Is Lavender toxic to dogs? Expert Advice

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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.

Is lavender essential oil animal friendly?

As long as its used responsibly, lavender essential oil is an animal-friendly herb.

Only use pure, therapeutic-lavender oil. Avoid lavender products mixed with paraben, dyes, and other ingredients that can be harmful to dogs.

What are the benefits of lavender oil for dogs?

Lavender oil has several beneficial properties for dogs when used correctly, including:

Soothing itchy or irritated skin: Lavender can soothe your dog’s irritated or itchy skin. For dogs that are scratching to satisfy a persistent itch, diluted lavender oil can provide some relief.

Promoting a calming effect: One of the reasons people use lavender oil is to help relax or relieve stress. You can use essential oils for an anxious pup as well. Lavender oil is often used for aromatherapy for this purpose.

Acting as an insect repellant: Lavender oil acts as an insect repellant for both humans and dogs. If your dog has an issue with fleas and ticks, or if pesky mosquitoes swarm on your next trek out of the house, applying some diluted lavender oil to your dog’s coat could help reduce the chance of bites.

Serving as an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent: Lavender oil is thought to fight off bacteria and fungus that could ultimately harm your dog. Lavender oil can be applied as a preventative measure, but if your dog has developed a bacterial or fungal infection, take them to a veterinarian immediately.

Are Lavender Plants Poisonous To Dogs

Essential oils have become a go-to product in many households. Lavender oil is a top choice for its stress-relieving properties and its pleasant floral scent. It’s not surprising, then, that you may want to extend these perceived benefits to your dog.

However well-intentioned this might be, it’s important you review the facts before giving your dog a product intended for humans. Is lavender oil safe for dogs? And, if so, how should you use it? Read this guide before giving lavender oil to your dog.

Lavender oil is a highly concentrated extract made from the flower spikes of lavender plants. It is a colorless oil that does not dissolve in water. It contains the same phytochemicals found in the lavender plant, including linalool and linalyl acetate, which are not safe for some animals but are acceptable in small doses for others.

Lavender oil is generally used in perfumes and for aromatherapy, as well as skincare products. People have recently adopted its use for a wider range of purposes, particularly to promote relaxation.