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Understand what essential oils are harmful to dogs and how to avoid them

Essential oils have amazing healing properties but some are really dangerous for your dog.

Understand what essential oils are harmful to dogs and how to avoid them

Did you know that certain essential oils can be harmful to dogs? While many people use essential oils safely around their pets, it’s important to be aware of which oils are potentially dangerous. In this blog post, we’ll discuss which essential oils are harmful to dogs and how to avoid them.

We’ve certainly seen an increase in essential oil toxicity in recent years, as dog owners become more eager to heal holistically or with natural treatments.

which essential oils are harmful to dogs
Which essential oils are harmful to dogs

Essential oils are a popular choice for people looking to improve their health, but some of these oils can be harmful to dogs. The most dangerous essential oils for dogs are those that are high in phenols or ketones. These oils can cause liver damage, seizures, and even death in dogs.

These essential oils are harmful to your dog

Some essential oils are harmful to dogs
Some essential oils are harmful to dogs

Some of the most common essential oils that contain phenols or ketones include:

  • Pennyroyal oil
  • Thyme oil
  • Clove oil
  • Basil oil
  • Aniseed oil
  • Parsley oil
  • Rosemary oil
  • Sweet birch oil
  • Peppermint oil
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Tea tree oil
  • Cinnamon oil
  • Citrus oil
  • Pine oil
  • Wintergreen oil
  • Ylang ylang oil

This is why Phenols not so good for dogs

Phenols are a type of aromatic organic compound that has a benzene ring with one or more hydroxyl groups attached. Many essential oils are high in phenols, which makes them unsafe for dogs.

If you’re using any of these oils around your dog, be sure to keep them out of reach. Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid using these oils altogether if you have a dog.

What are Ketones in an essential oil?

Ketones are organic compounds that are produced when fatty acids are broken down in the body. They are used as an energy source by the body, and they can be found in a number of different essential oils.

These are very powerful chemical constituents that aid in tissue regeneration and have a strong mucolytic effect meaning they help in the production and elimination of mucus however they are also potentially neurotoxic in high amounts and abortive but not all ketones are bad obviously some essential oils like peppermint helichrysum vetiver eucalyptus contain small amounts of very beneficial ketones oils with high ketone content that should be avoided are Santolina and mugwort oil.

Some of the most common ketone compounds include acetone, isopropyl alcohol, and methyl ethyl ketone.

Essential oils containing ketones are bad for dogs because they can cause liver damage. Liver damage can be fatal in dogs, so it’s important to keep them away from any essential oils containing ketones.

What happens to dogs if they inhale essential oils?

Many people don’t realize that certain essential oils can be harmful to dogs. When dogs inhale essential oils, they can experience a variety of adverse effects, including liver damage, seizures, and even death. It’s important to be aware of which oils are potentially dangerous for dogs and to keep them out of reach.

These essential oils are safe to use around your dog

Some pet-safe essential oils include:

  • Lavender oil
  • Lemongrass oil
  • Rose oil
  • Frankincense
  • Chamomile oil
  • Eucalyptus oil
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It’s critical to dilute essential oils correctly in order to use them safely for aromatherapy. And keep this in mind: don’t start using essential oils until you’ve spoken with your veterinarian.

It’s important to keep in mind that essential oils should never be used undiluted on dogs. In fact, using any essential oil topically on dogs without dilution can cause skin irritation or even a chemical burn. If you’re not sure how to dilute an oil, consult with a healthcare professional.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are a natural way to improve your health. They are made from the leaves, flowers, or bark of plants and contain powerful healing properties. Essential oils can be used to treat a variety of health conditions, and they can also be used to improve your overall well-being.

Essential oils are the concentrated liquids (volatile organic compounds) of plants. Essential oils have become popular for their application in aromatherapy and alternative medicine as well as cleaning products, food and drink flavorings, herbal medicines, perfumes, personal care items, and liquid potpourris used as home air fresheners and fragrances.

There are many different types of essential oils, and each one has its own unique properties. Some of the most popular essential oils include lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus. These oils can be used to treat a variety of health conditions, including anxiety, headaches, and congestion.

While essential oils are generally safe to use, it’s important to be aware of which oils are potentially dangerous for dogs. Some of the most dangerous essential oils for dogs are those that are high in phenols or ketones. These oils can cause liver damage, seizures, and even death in dogs.

If you’re using any of these oils around your dog, be sure to keep them out of reach.

How you can use essential oil

You can add essential oils to your bath and use them in a diffuser.

The most popular way to use essential oils is by adding them to your bath. The oil can be mixed with water, salt, or the carrier oil of your choice. Not only does it smell good, but it’s also very soothing for the body. Diffusing oils is another great way to enjoy their benefits.

You can purchase a diffuser, or you can make your own using a pot and a towel.

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Adding essential oils to your food and drink is a great way to enjoy their flavor and health benefits. Be sure to use caution, however, as some oils can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.

You can also apply essential oils topically to your skin. Many people enjoy using them as a massage oil or in a bath. Just be sure to dilute the oil with a carrier oil first.

Why are some essential oils harmful to dogs?

Dogs have different dietary requirements than humans. Certain fruits and vegetables, for example, can wreak havoc on a dog’s internal organs, causing kidney failure or stomach upset. If a dog eats or breathes in a highly concentrated version of poison, it can be extremely harmful.

Aside from their sense of smell and delicate stomachs, essential oils can also irritate a dog’s skin. Essential oils are lipophilic, which means they sink into the skin and enter the circulation via direct contact with the skin.

When a dog breathes in poisons this way, it’s almost as bad as if they ate them. Essential oils are usually considered to be less hazardous for dogs than when they ingest the oil or get it on their skin or coat.

How you can use essential oils safely

While essential oils are generally safe to use, it’s important to use them safely. Some of the most dangerous essential oils for dogs.

If you’re using any of the essential oils that are harmful around your dog, be sure to keep them out of reach. It’s also a good idea to avoid using these oils altogether if you have a dog.

There are many different ways to use essential oils safely around your dog. Some of the most popular methods include diffusing them, diluting them with carrier oils, and applying them topically.

Essential oils can be a safe and effective way to improve your health, but it’s important to use them safely. Be sure to keep the safety guidelines in mind when using essential oils around your dog.

What can I do to keep my dog safe when using essential oils?

Even if you don’t plan on using them on your dog, you may have essential oils in your home. 

Keep your dog safe while using essential oils
Keep your dog safe while using essential oils

When using essential oils around your dog, be sure to keep the following safety guidelines in mind:

Here are a few tips to help keep your dog safe around essential oils:

  • Keep all oil bottles’ lids firmly shut.
  • Dilute essential oils (safe for dogs) before applying them topically to your dog’s skin.
  • Avoid using essential oils around dogs who have epilepsy or other seizure disorders.
  • Use only dog-safe essential oils in your home if your dog is around.
  • Dont use oils with puppies under weeks.
  • Avoid your dogs eyes.
  • Keep them out of reach of your dog and safe, either by locking them away or putting them in a location that is inaccessible to dogs.
  • When using oils for burning, keep them away from surfaces where your dog may easily access them.
  • Clean any surfaces that essential oils have come into contact with.
  • Make sure everyone who interacts with your dog is aware of the fact that essential oils may be harmful and must be handled with care.
  • Do not use any essential oil on dogs that has not been specifically recommended for canine use by a veterinarian.

These are the signs of essential oil or liquid potpourri poisoning in dogs

  • Redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue, or skin
  • Fragrance or scent on hair coat, skin, or breath
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Pawing at the mouth or face
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Drooling
  • Seizures in dogs
  • Difficulty in walking or uncoordinated gait
  • A tremor in the muscles
  • Vomiting (you may detect the smell of essential oils in the vomit)

What should I do if I suspect my dog has been exposed to essential oils?

What to do if your dog has been exposed to essential oils
What to do if your dog has been exposed to essential oils

If you discover that your dog has ingested essential oils, contact an emergency animal hospital or the ASPCA’s animal poison control (which is open 24/7 ready to help) immediately. They can help you figure out what to do next.

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435

Your veterinarian may do a physical examination and run a blood test to determine your dog’s level of toxic poisoning. Bring the oil with you to the doctor so they can have a better understanding of what they’re dealing with. They could use oxygen ventilation, insert an IV drip, or try other methods to get rid of the poisons from your dog’s body.

The bottom line:

Essential oils can be beneficial for humans, but they can also be harmful to dogs. When using essential oils, be sure to keep the safety guidelines in mind and consult with a healthcare professional before using them. And if you think your dog has been poisoned by essential oils, seek help immediately.

Last update on 2024-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Written by Your Dog Advisor

It's me Divya, hope you got some new information today. I am the executive editor for Petting My Dog. I and my team provide the most accurate and in-depth tips and advice on dog care, dog food, and training from industry experts, dog trainers, veterinarians, groomers, and animal scientists. We help dog owners effortlessly choose the best dog supplies on the market. We buy, test, review, and rank dog products to help you avoid the bad products and purchase only what's best for you and your dog. Come join us in this movement to keep your pet Dog actively happy. Read more about our editorial process here. Veterinary Review by: Dr. Alexandra Hukill, DVM. Stay updated and subscribe to our newsletter.

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