How Do You Use Eucalyptus Oil For Dogs?
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Did you know that eucalyptus oil for dogs is a great alternative for harsh chemical insect repellents and that it also provides respiratory support?
I personally use it to repel ticks and mosquitoes for my dog Wally when we’re walking and hiking, as well as inside to help us all breathe better.
This way of using eucalyptus oil for dogs (and other essential oils) is known as aromatherapy for dogs.
If you don’t know what essential oils are, they’re natural extracts from plants that have pleasant and unique fragrances.
That said, there’s lots of different essential oils with a variety of scents that have different effects on dogs, ranging from soothing to promoting urinary & digestive health, and repelling insects.
However, it’s crucial to use only pure essential oils and to dilute them properly before using them around dogs.
Remember, dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, which means even a small amount of essential oil can be potent for them.
So in today’s blog post, I’ll share how to safely use eucalyptus oil around dogs.
That includes how to dilute it properly, how to make a spray with it, which parts of your dog to spray, and more!
Benefits Of Eucalyptus Oil For Dogs
I already briefly mentioned that eucalyptus oil is known for its insect-repelling properties, especially against mosquitoes, fleas and ticks.
Eucalyptus Oil For Dogs Fleas
Since the smell of eucalyptus repels fleas, you can use eucalyptus oil on your dog for fleas.
If your dog already has fleas, you can add essential eucalyptus oil to your dog’s shampoo to help get rid of the fleas.
Use 1 teaspoon of eucalyptus essential oil for 1 cup of dog shampoo.
To use eucalyptus oil to prevent fleas, you can spray your pup with a specific eucalyptus dog spray. I’ll mention how to DIY it here in a bit.
But first, I need to stress the fact that you can’t put the oil on your dog undiluted!
It’s really important to always dilute any essential oils you use for your dog, including eucalyptus essential oil.
How To Safely Use Eucalyptus Oil Around Dogs
That’s because all essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation if applied directly.
Only use essential oils topically and never let your dogs lick or consume them.
While there are certain essential oils that are labeled for culinary use, you should only use them orally for your dog under the expert guidance of a (holistic) veterinarian!
How Do You Dilute Eucalyptus Oil For Dogs?
Eucalyptus oil is diluted with so-called carrier oils.
Carrier oils are vegetable oils that help to “carry” the essential oil onto the skin while also providing nourishment and moisture.
Here’s how you can dilute eucalyptus oil for dogs using carrier oils.
First, choose a carrier oil. There are several options, for example:
They’re all rich in vitamins and minerals that support skin health and are great for dry and itchy skin.
You may already have some in your kitchen, for example coconut oil, sunflower oil and olive oil.
For the coconut oil, it needs to be warmed before use since it’s solid at room temperature.
Alternatively, you can buy liquid coconut oil.
You can also grab a 4 piece carrier oil variety pack. It includes grapeseed oil, fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and avocado oil.
Next, dilute the eucalyptus oil.
The recommended dilution ratio for eucalyptus oil for dogs is 1 drop in 1 teaspoon = 0.2 fl oz of the carrier oil.
That means, you can use 12 drops of eucalyptus oil per 12 teaspoons = 2 ounces = 60 ml of carrier oil.
Coming up, we’ll look at ways to treat your dog for insects with eucalyptus oil.
Like I said before, the easiest way is to turn it into a spray.
How Do I Make Eucalyptus Spray For Dogs?
You can either make a water-based spray or an oil-based spray.
For the water-based option, it’s best to use an emulsifier that helps the (distilled or filtered) water and the eucalyptus oil mix.
A good option is alcohol-free witch hazel extract.
Just a quick word on why distilled or filtered water is better than tap water.
Tap water can contain minerals, chemicals, and other impurities that can degrade the essential oil.
Using distilled or filtered water helps ensure that the chemical composition of the eucalyptus essential oil remains stable, and also extends the shelf life of the diluted mixture.
Now, here’s what you’ll need for the water-based spray option:
- ½ cup = 4 fl oz alcohol-free witch hazel extract
- ¼ cup = 2 fl oz of distilled or filtered water
- 12 drops eucalyptus essential oil
For the oil-based option, mix essential eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil.
Making DIY oil-based eucalyptus spray
Here’s what you’ll need for this option:
- ¼ cup = 2 fl oz of carrier oil
- 12 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
Pour either option into a mist spray bottle using a funnel.
You can use a glass bottle or a plastic bottle.
The darker the bottle, the better it protects the essential oil from light and extends its shelf life.
When you’re not actively using the bottle, keep it in your pantry or a cupboard without direct light exposure.
How To Use The Eucalyptus Spray On Your Dog
Shake the mix well, then apply it to your dog’s fur and spread it evenly with your hands or a grooming glove.
But make sure to avoid their eyes and mouth!
Since protection doesn’t last as long as with chemical bug sprays, you’ll have to reapply the spray every couple of hours while you’re outside.
You can also spray unscented dog grooming wipes and use them to wipe down your dog’s body.
Another idea is to spray your dog’s walking gear.
That’s what I do with my pup Wally before we head outside for a walk. I spray both his collar and harness.
If he’s wearing his dog backpack instead of the harness, I spray that too.
…and yep, you betcha that I spray my own clothes too!
Eucalyptus Oil For Dogs Cough & Breathing
Besides repelling insects, eucalyptus oil can also provide respiratory support for dogs and soothe breathing difficulties.
For example, for dogs with kennel cough and bronchitis because it helps break up the mucus.
To do this, you’ll want to diffuse the eucalyptus essential oil.
According to veterinarian Dr. Andrew Jones, use 10 drops to 1 cup of distilled or filtered water.
It’s one of 7 holistic remedies he shares in his YouTube video “Bronchitis in Dogs” (that one’s at minute 6:55).
Is Diffusing Eucalyptus Oil Safe For Dogs?
Yes, it’s safe!
First things first, you’ll obviously need an essential oil diffuser.
There are various types available, including ultrasonic diffusers, nebulizing diffusers, and reed diffusers.
The most common ones are ultrasonic diffusers, and that’s also the kind I use in our home and around Wally.
Our ultrasonic essential oil diffuser
Once you have your diffuser, add distilled water to the fill line along with the essential eucalyptus oil, then turn on the diffuser.
If your dog is sick, you can go with 10 drops of eucalyptus oil like doc Jones suggests.
Otherwise, 1-2 drops are all you need if you’re going to use it around healthy dogs as a preventative!
Remember, a dog’s sense of smell is much more powerful than ours, so a little goes a long way.
Because of this, you’ll also want to make sure not to use essential oil diffusers around your dog in enclosed rooms.
Meaning, always leave the door open to give your dog the option to leave the room in case they’re overwhelmed by the scent.
Wally always snoozes away on the couch when the diffuser is on in the living room!
But I will say that we also have an open room concept and our living room has really tall ceilings, so there’s that.
Sourcing Eucalyptus Oil For Dogs
As far as where to buy eucalyptus oil, it’s widely available in various stores, both online and offline.
Here are some common places where you can source eucalyptus oil for dogs:
Health Food Stores: Many health food stores and natural health shops carry essential oils, including eucalyptus oil. For example, Whole Foods and Sprouts Farmers Market.
Pharmacies: Some pharmacies or drug stores like CVS or Walgreens carry essential oils, including eucalyptus oil, in the section dedicated to natural remedies.
Specialty Stores: Specialty stores that focus on aromatherapy, natural products, or organic items usually carry eucalyptus oil as well. For example, Vitamin Shoppe and GNC.
Amazon. For example:
- ArtNaturals Eucalyptus Essential Oil (100% Pure & Natural): This product comes in a 4-ounce bottle (118 ml) and is steam-distilled for high quality.
- Gya Labs Eucalyptus Essential Oil (100% Natural & Pure). I personally buy my eucalyptus essential oil from this brand, and I also have their cedarwood oil. Both come in a 0.34-ounce bottle (10 ml).
- NOW Eucalyptus Essential Oil (100% Pure): NOW Foods is a reputable brand known for its quality essential oils. Their eucalyptus oil is available in various sizes.
- Plant Therapy Eucalyptus Globulus Essential Oil (100% Pure & Undiluted): Plant Therapy is another trusted brand in the essential oil industry. Their eucalyptus oil is available in different sizes.
- Majestic Pure Eucalyptus Essential Oil (100% Pure & Natural): Majestic Pure offers eucalyptus oil in 1- and 4-ounce bottles (30 ml and 118 ml).
Bottom Line
So there you have it, eucalyptus oil is a holistic and aromatic alternative to chemical pest preventatives for dogs.
Additionally, it helps sick dogs with respiratory issues breathe better when you diffuse the oil around them.
But remember, you always want to dilute any essential oils before using them on or around your dog, and eucalyptus oil is no exception.
If you’re using the eucalyptus oil in a diffuser for healthy dogs, you only need to add as little as 1-2 drops to distilled water. For sick dogs, you can diffuse 10 drops in 1 cup of water .
If you’re making a water-based topical spray, use alcohol-free witch hazel extract as an emulsifier.
For an oil-based spray, use a carrier oil like liquid coconut oil, almond oil or grapeseed oil.
Remember to always use aromatherapy for dogs responsibly and in moderation and following appropriate dilution guidelines!
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