essential oils are NOT essential for pets.

July 9, 2023

keep those fancy-schmancy bottles of essential oils away from your pet’s reach. 🚫

pets don't need to be indulged in a beauty regimen – they're born fabulous. 🥰

no, seriously. our lovely doggos have no use for substances like essential oils, which are made from concentrated extracts and chemicals that could end up being dangerous for them.

as we all know, our furries have very sharp noses (they can smell what’s on our plate from miles ago!! 🙄). the strong scent of essential oils can overwhelm their senses and even cause allergic reactions and major health issues.

why human cosmetics and beauty products can be harmful to dogs

The beauty products you and we use are specifically formulated for the needs and characteristics of human skin, hair, and overall physiology. our friendly floofers have no use for them.

in fact, exposure to these chemical-laden products can end up causing health troubles for dogs. for example, certain fragrances, dyes, and preservatives can cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, or even organ damage in dogs.

dogs have skin pH levels, hair types, and metabolism different from humans, for whom these products have been specially formulated. As you already know, pets have a tendency to lick or groom themselves, and ingesting these applied products can lead to gastrointestinal problems or poisoning.

the chemical composition of beauty products, such as harsh cleansers, exfoliants, or abrasive particles, can cause irritation, redness, itching, and dryness in dogs. some products may disrupt the natural oils and protective barrier of their skin, leading to dermatological issues like dermatitis or hot spots.

dogs do not need essential oils: here’s why

people today love using essential oils in their beauty regimen. we apply it to our skin, hair, even using its aroma for therapeutic purposes. while we consider these commodities essential to our well-being, essential oils are far from essential for our furry friends. they contain chemical compounds that can be toxic to dogs.

also important to understand is that dogs have a thinner and more sensitive skin barrier compared to humans, making them more susceptible to the absorption of these potent oils. and since essential oils contain highly concentrated chemicals, using them directly on dog skin or using them as dog hair oil is a strict no-no. (it is not recommended to use essential oils on human skin directly, too! always dilute it with carrier oil.)

here are 5 essential oils that are toxic to dogs

tea tree oil: tea tree oil contains a compound called terpinene-4-ol, which can be toxic to dogs. Ingesting or applying tea tree oil can cause symptoms like vomiting, drooling, lethargy, muscle tremors, and even central nervous system depression.

citrus oils: citrus oils, such as orange, lemon, and grapefruit, contain high levels of a compound called limonene. limonene can cause irritation to a dog's skin, eyes, and digestive system. Ingestion of citrus oils can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or sensitivity to sunlight.

cinnamon oil: cinnamon oil contains cinnamaldehyde, which can be toxic to dogs. Ingesting or inhaling cinnamon oil can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, low blood sugar, liver damage, or even respiratory distress.

wintergreen oil: wintergreen oil contains methyl salicylate, which is highly toxic to dogs. Ingesting or absorbing wintergreen oil can cause symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, weakness, liver damage, or even death.

peppermint oil: peppermint oil, when used in high concentrations, can be harmful to dogs. it contains a compound called menthol, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, skin irritation, or respiratory issues in dogs. ingestion of peppermint oil can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or liver damage.

choose the right oils for your pet dog

while essential oils are neither safe nor useful when applied to dogs or consumed by them, certain special oils can contribute to better pet health.

for instance, salmon oil for dogs or fish oil for dogs can be greatly beneficial. these are useful supplements that provide nutrients like omega 3 for dogs. these essential fatty acids play a crucial role in supporting overall health, including promoting a healthy coat and skin, reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and improving cognitive function. the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon oil can help reduce joint inflammation and also improve cardiovascular health.

similarly, coconut oil for dogs is also a good option. this is one popular beauty regimen item humans can share with their four-legged friends. coconut oil offers several benefits for dogs when used in moderation. it is safe to use topically, as a moisturizing agent for dog fur and skin, as well as orally by adding a little bit of it to a dog’s diet. applying a small amount of coconut oil to a dog's teeth and gums may also help combat bacteria, reduce plaque buildup, and freshen their breath. (more dental health tips for that pawfect doggie smile!)

remember: when it comes to pets, moderation is key. even with beneficial health products like salmon oil for dogs or coconut oil for dogs, restrained use is advised. most importantly, essential oils are NOT essential for your furbaby’s health.

what is essential is a well-balanced diet comprising fresh food, made with only the safest natural ingredients for maximum, wholesome nutrition. that’s pawfectly made for you! :)