Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Is Lavender Safe for Dogs: Our Vet Explains Safety & Toxicity

Dogster_Is Lavender Safe for Dogs

You no doubt have heard conflicting information about using lavender around dogs, with the question being whether it’s safe to do so. Lavender is considered toxic to dogs based on the data provided by the ASPCA, but this will greatly depend on the ingested amount and form of lavender, be it plant or essential oil product.1 Many lavender products do not actually contain high enough lavender concentrations and are unlikely to cause significant health issues unless they are essential oils. Hopefully, we can help you deal with this quandary by explaining what lavender is, how it’s used, and whether it’s safe for dogs.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

What Is Lavender?

Lavender, or Lavandula angustifolia, or Lavandula officinalis, is a shrubby plant that tends to grow on sunny, rocky hillsides. It produces a fragrant purple flower that is the source of all its medicinal magic. Oil extracted from lavender blossoms has been used to help calm anxiety and stress, promote sleep, and help reduce pain. It may also possess antibacterial and antiviral capabilities.

Lavender oil has been incorporated into many human calming lotions, ointments, soaps, sprays, and supplements. It has also been used to promote hair growth on balding scalps.

lavender plants
Image Credit: manfredrichter, Pixabay

What About Lavender Products For Dogs?

You may see the same kinds of products, including calming sprays, shampoos, and oils, available for canines that suffer from stress and anxiety. It’s also sometimes part of natural bug-repellent products. However, most of these products are not regulated by the FDA and may contain varying amounts of lavender, meaning they may not be effective as per their stated purpose, or they may lead to unwanted side effects. It’s important to always consult with your vet before considering such products.

But here’s where most of the confusion comes in. According to the ASPCA, lavender is toxic to dogs when consumed in significant amounts.1 The plant contains a compound called linalool, which can lead to signs of digestive upset in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, and inappetence—if they eat enough of it. The interesting part is that fresh lavender doesn’t contain as high concentrations of linalool, but the essential oil version does. There haven’t been many reports on the toxicity of lavender in dogs so the exact dose range remains unknown, and while it’s unlikely that such a small amount usually present in lavender products will cause any significant side effects, it’s still something to be aware of.

Ultimately, different types of lavender products may have varying effects on dogs depending on the amount and concentration of linalool. Still, if considering whether lavender may have beneficial effects on dogs, as it has on humans when used very conservatively, further research is required. Inadvertent ingestion of lavender essential oil, depending on the concentration and the amount, can lead to severe digestive and neurological signs in your dog, while inhalation may cause respiratory difficulties. Make sure you speak to your veterinarian before using lavender products around your pet so you choose a method and product that is safe for them.

The same goes for using a calming spray for trips to the vet or applying a calming shampoo when your dog is overly stressed. Always make sure the lavender product that you’re using is safe and approved for dogs by first talking to your vet.

Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1


labrador retriever dog lying on the floor in the vet clinic
Image Credit: SeventyFour, Shutterstock

Potential Side Effects of Lavender in Dogs

The biggest issue regarding lavender and canines is when it is ingested or inhaled. A high concentration of linalool can cause digestive problems. Keep lavender essential oil safely stored and away from your pet. They’ll also have issues if they eat lavender oil-containing products, such as lotions, creams, or supplements.

Some dogs may even have reactions to diffused lavender essential oil or scented candles. If your dog has a sensitive respiratory system, they can be wheezing or coughing or have watery eyes or even difficulty breathing if they’re exposed to high concentrations of the diffused oil.

You may also see skin irritation or another allergic reaction if you inadvertently get any on your dog’s skin. Speak to your vet before using any product on your pup, as their safety will greatly depend on the ingredients and their amounts.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is It Safe for Dogs to Smell Lavender?

The answer to this depends. Sniffing a fresh lavender plant shouldn’t cause any problems, but smelling diffused lavender essential oil may cause a reaction, depending on your dog and the concentration of the product. Generally speaking, canines should not be exposed to diffused essential oils of any kind, especially in a confined space.

Smelling a product, such as a shampoo or soap, that contains lavender shouldn’t lead to any issues, though, as these generally contain very small amounts of lavender.

brown dog with collar sniffing in the forest
Image Credit: Zontica, Shutterstock

Can I Spray Lavender on My Dog’s Bed?

Sprays scented with lavender can be calming and help induce sleep for humans, but spraying your dog’s bed with one of these sprays is generally not recommended or needed, as it remains unknown if they have any calming or beneficial effects on canines, while they may cause respiratory irritation. You should talk to your vet to make sure your pet doesn’t have any health concerns that could make them even more sensitive, such as underlying bronchitis or another respiratory issue. Keep the product stored in an area where your pup can’t get it.

Can Dogs Be in a Room With Lavender Essential Oils?

The aroma of lavender can be a great calmer all around, but it needs to be diffused safely. Generally speaking, you shouldn’t diffuse any essential oil around your dog in a confined space because their respiratory system may have a reaction to it, they may spill it or accidentally ingest it. That said, you may be able to dilute the essential oil to a safer concentration or diffuse it in a larger area so the oil isn’t as concentrated. Speak to your vet first to find out if diffusing lavender is the right choice for your dog.

Dogster divider_v1_NEW_MAY_24_

Conclusion

Lavender takes on many forms but is considered toxic for dogs if ingested in a significant amount. Most lavender products luckily do not contain a significant or large enough amount of pure lavender extract, while a bigger concern exists with concentrated products such as essential oils. Being around fresh or dried lavender is typically safer depending on the amount, but ingesting lavender essential oil should be avoided at all costs. Before considering any lavender or lavender-containing products on your dog, talk to your veterinarian to make sure your product of choice is safe and to learn how to use it properly.


Featured Image Credit: Mouse23, Pixabay

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Cockalier Mixed Dog Breed: Info, Pictures, Care & More

If there’s one thing we can say about the Cockalier dog breed it’s that it is certainly one of the most adorable you’ll...

13 Health Problems in English Bulldogs & Treatments (Vet Answer)

English Bulldogs are adored for their short, stout bodies, pressed noses, and adorable wrinkles. They are great companions for families, especially children, and...

Do Pitbulls’ Jaws Lock When They Bite? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

No, Pitbulls do not lock their jaws when they bite! It’s commonly believed that Pitbulls can lock their jaws when biting down on...

10 Best Dry Dog Foods for Senior Dogs in 2025: Reviews & Top Picks

Owning a senior dog can be a bittersweet time in your life. While you have all these wonderful memories together and a close...

More related

Paraphimosis in Dogs: Is Your Dog’s Lipstick “Stuck”? (Vet Answer)

Dog owners will be familiar with many of the weird and wonderful things our pets do. One of these is having their “lipstick”...

Berniefie (Bernese Mountain Dog Newfoundland Mix): Info, Pictures & More

Berniefies are mixes of Bernese Mountain Dogs and Newfoundlands. They’re likely to be enormous, and a Berniefie can weigh 90 to 150 pounds....

Strut Your Mutt: What Is It & How to Get Involved

There is no shortage of events for canines out there, so if you’re looking for a fun doggie-focused thing to do with your...

Why Is My Dog Squinting? 6 Vet-Verified Vision Issues

Humans squint to limit how much light enters their eyes or to enhance their visual acuity. But if your dog is suddenly squinting,...

Keep reading

Purina Pro Plan vs Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food: 2025 Comparison, Pros & Cons

Purina and Hill are both large pet food companies that have been around for decades. They’ve grown in popularity over the years and offer many more types of dog food than most other pet food brands. Both companies have rolled...

Dogster_Dog Food Purina Pro Plan VS Hill_s Science Diet

How to Tell If Wet Dog Food Has Gone Bad? 7 Vet-Verified Signs & FAQ

Commercial dog food comes in many forms, including wet food. The phrase “wet food” refers to food that is usually in one of two forms: canned or fresh. They often have real pieces of meat in them and a strong...

shih tzu dog getting wet food from owner at kitchen

Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat? Vet-Approved Feeding & Health Facts

Raw food diets for canines have gained popularity in recent years, but are they truly safe for our pets? You’ve probably heard there are many benefits to giving your pet raw food. But feeding a dog a raw food diet...

Can Dogs Eat Raw Meat

How Much Does The Farmer’s Dog Food Cost? 2025 Pricing Update

When you want to give your dog food that’s the best of the best, fresh is the way to go. But we all know that fresh food costs more than traditional kibble. So, how much does a food like The...

Finny with the farmer's dog food

11 Best Canned & Wet Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

You feel like you’ve tried everything, and your pup’s still sick. The dog food you can buy at your local grocery store doesn’t work for everyone—and now that includes your dog. If your pooch has a sensitive stomach, finding the...

Dalmatian eating dry dog food

Lean Meats for Dogs in Fresh Food Diets: Vet Approved Facts, Pros, Cons & FAQ

Protein is an essential part of your dog’s diet, and can be found in meat, eggs, and certain vegetables. It plays a vital role in your dog’s body, such as building and sustaining muscles, tissues, and cells. Without protein, your...

fresh raw meat on old wooden table

Can Dogs Eat Salmon? Vet Reviewed Nutrition Facts & Precautions

When you think of dog food, you probably think of beef or chicken instead of novel protein sources like salmon. Part of the reason lies in the habitat we associate with canines. Wolves typically live in various areas, such as...

Can Dogs Eat_salmon

Can You Add Water to Dry Dog Food? Vet-Approved Benefits & Tips

Many dog owners feed their dogs a combination of wet and dry food, though dry food is definitely more common. Why? Because dry food is cheaper to buy and it’s much easier to prepare. However, dogs of all ages do...

dry dog food with water