Have you ever thought about using essential oils for dog skin allergies?
If your pup appears to be scratching themselves raw, you may be looking for an alternative approach to conventional veterinary treatments.
Essential oils could be one natural solution. However, it doesn’t mean they’re all doggie-friendly. With that in mind, I want to share with you some tried and tested essential oils for skin allergies in dogs.
Essential Oils For Dog Skin Allergies — Contents
Not all essential oils are safe for use on your furry friend, and some may do more harm than good. Here is a list of dog-friendly and safe essential oils to treat your dog’s allergies.
And, we also have to bear in mind, these oils are concentrated, which means some will require pre-dilution to lower the potency. Check whether your oil of choice requires a carrier oil for topical use. Some people opt to use doterra essential oils for dog allergies.
Lavender
As well as making your pooch smell gorgeous, lavender is one of the most amazing essential oils for allergies in dogs and humans alike.
With antibacterial and antioxidant properties, it will help treat any lingering infections in your dog’s skin which could mean avoiding a trip to the vets. It’s also commonly used for treating anxiety in dogs — soothing both their skin and mind, reducing stress while the discomfort eases.
You must NOT use lavender oil undiluted. It’s far too strong for you and your dog’s skin. Mix it with a carrier oil for topical application to treat dog skin allergies.
Chamomile
Chamomile is another popular option for essential oils for dog allergies as it’s convenient to acquire and use. Simply brew into a tea and use it as a rinse or spray.
It can be used to treat a range of issues common in dog allergies, such as eye inflammation, skin irritation, and bacterial infections caused by excessive itching. You can combine it with a saline solution in a 1:3 ratio to treat eye problems.
However, watch out your dog doesn’t have any allergies to this oil, as it may cause more itching, rashes, and hives.
Rose
Another great option if your dog suffers from anxiety. When one or two drops are mixed with a carrier oil, it will not only soothe itchy dry skin, but also help repel ticks.
When used in the form of rose tea, you can treat eye infections, small wounds, and even an upset stomach. Plus, in aromatherapy, rose is handy for treating separation anxiety, aggression, general anxiety, and even emotional trauma.
Cedarwood is commonly used as an insect repellant and deodorizer in aromatherapy. But did you know it’s one of the most soothing essential oils for dog skin allergies? When mixed with a light carrier oil and used topically, cedarwood is fantastic for combating dryness caused by allergies in dogs.
It can also be utilized as an antiseptic and in the treatment of conditions, such as kennel cough as well as in the use of behavior management to help calm and soothe a dog that’s nervous or shy.
Carrot Seed
Finally, carrot seed oil is an amazing essential oil for you and your dog. When employed in aromatherapy, carrot seed stimulates circulation, which is handy if you have an older dog suffering from allergies.
When mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically, carrot seed is a great essential oil for dog skin allergies. It also has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and moisturizing properties to help not only protect your dog but hydrate their skin and coat after an uncomfortable allergic reaction.
Before you start, it’s important to recognize the signs and figure out what’s triggering these reactions. The possibility of an allergy might not have crossed your mind, particularly if it develops suddenly.
Don’t be fooled.
Dogs can develop allergies to almost anything — from seasonal triggers, like grass pollen through to what’s on their menu, chicken, even peanuts — and at any age or stage of their life. Here are a few common symptoms to watch out for:
Hair Loss
Unfortunately, it can be common for dogs to experience hair loss as a result of an allergy.
However, there is a big difference between alopecia and allergy-related hair loss. Once the underlying issues are treated properly, your dog will stop itching and any lost fur will grow back. Alopecia (also known as “hot spots”) will damage your pup’s hair follicles meaning the hair may or may not grow back.
Itching
This is often the most obvious symptom associated with dog allergies. The scratching can be all over their body or in one area, this is also known as localized or generalized itching.
You need to rule out all other options, it’s a condition that can be caused by several complaints such as fleas or mites. Hence, if bugs are the problem you will need a separate treatment, as opposed to using essential oils for dogs’ skin allergies.
If your pup is up to date with their flea treatments and has regular health checks then you should have no cause for concern when it comes to unwanted critters upsetting your furry companion.
Behavioral Changes
You know your pooch the best, and you’ll be able to tell if their quirky little personality isn’t quite right — this could mean that there is an issue that needs addressing. If your dog seems to be pacing more or finding it difficult to get comfortable, this is a big tell-tale sign that they are suffering and unsettled over something.
We all know how unbearable it can be to feel itchy, and sadly your furry friend isn’t able to tell you when they’re having these problems. You must first identify and treat the cause before using essential oils to ease the symptoms.
So, your vet has confirmed your suspicions — skin allergies are the cause of your pooch’s symptoms.
To begin with, you may find conventional treatments from your vet will work well. However, over time they can lose effectiveness and your furry friend will be miserable and itchy again. Follow whatever plans your vet has in place, especially if the allergy is something you can remove or avoid in your pet’s daily life.
You may want a more natural approach to treat their sore and itchy skin. We can now look into the different types of essential oils for dogs’ allergies, how they can alleviate your dog’s ailments, and what other benefits these natural oils can offer your pooch’s skin and well-being.
As mentioned, when using essential oils for dog allergies, you may need to mix the essential oil with what is known as a carrier oil. These work by delivering the active ingredients safely and effectively, they also work alongside the essential oil to help treat your dog’s skin allergy. Some examples of carrier oils are:
- Coconut — aids digestion & helps with dry skin.
- Neem — antibacterial, anti-fungal, pesticide.
- Jojoba — moisturizer & fungicide.
- Avocado — aids digestive health & moisturizes.
- Olive — stimulates the digestive system & dry skin.
All of these carrier oils provide benefits for alleviating dogs’ allergies. Thus, you can pick and choose which to use to make the perfect blend to work alongside the essential oils for dog skin allergies.
Conclusion
So now you have all the information you need to help soothe your pooches’ allergies and hopefully be able to remove them from their day-to-day life.
If you do think your pup is suffering from any type of allergy, you should in the first instance consult your veterinarian for advice. They will be able to provide you with a diagnosis as well as offer a treatment plan and eliminate any other causes.
Remember, it’s important to do your research before using essential oils for dog skin allergies but don’t despair — there are plenty of options for successful treatment.
“Which Essential Oils Are Not Dog Friendly?”
It’s important to make sure the oils you choose are safe for your pooch. Some of the essential oils are toxic to dogs and should never be used, including:
- Cinnamon.
- Tea tree.
- Sweet birch.
- Citrus/Limonene.
- Pennyroyal.
- Wintergreen.
- Peppermint.
- Pine.
“Is Lavender Oil Safe for Dogs in an Infuser?”
Lavender is often considered the safest option when it comes to oils used for diffusing. It provides a natural calming effect for all — humans, cats and dogs.
“Can Dogs Have Chamomile?”
Chamomile is often used as a very common natural health medicine for several forms of injury and ailment. But as far as your furry friend is concerned, you can have too much of a good thing. Excessive ingestion can lead to negative effects such as digestion and tummy problems.
“Are Dogs Allergic To Essential Oils?”
Not all essential oils are suitable to use on your dog and some can be extremely harmful such as:
- Cinnamon.
- Citrus.
- Pine.
- Tea Tree.
“Can I Put Essential Oils on My Dog’s Skin?”
Placing essential oils directly onto your dog’s skin can cause additional irritation to an already delicate and uncomfortable area. Unless you are under the direct guidance of a professional, it’s best to avoid.
