Lavender smells amazing, has a soothing vibe, and looks like something out of a romantic countryside dream. But if you’re a dog parent, you may be wondering if this pretty purple herb is as safe for your furry friend as it is for you. After all, we know dogs don’t handle all plants, oils, or scents like humans do, and nobody wants to risk any harm coming to their pup.
The good news? Lavender can generally be safe for dogs when used the right way. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind before you start dreaming of your lavender-scented pup living their best, most chill life. We’re breaking it all down for you here, covering the benefits, risks, and how to use lavender properly with your dog.
The Big Question: Is Lavender Safe for Dogs?
The short answer is yes—with some caveats. Lavender, in its natural plant form, is generally considered safe for dogs. The ASPCA identifies lavender as non-toxic to dogs, cats, and even horses when it comes to the plant itself. That means if your curious pooch decides to take a quick nibble on the lavender in your garden, they’ll likely be fine (though we still don’t recommend letting them use your flower beds as an all-you-can-eat salad bar).
However, things get trickier when we’re talking about lavender essential oil. Essential oils are super concentrated—which is great for getting that signature calming smell, but not so great if they’re ingested or applied in large amounts on your dog. Like with many other essential oils, lavender oil can actually be toxic to dogs if used improperly.
The key takeaway? Lavender is safe for dogs when used responsibly.
The Benefits of Lavender for Dogs
Now that we’ve got the general safety stuff covered, let's talk benefits. If used correctly, lavender can do some pretty cool things for your doggo:
1. It Can Calm Nervous or Anxious Dogs
Does your dog get stressed out with fireworks, thunderstorms, or even when you leave for work? Lavender is known for its calming effects. Research suggests that the scent of lavender can help reduce excitement and anxiety in dogs. A study conducted on shelter dogs found that they barked less and displayed calmer behaviors when exposed to lavender aromas. Chill vibes, incoming!
2. It’s Good for Restful Sleep
Just like lavender can help humans drift off into dreamland, it can also help dogs. If your dog struggles with restless nights or has trouble settling down before bedtime, a little lavender scent might help ease them into relaxation mode. (A lavender-scented bedtime routine? Fancy!)
3. It Can Repel Bugs Naturally
Who knew lavender could pull double duty? Lavender has natural insect-repelling properties, which could make it a safer alternative to chemical-laden sprays for keeping pests like fleas and mosquitoes away from your pet.
4. It Can Soothe Skin Irritation
For dogs with dry or itchy skin (or those who just won’t stop scratching), lavender essential oil in diluted form may help soothe the irritation. It’s worth noting, though, that this should be done carefully and only under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Risks to Watch Out For
While lavender has a lot of perks, it’s important to use it safely to avoid potential problems. Some risks you need to be aware of include:
1. Overexposure
A little lavender goes a long way. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than we do (can you imagine being able to smell things 40 times better than humans?). Overdoing it with lavender scents can overwhelm your furry friend, triggering headaches, discomfort, or even respiratory issues.
2. Essential Oil Toxicity
Lavender essential oils are powerful, but they can also be harmful if used incorrectly. If your dog ingests lavender essential oil or if large quantities are absorbed through their skin, it can lead to symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or even central nervous system depression in severe cases.
3. Allergies or Skin Sensitivities
Just like humans, dogs can have allergies or sensitivities to certain plants or essential oils. Before applying lavender topically, do a patch test on a small area of your dog’s skin to check for any reactions. And, of course, choose high-quality oils or products specifically designed for pets.
4. Pre-Existing Conditions
Dogs with specific health issues (like liver problems or respiratory conditions) may not tolerate lavender well. Always check with your vet before introducing lavender if your pup has any underlying health problems.
How to Safely Use Lavender for Dogs
Okay, so you still want to give lavender a try for your dog. Here’s how to do it safely and effectively:
1. Use High-Quality Products
Not all lavender products are created equal. Look for pet-safe, therapeutic-grade essential oils or products that are vet approved. Avoid products with added synthetic fragrances or chemicals.
2. Dilute, Dilute, Dilute!
If you’re using lavender essential oil, always dilute it before use. A safe dilution ratio is 1-2 drops of lavender oil in at least 1 ounce of a carrier oil like coconut oil. Never apply undiluted essential oil directly to your dog.
3. Introduce It Gradually
Dogs can be sensitive to new scents, so start slow. Allow your dog to sniff a small amount of diluted lavender oil from a distance first to gauge their reaction. If they seem interested or relaxed, that’s a good sign. If they seem put off, it’s probably best to skip it.
4. Use a Diffuser Instead
Instead of applying lavender oil to your dog’s coat, consider using a diffuser in the room they’re hanging out in. Make sure the space is well ventilated, and avoid diffusing lavender in small or enclosed areas where the scent can become overwhelming.
5. Avoid Sensitive Areas
Never apply lavender oil near your dog’s eyes, nose, mouth, or ears. If you’re using it topically, apply to areas like the back of their neck or between their shoulder blades where they can’t easily lick it off.
6. Always Supervise
When introducing any new remedy or product, keep an eye on your dog in case of adverse reactions. If you notice anything unusual, stop using lavender and contact your vet.
When to Avoid Lavender Completely
While lavender is generally safe, there are a few situations where it’s best to steer clear:
- Pregnant or Nursing Dogs: Avoid using lavender (or any essential oil) on pregnant or lactating dogs.
- Puppies: Puppies are more sensitive to essential oils, so it’s better to wait until they’ve grown up.
- If Your Vet Says No: Always consult your vet for their opinion on whether lavender is suitable for your dog.
How Does Lavender Compare to Chamomile for Dogs?
Lavender and chamomile are both popular choices for calming pets, but they each have unique benefits. Lavender is best known for its soothing scent, which can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs. It’s also thought to have mild antiseptic properties, making it useful in some topical applications. Chamomile, on the other hand, shines as a gentle herbal remedy for relaxation. It’s commonly used to ease digestive upset, calm nervous dogs, and even promote better sleep. While both are natural and beneficial in their own ways, it’s important to use them appropriately and always consult your vet to see which might work best for your furry friend. They can guide you on the safest and most effective use for your dog’s specific needs!
Final Thoughts on Lavender for Dogs
Lavender can be a safe and beneficial addition to your dog care routine when used correctly. From calming nerves to repelling bugs, this versatile herb has plenty of potential to improve your dog’s quality of life. However, as with any natural remedy, caution is key. Stick to pet-safe products, be mindful of proper use, and consult your vet any time you have questions or concerns.
Got concerns about using lavender for your pup? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below. After all, happy dogs = happy humans, right?
References
1) Komiya M, Sugiyama A, Tanabe K, Uchino T, Takeuchi T. Evaluation of the effect of topical application of lavender oil on autonomic nerve activity in dogs. Am J Vet Res. 2009 Jun;70(6):764-9. doi: 10.2460/ajvr.70.6.764. PMID: 19496667.
