Essential oils are an excellent natural home remedy for wounds or your dog’s irritated skin. However, not all essential oils are safe to use around or on dogs. Make sure you know what is helpful and harmful before using any essential oils on your dog.
(Not medical advice. Please consult your veterinarian for serious concerns about any of your animals.)
Unfortunately, skin irritations or wounds are very likely to happen as a dog owner. Whether your dog is playing outside and injuring themselves or rolling in something irritating their skin, it will happen at some point. Luckily, natural remedies, including essential oils, can resolve these issues and reduce potential side effects from conventional medications.
How to Use Essential Oils On Your Dog’s Skin
Essential oils should be mixed with a carrier oil, such as almond or coconut, before being applied to the skin. This dilutes the essential oil and enables better absorption over a larger skin area. Mix a few drops of essential oil with 3-4 TB of carrier oil, warm in your hand, then apply to the skin.
Essential Oils That are Safe for Dog’s Skin
As we mentioned, not all essential oils are safe for dogs. We’ve listed a few safe oils, but if you aren’t sure about an oil, err on the side of caution and don’t use it. Always consult your veterinarian before applying anything to an open wound.
Geranium Oil
Geranium oil contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which are ideal for wounds. Geranium oil is known for soothing skin, improving coat condition, repelling insects, and relaxing. If your dog has cuts or scrapes, add a few drops of geranium oil directly to their feed.
Ylang Ylang Oil
Ylang Ylang works wonders for dry, itchy, flaky skin. You can apply the oil topically three times daily until the skin issue clears up. Ylang Ylang can also be diffused in an essential oil diffuser around your home.
Lavender Oil
Most people are familiar with Lavender’s calming effect, but it can also help your pet! Lavender oil is beneficial for treating skin problems from allergies, burns, or wounds. It also has the bonus of reducing your dog’s anxiety.
Chamomile Oil
Chamomile contains anti-inflammatory properties. There are two popular variations of chamomile; German and Roman. German chamomile is ideal for itchy skin and allergic reactions, while Roman chamomile is an analgesic ideal for muscle pain.
Helichrysum
Helichrysum is anti-inflammatory and analgesic. You can use this for skin issues and pain relief by applying it directly to the affected area.
Other Ways to Support Your Dog Naturally
Accidents and health issues are a reality as a pet owner. We all love our pets and want to provide them the best support possible when they don’t feel well. Essential oils have a number of applications for dogs, including skin care, wound management, and reducing anxiety and pain. Make sure to consult your veterinarian if you are unsure of a particular essential oil, as not all oils are dog-safe.
Does your dog need additional natural support? Benefab offers various natural canine support products designed for wellness, reducing anxiety, and ensuring your dog lives its best life.
