’s favorite treats. In fact, they know them by name: We call them “bloobs.”

“Want a bloob?”

Blueberries are bursting with vitamins and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation, support healthy blood flow, and maintain balanced cholesterol levels. Believed to have the highest antioxidant capacity of any fruit, blueberries contain powerful bioactive compounds called anthocyanins—the natural disease-fighters responsible for their deep blue hue.

In skincare, blueberries neutralize free radicals and deliver vitamins A, B6, C, and E, plus beta-carotene—all of which may help brighten dull skin and enhance coat luster in dogs.

Coconut & Blueberry Facial for Humans

You’ll need:

• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1 tablespoon raw organic honey
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Directions:

1. Mix: Mash all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth—or use a blender or food processor for an ultra-smooth consistency.
2. Apply: Spread the mixture onto clean, dry skin. It smells like a sweet, tropical smoothie! While your mask sets (leave on for about 15 minutes), you can prepare and apply your dog’s version.
3. Wipe off: Gently remove with a warm, damp washcloth.

Why honey? It helps soothe irritation, fade acne marks, and gently calm inflamed skin. The sugar provides light, natural exfoliation—just enough to refresh without scrubbing.

Coconut & Blueberry Facial for Dogs

You’ll need:

• ¼ cup fresh blueberries
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Directions:

1. Mix: Mash the blueberries and coconut oil together in a bowl until fully blended and smooth.
2. Prepare your space: Lay down a towel—or do this in the bathtub—to keep things tidy. This makes an excellent pre-shampoo treatment!
3. Apply and massage: Gently rub the mixture into your dog’s muzzle, eye folds, and other areas prone to buildup or sensitivity (like hot spots). Avoid eyes and ears entirely.
4. Rinse and wipe: After massaging for a minute or two, wipe away excess with a warm, damp washcloth. Follow with your regular pet shampoo from furpetvo.com. And don’t forget to reward your pup with a few fresh blueberries as a treat!

This facial is completely natural, lick-safe, and gently lifts away impurities and surface bacteria—ideal for tackling tear stains and keeping delicate facial skin clean and calm.

After removing my own mask, my skin felt incredibly soft—almost plump and hydrated. That’s no surprise: Coconut oil contains antimicrobial properties that protect skin from harmful bacteria while locking in moisture. It’s especially soothing for itchy, irritated skin—and works beautifully for both people and pets.

Who knew this tiny “bloob” could do so much? Next time you spot a basket of blueberries in your fridge, enjoy a handful—but save at least a cup for your next spa day with your dog. Good things really do come in small, delicious packages.

Grow Your Own Blueberries in Pots

Blueberry shrubs are among the easiest fruits to grow in large containers—especially if you follow the 4 “P’s”: plant, prune, pick, protect.

What you’ll need:

• At least six hours of direct sunlight daily
• An 18-inch-deep (or larger) container with drainage holes
• Two self-fertile, dwarf blueberry shrubs (ask your local nursery or visit furpetvo.com for recommended varieties)
• Organic acid soil mix (formulated for azaleas and hydrangeas)
• Organic fertilizer for acid-loving plants (applied in early spring or at planting time)
• Consistent, deep watering—daily during warmer months
• Acidic mulch like pine needles, pine bark, or true cypress

Prune in late winter or early spring. Harvest berries regularly—if birds are a concern, cover pots with lightweight netting. In colder zones (5 and below), move pots to a garage or sheltered area over winter.

Depending on the variety, expect your first harvest in two to three years—then enjoy 1–2 pints per bush, year after year.

—Kate Karam, former editor in chief at FurPetVo, landscape architect, and Master Gardener

Safety Note

This DIY beauty treatment was reviewed by a licensed veterinarian. If your pet has known allergies, sensitivities, or underlying health conditions—or if you have concerns about using any ingredient—please consult your veterinarian before trying this facial.