Five dogs of different breeds are lined up, each showing various expressions. From left to right: a chocolate Labrador, a Jack Russell Terrier, a Bulldog, a Pug, and a Beagle.
20% Off
New Dog
Boarding Clients!
Valid 01/01/24 thru 02/28/24
Logo of fon jon pet care featuring a brown cartoon dog with a green tennis ball and text highlighting 70 years of pet care services in san diego.
essential oils

Essential Oil Safety for Dogs

This is part 1 of a two-part series on the do’s and don’ts of using essential oils for your pets. Stay tuned for part 2 of our series which examines what oils to use for your pet cats.


Essential Oils For Your Dog

essential oils

With essential oils becoming more and more common in the household, many dog owners have been turning an eye to pet safety. Are they safe to use at all? What, if any oils, can be used? What should be avoided, and what’s the best way to use them?

Pet parents rejoice – even vets use them around dogs! Whether diffusing lavender in the waiting room to help calm your pet, massaging sore muscles with frankincense, or using blends to combat fatigue, some essential oils can be great for your beloved canine. Oils can be used to treat arthritis, scars, and even help control fleas.

Always stick to using oils when addressing an already-present issue; don’t have your pet inhale an oil meant to address a digestive issue when they don’t have digestive issues. Also, when choosing an oil for your dog, make sure you let your dog weigh in. Of the many safe oils for your pet, choose a few that seem like they’ll best address the issue at hand; line them up on the floor and let your dog sniff at them while they’re closed (remember, your dog has an incredible sense of smell!). Take note of which ones they seem to prefer, and which ones they avoid, and follow those recommendations.

What Oils Are Safe To Use

Some of the safe oils include basil, chamomile, cypress, frankincense, ginger, lavender, and rose. A full list can be found here, including specific species information – be sure to double-check you’re using the right kind of an oil, as different species of plant can cause problems. When in doubt, talk to your vet.

While many essential oils are safe to use around dogs in moderation, some absolutely should not be used. These oils are dangerous to dogs even in small quantities, whether ingested or simply applied to the skin. These oils include anise, cinnamon, citrus, clove, garlic, horseradish, juniper, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree (melaleuca), thyme, wintergreen, yarrow, and ylang ylang. Both ingestion and topical application of these oils can be toxic to dogs at worst, and at best can cause irritation in the mouth (if ingested) or on the skin (if applied topically).

Basic Safety When Using Oils

If you use any of these oils for your own personal health, be sure to keep them stored safely away from your pet’s reach. If you apply them to yourself topically, exercise caution when interacting with your pet to ensure they don’t lick the spot it was applied. If you use diffusers, keep them out of and away from the room during your treatment period, and air out the room as much as possible before allowing them back in.

However, not all dangers come from using the wrong oil. Many pet owners, while well meaning, forget that dogs have a much keener sense of smell than their human parents; even oils that are good for your dogs can cause irritation when used undiluted or in large quantities.

For the best pet safety practice, when applying the oil topically, be sure to dilute it; a good rule of thumb tends to be 3-6 drops per 1 oz (30ml) of carrier oil. This rule applies for inhaling the oil, too; never let your pet inhale full-strength oil. Be sure to take into consideration the kind of problems you want to address with your dog; emotional issues should be diluted much further than physical issues.

Keep in mind, however, to use less for smaller dogs, as well as if your dog is either a pup or a senior. Never, ever apply oil around your dog’s eyes, ears, nose, or genitals. Make sure you talk to your vet if your dog is pregnant or nursing – or if your dog has any medical conditions that might need to be taken into consideration, like asthma.

If you’re using diffusers, make sure to invest in a high-quality one that will allow you to control how much oil is diffused at any given time. Make sure to only use high-quality, therapy-grade oils, as well; low-quality oils can be made with additives, or stretched with carrier oils that can more easily trigger your dog’s sensitivities. Worse still, some low-quality oils can be made with different blends of oils, which smell very similar to us, but can potentially be harmful to your dog.

Safety Precautions

Most importantly, keep a close eye on your dog. If your dog’s breath, skin, or vomit smells like the oil, it’s time to stop usage and talk with your vet. Other signs of poisoning include difficulty breathing or walking, drooling, lethargy or weakness, muscle tremors, pawing at the mouth or face, redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin, and vomiting. If your dog starts showing any of these symptoms, or starts behaving differently than normal, stop usage immediately and either call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Rapid treatment can make a huge difference in your dog’s recovery.

A few other important things to remember if your dog shows signs of poisoning: Don’t ever induce vomiting or give your dog activated charcoal – both of these can actually make your dog worse. Be sure to bring the offending oil with you to the vet, sealed in a plastic bag. And if your dog still has any of the oil on their skin or fur, wash it off quickly with hand-safe dish soap.

One of the best things you can do when introducing a new oil to your dog is to go slow. Keep a close eye on them, and monitor them closely to see how they react. Just because an oils is safe for some dogs doesn’t mean they’re safe for every dog – they have allergies too! Remember, as well, that not all dogs will show the intended effects of the oil. Always make sure that your dog has access to plenty of clean, fresh water (and never put oil in their drinking water).

In summary – be sure to talk to your vet about starting oils with your dog, monitor them closely, and read up about any oils you plan on using. So long as you stick with safe oils, dilute them properly, and keep a close eye on your best friend, you might just find a successful – and safe – remedy.

The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, it should not be considered as a substitute for professional veterinary guidance. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for specific advice tailored to your pet’s individual needs and health condition.

a group of dogs sitting next to each other.

20% Off
for New
Boarding Clients!
*not applicable during major holidays

a blue rectangle with a blue background.

Petcare articles

view all articles
Person offers a slice of red apple to a dog sitting in a wicker chair.
November 15, 2024

What Fruit Can Dogs Eat? A Complete Guide to Safe Fruits for Dogs

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “What fruit can my dog safely enjoy?” Well, you’re not alone. Many pet owners are curious about adding a little fruity variety to their dog’s diet. While some fruits are perfectly safe and even…

Pieces of chocolate with nuts on a black background, arranged in the lower left corner.
November 15, 2024

What Happens When Dogs Eat Chocolate: Here’s Everything You Need To Know

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s a time for sweet treats and baked goods. But while we humans enjoy our candy, it’s easy to forget that these sugary delights can be dangerous for our furry friends. Chocolate, in…

Cabrillo National Monument
September 7, 2024

Dog-Friendly Hotels in San Diego

For people and their four-legged friends alike, San Diego is the ideal vacation spot. San Diego offers plenty of activities for dog lovers, whether it’s exploring the stunning coastline, strolling through lively downtown areas, or discovering pet-friendly spots. If you…

Dog left alone in locked car
September 7, 2024

Is It Illegal to Leave Your Dog in Your Car?

As a pet owner, your primary concern is always the well-being of your furry friend, and you naturally want to ensure their safety, especially when traveling together. California, like many states, has established laws designed to support those good intentions…

two Australian Shepherds playing with a ball outdoors
August 6, 2024

How Much Exercise Does a Dog Need Daily

If you want your dog to live a long, healthy, and happy life, you must make sure they get plenty of exercise. To prevent behavioral issues, improve cardiovascular health, and maintain a healthy weight, exercise is essential. However, how many…

A woman wearing headphones plays with a cat using a feather wan
August 5, 2024

Top Cat Exercises to Keep Your Cat Healthy and Stimulated

Cats, like dogs and people, need regular exercise to keep themselves healthy, despite their reputation for being independent and sometimes sluggish. By keeping your cat physically and mentally stimulated through regular exercises and activities, you are helping them live an…

A person uses a yellow portable pet water bottle to give water to a brown and white husky dog outdoors.
July 9, 2024

How to Know if Your Dog is Overheating and the Right Way to Cool Them Down

We always think about our dogs’ health and safety when we have them as pets. Making sure they don’t get too hot is very important for their health, especially during the warmer months. This article will show you how to…

A black and white cat lies next to a small fan against a yellow background.
July 9, 2024

Can Cats Overheat in the Summer?

As cat owners, we prioritize the well-being of our feline friends, especially during the hot summer months. People often think that cats are less likely to get too hot than dogs, but this is not true. This article will go…

A human hand gently holding a dog's paw, with green grass in the background.
June 7, 2024

How Hot Does the Weather Have to Be for Pavement to Burn My Dog’s Paws?

As the summer heats up, many dog owners are very aware of the risks that the heat can pose to their furry friends. We usually think about giving our dogs plenty of water and shade to stay cool, but the…

pet groomer shaving Maltese dog fur
June 4, 2024

Shaving Dogs for Summer – The Difference Between Double and Single Coated Dogs

Shaving Dogs for Summer – The Difference Between Double and Single Coated Dogs People who own dogs often wonder if shaving their dogs is the best way to keep them cool in the summer. There are, however, some things you…

staff of dog boarding facility welcoming dog
May 8, 2024

What to Expect When Dog Boarding for the First Time

You and your canine companion have taken a giant leap forward when you decide to board your dog for the very first time. It’s normal to have a range of feelings, from anticipation of your trip to worrying about your…

sad Cocker spaniel dog looks through wooden fences in dog boarding
May 7, 2024

Dog Boarding Red Flags, How to Choose the Right Place for Your Pup

Leaving our beloved pets behind, even for a brief period, can cause anxiety for any pet parent. Finding a reliable kennel for your dog is essential for their comfort, safety, and well-being whether you’re leaving for a weekend or a…

Have a
question?

Get a response within 24 hours

Valid 01/01/24 thru 02/28/24

Don’t Miss Out on our New Specials!

20% OFF

new dog boarding clients

A small brown and white dog sitting on a white background.

20% OFF

new cat boarding clients

A tabby cat waving its paw in the air.

20% OFF

new dog daycare on first package purchased

Two dogs sitting next to each other on a white background.

20% Off For New Cat Boarding Clients!

Request Your Boarding Dates

20% Off For New Dog Boarding Clients!

Request Your Boarding Dates