8 Essential Oils For Dogs

Essential Oils for Dogs by Janice Jones,   Updated January 23, 2026

Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that are sometimes used by pet owners for scent enrichment or limited topical support. However, because dogs metabolize substances differently from humans, essential oils must be used cautiously and are not a replacement for veterinary care.

This page explains which essential oils are commonly discussed in relation to dogs, important safety considerations, potential risks, and why veterinary guidance is essential before use.

Important Safety Note 
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances. Dogs process them differently than humans, and misuse can cause irritation or toxicity. The information on this page is for general awareness only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. Always consult your veterinarian before using essential oils in a home with pets.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is among the most commonly discussed essential oils for dogs due to its mild scent and calming aroma. Some pet owners choose to use lavender oil aromatically at a very dilute concentration to help create a calmer environment during stressful situations such as thunderstorms, fireworks, travel, or grooming.

Lavender oil does not treat medical conditions, and it should never be used as a replacement for veterinary care. Its role, when used appropriately, is limited to environmental comfort and scent-based enrichment.

Potential Uses (With Caution)

When properly diluted and used conservatively, lavender oil is sometimes used by owners for:

• Creating a calming atmosphere during short-term stress
• Supporting relaxation through scent exposure
• Temporary comfort when paired with other veterinarian-approved care

Responses vary widely. Some dogs appear indifferent, while others may be sensitive to even mild scents.

Safe Use Guidelines

Aromatic use only is generally considered the safest approach

• Avoid contact with the face, eyes, nose, mouth, and ears
• Never apply undiluted oil directly to the skin
• Always allow your dog to leave the area freely
• Use 1–2 drops in a water-based diffuser in a well-ventilated room

Important Safety Notes

• Do not give lavender oil orally
• Discontinue use immediately if your dog shows signs of irritation, lethargy, excessive drooling, sneezing, or avoidance behavior
• Puppies, senior dogs, dogs with respiratory disease, and dogs with liver conditions may be more sensitive

If your dog has chronic skin disease, anxiety, or ongoing medical concerns, always consult your veterinarian before using essential oils in your home.

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Cedarwood Oil

Cedarwood oil is sometimes included in natural pet care discussions for its woody scent and insect-repelling properties. Some dog owners choose to use highly diluted cedarwood oil as part of a broader flea-management routine, particularly in the dog’s environment rather than directly on the dog.

Cedarwood oil does not kill fleas, and it should never replace veterinarian-recommended flea prevention, especially in dogs with allergic skin disease or flea sensitivity.

Potential Uses (With Limitations)

When used cautiously and in appropriate dilution, cedarwood oil may be used to:

• Discourage insects in a dog’s immediate environment
• Add scent to bedding, collars, or outdoor areas
• Support coat freshness when paired with regular grooming

Individual responses vary, and some dogs may be sensitive to stronger wood-based oils.

Safe Use Guidelines

• Environmental or aromatic use only is preferred
• If used topically, it must be heavily diluted in a carrier oil and applied away from the face, ears, and genitals
• Never apply to broken or inflamed skin
• Avoid use on dogs with active dermatitis flare-ups unless approved by a veterinarian

Important Safety Notes

• Cedarwood oil should never be given orally

Discontinue use immediately if your dog shows:

• Skin redness or irritation
• Excessive scratching
• Lethargy or avoidance behavior

Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with liver disease or respiratory conditions may be more sensitive.

For dogs with flea allergy dermatitis or chronic skin conditions, consistent veterinary flea prevention remains the safest and most effective approach.

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Frankincense Oil

Frankincense oil is derived from the resin of Boswellia trees and has a warm, earthy aroma that some people find grounding. In pet households, frankincense oil is sometimes used aromatically, for scent preference only.

Frankincense oil does not heal wounds, treat infections, reduce inflammation, or support the immune system in dogs. Any use should be considered non-medical and supplemental, never a substitute for veterinary care.

Potential Use (Strictly Limited)

When used conservatively and with appropriate precautions, some dog owners choose frankincense oil for:

• Mild aromatic enrichment in calm environments
• Household scent preference when diffused briefly
• Occasional use in well-ventilated spaces where pets can move freely
• Dogs vary widely in scent tolerance, and some may find resin-based oils overwhelming.

Safe Use Guidelines

• Aromatic use only
• Use 1 drop in a water-based diffuser in a large, ventilated room
• Do not diffuse continuously
• Never apply directly to the skin or coat
• Never use on cuts, scrapes, or irritated skin
• Do not add to food or water
• Always allow your dog the option to leave the room.

Important Safety Notes

• Frankincense oil should never be ingested

Avoid use around: 

•  Puppies and senior dogs 
•  Dogs with respiratory disease 
•  Dogs with liver conditions 
•  Dogs who are prone to seizures

Discontinue immediately if you notice drooling, coughing, agitation, lethargy, or avoidance behavior

For wounds, infections, inflammation, or immune-related concerns, prompt veterinary evaluation and appropriate medical treatment are essential.

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Chamomile oil

Chamomile oil is derived from the flowers of chamomile plants and is known for its mild, herbaceous aroma. In pet products, chamomile is often included for its scent rather than for any direct therapeutic effect.

When used appropriately, some dog owners choose chamomile oil for short-term aromatic exposure, particularly in calm, low-stimulation environments. Dogs generally tolerate chamomile’s scent better than stronger or sharper essential oils, but individual sensitivity still varies.

Important Safety Considerations

Chamomile oil should never be considered a treatment for skin conditions, digestive issues, anxiety, or infections.

Despite its popularity in natural wellness products, chamomile essential oils are highly concentrated and must be used with caution around dogs.

Certain dogs may be more sensitive, especially:

• Puppies
• Senior dogs
• Dogs with respiratory issues
• Dogs with allergies or compromised immune systems

Safe Use Guidelines

• Use aromatically only, in a well-ventilated area
• Start with very low exposure (1 drop diluted in a diffuser)
• Never apply directly to your dog’s skin or coat
• Do not add to food or water
• Allow your dog to leave the room freely

If your dog shows signs such as sneezing, drooling, agitation, lethargy, coughing, or attempts to avoid the scent, discontinue use immediately.

What to Avoid

• Topical application without veterinary guidance
• Internal use
• Use near the eyes, nose, or mouth
• Continuous diffusion for long periods

For skin irritation, digestive upset, or stress-related concerns, veterinary evaluation and evidence-based treatments are the safest and most reliable options.

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Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is known for its strong, cooling aroma and is sometimes used by pet owners aromatically to create a fresh-smelling environment. Because peppermint oil is highly concentrated, it must be used with extra caution around dogs, especially small breeds.

Peppermint oil does not treat medical conditions and should never be used to manage overheating, digestive issues, or pain. Dogs regulate temperature differently from humans, and improper use can cause irritation or toxicity.

Potential Uses 

When used conservatively and appropriately diluted, peppermint oil may be used by some owners for:

• Environmental deodorizing
• Mild scent-based stimulation in well-ventilated areas
• Short-term aromatic exposure when the dog can freely leave the space

Some dogs are sensitive to menthol-containing oils and may show avoidance behaviors.

Safe Use Guidelines

• Aromatic use only is recommended
• Use 1 drop in a water-based diffuser in a large, well-ventilated room
• Allow your dog full freedom to leave the area
• Never apply directly to the skin or coat
• Never add peppermint oil to food or water

Important Safety Notes

• Peppermint oil should never be given orally 
• Do not use peppermint oil to cool dogs after exercise or during hot weather 

Avoid use around:

• Puppies and senior dogs 
• Dogs with respiratory disease 
• Dogs with liver disease 
• Dogs that are prone to seizures

Discontinue use immediately if your dog shows signs such as drooling, vomiting, agitation, weakness, or avoidance of the area.

If your dog experiences heat stress, gastrointestinal symptoms, or pain, seek veterinary care rather than attempting home remedies.

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Citronella Oil 

Citronella oil is widely known for its strong citrus-like scent and is commonly used in outdoor products designed to discourage insects. Some dog owners choose to use highly diluted citronella oil in their dog’s environment as part of an overall pest management approach.

Citronella oil does not kill fleas or ticks and should never replace veterinarian-recommended parasite prevention, especially in dogs with flea allergies or chronic skin disease.

Potential Uses (With Limitations)

When used cautiously and appropriately diluted, citronella oil may be used to:

• Discourage insects in outdoor spaces such as patios or yards
• Add scent to dog bedding or collars when used indirectly
• Support environmental freshness in well-ventilated areas

Dogs vary widely in their tolerance to citrus-based oils, and some may find the scent irritating.

Safe Use Guidelines

• Environmental use only is recommended
• Do not apply directly to the skin or coat
• Avoid use near the face, eyes, nose, mouth, or ears
• Never use on broken, inflamed, or infected skin
• Always provide good ventilation and allow your dog to leave the area freely

Important Safety Notes

• Citronella oil should never be given orally
• Citrus oils may cause irritation or sensitivity in some dogs

Avoid use around: 

• Puppies and senior dogs 
• Dogs with respiratory conditions 
• Dogs with known skin sensitivities

Stop use immediately if your dog shows signs such as sneezing, drooling, excessive scratching, skin redness, or avoidance behavior.

For dogs prone to flea allergy dermatitis or skin flare-ups, consistent veterinary flea prevention remains the safest and most effective option.

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Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil is a citrus-scented essential oil often used for its fresh, clean aroma. Some dog owners choose to use highly diluted lemongrass oil in the dog’s environment as part of general household odor management or outdoor insect-discouraging routines.

Lemongrass oil does not treat flea infestations, skin infections, or medical conditions and should never replace veterinary care or approved parasite prevention.

Potential Uses (With Clear Limits)

When used cautiously and indirectly, lemongrass oil may be used to:

• Freshen indoor spaces or dog bedding areas
• Discourage insects in outdoor environments
• Add scent to homemade cleaning solutions used away from pets

Lemongrass has a strong aroma, and some dogs find citrus oils irritating, especially when exposure is frequent or concentrated.

Safe Use Guidelines: Environmental use only

• Do not apply directly to your dog’s skin or coat
• Do not add to food or water
• Avoid use near the face, eyes, ears, or nose
• Use only in well-ventilated areas
• Always allow your dog to leave the area freely

Important Safety Notes

• Lemongrass oil should never be ingested
• Citrus oils may cause skin irritation or respiratory discomfort in sensitive dogs

Avoid use around:

• Puppies and senior dogs
• Dogs with asthma or respiratory disease
• Dogs with active skin inflammation or allergies

Discontinue use immediately if your dog shows signs such as itching, redness, coughing, sneezing, drooling, lethargy, or avoidance behavior.

For dogs with flea allergy dermatitis, chronic itching, or recurrent skin infections, consistent veterinary flea prevention and proper diagnosis remain the safest and most effective approach.

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Valor Oil

Valor oil is not a single essential oil, but a blend of multiple plant-derived oils combined for their aroma. Different products sold under the name “Valor” may contain different ingredients depending on the manufacturer.

Because blends vary widely in composition and concentration, their effects are less predictable than those of single essential oils, especially when used around pets.

Some dog owners choose to use highly diluted Valor-type blends aromatically in the home for scent preference only. These products should never be used to treat medical conditions or behavioral issues in dogs.

What to Know Before Using Blended Oils

• Blended oils may include ingredients that are individually unsuitable for dogs
• Ingredient lists are not always standardized
• Dogs may react differently to blends than to single oils
• Strong aromas may cause discomfort or avoidance behavior

Safe Use Guidelines

• Aromatic use only, in well-ventilated spaces
• Do not apply directly to your dog’s skin or coat
• Do not add to food or water
• Avoid diffusing continuously or in confined areas
• Always allow your dog to leave the room freely

Important Safety Notes

• Do not use blends on puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with respiratory disease
• Avoid use in households with cats
• Discontinue immediately if your dog shows signs such as restlessness, coughing, drooling, sneezing, lethargy, or attempts to leave the area

Because blended oils can contain multiple compounds with unknown combined effects, veterinary guidance is strongly recommended before using any essential oil blend in a home with pets.

For anxiety, skin conditions, immune concerns, or digestive issues, evidence-based veterinary care remains the safest and most effective option.

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Aromatic Use Around Dogs: Safety Guidelines

Some pet owners choose to use essential oils aromatically to scent a room. When dogs are present, diffusion should be limited, brief, and always optional for the animal.

Dogs should never be confined to a space where essential oils are diffused. If aromatic use is attempted, it should be done in a well-ventilated area, at very low concentration, and discontinued immediately if the dog shows avoidance or discomfort.

• Use water-based diffusers only
• Avoid continuous diffusion
• Never diffuse in enclosed or sleeping areas
• Always allow pets to leave the room freely

Aromatic exposure is not a treatment and should never replace veterinary care or behavior management strategies.

Essential Oils for Dogs That May be Toxic

Just because it is natural doesn't mean it is safe.  Many natural substances including essential oils can be highly toxic and irritating.  Essential oils, while they have a botanical origin are prone to misuse because they are so highly concentrated.  Some may be safe for people but not for dogs

Essential Oils That You Should Avoid Giving Your Dogs

This is only a short list of the most common essential oils for dogs you’ll typically run across that you should avoid. If you are interested in an essential oil that is not mentioned in this article, additional research should be done to confirm that it’s safe for your dog.

Additionally, what’s safe for a dog isn’t necessarily safe for your cat – cats are very sensitive to citrus and high-phenol oils, and just essential oils in general.  

Signs of Essential Oil Poisoning

• Excessive salivation
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Difficulty when walking
• Fatigue and weakness  
• Attempts at rubbing off the oil with topical applications
• Attempts to leave the room with aromatic applications

Bonus Information: What About Cats?

Essential oil and cats don’t mix for two big reasons:

1. The most serious reason is cats lack the enzyme in their livers that break down many of the chemical compounds found in essential oils, and this can lead to a build-up which leads a toxicity – in fact, cats are susceptible to many types of things: ibuprofen and other NSAIDs, zinc, wintergreen, grapefruit, citrus, and the list goes on.

2. Cats have delicate and extremely thin skin – maybe that’s why they have the tendency to get mad – joking aside, their thin skin allows for quicker absorption, and this does not pair well with highly concentrated essential oils i.e. most of them.

Enjoy the Aromatic Scent

There are, of course, side effects that come from both natural treatments and pharmaceuticals, though pharmaceutical drugs carry a lot more dangerous side effects and general nasties.

However, when working with essential oils, you are dealing with highly concentrated substances, and side effects can occur if they are not properly diluted. This isn’t to scare you, but more to let you know that even using natural treatments, bad things can happen.

Essential Oils for Dogs
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