Essential Oil Recipes for Dogs

Today, we’re talking about the best essential oil recipes for dogs. Whether your furry friend is struggling with fleas, anxiety, or skin troubles—essential oils can help. If you missed our article that dove into your biggest concerns surrounding safety, make sure to check it out.

For a safety crash course, follow these rules: 

1. Always consult with your vet before using essential oils on your dog
2. Always make sure the specific oil you are using is safe for your dog. Check out our “dog and oil safety guide” here. 
3. When using oils topically, always dilute with a carrier oil. Coconut oil is a favorite for dogs because it helps keep their coat healthy, control odor, and hydrate the skin. This Natural Doggie virgin coconut oil can be a great option. 
4. When diffusing oils remember that dogs have a much more powerful sense of smell than humans. A few drops (2-3) will be more than enough compared to our 5-8 drops. 

Common Essential Oil Uses for Dogs 

Similar to us humans, a lot of prescription medication for dogs is unnecessary and can result in negative side-effects. If it isn’t absolutely necessary, try opting for natural essential oils for common issues including:  

• Flea and tick prevention 
• Skin issues 
• Anxiety 

Essential Oil Recipes for Dogs 

Flee, Fleas! 

Flea Collar 

To make a flea repellent collar for your dog here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients: 

• 3 drops lavender essential oil 
• 1-2 drops lemongrass essential oil 
• 1-3 tablespoons water 

Directions: 

1. Dilute this mixture onto a bandana 
2. Let dry and tie around dog’s neck for preventative measures 

Flea Spray 

For a homemade flea spray that you can mist directly on your dog or directly onto their bedding here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup of white distilled vinegar 
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar 
• 1 quart of water 
• 2-3 drops of lavender oil 
• 1 dark-colored spray bottle 

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients together nicely, and then spray directly onto your pet or pet’s bed. 

Calm and Relaxation Aromatherapy 

• Lavender: promotes calm and relaxation. Can be helpful for creating a safe space for your animal, helping with separation anxiety, and/or fears of loud noises like fireworks or a storm.  
• Vetiver: calming and can help reduce stress in dogs while promoting a good night’s sleep 
• Valerian: great for separation anxiety or fear of loud noises 
• Ginger: helps with motion sickness or for dogs who hate car rides 

Add 1-2 drops of essential oils into your diffuser and run the machine for no more than 10 minutes. 

You can also add 1-2 drops of oil to your palm with a teaspoon of carrier oil, rub your palms together and let your dog inhale from your hands for a minute or so

Soothe Dog’s Skin 

Help soothe minor skin irritations and itching your dog might have with lavender oil. Combine 2 drops with ½ to 1 warmed teaspoon of carrier oil and apply it to the area of concern. Coconut oil will be especially good for dry and irritated skin, so if possible, opt for coconut as a carrier oil. While lavender is one of the best essential oils for dry skin—its aroma will also help to ease anxious feelings that sometimes result from annoying, itchy skin.