If you have ever used lavender for its soothing effects, then you already know a little something about aromatherapy.
But did you know that aromatherapy can have the same effect on dogs?
If you’re like me and have an anxious dog on your hands, then you may want to give dog aromatherapy a try!
Dog aromatherapy is not something new. It’s been around for a long time.
As just one example, I’ve noticed that whenever I burn my lavender-scented candle both of my dogs tend to be really calm.
I like to burn this scent at night because it gives me a great calming effect, and it seems to calm my dogs as well. So it’s a win-win.
There are lots of ways to use aromatherapy in your home, in addition to candles.
Essential Oils That Are Best For Dogs
If you’re interested in trying dog aromatherapy, here are 5 popular essential oils that can safely be used with dogs:
- Lavender – used for calming and soothing plus relieves itching
- Peppermint – insect repellent, promotes circulation, reduces allergies
- Niaouli – powerful healing agent that is not likely to irritate the skin
- German Chamomile – good for burns, stings and allergic reactions
- Helichrysum – has great anti-inflammatory properties
There are many reasons to try dog aromatherapy.
It can ease pain from cancer, stop diarrhea, and end nausea, among other things.
One good reason to try aromatherapy with your dog is if he is afraid of loud noises (like from fireworks or thunderstorms). The calming effects from certain essential oils can help to relieve your dog’s stress and anxiety during those times.
In this example, Cesar Milan uses lavender essential oil to calm a dog who’s terrified of squeaky toys:
How To Use Essential Oils With Dogs
Sometimes, it’s the direct application of the essential oil on your dog’s skin that is most effective.
Other times, it’s simply the aroma itself from the essential oils in the air or on dog toys that has the most powerful effect.
Before applying pure essential oil to your dog’s (or your own) skin, always check first to make sure the one you’re using is safe to use directly on skin. Often, essential oils need to be combined with a “carrier oil” first before applying to the skin.
You can buy essential oils yourself and try mixing different ones together to create unique scents, or you can find dog aromatherapy sprays that are already pre-mixed to work best during different situations.
More About Dog Aromatherapy
- Safe Essential Oils For Dogs
- Aromatherapy Basics For Beginners
- Dog Aromatherapy Products
- Aromatherapy For Your Dog
- Holistic Dog Health Strategies
- Aromatherapy Recipes For Dogs
- How To Use Aromatherapy With Pets
I have 2 Miniature Pinschers. My husband and I consider them our 4-legged kids.
