Does your dog seem out of sorts?
Just like people, pooches go through physical and mental changes that can affect their behavior. Look to natural remedies that will help balance them out!
You may notice that your furry friend seems to sniff everything out. Use this to your advantage!
Read on to learn about aromatherapy for dogs.
Why Aromatherapy?
A dog’s nose sits quite close to its brain. When they breathe in, scents travel directly through the limbic system to reach their olfactory bulb.
The limbic system regulates a dog’s emotions, just as it does in humans. This means that a smell can alter how a dog feels and therefore change how they behave. This makes aromatherapy for pets a great option.
Dogs and Essential Oils
Which essential oils work best for dogs? It depends on what condition you want to treat.
Choose from this list of safe options for pet aromatherapy.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass oil diffuses a citrusy smell into the air without the safety concerns of actual citrus oil. The oil not only reduces any pet smell, but it also provides some health benefits.
This scent carries the flavonoid quercetin in its droplets. It works as a powerful anti-inflammatory.
Older dogs with arthritis will benefit from this. Over time, you may notice them acting less grumpy and more active.
Scenting your home with lemongrass oil may also benefit dogs with allergies. It reduces the amount of histamine in the body, which reduces the symptoms.
Cedarwood
Does your dog let out too much energy in the house? Fill your home with the light, wooded aroma of cedarwood.
The cedrol in this oil soothes the mood. This may help you stop unwanted behaviors, like excessive barking, jumping, and tearing through the house while you work.
This wonderful scent also keeps fleas away and will even kill them! Its antimicrobial properties may also hinder germs that the dog brings in from growing on any surface.
Chamomile
Over 70% of dogs suffer from anxiety. They may pee on the floor, pace, hide, or snip at people.
If your fur family displays these symptoms, try chamomile oil in your diffuser. This aroma calms anxiety and induces sleepiness.
You might also use it if your pup shows signs of an upset stomach. The antispasmodic properties will stop them from vomiting.
Poisonous Oils for Dogs
When dealing with pet aromatherapy, you do face some unique challenges. Though scent therapy works similarly for them, their physiology is slightly different from ours.
This means some essential oils that we use may harm them. Poisonous oils include:
- Ylang ylang
- Pine
- Peppermint
- Tea tree oil
- Wintergreen
- peppermint
- Cinnamon
- Eucalyptus
- Citrus
Though you attempt to use essential oils for dogs safety, accidents can happen. If your pet accidentally ingests any of these oils on the list, call the Pet Poison Helpline (800-213-6680) and then contact their vet to schedule an appointment.
Use Aromatherapy for Dogs
When you choose the right oils, aromatherapy for dogs can be safe and effective. Diffusers will also make your house smell amazing!
Making wellness a priority ensures that you and your dog live life to the fullest. Read more tips on our Healthy Living page!
