Essential oils for dogs; do they really work?

February 23, 2025

Essential oils can help your dog, cat, or horse in lots of ways, but they do need to be used cautiously since animals are often much more sensitive than we are.

 

Essential oils. What are they?

Essential oils are compounds that come from parts of various plants. The plants are distilled or otherwise broken down to the oils that are considered essential.

Each plant has unique properties that may have therapeutic effects on the individual using them. They can be used aromatically (inhaled), topically (on the skin) or internally depending on the oil and the purpose it’s being used. They’re usually combined with a carrier oil like olive oil or vegetable oil for dilution and ease of use.

Humans have been using them more or less forever; before traditional medicine, as we know it now. But recently, they’ve grown in popularity. People have been finding more and more ways to benefit from them and have started trying them on their pets.

Essential oils can be used aromatically, topically or internally, depending on the oil and the intended purpose. Always be sure you allow your pet to refuse exposure to any oils you hope to use.

 

How can dogs benefit from essential oils?

In general, the same ways as humans although the body of each species uses them a bit differently. Animals might be more or less sensitive or develop negative reactions or suffer problems from some oils.

As with most holistic approaches, you’ll want to check with your vet to be sure there aren’t any possible negative effects of using these oils You also need to remember that these oils are not intended to diagnose or cure any diseases. That's a job for your vet.

If you decide to use them, you should always allow an animal to refuse. Let them sniff or otherwise investigate and don’t force anything they don’t want. They’ll know if the particular oil you are considering feels right to them because animals are usually much more in tune with their own needs than we give them credit for.

Essential oils and their benefits

These are some good ones to have on hand for your dog. This list is far from complete, but these are some of the most popular oils people like to use. We like lavender, frankincense, and spearmint for ours.

 

Lavender – calming and relaxation

Helichrysum – antiseptic, anxiety reduction

Cedarwood – repelling insects and cleaning wounds

Lemon – anti-arthritic, anti-fungal

Frankincense – immune system strengthening, possible cancer treatment

Spearmint – digestive issues

Lemongrass – insect repellent

Citronella – insect repellent

 

Are essential oils worth it?

Having used them for ten years or so, I think they are. You definitely have to use caution and get educated about each species and the oils you’re considering. There ARE some negative effects if you don’t make sure you are using a safe option in the best way. As I said before, you should talk to your vet to be sure. 

In order to get the most for your money, you'll want to research brands and labeling.  They aren't all created equal and some aren't authentic. Therapeutic-grade essential oils have the best value. They might be a bit more expensive, but the quality and effectiveness outweigh the small savings you might find.

Have you considered essential oils for your pets?