Is Lavender Bad for Dogs? Facts to Know

You may be wondering if lavender will benefit your dog in the same way that it helps you when you’re stressed out.

But is lavender bad for dogs?

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.

Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about the safety of lavender for dogs.

Is Lavender Safe for Dogs?

Sadly, there isn’t a clear-cut yes or no answer to this question. Lavender contains a small amount of a compound called linalool, which is toxic to both dogs and cats.

But because linalool is present in such minute amounts, toxicity is rarely a problem. Only very large amounts of lavender consumed by a dog will cause issues.

Lavender poisoning can cause vomiting, inability to urinate, a swollen and tender abdomen, decreased appetite, and fever.

Consult your vet right away (or an emergency veterinary hospital if it’s after hours) if you think your dog may have consumed lavender poison. The use of intravenous (IV) fluids, additional oxygen, and antihistamines may be part of different treatments.

Also Read:

• Is Lavender Safe for Cats?
• Are Succulents Poisonous To Cats And Dogs?

Is Lavender Oil Safe for Dogs?

When applied properly, lavender oil can be safe for dogs.

“Some lavender essential oils will need to be diluted before they are considered safe,” Dr. Bonk said. “Lavender poisoning or skin irritation can result from using lavender oil in excess or at a high concentration.”

Signs of lavender poisoning include things like:

• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Not eating
• Constipation

Causes of Lavender Poisoning

Though maintaining a lavender plant or using it in your home may seem harmless, it is not entirely safe for your pet. Causes of lavender poisoning include:

• Ingestion of the lavender plant
• Exposure (ingestion, inhalation, through the skin) to essential oils
• Hidden in food or toys

Lavender is a lovely addition to any indoor or outdoor space, but dogs should not be kept close to it.

Dogs are inquisitive animals, and one of the ways they discover the world is by using their sense of taste. Sadly, that means your plants, including any that might be toxic, could be eaten by them if you have them inside or outside.

Pets may also become harmed if exposed to essential oils. Because they might try to lick it off, never apply lavender oil directly to your pet’s skin or fur. Through skin absorption, these essential oils can toxicity.

While inhaling the essential oil can make humans experience respiratory problems, breathing difficulties in dogs can result in coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and even difficulty breathing.

Symptoms of Lavender Poisoning

Large amounts of lavender taken directly from the plant, a candle containing the oils, or licking the oils can all result in lavender poisoning in dogs. Signs of lavender poisoning may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Bloated abdomen
• Fever
• Dog diarrhea
• Inability to pass stool
• Loss of appetite
• Shock
• Vomiting
• Trembling in dogs
• Difficulty breathing

Final Words: is Lavender Bad for Dogs

So lavender can have a bit of a calming effect on some dogs, but it can also be harmful to your pup if you aren’t using it correctly.

It is crucial that you do this safely, with your vet’s approval and detailed instructions.

It’s not advised to give your dog lavender essential oil to ingest, but aromatherapy might be beneficial. Keep in mind that other treatments might be more long-lastingly effective if you feel your dog needs to be treated for anxiety or stress.

Read More: What is Lavender Tea Good For?

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