Aromatherapy For Dogs

Aromatherapy can benefit your dog too, especially when it comes to reducing anxiety.
Pets Team 01 October 2020

How does aromatherapy play a part in helping Fido? Well, certain essential oils (like lavender, peppermint, sweet orange, chamomile, and clary sage) can be effective in treating a number of health problems such as skin irritations, ear infections, hyperactivity, and flea and/or tick infestations.

Just like us, pooches can also benefit from the uplifting properties of aromatherapy. When diffused into the air, certain scents can help them feel calmer, more alert, less moody, or more energised.

However, using the wrong type of essential oil or those of a cheap grade may be harmful and/or dangerous for your pup, so always buy it from a reputable brand/ source to be safe.

A great way to sift out the better ones is by checking out the reviews penned by other pet owners.  

These are the few essential oils to avoid (for the full list, click here):

  • Tea tree oils (they are only safe when diluted in 0.1 percent to 1 percent water, and given in small amounts.)

  • Oregano

  • Red or White Thyme

  • Cassia

  • Garlic

  • Goosefoot

  • Thuja

  • Anise

Diffusing The Scent

The most popular (and common) way of using aromatherapy is to simply “diffuse” the scent into the room using a diffuser, allowing you and your dog to breathe in the scent naturally.

Alternatively, you can place a drop or two of essential oil (mixed first with vegetable oil as a base) directly on Fido’s skin and massage it in.

When applying the essential oil, only apply to areas from the neck down to the tail, making sure to avoid the eyes, nose, and face.

Do also avoid placing the oils in areas where Fido can easily lick, as they should never ingest the oils orally.

* The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified pet health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Always make a pet health care decision in partnership with a qualified veterinary or pet health care professional.

*This article was updated on 1 Oct 2020. It first appeared in PetsMagazine.com.sg on  22 July 2016.