Holistic options aren’t just for humans. You can use essential oils safely on your fur baby too. I am going to focus on our canine friends.
Before you jump into using natural solutions on your dog, it is important to learn which are safe, which are toxic and how to use them correctly.
Don’t just take my word for it, these recommendations come from a well respected Veterinarian, Dr. Janet Roark.
Tips for using oils successfully
Use only certified pure therapeutic grade essential oils. After completing my essential oil coaching certification with the Essential Oil Institute (Dr. Axe), I narrowed the brands I wanted to use to two and ended up going with doTERRA because the oils are the best of the best.
- Diffusers are absolutely safe to use with your pup as long as they are not locked in a room and have the ability to roam freely. If they are bothered by a certain smell, they will leave the room.
- Essential oils can be used topically with your dog but they should always be diluted. The chart below is a basic guideline to go by though it’s not written in stone.
- Keep an eye on your dog the first couple of times that you apply oils to make sure their behavior is ok.
- Avoid applying essential oils near your dog’s eyes, ears, nose, or genitals.
- Do not use topically on your dog if you are using another topical medication or dermal patch.
I know this may sound crazy, but animals can tell you whether or not they like an essential oil. I have tried it on my shihtzu and it really works! All you have to do is hold the bottle of oil and let the dog sniff it. You can even leave the cap on, that’s how strong their noses are. If they turn away, wipe their face, or even run away, that’s their way of telling you “no thanks”. At that point, try another bottle. (My dog loves Frankincense)
4 ways to use essential oils on dogs
- Topically: dilute and apply to dogs fur
- Aromatically: run a diffuser (I love the ones with a 10+ hour run time)
- Internally: as long as supplement facts are on the bottle, doTERRA oils are safe to take internally. You can dilute the oil and let your dog lick your hand or even add a drop to their water dish.
- On Belongings: You can put a drop of essential oil on your dog’s bed, on their collar or on their favorite blanket. (My sweet baby is terrified of thunderstorms. A drop of lavender on her bed and/or collar helps calm her)
topical application
After letting your dog choose their favorite oil, it’s time to dilute the oil using the chart above. Once you have the diluted oil, there are several options for applying it to your dog’s skin.
- Along the spine (pet the hair backwards from tail to head to get the oil to the skin)
- Massage (your pup will thank you!)
- Reflexology points on the skin between the back paw pads.
- Ear tipping.
- Directly to the area of interest.
- In your pet’s shampoo.
- In a Roller Bottle or Spray.
- Spray diluted oil onto their brush before grooming.
Aromatic Use
- I recommend using a water based diffuser. When I use essential oils for my dog I will use 4 drops of essential oil.
- Your dog should always have a way to exit the room in case they become overwhelmed or uncomfortable with the smell.
- Observe your pet for 10-15 minutes each time you diffuse a new oil to check their reaction.
top 10 safe essential oils for your dog
The following is a list of the Top 10 doTERRA Essential Oils that are safe for dogs and can help with specific targeted health needs.
This unique blend contains Ginger, Fennel, and Coriander to help ease occasional stomach discomfort, including motion sickness and indigestion, while Peppermint, Tarragon, Anise, and Caraway aid with proper digestion and help maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract. DigestZen is a healthy, natural, and gentle way to soothe an upset stomach , motion sickness, gas, or maintain a healthy digestive system.
Topical application: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil to 2 drops Essential Oil for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- 1 tsp carrier oil to 2 drops Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
Lavender essential oil is considered the must-have oil to have on hand at all times due to its versatility and soothing properties. It is very safe for dogs and is incredible for calming them down. Lavender can also be used on your dog to soothe skin irritations and help skin recover quickly. A great way to use it is to let your dog smell Lavender right out of the bottle. Let your dog inhale Lavender essential oil to help him or her relax and get a restful night’s sleep.
Topical application: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tbsp.carrier oil to 1 drops Essential Oil for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- 1 tsp carrier oil to 2 drops Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
Aromaticac Use:
- Diffuse for 30–60 minutes prior to a stressful event (e.g., before a thunderstorm, fireworks, company, groomer or vet visit).
- Use 2 drops diluted in distilled water in a small spray bottle on bedding, toys, or blankets.
- Add to shampoo or apply to the back of the neck or base of the ears.
Awesome for sore muscles and joints. Basil, Grapefruit, Cypress, Marjoram, Lavender, and Peppermint work together to soothe and relax muscles and ease achy joints. This powerful massage blend provides instant relief to your dog for the occasional discomfort of tired, sore, and worn-down muscles and joints. It supports healthy circulation and it promotes relaxation.
Topical use: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tsp. carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for breeds over 20 pounds.
The king of oils, doTERRA Frankincense essential oil is known to promote cellular health and immunity and is safe to be consumed daily by your dog for certain internal benefits. Frankincense can also promote feelings of peace, relaxation, satisfaction, and overall wellness.
Topical use: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tsp. carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs under 20 pounds.
- 1 tbsp.carrier oil to 2-4 drops Essential Oil for breeds over 20 pounds.
This grounding blend is a safe option for your sweet pup and it smells divine. It can be diffused or applied topically to promote restful sleep and to help ease your dog’s anxiousness. Balance Essential Oil supports the nervous system, emotional balance, and is effective for muscle and joint soreness. This balancing blend contains the therapeutic oils of Spruce, Ho Wood, Blue Tansy, Frankincense, and German Chamomile as well as Fractionated Coconut Oil.
Topical use: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tsp. carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil to 2-4 drops Essential Oil for breeds under 20 pounds.
This fabulous protective blend protects your dog against environmental and seasonal issues with Essential Oils known for their positive effects on the immune system. On Guard includes Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Leaf, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Leaf, and Rosemary Leaf/Flower essential oils. When diffused, OnGuard Protective blend helps purify the air and support healthy respiratory function in your dog, and can be very energizing and uplifting.
It also provides cleansing and purifying benefits while promoting healthy circulation.
- An effective alternative to synthetic options for immune support.
- Supports the body’s natural antioxidant defenses.
- Supports healthy immune function.
- Protects against environmental threats.
- Supports healthy respiratory function.
Topical application: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tbsp.carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- 1 tsp carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
Aromaticac Use:
- Diffuse for 2-3 hours as needed. Remember to make sure your dog is free to leave the room.
Enhanced with the powerful respiratory benefits of Cardamom, doTERRA Breathe Respiratory blend is a remarkable blend of Essential Oils that combine to help your dog breathe easier. Breathe Respiratory blend consists of Laurel Leaf, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca, Lemon, Ravensara, and Cardamom Essential Oils, all known for their positive effects on the respiratory system. This respiratory blend supports healthy respiratory function in dogs when seasonal sniffles are high and helps to soothe airways and promote clear breathing in dogs. It can also help if your dog snores!
Breathe can be applied topically to the neck, back of a dog’s ears, or diffused at nighttime to calm the senses and promote sleep. It will help your dog maintain feelings of clear airways and easy breathing.
Topical application: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tbsp.carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- 1 tsp carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
Aromaticac Use:
- Diffuse for 2-3 hours as needed. Remember to make sure your dog is free to leave the room.
This proprietary doTERRA blend consists of Amyris, Patchouli, Frankincense, Lime, Ylang Ylang, Hawaiian Sandalwood, and Roman Chamomile. This “Focus Blend” contains oils that have been used traditionally to promote calmness, focus, and a balanced state of mind. Use this oil to help support your dog’s state of mind and to help them focus during training.
Topical application: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil to 5 drops Essential Oil for dogs up to 20 pounds.
- 1 tsp carrier oil to 5 drops Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
This natural detoxifier supports the digestive system, skin, and nervous system. It also supports healthy kidney and urinary tract function.
Topical use: Apply 1–2 drops 2–4 times daily as follows:
- 1 tsp. carrier oil to 1 drop Essential Oil for dogs over 20 pounds.
- 1 tbsp. carrier oil to 2-4 drops Essential Oil for breeds under 20 pounds.
A single application of this bug fighter lasts 6 hours. It has a fresh, light citrus scent, is wonderfully invigorating and can be used safely by your fur baby. This particular oil does not need to be diluted. To ward off pesky insects, apply OUTDOOR BLEND to the legs and neck of your dog before going outdoors. You can also put 1–2 drops on your dog’s collar before going outside. You can also use the Terrashield Spray and spray it on your dog before going outside.
If your dog spends lots of time outside, you can make this DIY Pest Collar.
oils to avoid
While most essential oils are safe for dogs, there are a few essential oils that can be toxic to dogs. Some essential oils that are not safe for dogs are:
- Birch
- Tea Tree
- Wintergreen
use caution
Use caution with hot oils. These can burn when applied to skin if they are not properly diluted. This applies to humans and our furry friends. These oils include:
- Oregano
- Cassia
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Rosemary
- Thyme
Natural Solutions, like doTERRA Essential Oils, can be used safely on your dog without the side effects of many medications. They are also cost effective. For example, you have a 50lb dog who gets anxious, a single treatment with lavender oil is only 18 cents.
In the event of an adverse reaction, dilute with a carrier oil. Skin irritation is the most common reaction, and most reactions resolve within 24–48 hours after oil exposure.
While incredibly rare, discontinue use of an oil if your pet shows signs of distress, drooling, squinting, rubbing their face, vocalization, shaking, vomiting, or diarrhea.
*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
