A fresh-smelling home is essential for creating a welcoming and cosy atmosphere. For those without pets, maintaining a clean scent is relatively easy. However, adding one, two, or even three dogs to the mix can make things a little more challenging.
Dogs have their own unique scent, which is undeniably part of their charm. As dog owners, we often secretly appreciate that warm, slightly funky aroma reminiscent of a fresh grass roll. Yet, it's common to wonder if your home smells like dog.
To keep our spaces fresh and inviting, many of us turn to essential oils, using diffusers, candles, and room sprays. Unfortunately, not all essential oils are safe for dogs. That citrus-scented candle in your living room might be doing more harm than good. While a pleasant-smelling home is nice, your dog's health is far more important.
So today, we’re going to explore which essential oils are safe to use around your dog, including some that might even benefit your furry friend! Who says that you can't have a home that smells amazing and a happy, healthy pup to enjoy it with?
Essential oils that are safe for dogs
There's no greater joy than coming home after a long day, lighting your favourite scented candle, and snuggling up with your furry friend on the sofa. It's a perfect moment of relaxation, but have you ever wondered what your dog thinks about the scents you're choosing?
The truth is, dogs experience smells differently than we do. Some scents that we find calming can be overwhelming to their super-powered noses, while others can actually have beneficial effects, like reducing stress or repelling pesky bugs. But just like humans, every dog is different and what works for one pup might not be ideal for another. That’s why it’s important to introduce new scents gradually and keep an eye on how your dog reacts. And if you’re ever unsure, a quick chat with your vet is always a good idea.
So what are the best dog-friendly essential oils that are safe to use around your pup and may even help them to feel their best?
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Lavender – Perfect for relaxation, lavender can help ease anxiety in dogs, making it great for stressful situations like thunderstorms or vet visits. Just remember to dilute it properly and never let your dog ingest it.
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Cedarwood – More than just a delightfully earthy scent, cedarwood is also a natural flea and tick repellent, making it a great choice for homes with dogs.
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Bergamot – This bright citrus scent is a great mood booster! Unlike other citrus oils which can be harmful to dogs, bergamot is much gentler and can help freshen the air.
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Lemongrass – Not only does lemongrass smell light and fresh, but it also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a great natural deodoriser. It helps to keep mosquitoes away - a win-win!
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Rosemary– If you and your canine companion need help to focus, Rosemary is known to support mental clarity. It can also help with circulation and even freshen up dog breath when used in pet grooming products.
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Citronella – Best known for keeping mosquitoes and other pesky insects at bay, citronella is also great at neutralising strong pet odours, making it a must-have dog friendly essential oil.
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Frankincense – This grounding scent is commonly used for relaxation and immune system support. It may even help soothe minor skin irritations when properly diluted.
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Chamomile – We know that a cup of chamomile tea can help us unwind, chamomile essential oil also has calming properties that may help anxious dogs feel more relaxed.
Even though these essential oils are considered dog-friendly, it is always important to use them correctly. Essential oils should never come into direct contact with your dog, they must be properly diluted, and diffusers should be placed in well-ventilated areas so your dog can leave the room if they want to.
Essential oils that are harmful for dogs
While certain essential oils can be safely used around dogs, it's crucial to be aware of those that pose potential risks. Just as some aromatherapy scents can offer benefits, others may cause harm to your canine companion. Let's explore the essential oils that should be kept far away from your four-legged friend due to their potential to irritate, poison, or endanger dogs.
These oils may trigger adverse reactions ranging from mild discomfort to severe health issues. By understanding which scents to avoid, you can create a safer environment for your furry family member and prevent accidental exposure to harmful substances.
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Anise – Can overstimulate the nervous system, leading to restlessness and general distress.
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Cinnamon – Can cause skin irritation, digestive upset, and even liver toxicity if your dog is exposed to high amounts.
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Citrus (Lemon, Orange, Lime, Grapefruit, etc.) – Can be overwhelming for dogs and may cause vomiting or difficulty walking if ingested.
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Clove – Contains eugenol, which is toxic to dogs’ livers and can lead to digestive upset and even liver failure in extreme circumstances.
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Juniper – Can cause stress to a dog’s kidneys and lead to long-term health issues.
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Pine – Often found in cleaning products, pine oil can irritate a dog’s respiratory system and cause vomiting.
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Thyme – Can cause digestive upset, low blood pressure, and respiratory irritation.
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Yarrow – Toxic to dogs and may cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and skin reactions.
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Tea Tree – One of the most toxic essential oils for dogs, causing lethargy, tremors, and even severe poisoning.
How to use essential oils with a dog
Safe usage methods for essential oils in a home with dogs require careful consideration and implementation. It is important to never directly put oils onto your dogs skin or coat, or to allow them to ingest oils. Essential oils are highly concentrated and so it is important to use them properly.
- Diffusing - When diffusing, it's crucial to use pet-safe oils in well-ventilated areas. This helps minimise exposure risks and allows your dog to move away if they find the scent overwhelming. Always dilute the oils properly and use them sparingly, as dogs have a much more sensitive sense of smell than humans. Oils can be diluted in water or in a carrier oil. Be sure to check everything to ensure it is dog safe.
- Topical Application - For topical application, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian before using any essential oils on your dog's skin or fur. When approved, apply the diluted oil to your hands first, rubbing them together until they're no longer shiny, then gently stroke your dog's back or flanks. Avoid sensitive areas like the face, paws, and any broken skin. Some pet owners find success in mixing small amounts of pet-safe essential oils with carrier oils like coconut or olive oil for a soothing massage.
- Cleaning + Grooming - In terms of cleaning and grooming, incorporating dog-friendly essential oils into your routine can help maintain a fresh and healthy environment. You might consider using a shampoo bar containing safe essential oils, which can provide benefits such as repelling bugs, promoting healthy skin and coat, and leaving your dog smelling fresh. However, always ensure that any products you use are specifically formulated for dogs and do not contain any toxic oils.
- Room Spray - Creating a deodorising room spray with essential oils is a simple and effective way to freshen up your home without using harsh chemicals. Simply mix together water, witch hazel and your essential oil of choice. Spray the room spray into the air, avoiding direct contact with pets or furniture.
Remember, each dog may react differently to essential oils, so it's crucial to introduce them slowly and monitor your pet closely for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions. By following these safe usage methods, you can potentially enjoy the benefits of essential oils while keeping your canine companion safe and comfortable.
Ultimately, despite our best efforts, our homes will inevitably retain a hint of our dog's presence. And that's perfectly fine. While a fresh-smelling home is lovely, our affection for our dogs far surpasses any scent. they may come with. They bring warmth and life to our space in ways that no fragrance can match.
That said, there are simple ways to minimise the doggy aroma in your home. Regular grooming, frequent cleaning, and the strategic use of dog-friendly essential oils and scents can all help create a more balanced and pleasant environment for you and your furry friend.
* Header image by Samantha Hurley on Burst