Is Lavender Safe For Dogs

 Lavender is a pretty, fragrant herb valued for its calming effects on the body and mind. You might be wondering, “Is lavender safe for dogs?” while your dog is stressed. Before using any lavender on your dog, be sure that it will not have any bad effects on your dog. This article will cover everything you need to know about the effects of this common herb on dogs.

Is Lavender Safe For Dogs

Unfortunately, there is no easy yes or no response to this question. Lavender has linalool, a substance that is poisonous to both dogs and cats, though in small quantities. However, because linalool is present in such minute amounts, poisoning is rarely a problem. However, if a dog consumes a very large amount of lavender complications develop.

Lavender has beneficial soothing benefits when used moderately. Your dog can relax by breathing in the lavender smell. Additionally, lavender is generally regarded as safe for your dog when applied topically (and appropriately diluted), as well as having some great benefits.

Is Lavender Oil Safe for Dogs?

When used properly and in little dosages, the lavender essential oil is safe. Make sure the lavender essential oil is diluted before applying topically. Even when diluting, it is a good idea to start with a very little amount of oil. Even though lavender essential oil is beneficial when applied topically, it should not be consumed by your dog. Keep all bottles out of your pet’s reach.

Dried Lavender

When displaying dried lavender, it’s best to keep dogs away from it because, like the fresh plant, ingesting it might result in gastrointestinal problems.

Lavender Sleep Spray

As long as the lavender in the spray is diluted and your dog doesn’t lick or roll about on your blanket before going to sleep, a few spritzes are not harmful if your nightly routine includes sprinkling some lavender sleep or pillow spray before getting some sleep. But if your dog manages to eat the spray while it’s on your nightstand, it can cause digestive problems.  

Benefits of lavender for dogs

The comprehensive advantages of lavender for canines have not yet been established, so it should only be used as a complement to treatments that your veterinarian has prescribed.

Numerous holistic books and websites mention the numerous advantages lavender provides for dogs. They include;

It might serve as a bug repellent, assisting in warding off bothersome fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

The anti-inflammatory and antihistamine qualities of lavender can help to reduce joint discomfort and swelling.

It might aid in reducing anxiety and motion sickness.

Lavender promotes better quality sleep for your dog.

How To Use Lavender Essential Oil Safely With Dogs

Even while lavender oil is good for dogs, improper use can be harmful.

Here is some safety advice to remember:

1. Only apply lavender oil in diluted form to your dog.

Before applying lavender oil to your dog, always dilute it with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba. Typically, a 2-5% dilution ratio is considered safe.

2. Avoid getting lavender oil in your dog’s mouth, eyes, or private parts.

Due to their sensitivity to essential oils, these areas may become irritated or uncomfortable if lavender oil accidentally gets into them.

3. Keep lavender oil out of your dog’s reach.

Dogs will attempt to eat anything, as any pet owner is aware. Keep your essential oils out of your dog’s reach at all times.

4. Introduce lavender oil to your dog gradually.

When using lavender oil for the first time, start with tiny doses and watch your dog’s reaction.

Keep an eye out for these warning signs:

• Hives, rashes, or hot places where the oil was applied
• Runny nose, coughing, itchy eyes, or sneezing
• Having difficulty breathing or breathing quickly
• Tremors

Call your veterinarian and discontinue using lavender oil immediately if you see any of these symptoms.

 5. Listen to your dog

A dog has a much keener sense of smell than we have. What smells good to us may be too strong for dogs.

Make sure your pet has an escape route so he may leave if he feels uncomfortable before you start applying lavender oil to him.  

Offer your dog treats the first time you give him lavender oil so he will connect the aroma with a pleasant experience.

Watch his response after letting him smell it.

Does he begin to whine, pant, rub his face on the floor, or turn his face away from you?

Stop immediately and choose another time and location to try again.

Are Diffusers Bad for Dogs?

Diffusers by themselves are not harmful to dogs. However, the type of oil you use in them plays a great role. Certain essential oils pose a greater threat to dogs than others. The following essential oils should never be diffused near dogs:

• Cinnamon
• Peppermint
• Sweet birch
• Tea tree
• Wintergreen
• Ylang ylang
• Clove
• Thyme
• Juniper
• Yarrow
• Garlic

Two main types of diffusers are commonly used in homes.

Active diffusers disseminate essential oils by spraying tiny particles into the air, as opposed to passive diffusers, which use reeds and heat to evaporate essential oils to release their smell. Pets may experience issues with either type of diffuser, particularly if you use oils that may irritate their respiratory system. However, because passive diffusers do not disseminate essential oils through minute droplets, they may be safer for dogs.

Consider the location before using an essential oil diffuser near your pet. Never diffuse essential oils close to your pet, their food, or their toys. Additionally, make sure your home is adequately ventilated and abstain from using the diffuser in areas where your pet is more likely to be around.

Is Lavender Shampoo Safe For Dogs?

Yes, however, it also largely depends on the shampoo’s ingredients. Some shampoos for pets contain harsh components like sulfates.

Remember the following:

You should purchase a lavender shampoo for dogs that is organic, and free of dyes, parabens, and other chemicals that are harmful to animals.

Additionally, it must be tearless, pH-balanced, hypoallergenic, safe to ingest in small doses, and free of synthetic scents and colors.

Conclusion

It’s crucial to speak with your veterinarian before trying anything, whether or not you decide to give your dog lavender. Then, you’ll be certain that what you’re doing is right for your dog and that you’re being a responsible pet parent.