If you are a pet parent and essential oil enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that many of these fresh-fragranced products are safe for use on dogs. You can even use them to kill fleas and prevent infestations.
While there are multiple at-home methods to treat fleas in dogs, many vouch for the effectiveness of essential oils. If your pet is currently suffering from a case of fleas, this guide will take you through the best natural solutions for fleas and ticks, and how to use them.
Why are Essential Oils Better Than Commercial Flea Killers?
If you’re turning to essential oils to remedy your flea problem, chances are you’re opposed to the idea of chemically-laden commercial flea killers—and you’d be right to feel that way! While oral flea treatments, shampoos, and sprays are highly effective, they come with many health risks.
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For instance, many topical treatments can cause adverse reactions like skin irritation, vomiting, or even respiratory issues. In addition, some chemicals in pharmaceutical treatments are rife with toxic ingredients that can cause similar consequences after prolonged use.
Unlike these solutions, essential oils are entirely natural and also have antiseptic properties. Even better, they are safer for use in households with children.
Tips for Safely Using Essential Oils on Your Dog
Before you start experimenting with anti-flea essential oil blends, it’s best to consider these safety tips to prevent severe adverse effects. Essential oil manufacturers can also be a good source of information on the safety of their products when it comes to applying essential oils for flea control.
Use Pet-Specific Oils
The best way to avoid unwanted effects from pure, potent oils is to use pet-specific blends from reputable brands such as the Pup & Pony line from Plant Therapy. If your pet has a particularly sensitive nose, you can further dilute the product in carrier oils such as coconut, jojoba, or avocado oil.
Consult with a Veterinary Professional
As you would with any new product, you’ll want to consult with a veterinary professional before introducing essential oils to your dog’s daily routine. Some essential oils, such as citrus or tea tree oil, are toxic to dogs.
If you are set on finding a natural solution to your dog’s flea problem, most veterinarians recommend using essential oils alongside a more traditional pharmaceutical treatment to increase effectiveness.
Store Your Oils Properly
If you receive the all-clear, you’ll want to be very particular about how you store your pet-safe oils. Ensure that you keep them out of reach and above ground in a cool, dry area such as an overhead storage compartment. The same goes for essential oil accessories that can be easily knocked over like your diffuser or mixing paraphernalia.
Consider Using Diffusers
Applying an oil topically or as part of your dog’s diet can be potentially dangerous if you are using a highly concentrated product. In some cases, using a diffuser is safer, given that you avoid excessive use of sprays. If you opt for applying oils for spot treatments such as flea bites, make sure to never use undiluted essential oils.
Know Toxicity Symptoms
Be on the lookout for abnormal symptoms in your dog after using aromatherapy oils.
While most essential oils are safe for use on pets, there is no guarantee they won’t demonstrate an adverse reaction. Be alert for symptoms of essential oil poisoning such as:
- Watery eyes and runny nose
- Vomiting or excessive drooling
- Difficulty breathing
- Low heart rate or palpitations
- Lethargy and inability to move
- Tremors and seizures
Always take your pet to a veterinary clinic if you notice any of the symptoms listed above. You can refer to this comprehensive guide for more tips on how to use essential oils on pets.
Best Essential Oils for Killing Fleas
Now that you know the basics of essential oils for pets, it’s time to eliminate those persistent fleas!
There are a number of essential oils that can be used to kill fleas on your pets. Some of the best include cedarwood essential oil, clove oil, basil, rosemary, lemongrass, lavender and peppermint essential oils. These oils all have insecticidal properties that can help kill fleas and other pests.
When using essential oils on your pet, be sure to dilute them with water or carrier oil first. This will help to prevent irritation and ensure that the oil is effective. You can also add a few drops of these oils to your pet’s shampoo to help keep fleas away.
1. Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass Essential Oil
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Similar to citronella, lemongrass oil is a naturally potent insect repellent. While most effective against mosquitoes, it can significantly reduce the chances of a flea infestation.
To use it as a flea treatment or repellent, dilute five drops in a cup of water, applying it directly onto the dog’s skin or as a spray. You can also diffuse it in areas where your dog spends the most time indoors. Just make sure to leave a door open for your pet to leave the room if they wish.
2. Basil Essential Oil
Basil Oil from Plant Therapy
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Considered one of the best essential oils for fleas, basil doubles as a repellent and insect terminator. Like lemongrass, you can incorporate it into a spray used directly onto your dog’s fur or around the house.
Be sure to avoid areas of the body that your dog tends to groom frequently and avoid use around cats.
3. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender Essential Oil from Plant Therapy
$6.95 for 10 ml
Not only does this essential oil’s naturally potent aroma deter fleas, but it also alleviates flea-related conditions in dogs. By diluting lavender into a carrier oil and applying it onto your dog’s back, it can improve conditions such as skin allergies, wrinkles, and pyoderma.
You can also incorporate a few drops into your dog’s regular shampoo, focusing primarily on the base of their neck and tail.
4. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint Essential Oil
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Unlike the other oils mentioned in this guide, peppermint does not directly eliminate fleas. However, it is effective against developing flea larvae, which can prevent infestation well in advance.
Keep in mind that peppermint leaves a strong scent that may be irritating to dogs with heightened sensitivities. Dilute this oil generously, applying it onto the base of the neck and back of the tail.
5. Clove Essential Oil
Peppermint Essential Oil
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Because of this oil’s impressive antibacterial properties, it can kill and repel fleas while eliminating other harmful bacteria that may end up on your dog’s body. However, it can be too strong for direct topical use. Instead, you can apply it onto your dog’s collar or onto their bedding.
6. Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood Atlas
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If you’ve ever come across a Cedaricide product, you can rest assured any cedarwood product will eliminate fleas effectively. For dogs, ensure that you purchase the Atlas variety, incorporating it into your pet’s shampoo or applied as a spray.
7. Rosemary Essential Oil
Rosemary Essential Oil from Plant Therapy
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This pleasant-smelling oil does wonders for repelling fleas. You can add a few drops into your dog’s shampoo or even add it to their bath water. Bear in mind that this oil is often appetizing, but you’ll want to keep your pet from ingesting it!
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best way to avoid a flea infestation is to prevent it from occurring in the first place. By incorporating the essential oils listed above into your dog’s daily routine and for regular use around your household, you can effectively keep your dog out of harm’s way.
About the Author
Mike is an inspired pet owner and dog expert. He has been working closely with animals and related professionals for years. As the founder of Dog Embassy, he aims to educate dog owners around the world—both old and new. Through his website, he provides accessible information regarding pet care and nutrition.
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