Is Lavender Oil Safe for Dogs?
Chaco is our farm dog. He’s known to roll in cow poop, eat anything nasty he can find, and make random jumps into the pond. Long story short, he’s one nasty smelling doggo, that is until we clean him and leave him smelling like he’s been frolicking in the lavender fields (carefully and with lot’s of respect for the plants…right bud?)
Lavender oil is a popular essential oil known for its calming and healing properties. It’s often used in aromatherapy, skincare, and even in treating minor wounds. But when it comes to our four-legged friends, particularly dogs, many pet owners wonder: Is lavender oil safe for dogs?
The answer is generally yes, but with some important caveats. When used correctly, lavender oil can be beneficial for dogs. It can help with anxiety, soothe skin irritations, and even act as a natural flea repellent. However, it’s essential to understand the proper usage to ensure it’s safe for your furry friend.
It’s important to mention now, we normally use lavender hydrosol on a daily basis to keep the dog stink down. When we use lavender essential oil it is diluted A LOT with our oil. This high-quality oil is super potent and you don’t need a lot. I normally use one drop of oil in a whole 16oz bottle of gentle unscented dog shampoo.
The Benefits of Lavender Oil for Dogs
Lavender oil offers several benefits for dogs when used appropriately. Here are some of the key advantages:
Calming Effects: Lavender oil is well-known for its calming properties. It can help reduce anxiety in dogs, especially during stressful situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, or travel. A few drops of lavender oil on a dog’s bedding or in a diffuser can create a peaceful environment.
Skin Irritations: Lavender oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it effective for treating minor cuts, burns, and skin irritations. It can also soothe itching caused by allergies or insect bites. When applying it topically, always dilute lavender oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, to avoid irritating your dog’s skin.
Flea Repellent: Lavender oil can act as a natural flea repellent. Unlike chemical flea treatments, lavender oil is gentle on your dog’s skin and safe for long-term use. A few drops on your dog’s collar or mixed with water as a spray can help keep fleas at bay.
Joint Pain Relief: For older dogs suffering from arthritis or joint pain, lavender oil can provide some relief. When massaged into the skin (always diluted), it can help soothe sore muscles and joints.
Key Benefits at a Glance:
Reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation
Soothes skin irritations and minor wounds
Acts as a natural flea repellent
Provides relief for joint pain
How to Safely Apply Lavender Oil to Dogs
While lavender oil is generally safe for dogs, it’s crucial to use it correctly to avoid any adverse effects. I normally use lavender hydrosol on a daily basis to keep the dog stink down. When I use lavender essential oil it is diluted A LOT with our oil. This high-quality oil is super potent and you don’t need a lot. I normally use one drop of oil in a whole 16oz bottle of gentle unscented dog shampoo. Here’s some guidelines to safely use lavender oil on your dog:
Dilute the Oil: Never apply undiluted lavender oil directly to your dog’s skin. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause irritation. Mix a drop or two of our high-quality organic lavender oil with a carrier oil like organic coconut, olive, or jojoba oil before applying it to your dog’s skin.
Patch Test: Before using lavender oil on your dog for the first time, do a patch test. Apply a small amount of the diluted oil to a small area of your dog’s skin and monitor for any signs of irritation, such as redness, itching, or swelling.
Avoid Sensitive Areas: Do not apply lavender oil near your dog’s eyes, nose, or mouth. Also, avoid using it on open wounds or sore spots unless recommended by a veterinarian.
Use a Diffuser: For anxiety relief, you can use a diffuser to spread the scent of lavender oil throughout the room. Ensure the room is well-ventilated, and your dog can leave the area if they choose. Overexposure to essential oils can cause respiratory issues in some dogs.
Consult Your Vet: If your dog has any pre-existing health conditions or is taking medication, consult your veterinarian before using lavender oil. This is especially important for pregnant or nursing dogs, puppies, and dogs with liver or respiratory issues.
Lavender Hydrosol: A Gentle Alternative
If you’re concerned about using essential oils, lavender hydrosol is a gentler alternative that can still offer many of the same benefits. Hydrosols are water-based products made during the steam distillation process of extracting essential oils. They contain the water-soluble parts of the plant, making them less concentrated and safer for use on pets.
Lavender hydrosol can be used as:
A calming spray: Spritz your dog’s bedding or the air around them with lavender hydrosol to help ease anxiety.
A skin toner: Use it to soothe irritated skin, especially after baths or grooming sessions.
A flea repellent: Like lavender oil, hydrosol can help repel fleas when sprayed on your dog’s coat.
A deodorizer: I spray this on Chaco’s dog bed everyday when he comes inside to help out with the classic “farm dog scent” he seems to bring inside with him.
Mesa Verde Lavender Farm offers a high-quality lavender hydrosol that’s perfect for pet use. It’s an excellent way to introduce the calming and healing benefits of lavender into your dog’s routine without the risk of irritation from essential oils. Learn more about the benefits of hydrosols for pets.
Potential Risks and Precautions
While lavender oil is generally safe for dogs, there are some risks to be aware of:
Ingestion: If your dog ingests a large amount of lavender oil, it can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, it could cause toxicity, leading to more serious symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, and even liver damage.
Overexposure: Using too much lavender oil, particularly in a confined space, can overwhelm your dog’s sensitive respiratory system, leading to symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.
Allergic Reactions: Some dogs may be allergic to lavender oil. If your dog shows signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, excessive scratching, or swelling, discontinue use immediately and consult your vet.
Signs of Lavender Oil Overexposure or Allergic Reaction:
Vomiting or diarrhea
Lethargy or weakness
Excessive scratching or hives
Difficulty breathing or coughing
When to Avoid Using Lavender Oil
There are certain situations where you should avoid using lavender oil on your dog:
Pregnant or Nursing Dogs: The effects of essential oils on pregnant or nursing dogs are not well-studied, so it’s best to avoid using lavender oil during these times unless recommended by a veterinarian.
Puppies: Young puppies have sensitive skin and developing immune systems, making them more susceptible to the effects of essential oils. Avoid using lavender oil on puppies younger than 10 weeks old.
Dogs with Liver Disease: Since the liver metabolizes essential oils, dogs with liver disease may have difficulty processing lavender oil, leading to potential toxicity.
Respiratory Issues: If your dog has a history of respiratory issues, such as asthma or chronic bronchitis, avoid using lavender oil in diffusers or sprays that your dog might inhale.
Lavender Oil for Dogs
Lavender oil can be a safe and effective natural remedy for dogs when used correctly. It offers numerous benefits, from calming anxiety to soothing skin irritations and even repelling fleas. However, it’s crucial to use lavender oil with caution, always diluting it and monitoring your dog for any signs of adverse reactions.
For those looking for a gentler alternative, lavender hydrosol from Mesa Verde Lavender Farm is an excellent option. It provides many of the same benefits as lavender oil but in a milder form that’s safer for pets.
Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new products into your dog’s care routine, especially if your dog has pre-existing health conditions. By following these guidelines, you can safely incorporate the calming and healing properties of lavender into your dog’s life.