oil diffuser

Diffusers have become all the rage in households around the United States and elsewhere in the world due to their delightful scents and perceived healing abilities. These devices emit a steady stream of essential oils into the environment, but are those essential oils good for dogs? Should we be diffusing essential oils in our homes if we live with dogs? The answer is not cut and dry, but they’re not ideal in households that have dogs. Here is what you need to know about diffusing essential oils in your home if you live with one or more dogs.

Oils Diffusers Aren’t Great for Dogs

Essential oils are potent, and dogs are more susceptible to smells and compounds in oils than we are. Therefore, they could be prone to allergic reactions and asthma attacks when exposed to essential oils, especially if they already have respiratory problems. Many essential oils are toxic to dogs, whether they are diffused or make direct contact with a dog’s coat. These include tea tree, eucalyptus, citrus, peppermint, and even cinnamon oils.

The reason diffusers are dangerous for dogs is that they use water vapor to create tiny oil droplets that get released into the air. These droplets can land on your dog, their bedding, and even their food dishes, where the dog will come into direct contact with them. If your dog makes contact with essential oils, they could display symptoms such as depression, reduced body temperature, and an unsteady stance.

oil diffuser on table
Image courtesy of Pixabay

You Don’t Have to Necessarily Stop Using Them

To be completely safe, it’s best not to use essential oil diffusers in your home if you live with dogs or any kind of pet, for that matter. However, if you need your diffuser to relieve stress or reduce headaches or for another holistic reason, there are a few things that you can do to make essential oil diffusing safe for everyone in your household, including your pets.

First, only use your diffuser in a room where your pets will not be hanging out and where no pet bedding, dishes, or toys are located. Only diffuse your essential oils for a few minutes at a time, and ventilate the rest of the house while doing so. It is crucial to make sure your oil diffuser is stored in a place where it cannot get knocked over by your dog when it isn’t in use.

Alternative Options for Essential Oil Diffusers

If you decide not to use essential oil diffusers in your home for your dog’s sake, there are a couple of alternatives to consider. Try simmering a pot of water with potpourri, orange peels, and cinnamon in it to freshen up the house and create a relaxing atmosphere. Or, you can burn scented candles (ones not scented with essential oils, though!) around the house.

In Conclusion

Essential oils are not great for scenting your home when you live with dogs, cats, or other animals. Luckily, there are a few ways to freshen up your home without using essential oils, so your pets can stay safe under your care.


Featured Image Credit: Pixabay