Fireworks can be a thrilling sight for us, but for many dogs, they can be an overwhelming and anxiety-inducing experience. The loud bangs, bright flashes, and unfamiliar smells can trigger fear and distress in our canine friends. There's nothing harder to see than my poor little BooBoo shivering, shaking, and unable to calm down due to the loud noises. Over the years, I've tried many things to help my chihuahuas feel calm and safe over the 4th of July and New Years when my neighbors seem to go crazy with fireworks. In this blog post, I'll share my top tips and strategies that I've used to help keep my dogs calm and comfortable during fireworks, and these tips work well for thunderstorms too!
Understanding Your Dog's Fear of Fireworks
Before diving into specific techniques, it's important to understand why dogs get anxious during fireworks. Dogs have sensitive hearing, and the loud noises associated with fireworks can be extremely unsettling for them. Additionally, the sudden bursts of light and strange smells can further contribute to their distress. Signs of anxiety in your dog may include panting, trembling, pacing, hiding, excessive barking, or attempts to escape. You'll want to plan to make sure your dog stays inside and update contact information on collars and tags, just in case! While different breeds of dogs (like chihuahuas-haha) may be more sensitive in general, any dog or animal can be scared of fireworks, so this goes for all pets, not just your dog!
Preparing for Fireworks
This best advice I can give you, start now before the holidays or rainy season! Many of the methods that I have used require some advance training and preparation to be as effective as possible. There are also tools on the market that will require a purchase, so you'll want to order well before hand and prior to the fireworks display.
1. Create a Safe Haven: Designate a quiet, secure area in your home to be a safe space where your dog can retreat during fireworks. Ideally, this space should be an interior room or basement, away from windows and external noise. Make the area comfortable by adding their bed, favorite toys, and a piece of clothing with your scent. It's helpful to spend time here with your pet beforehand so they know its a safe and comfortable space, Use high value treats and praise to really anchor in positive emotions while your dog is in this space. If your dog uses a crate and is happy and comfortable in it, make sure its available in this space as well. One of my dogs go to safety method is her crate. Anytime she's uncomfortable, just being ale to hide in it is all she needs to pass the time acceptably.
2. Consider Using Desensitization Techniques: It is possible to train your dog not to fear fireworks and loud noises. Consider working with a fear free dog trainer to get the most out of this method, especially if your dog has a lot of fear that comes out in other areas of their life.
Start by gradually introducing your dog to the sound of fireworks by playing recorded firework sounds at low volumes. Start with a very low volume where your dog can hear it but doesn't seem bothered. Provide high value treats and lots of praise and positive reinforcement. Gradually increase it over time, staying within your dogs threshold while providing treats and positive reinforcement. This helps desensitize your dog to the noise, reducing their fear response.
3. Talk to Your Vet: If your dog's anxiety is severe, consult with your veterinarian. They may suggest anxiety-reducing medications or natural supplements to help your dog remain calm during fireworks.
4. Try A ThunderShirt: A ThunderShirt is a specialized garment designed to provide gentle pressure and create a swaddling effect on dogs, helping to alleviate anxiety and fear during stressful situations such as fireworks or thunderstorms. The shirt is made of a soft, breathable fabric and features adjustable straps to ensure a snug and comfortable fit for your dog. The gentle pressure applied by the ThunderShirt has a calming effect on the nervous system, similar to the feeling of being held or cuddled. This can help reduce stress, trembling, panting, and other anxiety-related behaviors in dogs.
- ThunderShirts are widely used and recommended by veterinarians and dog trainers as a non-invasive and drug-free solution for anxiety management in dogs. When used properly, the ThunderShirt can be a valuable tool in helping your dog feel more secure and relaxed during stressful events.
5. Try Calming Essential Oils: Essential oils have been known to promote relaxation and calmness in dogs. High quality and premium essential oils properly diluted can be safe to use with your dog. You can utilize calming essential oils by diffusing them in the room where your dog will be during fireworks, making a spray, or adding a drop to bedding. Lavender, cedarwood, vetiver, and copaiba are some of my favorite calming oils. For more info on using essential oils to help calm your dog, click HERE.
- Start Early to Associate Calming Oils with Positive Experiences: If you plan to use calming essential oils to help soothe your dog during fireworks, it's beneficial to start introducing them before the actual event. By associating the scent of the oils with positive experiences, you can help create a sense of calm and relaxation in your dog.
- Begin by diffusing the chosen calming essential oil in your home during calm and enjoyable moments for your dog, such as cuddle time or playtime. This helps them develop a positive association with the scent. Offer treats or engage in rewarding activities while the oil is being diffused. This positive reinforcement will help your dog associate the aroma of the essential oil with pleasant experiences. Over time, your dog will start to associate the scent of the essential oil with feelings of relaxation and security. This also works well to do in the safe space you've created for your dog.
- Additionally, monitor your dog's behavior during the initial introduction of the essential oils and discontinue use if you notice any signs of discomfort or negative reactions. Essential oils are very concentrated and a little gos a long way. For everything you need to know to safely diffuse essential oils with your dog, click HERE. By gradually introducing calming essential oils and associating them with positive experiences, you can help your dog feel more at ease during fireworks and other stressful situations.
Tips for Firework Night
1. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Before the fireworks start, engage your dog in a long walk or play session. This helps burn off excess energy and reduces anxiety. Mental stimulation activities like puzzle toys can also help distract your dog.
2. Provide a Calming Environment: Close all windows, curtains, and blinds to minimize the sound and flashes of fireworks. Turn on calming music, white noise, or even a T.V. to mask the sounds outside. Using a Thundershirt or anxiety wrap can also provide a comforting, swaddling effect for some dogs.
3. Stay Calm and Relaxed and Comfort Your Dog: Dogs can sense our emotions, so it's important to remain calm and relaxed during fireworks. Project a sense of normalcy and engage in activities you typically do together. Use a soothing tone and if your dog likes petting, gently pet in slow, long strokes. Dogs look to us as the leader, so it's imperative that we remain calm and reassuring.
4. Distract and Redirect: Offer your dog interactive toys or food puzzles to divert their attention away from the fireworks. Chewing on safe toys can provide a natural calming effect.
5. Positive Reinforcement: Whenever your dog displays calm behavior during fireworks, reward them with praise, treats, or their favorite toys. This positive reinforcement helps associate fireworks with positive experiences. If you have a puppy, you can really anchor in that fireworks are ok by using this method.
6. Essential Oils: When the firework night arrives, use the same essential oils in the same way that you introduced them to your dog in preparation, keeping the positive association intact. Keep in mind that you still want to monitor your dog's behavior and discontinue use if you notice any signs of discomfort that don't seem to be associated with the fireworks.
Here are two of my favorite diffuser blends I use during fireworks:
2 drops cedarwood
2 drops copaiba
2 drops lavender
1 drop cedarwood
1 drop vetiver
If you'd rather make a spray than use a diffuser:
Calming Lavender Spray:
Grab a 2 ounce glass spray bottle (available on Amazon)
-Fill it up halfway with vodka
-Add 10 drops Lavender
-Fill the remainder of the way up with water
-Shake well before use
Spray a fine mist of the mixture on your dog's bedding or in the air, around the designated safe space.
Valor™: Valor is a blend of essential oils, including Black Spruce, Blue Tansy, Frankincense, Geranium, and Camphor Wood, known for their soothing and balancing properties. I find this essential oil blend very calming and grounding. I will often apply a drop in my hand rub my hands together, inhale deeply, then pet my dog with the residue. Valor™ is a pre-diluted blend and is generally safe for topical application in this way.
Stress Away™: Stress Away is another popular essential oil blend from Young Living™ that I have explored for its potential calming and stress-relieving properties. This blend combines essential oils like Copaiba, Lime, Cedarwood, Lavender, and Vanilla, known for their soothing and relaxing qualities. Simply add a few drops to a diffuser. If you don't have a diffuser, add a few drops to a cotton ball and stash in a strategic area.
Young Living™ is a trusted source of high-quality essential oils and infused products, and they are known for their Seed to Seal® promise, which guarantees purity, potency, and sustainability. As a pet parent, this assurance of quality is crucial when selecting products for your furry friends. You can check them out HERE
(Please note that the provided link is an affiliate link, and I may earn a small commission from your order at no additional cost to you. Your support is greatly appreciated as it helps support my small business!)
Start implementing the strategies outlined in this blog post now to give your dog the best chance of getting thru firework night with minimal tension. From understanding your dog's fear and considering desensitization training well in advance to creating a safe space, incorporating exercise, mental stimulation, and positive reinforcement, and considering the use of calming essential oils, you have a range of techniques at your disposal. Remember to tailor your approach to suit your dog's individual needs and consult with your veterinarian and dog trainer for advice. With patience, consistency, and a proactive mindset, you can help your canine friend navigate fireworks with reduced anxiety, making the night less of a bad experience for them!
Summer and winter weather can both pose a challenge to our canine companions, especially when it comes to their delicate paw pads. In the summer, hot pavement and sand can cause paw issues and irritations, while in the winter, the cold temperatures, snow, ice, and even the salt and chemicals used to melt them can cause dryness and cracks. This is where paw balm comes in. As pet owners, it's our job to ensure the natural health and well-being of our dogs, and creating a homemade paw balm can be a great way to do just that. In fact, even Martha Stewart has shared a recipe for a dog paw balm! In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of making your own paw balm with essential oils, and provide you with a few easy-to-follow recipes to help you take your dog care to the next level, no matter the season.
So What Exactly Is A Paw Balm And Why You Should Use Dog Paw Balm
A paw balm is a moisturizing ointment that protects and soothes the paw pads, providing a layer of protection against harsh weather conditions in summer or winter, rough terrain, and other irritants. Paw balms condition and moisturize and can also help to speed up healing of cracked or injured paws. While you can easily find paw balms in pet stores, making your own can be a fun, cost-effective, and more natural option. So, In this blog post, I'm going to guide you through the process of making a homemade paw balm. You don't need essential oils in your paw balm and the basic ingredients are approved by the American Kennel Club for safety. But, I'm an 'oily gal' and so are my dogs and horses....and I pretty much add essential oils to everything-haha! Essential oils can be safe to use with dogs, and to read more about that, click HERE. If you're not comfortable using essential oils with your dog, leave them out! If you want to learn what you need to know to safely use essential oils with your dogs, grab my free guide HERE.
Why Make Your Own Dog Paw Balm?
While store-bought dog paw balms are convenient, they often contain a long list of ingredients that may not be necessary or even harmful to your dog. Some commercial paw balms may also contain artificial fragrances, preservatives, and chemicals that can irritate your dog's skin and cause health problems. By making your own homemade paw balm, you can control the ingredients and ensure that your dog gets only the best, natural and safe ingredients. Plus, it's a fun activity especially when it comes to choosing the essential oils to use.
Why Add Essential Oils to Your Dog Paw Balm?
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that have been used for centuries for their wellness properties. Adding essential oils to your dog paw balm can provide additional benefits, such as soothing dry and cracked paws, promoting healing, and maintaining healthy skin. You can also use essential oils that have a relaxing aroma to help calm your dog and reduce tension.
Are Essential Oils Safe for Dogs?
It's important to note that not all essential oils are created equal, nor safe for dogs, and some can be toxic or cause skin irritation. Always use a pure and premium essential oil and read your labels. I like and use Young Living™ Essential Oils, the world leader in essential oils. With their Seed To Seal guarantee, you know you're getting pure and premium products for you and your dogs health and safety. They also have an AnimalScents™ line created especially for pets, check out those products HERE! In fact they offer a fabulous product call Animal Scents® Ointment. If you're not into DIY, simply grab a jar of this as it works perfectly as a paw balm, and it's toxin free! Here are some of the essential oils that I like to use in my paw balms:
Lavender oil: a tranquil and calming aroma, with many skin care benefits.
Frankincense oil: a woodsy and grounding aroma that can help promote healthy looking skin and help with skin tone.
Tea tree oil: yes-you can use tea tree oil with your dog (read more here), skin cleansing properties that also help to deter pesky annoyances! Also very helpful with odors.
Cedarwood oil: a very mild and balancing aroma that helps to repel annoyances and promote healthy skin and hair.
Peppermint oil: cooling and soothing properties, great for supporting skin when itchy.
Roman chamomile oil: calming and wellness properties, great for sensitive skin and seasonal discomforts.
How to Make Your Own Dog Paw Salve with Essential Oils
Now that you know the benefits of making your own dog paw salve with essential oils, let's dive into the process of making it. Here are the step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Gather the Ingredients
To make a simple dog paw ointment, you will need the following ingredients. These ingredients are easily found in most natural health food stores:
1/4 cup of organic coconut oil
1/4 cup of organic shea butter
1/4 cup of organic beeswax pellets
10-15 drops of essential oil (choose from the list above)
metal tin, glass jar, or lip balm tubes
Step 2: Melt the Ingredients
In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets until everything is fully liquid.
Step 3: Add the Essential Oils
Once the ingredients have melted, remove the bowl from the heat, as it starts to cool, add 10-15 drops of your chosen essential oil. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the essential oil is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Pour the Mixture into a Container
Carefully pour the mixture into a container of your choice, such as a small jar or tin. Wide mouth jars or tins work best as you'll be dipping your fingers in. Get creative and recycle what you have. Jelly jars and baby food jars work well. You could also search for some inexpensive metal tins or glass mason jars on Amazon. I recently made this and poured it into lip balm tubes I grabbed on Amazon. It made it really easy to apply to my dogs paws like chapstick-lol. I also had several left over to give away as gifts.
Step 5: Let the Salve Cool and Solidify
Allow the salve to cool and solidify completely, which may take a few hours. You can speed up the process by placing the container in the fridge.
Step 6: Apply the Paw Balm
Using the paw balm is easy, simply grab a swipe with your finger and then apply a small amount to your dog's paws and massage it gently into the paw pads. The salve will provide a protective barrier against harsh conditions, moisturize and soothe dry and cracked paws, and promote healing.
A Few Paw Balm Recipes to Try
If you're feeling adventurous and want to experiment with different essential oils and ingredients, here are a few recipes to try. You can swap out cocoa butter for the shea butter, but your balm will have a nuttier aroma and tend to be a bit harder. You can also swap out olive oil for the coconut oil and your balm will be a bit softer. For a paw cream simply omit the beeswax in the recipe and only use the coconut oil and shea butter. The beeswax is what gives the paw balm is harder consistency like a lip balm. If you like the beeswax but want a slightly softer consistency, add 1 or 2 tablespoons of olive oil. If you're planning on using the lip balm tubes, keep the beeswax as you'll need that lip balm consistency the beeswax provides.
- Lavender Paw Balm
- 1/4 cup of organic coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of organic shea butter
- 1/4 cup of organic beeswax pellets
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
Follow the same instructions as the basic paw salve recipe above.
- Tea Tree and Cedarwood Paw Balm
- 1/4 cup of organic coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of organic shea butter
- 1/4 cup of organic beeswax pellets
- 5 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 5 drops of cedarwood essential oil
Follow the same instructions as the basic paw salve recipe above.
- Vetiver and Frankincense Paw Balm
- 1/4 cup of organic coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of organic shea butter
- 1/4 cup of organic beeswax pellets
- 5 drops of vetiver essential oil
- 5 drops of frankincense essential oil
Follow the same instructions as the basic paw salve recipe above.
To make a DIY dog paw balm without beeswax, try this recipe:
- 1/4 cup of organic coconut oil
- 1/4 cup of organic shea butter
- 1/4 cup of organic cocoa butter
- 5 drops of vetiver essential oil
- 5 drops of roman chamomile essential oil
Making your own dog paw salve with essential oils is fun and with a little bit of practice, you'll be able to whip up these recipes in no time. You'll have a natural product that benefits your dogs health and well-being, and you could even use it as a homemade gift for your dog mom BFF. By using natural, safe ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals and additives, you can provide your dog with the best possible care.
Remember to always use pure and premium essential oils and feel free to omit the essential oils if you're not comfortable using them. Homemade paw balms are a natural and safe alternative to store bought paw creams and paw ointments. In fact, try rubbing some into your hands after you apply it to your dogs paws, you might just be amazed!
Cedarwood essential oil has been used for centuries for various purposes, including aromatherapy, skincare, and pest control. But did you know that it can be safe for dogs and have several health benefits? In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of cedarwood essential oil for dogs and how you can use it with your pets.
What is Cedarwood Essential Oil?
Cedarwood essential oil is a natural oil derived from the wood of cedar trees. There are several different types of cedar trees and one of the most commonly used cedar trees for essential oil is the Atlas cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica). Atlas cedarwood is believed to be a close relative of the Biblical Cedars Of Lebanon.
Cedarwood essential oil is extracted through a process called steam distillation, which involves heating the wood chips or shavings in water to release the volatile compounds. The steam containing the essential oil is then cooled and collected, and the oil is separated from the water.
Cedarwood essential oil has a warm, woody, and slightly sweet aroma that is both grounding and calming. Compared to other essential oils, cedarwood has a more earthy and masculine scent than floral or citrus oils like lavender oil or lemon. It's often used in aromatherapy blends for its grounding and balancing effects on the mind and body. Overall, cedarwood essential oil has a unique and distinctive scent that is loved by many for its warm and comforting qualities.
Cedarwood essential oil has a rich history of use dating back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used cedarwood oil in the embalming process and believed it had purifying and preserving properties. In ancient Greece, cedarwood oil was used for its calming and grounding effects on the mind and body. Native Americans used cedarwood oil in their spiritual practices and believed it had healing powers. Cedarwood oil was also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its alleged anti-inflammatory properties. Cedar wood oil has also been studied for insect control; specifically fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. Today, cedarwood oil has even been studied for hair loss.
Is cedarwood essential oil safe for dogs?
Yes, cedarwood essential oil is safe for dogs when used correctly. Many dog products on the market for sale today contain cedarwood oil. However, it's essential to use high-quality essential oils and avoid synthetic fragrances that can harm your dog. Always use a pure and premium cedarwood oil and dilute the essential oil before use. You can safely use essential oils with dogs (even tea tree :0) and to learn how to safely get started, grab my guide HERE.
What are the benefits of cedarwood essential oil for dogs?
- Can help relieve tension and worry
Cedarwood essential oil has a calming effect that can help soothe your dog's emotions. If your dog gets worried during thunderstorms, car rides, or when left alone, diffusing cedarwood essential oil in the room and car can help them feel more relaxed.
- Repels outdoor annoyances
Cedarwood essential oil can help protect your dog from annoyances when outside. You can add a few drops of cedarwood essential oil to your dog's shampoo or dilute it with water and spray it on their fur. For a step by step guide to making a spray, click HERE. You can also make a dry dog shampoo powder and apply it to your dogs coat before going outside. To learn how to do that, click HERE.
- Promotes healthy skin
Cedarwood essential oil has skin cleansing and naturally deodorizing properties that can help maintain healthy skin and coat. You can add a few drops of cedarwood essential oil to a carrier oil (to learn more about carrier oils, click HERE.) like coconut oil and massage it into your dog's skin.
- May support the respiratory system
Cedarwood essential oil has properties that can help support breathing. You can diffuse cedarwood essential oil in the room or add a few drops to a carrier oil and massage it into your dog's chest. For easy application, you can make a roller bottle. For a step by step guide to making a roller bottle, click HERE.
How to use cedarwood essential oil with your dog?
Aromatically (Diffusion)
To easily diffuse essential oils with your dog, you can:
-Be a walking diffuser by wearing the essential oil yourself as a perfume or in diffuser jewelry.
-Use an electric diffuser, such as an ultrasonic diffuser, by simply adding a few drops of cedarwood essential oil to the diffuser and letting it run in the room where your dog spends most of their time. Always give your dog the option to leave the room and monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort. To learn more about how you can safely use an essential oil diffuser with your dog, click HERE.
-Add a few drops onto a cotton ball or wood clothespin and place in strategic areas around your home.
-If you want to have some fun, you can even make a reed diffuser with cedarwood oil and place it in a strategic area to benefit your dog. Reed diffusers are super easy to make and the aroma output can be much less than other diffusers. This works well if you have a particularly sensitive dog or don't want a strong aroma. Click HERE to view a super quick video I made on Pinterest showing you what you need and how to quickly make one. Reed diffusers are great swaps for candles since you will still have a pleasing decoration and light aroma.
Topical application
Add a few drops of cedarwood essential oil to a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil and massage it into your dog's skin. Every dog is different and size, age, and health can factor in to how you dilute cedarwood oil. For my easy dilution guidelines chart, click HERE.
In conclusion, cedarwood essential oil can be safe and can have numerous benefits for dogs. It can help relieve tension, promote healthy skin, help the respiratory system, and help your dog enjoy the outdoors. However, it's essential to use high-quality essential oils and dilute them before use.
I like and use Young Living™ Essential Oils, the world leader in essential oils. With their Seed To Seal guarantee, you know you're getting pure and premium products for you and your pets health and safety. To grab a bottle of cedarwood oil, click HERE (This is an affiliate link and I earn a small commission from your order at no cost to you. Thanks for supporting my small business! I'm so excited to help you get started, that I'll connect with you once you order and send you something special)
*Essential oils are never a substitute for regular veterinary care and are never intended to treat or cure any illness*
Over the years, I’ve had several readers write to me saying tea tree oil isn’t safe for dogs. One reader even asked me to take down my homemade dog shampoo recipe because it contained tea tree oil.
I get it. Our pets’ safety is always the top priority. And when there’s conflicting information online, it can be hard to know who (or what) to trust. That’s why I want to share my full response here — grounded in veterinary research, safe dilution guidelines, and my own ten years of safe use with my dogs.
What Is Tea Tree Oil?
Tea Tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia. Indigenous Australians have long used it as a natural remedy, and today it’s found in countless human and pet products because of its wide range of cleansing and odor-neutralizing benefits.
Tea Tree oil has even been studied as an antiviral agent, with promising results in recurrent herpes infections. In veterinary settings, it’s been investigated as a supportive treatment for prostatic abscesses in dogs, and another study found that 82% of dogs with localized dermatitis responded well to a 10% tea tree cream.
Is Tea Tree Essential Oil Safe For Dogs?
The most important factors when using essential oils with dogs are:
- Quality of the oil
- Appropriate dilution and use
- Careful observation
When used correctly, tea tree can be safe for some dogs. The problems you may hear about usually involve undiluted or excessive use. Reviews of toxicosis cases on PubMed show that most involved inappropriately high doses, and the majority of dogs made a full recovery with supportive veterinary care.
What the Research Shows
- Toxicosis review (PubMed): Most cases involved undiluted or excessive doses. Supportive veterinary care typically led to full recovery.
- Fatality cases: In a large review of 443 canine/feline exposures, two deaths were documented — both under extreme and unusual conditions:
- A 7.5-year-old Old English Sheepdog was accidentally given 0.3–0.4 mL IV tea tree oil and immediately went into cardiac arrest.
- A 15-year-old Miniature Poodle had ~28.5 mL of undiluted tea tree applied topically once daily for 3 days. After the third dose, the dog developed severe ataxia and later died. These cases highlight inappropriate routes and massive doses — not normal, diluted use.
- Dermatitis study: In a controlled veterinary trial, a 10% tea tree cream for localized dermatitis resulted in 82% of dogs showing good or very good improvement.
- Prostatic abscesses: Tea tree was studied as a promising supportive treatment in dogs with infections. These studies were conducted in veterinary research settings, meaning veterinarians themselves formulated and tested tea tree under controlled conditions, demonstrating it can play a role in animal care when used appropriately.
What We Don’t See in the Literature
According to current scientific veterinary literature, there are no reports of dogs dying from diffusion at normal household use. While anecdotes may circulate online, they aren’t supported by published, verifiable research.
Current Veterinary Guidelines
The current Pet Poison Helpline states that products containing less than 1–2% tea tree oil are generally considered non-toxic for dogs when used exactly as labeled.
👉 All of the recipes I share here dilute tea tree to levels well under that guideline (see below for the exact percentages).
Why I Still Use Tea Tree (and When Not To)
So why do I continue to include tea tree in some of my recipes?
- I’ve used it safely with my own dogs for over ten years, with good results.
- I’ve found it particularly effective in certain circumstances, particularly for skin support and odor control.
- I don’t want to contribute to misinformation or fear when there is real research and guidance that shows it can be used responsibly.
That said, if you’re not comfortable with tea tree, don’t use it. You can swap it out for cedarwood, copaiba, frankincense, or lavender and still have effective recipes. Every dog is unique, and your comfort level as a pet parent matters too.
My goal isn’t to push tea tree — it’s to share safe, fact-based options so you can make the choice that feels right for your pets.
How to Dilute Tea Tree Oil Safely for Dogs
Dilution is the most important step in using tea tree oil safely with dogs. Essential oils are highly concentrated, and applying them “neat” (undiluted) is where problems occur. Mixing tea tree with a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil, olive oil, or jojoba spreads the oil safely over the skin and reduces the chance of irritation or reaction.
For water-based sprays, always use an emulsifier such as vodka or witch hazel to help the oil disperse, and shake well before each use. Avoid spraying near your dog’s eyes, face, or sensitive areas — if you need to apply there, put the blend on your hands first and rub it in gently.
👉 Want to learn more about choosing the best carrier oils for pets? I break it all down in this post HERE.
Following proper dilution not only makes tea tree safer but also more effective, since a little goes a long way with essential oils.
Tea Tree Recipes
Homemade Dog Shampoo
- 1 cup liquid castile soap
- ¼ cup coconut oil
- 10 drops tea tree (~0.17% Very low, far below the 1–2% guideline.)
- 5 drops cedarwood
Combine the liquid castile soap and coconut oil in a bottle or jar, then add the essential oils and stir or shake gently to mix. Be sure to shake well before each use. Apply a small amount to your dog’s coat, lather, and rinse thoroughly.
Roller Blend for Skin Support (10 ml bottle)
- 6 drops Lavender
- 2 drops Tea Tree (~1% )
- Top with carrier oil
Add the essential oils directly into a 10 ml roller bottle, then fill the remainder with your chosen carrier oil. Attach the roller top, shake gently to combine, and roll on as needed.
Skin Spray (2 oz / 60 ml bottle)
- 5 drops Tea Tree (~0.4%)
- 5 drops Frankincense
- 1 oz vodka
Add the vodka to a 2 oz spray bottle, then add the essential oils and swirl gently to combine. Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water, shake well before each use, and apply as needed, avoiding eyes and sensitive areas.
Outdoor Comfort Spray (2 oz / 60 ml bottle)
- 3 drops Citronella
- 3 drops Tea Tree (~0.25%)
- 4 drops Palo Santo
- 2 tbsp vodka
Add the vodka to a 2 oz spray bottle, then add the essential oils and swirl gently to combine. Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water, shake well before each use, and spray before outdoor time, avoiding eyes and sensitive areas.
Final Thoughts
Tea tree oil is powerful — and like any tool, it needs to be used responsibly. The science shows problems occur at very high, undiluted doses or unusual exposures, not at the low levels used in carefully diluted recipes.
If you’re comfortable with tea tree, safe dilution is the key. If you’re not, that’s okay — there are plenty of alternatives. The most important thing is to make informed choices based on facts, not fear.
That’s why I’m careful about what I use with my own animals. I personally use and trust Young Living™ essential oils for my dogs, horses, and home. Their Seed to Seal® standard means I can feel confident that what I’m using is pure, safe, and effective.
👉 You can grab your bottle HERE. This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my small business — it helps me continue sharing safe, research-based resources for you and your animals!
And if you’re ready to go beyond one oil and truly feel confident using essential oils with your dog, I’d love to invite you to my mini course “Oily Dog Intro.” In it, I walk you through the what, where, how, and why of getting started — safely and easily.
👉 Check out the course HERE
Lemon essential oil has become increasingly popular in recent years, as people have begun to recognize its many uses for wellness and household applications. Have you been hearing about how lemon essential oil can benefit you? Not only does lemon essential oil smell fresh and uplifting, it can also support our bodies in staying above the wellness line. Lemon essential oil works well to cleanse air and eliminate odors, its aroma can also help reduce tension, and when taken internally lemon may provide immune and circulatory support. But is lemon oil safe for your dog? Read on to learn everything you need to know about using lemon essential oil with dogs.
Lemon essential oil has a rich and ancient history and is usually made from the cold-pressed peel of the lemon citrus fruit. Limonene is a main constituent and is what gives lemons their unmistakable scent. A study found on PubMed.gov suggests that lemon essential oil can be effective in combatting various bacteria and microbes. Lemon has also been studied for cognitive function and improvement as well as mood enhancement and for skin benefits.
Lemon essential oil can be safe to use with dogs if you are using a high quality, pure, and unadulterated lemon essential oil. You also need to dilute the lemon essential oil. Diluting and using lemon essential oil is easy. My 2 favorite ways to do this are by making a spritzer or by using lemon in a diffuser. An essential oil diffuser is an electronic device that disperses essential oils into the air.
I like to use ultrasonic diffusers which use a metal or ceramic plate that vibrates and disperses the essential oil in water, making a fine mist. This keeps the oil at a low and safe concentration and allows you to breathe in deeply and enjoy the scent and properties of the essential oils. Ultrasonic diffusers don't use heat which can lessen the benefits of an essential oil.
You can check out one of my favorite ultrasonic diffusers HERE!
If your dog has a medical condition, or is unhealthy, you should speak to your holistic veterinarian before using lemon essential oil or any essential oil with them. Again, it is of the utmost importance to make sure that any product you use contains pure essential oils and not adulterated additives or other chemicals. Also it's important to dig deep when googling 'oil poisoning' or 'are essential oils bad for dogs' and not let that scare you from using essential oils. Oftentimes, the whole story is lacking important facts such as quality of oil, amount, and the way it was used. Essential oils can be safe to use with dogs if they are pure and diluted!
Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and you don't actually need to apply essential oils topically to enjoy the many benefits from using them. You can simply let your dog smell from the bottle, use an essential oil diffuser, or simply make and wear a perfume of essential oils.
Since lemon is works so well for odor, I like to make a spray solution by adding 12 drops of lemon essential oil into a 2 ounce spray bottle and then filling the bottle up halfway with vodka and halfway with distilled water. Then spritz it around your dogs bedding for a refreshing natural fragrance (for a step by step guide to making a spritzer, click here). You can also add a few drops of lemon onto a cotton ball and stash in strategic places.
For odor control with a diffuser, simply add the amount of drops your diffuser calls for or try these essential oil blends with lemon:
For some calm plus focus
2 drops lemon
2 drops lavender
To cleanse and purify
2 drops lemon
2 drops eucalyptus
For happy time
2 drops lemon
2 drops orange
For odor
2 drops lemon
2 drops cinnamon
Remember to always give your dog an out when using a diffuser. Leave the door open and allow your dog to come and go. Keep in mind that our dogs may choose to be with us even if they are uncomfortable, so watch your dogs for any signs like watery eyes, itchiness, stupor, or general uncomfortableness. Also, some dogs may be sensitive to certain smells so always start slowly with a minimal number of drops and monitor their reactions closely as you continue using the diffuser around them.
Lemon also makes a great addition to natural cleaning products. You can make an effective cleaner that is much safer than other chemical cleaners on the market, simply by mixing half vinegar, half water and adding about 10 drops of Lemon essential oil per cup.
Your dog will benefit from lemon essential oil without topical application. If you choose to apply lemon directly to your dogs skin or fur, you'll want to first dilute it in a carrier oil like coconut oil, or olive oil (for more info on carrier oils, click HERE). This ensures that the concentration of oils is low enough so as not to irritate their skin. Lemon is a citrus oil and can cause photosensitivity with application. This simply means it can cause an exaggerated response to sunlight, resulting in sunburn and skin irritation. If you do choose to apply lemon oil topically, apply at night or to areas that won't receive direct sunlight for 12-24 hours.
There are many benefits associated with using lemon essential oil for our canine companions! Lemon essential oil works so well for cleaning and odor control and the aroma is uplifting and focusing. By using a high quality, pure, and premium essential oil and by diluting it, we can safely use lemon with our dogs. Using essential oils that contain additives is dangerous for us and our canine companions and can be toxic.
I use Young Living™ Essential Oils-the world leader in essential oils. With their Seed To Seal guarantee, you know you're getting pure and premium products for you and your pets health!
Essential oils can be a safe option for our pets health. To eliminate overwhelm and fear and learn more about how to use essential oils with your dog, download my free guide "Getting Started Using Essential Oils With Your Dog" HERE
*Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and the information in this blog is not meant to provide medical advice nor be a substitute for veterinary care.*
