With its gorgeous purple flowers and mesmerising fragrance, there’s a lot for us to love about lavender. But is the same true for our canine friends? Today, we’re answering all your questions concerning lavender oil for dogs. Is lavender essential oil safe for dogs? If so, are there any advantages of lavender oil dogs can benefit from? And what's the best way to use the ingredient with our pups? Let’s find out!
What is lavender oil?
Lavender essential oil is hugely popular with us humans thanks to its ability to support various aspects of our wellbeing. It's a natural product that we get by steam-distilling the plants. The resulting oil retains not only the delicate floral scent of the flowers, but also their potent active compounds. Indeed, research shows it helps improve the quality of our sleep, eases stress, depression and anxiety, and benefits skin health. Lavender oil is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, has antioxidant properties, and even repels bugs like mosquitoes.
For those of us with pets, it’s only natural to want to share these advantages with our furry friends. And the availability of diffusers, sprays, and similar products makes it easy to do so. But there are plenty of plants out there that, while harmless to humans, are toxic to canines. So, is lavender essential oil safe for dogs? And if it is, are there benefits of lavender oil for dogs like there are for people?
Is lavender oil safe for dogs?
Perhaps unsurprisingly, there isn’t a simple yes or no answer to this question. That’s because it all depends on how you use the ingredient with your pup. Lavender essential oil is very potent. As such, it may cause adverse reactions in pooches if you use too much of it or don’t dilute it. Another point to remember is that you should only ever use lavender oil on your pet externally. It can be toxic if they ingest it.
When you use lavender oil properly, however, it is generally safe for dogs. Why do we say ‘generally’? Because it’s possible that some pups have an allergy or sensitivity to lavender, in which case it won’t be suitable for them. In addition, your pooch may have an existing health condition or be on medication that’s incompatible with lavender oil. All of which means it’s a good idea to consult a vet before using any essential oils on your mutt.
If your vet gives you the go-ahead, there are several potential benefits of lavender essential oil dogs can enjoy. We’ll talk in more detail about specific methods you could use later in the article. First, we want to stress that not all essential oils are the same. Some varieties are toxic to our pups no matter how you use them. These include cinnamon, clove, citrus, peppermint, ylang ylang, and lemongrass. And if you and your dog also share your home with a cat, you need to be even more careful. No essential oils are safe for our feline friends, and using a diffuser around them can be very dangerous.
With the safety precautions out of the way, let’s look at the advantages of lavender oil dogs could benefit from.
Potential benefits of lavender oil for dogs
Not only is lavender oil safe for dogs, but it could also support their wellbeing in a wealth of ways. One of the most common reasons people think about using the ingredient with their pups is to ease anxiety. And evidence suggests that it does help reduce stress in our canine companions. Studies have found that inhaling the scent of lavender essential oil can promote relaxation and calm behaviour in mutts.(1) For example, it could help to keep your pooch peaceful during car rides or other situations that make them excitable.(2) Alternatively, try using it to help your pet settle during a storm or when there’s a fireworks display nearby.
There may also be skin benefits of lavender oil dogs can enjoy. The ingredient’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties could help relieve itchiness and minor irritation, plus inhibit the growth of bacteria. The latter could be useful for reducing the risk of certain infections. It’s important to note that there’s a lack of research into the effects of lavender oil on canine skin health. However, studies on other animals and human cells indicate that the ingredient has the potential to be effective.
Another advantage of lavender oil dogs and humans will both appreciate is keeping pests away. The scent acts as a natural insect repellent, helping to deter mosquitoes, ticks, and other creepy-crawlies.(3) This doesn’t mean you can stop using flea treatments on your pooch! However, lavender oil could be useful as an extra line of defence.
That covers the principal benefits of this aromatic ingredient for our pups. But are there any disadvantages or side effects of lavender oil dogs might not be so happy about?
The risks of lavender oil for dogs
Taking care when using lavender oil around dogs is crucial, because they’re more sensitive to essential oils than we are. Like humans, some pooches may be allergic to the product. This can cause them to experience skin irritation, a runny nose, red eyes, respiratory issues, or sneezing. As such, start off with a very small amount of lavender oil. Keep a close eye on your pup, and if they have any unwanted symptoms, stop using it immediately.
Even if your mutt isn’t allergic to lavender oil, using too much or not diluting it can be harmful. In particular, you should never allow your pet to ingest any essential oils. If your dog consumes concentrated lavender oil, it could lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and even seizures. To avoid this, always keep the bottle out of their reach. In addition, never apply undiluted lavender oil to your pooch’s skin or fur – they might lick it off.
Remember that our pups’ sense of smell is far superior to our own. That means it’s easy to overwhelm them with the scent of lavender without realising it. Signs that your dog doesn’t like the aroma or is finding it too strong include whining, turning away from the fragrance, and rubbing their face. If you’re using lavender oil in a diffuser, it’s best to always have the door open. That way, your pet has the choice to leave the room if they’re not keen on the smell.
Now we know what not to do, let’s explore the methods of using lavender oil dogs are safe to enjoy.
How to use lavender oil with dogs safely
The best way to use lavender oil for dogs will depend on the specific benefit you’re hoping to achieve. For instance, if you want to make the most of the fragrance’s calming influence, you could try aromatherapy. Add a drop or two to a diffuser and allow it to fill your home with the oil’s relaxing scent. Another option is to dilute the oil in water and lightly spray the blend onto your furniture. You could also spritz a little onto your pup’s bed or favourite blanket, but make sure it’s not overpowering.
If you’re interested in the skin health benefits of lavender oil dogs can enjoy, topical application is most effective. However, you must dilute it heavily with a pet-safe carrier oil first. That could be coconut oil, avocado oil, flaxseed oil, jojoba oil, or hemp seed oil. Always remember that less is more. Only apply a small amount to your pet’s skin and fur, ideally in a place they can’t easily lick. And never put any essential oils near your pup’s eyes or on broken skin.
Finally, to keep bugs away from your beloved pooch, you might try popping a drop of lavender oil on their collar or a bandana. Alternatively, you could use a diffuser if you’re trying to deter insects while your pup is in the garden or on the balcony.
Whichever method you choose, we recommend consulting a vet first to make sure lavender oil is suitable for your pet. It’s also a good idea to monitor your dog for any signs of an adverse reaction while using the ingredient.
Alternatives to lavender oil for dogs
If your pup isn’t fond of the scent of lavender or you’re not confident in using it, don’t worry. There are plenty of other options for easing anxiety and promoting skin health. Here at Boosie, we offer a range of wellness-supporting, organic, plant-based functional foods without strong fragrances or essential oils.
For example, studies show that ashwagandha can significantly decrease stress-related symptoms and indicators of anxiety in dogs.(4) It could lower their cortisol levels and also reduce signs of fear and aggression. Another option is reishi mushroom powder, which acts as an adaptogen. That means it helps lessen the negative effects of stress on your pet’s mind and body. Similar to lavender, it could even be useful for promoting a good night’s sleep.(5)
Those who are interested in skin-related benefits of lavender oil dogs can enjoy might like to try a gentler oil. Sea buckthorn oil is rich in nourishing omega-7 fatty acids for shiny fur, while milk thistle oil is bursting with skin-friendly vitamin E. Alternatively, opt for chia seed oil and its moisturising omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and tackle itchiness.
No matter which ingredient you pick, you can mix it into your pup’s normal wet food. However, as with lavender oil for dogs, consult a vet before adding any functional foods to your pet’s diet. This is especially important if your pooch has an existing health condition or is on any medication. They are not replacements for professional veterinary care or medicine, and you should only give them to fully grown animals. Functional foods are also not suitable for mutts who are pregnant or nursing puppies of their own.
Other ways to help reduce anxiety and support skin health in dogs
While there are potential advantages of lavender oil dogs can benefit from, the ingredient does have some downsides. As such, you might like to try the following tips to look after your pooch’s skin health and ease their anxiety. This could be instead of, or alongside, lavender oil and functional foods.
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Ensure your pup always has access to fresh, clean water to encourage them to stay hydrated
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Brush your dog regularly to stimulate the production of sebum and distribute it across their skin and fur. It’s also a lovely way for the two of you to bond, plus helps your pet relax
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Feed your mutt a balanced diet to make sure they get all the nutrients required to keep their skin healthy. Zinc, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly important
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Only bathe your dog when it’s necessary, because doing it too often can dry out their skin
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Provide your pooch with plenty of toys for mental stimulation and make sure they get enough physical exercise. This helps stave off boredom and releases endorphins, both of which reduce stress and anxiety
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Stick to a consistent schedule for meals, walks, and other activities to give your pet a sense of security
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Set up a quiet and relaxing space where your dog can retreat to and feel safe
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Consider a weighted blanket or anxiety wrap that applies gentle pressure (like a hug!) to ease stress
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Play calming music or white noise to drown out scary sounds like thunder or fireworks
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If your pooch struggles with severe stress, anxiety or fear, consult a vet or animal behaviour specialist
The verdict on lavender oil for dogs
Not only is lavender oil safe for dogs when you use it correctly, but it can also benefit their wellbeing. Most notably, it has the potential to alleviate stress and anxiety, helping your pup to unwind. Furthermore, it may offer some advantages for skin health. However, you should never use undiluted essential oils with your pooch or allow them to ingest the ingredient. The safest method is to pop a few drops into a diffuser or dilute it with water to create a spray. You can then use this on your furniture or even your pup’s bed. With any luck, the flower’s delicate fragrance will encourage calm behaviour and leave your dog feeling relaxed and happy!
