As more pet owners seek natural remedies for their furry companions, essential oils have gained popularity for their potential health benefits for dogs. When used correctly and with appropriate safety measures, essential oils can provide various advantages, from skin care to supporting overall relaxation and well-being. Here, we will explore five safe essential oils for dogs, discuss safety precautions when using them, including proper dilution methods, and showcase several dog products that utilise essential oils for various health benefits.

Safe essential oils for dogs

Please note that botanical names are essential for accurately identifying and sourcing specific plant species used in essential oil production. Always verify the botanical name when purchasing essential oils to ensure you get the right product for your needs.

Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender oil is one of the most versatile and widely-used essential oils for dogs. It is well-known for its calming properties, making it a great choice for anxious or stressed canines. Lavender oil can also aid in soothing minor skin irritations and promote better sleep for dogs with insomnia or restlessness. Another commonly used lavender oil is from a hybrid plant Lavandula x intermedia. This oil is sometimes referred to as Lavandin.

German Chamomile Oil (Matricaria chamomilla)

German Chamomile oil, similar to lavender, possesses calming properties that can benefit dogs during times of anxiety, fear, or nervousness. Additionally, chamomile oil may help alleviate gastrointestinal issues, such as indigestion or upset stomachs, in dogs when used in moderation.

Frankincense Oil (Boswellia carterii)

There are other species of Boswellia that produce frankincense oil, but Boswellia carterii is commonly used for its essential oil. Frankincense oil offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties that can be advantageous for older dogs or those with chronic joint issues. It may help relieve joint pain and support overall joint health, improving mobility and comfort in ageing dogs.

Cedarwood Oil (Cedrus atlantica)

Cedarwood oil has natural insect-repellent properties, making it an effective choice for tick and flea prevention. Additionally, its pleasant aroma makes it a popular choice for dog shampoos and conditioners, providing a natural way to keep your dog's coat fresh and clean.

Lemongrass Oil (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass oil is a refreshing and invigorating essential oil for dogs. When used correctly and in appropriate concentrations, it can aid in relieving digestive discomfort and alleviating nausea. The citrusy aroma of lemongrass oil provides a rejuvenating effect, making it an ideal choice for uplifting your dog's mood during times of low energy or lethargy. Lemongrass oil can be an excellent addition to your dog's natural wellness routine when used with care and consideration for their individual needs.

Safety precautions when using essential oils for dogs

While essential oils can be beneficial for dogs, it's crucial to exercise caution to ensure their safety and well-being.

Always dilute

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should never be used directly on a dog's skin. Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before applying to your dog. The recommended dilution ratio for essential oils when using them on dogs is generally 0.25% to 1%. This means adding only 2 to 3 drops of essential oil for every 2 tablespoons of carrier oil.

Spot test

Before using any new essential oil on your dog, conduct a spot test to check for any adverse reactions. Apply a small amount of diluted oil to a small area and monitor your dog's reaction for at least 24 hours.

Avoid sensitive areas

Keep essential oils away from sensitive areas like eyes, ears, nose, and genitals. If accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with a carrier oil and consult a veterinarian if any irritation persists.

Never ingest

Dogs should never ingest essential oils unless under the guidance of a qualified Zoopharmacognosy or other trained essential oil practitioner. If your dog accidentally ingests an essential oil, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Know your dog’s health

If your dog has underlying health conditions or is pregnant, consult with a veterinarian before using essential oils, as some oils may not be safe for certain conditions or during pregnancy.

Dog products utilising essential oils

If you are unsure of how to properly dilute or use essential oils on dogs, there is a wide range of commercial products available to make the process simple and safe. These specialised products harness the power of essential oils in a carefully formulated manner, ensuring that the oils are used in the right concentrations and in a manner that is suitable for canine use. Whether it's pre-diluted essential oil roll-ons, natural dog shampoos infused with essential oils, or ready-to-use sprays, these commercial products provide a convenient and reliable way to incorporate the benefits of essential oils into your dog's routine. By opting for these expertly crafted solutions, you can rest assured that your beloved pet can experience the advantages of essential oils without any guesswork or concerns about potential adverse effects.

Essential oil natural flea and tick prevention

An effective and natural way to protect your furry friend from ticks and fleas is by using an essential oil tick/flea prevention spray. These are often formulated with a blend of plant-based oils, such as cedarwood, eucalyptus, lemongrass or citronella. One of the flea/tick prevention spray that we like is this Essential Dog Guard Spray (Lemongrass, Cedarwood & Rose Geranium Citronella) for Dogs. The cedarwood oil, in particular, helps repel ticks and fleas. Simply spray the solution on your dog's coat before venturing outside, paying special attention to the areas where ticks and fleas are likely to hide. Reapply as needed, and rest assured that your furkids can roam freely without the worry of pest infestations.

Essential oil dog shampoo and condition

Lavender and chamomile are often used in dog shampoo and conditioner. Natural dog shampoos blended with lavender and chamomile oils provide a calming and aromatic bath experience. These shampoos help to cleanse the coat while promoting relaxation during bath time. Try the TROOPETS Essential Oil Dog Shampoo (Soothing Lavender) and TROOPETS Essential Oil Dog Conditioner (Soothing Lavender). The TROOPETS Essential Oil dog shampoo, conditioner and soap contains 100% pure essential oil. No synthetic fragrances and petrochemicals are added to their products. The TROOPETS Essential oil dog shampoos and soaps are so gentle that they can also be used as a gentle daily hand wash for humans!

For a convenient solution between baths, consider using Kin+Kind Pet Smell Coat Spray - Lavender for Dogs & Cats. This innovative product has multiple uses. It is gentle enough to be sprayed onto your pup's coat between washes, as well as on furniture to freshen up a room and remove pet odour from furniture.

Essential oil dog cleansers

Dog paw and ear cleansers enriched with essential oils offer a gentle and effective way to keep your furry companion clean and fresh. These cleansers are often formulated with essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and eucalyptus, which are known for their soothing and cleansing properties. These oils help to remove dirt and odour while providing a relaxing cleaning experience for your dog. Most essential oil dog cleansers are free from harsh chemicals and artificial fragrances, but it is still a good practice to check the ingredients, and remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and discontinue use if any irritation occurs. Here we have an essential oil natural, rinse-free paw cleaner that takes the hassle out of rinsing your dog's paws after a walk or outing - Essential Dog Rinse-Free Waterless Paw Cleaner (Aloe, Lemongrass & Lavender). This ultra-gentle paw cleaner foam contains EcoCert approved cleansers to deeply clean, deodorise, nourish and moisturise your dog's paws, all at once.

Incorporating essential oils into your dog's routine can be a valuable addition to their overall well-being, provided you adhere to the necessary safety precautions and use proper dilution. The essential oils listed in this article are some of the safe choices to consider. If you are unsure of how to properly use essential oil on your pups, consider specialised products that have been carefully formulated to ensure that the oils are used in the right concentrations for canine use. Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new product or remedy to your pet's care routine.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.