Can You Spray Lavender Oil on Dogs? A Comprehensive Guide for Pet Owners

Have you ever been stuck in an elevator with someone with obnoxiously strong cologne or perfume? Spraying even very diluted lavender oil on your dog would be even worse than that for the dog. There is a well-documented dog who can smell orca scat from miles away in Puget Sound. A police dog smelled a kilo of marijuana wrapped in multiple layers of plastic inside a 50-gallon tank of gasoline. If you think about it:

Cons

Here are some common sense rules to go by when considering using lavender or any essential oils on your dog:

Consult Your Vet Before Using. Always.

Always dilute the oils. Check with your vet for the proper dilution ratio. Using lavender oil on your dog can be harmful, and you need to ensure that you are following proper procedures to keep your furry friend safe.

Use Only Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils

Contaminated oils can be dangerous to your dog, so ensure that the oils you use are pure and of the highest quality. Cheap or contaminated oils can cause serious health issues.

Avoid Using Oils on Young Puppies or Very Small Toy Breeds

Young puppies and small dogs have underdeveloped respiratory and digestive systems, making them more susceptible to the harmful effects of essential oils. Using them on such dogs can lead to serious health issues.

Be Cautious with Elderly, Sick, or Pregnant Dogs

Elderly, sick, or pregnant dogs have weaker immune systems and are more vulnerable to the effects of essential oils. It is best to consult your vet before administering oils to these dogs to avoid any adverse reactions.

Never Apply Oils Near Eyes, Mouth, Nose, or Genital Area

These areas are particularly sensitive in dogs and can be easily irritated by essential oils. Applying oils near these areas can cause severe discomfort and damage.

Also, your dog may not like the smell of lavender, so please take cues from your dog and don’t use it if he doesn’t like the smell. Sensitivity to scent varies from one dog to another, so make sure to respect your pet’s preferences.

Conclusion

Personal experience has taught me that it would not be a good idea to use oils around my pets in close proximity. Dogs and cats are particularly sensitive to scent, and some essential oils can be highly toxic to them. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid using oils around your pets unless you have consulted with a professional vet and are certain that it is safe.

Regarding spraying lavender oil on dogs, the answer is a resounding no. If you’re just itching to spray lavender oil on someone, spray it on yourself. While lavender oil is generally considered safe for human skin, it can be harmful to your dog if not used correctly.