Is it OK for dogs to smell lavender? A Step-by-Step Guide

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Is it OK for dogs to smell lavender?

Reviewed for accuracy on December 7, 2021 by Cathy Barnette, DVM

  • Lavender contains a small amount of linalool, which is toxic to dogs and cats.
  • Mild exposure to lavender is not generally harmful and may help with anxiety, depression, and stress.
  • Lavender poisoning is possible and may cause vomiting, reduced appetite, and other symptoms.
  • Aromatherapy is safer than giving your dog lavender essential oil to ingest.
  • Even if you’re not fully integrated into the essential oils trend, you may already be well versed in the soothing, calming powers that lavender can have on people. Numerous scientific studies have been conducted to test these claims, such as this one, which conclude that there’s evidence for the “relaxing effect of inhaling lavender oil.” Lavender oil, and the plant itself, can even be safely ingested by humans to achieve similar calming effects.

    The question we’re addressing today is whether it’s safe to administer lavender — in all its forms — to our canine friends and if the same benefits may apply. Here’s what you need to know.

    The answer to this question is unfortunately not a simple as a straightforward yes or no. Lavender contains a small amount of a compound called linalool, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. Linalool is found in such small concentrations, however, that toxicity is rarely an issue. Problems arise only if a dog ingests a very large quantity of lavender.

    Symptoms of lavender poisoning may include vomiting, inability to defecate, a swollen and tender abdomen, reduced appetite, and fever. If you suspect your dog has been poisoned by lavender, consult your veterinarian (or an emergency veterinary hospital if after-hours) immediately. Treatment varies, but may include the administration of intravenous (IV) fluids, supplemental oxygen, and antihistamines.

    Signs Your Dog Can Smell Essential Oils

    According to PBS, dogs have more than 300 million olfactory receptors, compared to just 6 million in humans. This means that their sense of smell is incredibly powerful. The bottom line? Yes, dogs can smell essential oils. However, not all essential oils are safe for your dog. Lavender is perhaps the most popular (and one of the safest) because of its calming properties. Peppermint oil is another good one that can stimulate circulation and deter pesky insects.

    So how do you know if your dog is smelling those essential oils you have going in the diffuser? For one, their nose will probably start to wiggle as they take in the new scent and try to figure out what exactly is going on. They may sneeze, which could indicate the essential oil is bothering them, so be sure to watch for this.

    Here are some signs your dog can smell essential oils:

    These are other signs your dog may smell essential oils:

  • Sniffing The Air
  • Looking Around For The Scent
  • Choosing The Right Lavender Essential Oil

    When selecting a lavender oil, choose a high-quality oil from a reputable company.

    This will help you avoid oils with contaminants and adulterants … additives which can cause adverse side effects or be less effective.

    Like Lavender 40/42 essential oil … this is often a blend with other oils or synthetic linalyl acetate.

    To find out if an oil is of high quality, reach out to the company. A company with a good product will be happy to answer any questions you may have. And they will provide a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) test when requested. This test will help you determine the purity of the oil.

    Other things to look for include …

  • Dark amber or blue glass bottles
  • Latin names on the label (Lavandula for lavender)
  • Lot and batch numbers
  • Pricing that fits the oil (if the price is too good to be true, it probably is)
  • There’s no regulatory system in place for essential oils. If you’re new to essential oils or have some doubt about what to use … consult an aromatherapy expert or holistic practitioner.

    Is Lavender Essential Oil Safe for Dogs?

    Is lavender oil safe for dogs? Not only is it safe, it is basically, a multipurpose aromatherapy first aid kit for your fur baby…

    Lavender essential oil has long been used by aromatherapists to reduce stress. Renowned as the Queen of Calm, it relieves anxiety, helps you sleep and lifts your mood. You know it gives you relief, but did you know lavender can also help de-stress and calm your anxious dog – and do so safely?

    One of the gentlest pet-safe essential oils, lavender oil could quickly become your dog’s new BFF (and yours). It can not only quiet a nervous and agitated pooch, but also help them sleep better – and can even cheer up a depressed pet.

    Add to this several other benefits like soothing itchy skin allergies, easing pain, as well as fending off ticks and fleas, and you can see how lavender can quickly become a must-have essential in your fur baby’s first aid kit…