Diluting Essential Oils For Dogs
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Understanding Essential Oil Dilution for Dogs
When we begin using essential oils with our pets (or even with children, sensitive individuals, or those unfamiliar with them), it’s important to start with a carrier oil.
Many people refer to this as "dilution," but there are actually two distinct ways to interpret dilution, and understanding the difference is crucial.
Carrier Oil Dilution vs. True Dilution
1. Carrier Oil Dilution (Application Method, Not True Dilution)
When you place a drop of essential oil (EO) in your palm, mix it with any amount of carrier oil, and then apply it to your dog (or yourself), you are still applying the full drop of EO. This does not actually reduce the concentration of the essential oil—you are simply spreading it over a larger surface area.
While this method slows absorption and prevents the oil from evaporating too quickly ("flashing off"), it does not decrease the potency of the essential oil itself. Instead, the carrier oil:
Helps distribute the essential oil more evenly across the skin.
Slows down absorption, allowing for longer-lasting effects.
Reduces the likelihood of irritation from “hot” oils.
Carriers such as fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil are excellent for this purpose. However, this is not the same as a true dilution.
2. True Dilution (Reducing Essential Oil Concentration)
True dilution refers to reducing the concentration of essential oil in a mixture by adding a specific amount of carrier oil. This method is essential when working with:
Puppies and small dogs
Very sensitive or reactive pets
Birds, cats, or other small animals
Seniors or pets with compromised health
Dilution Ratios for Dogs
The most common dilution suggestions for topical use are:
Puppies & Small Dogs (under 10 lbs): 1 drop EO to 3 drops carrier (25% dilution)
Dogs 10-25 lbs: 1 drop EO to 2 drops carrier (33% dilution)
Dogs 25-50 lbs: 1 drop EO to 1 drop carrier (50% dilution)
Large Dogs (50+ lbs): Neat (undiluted) application may be appropriate for some oils.
Aging Seniors or Unwell Dogs: 1 drop EO to 1 drop carrier (50% dilution)
We generally always dilute “hot” oils (ie Clove, Cinnamon, Ginger, etc)
For very sensitive cases, you may need a much higher dilution—such as 1 drop EO per teaspoon or even tablespoon of carrier.
Breaking Down Dilution Percentages
True dilution(ie when making blends) is a mathematical ratio of essential oil to carrier oil. Here are a few examples:
1 drop EO + 10 drops carrier = 90% dilution (highly diluted)
2 drops EO + 8 drops carrier = 80% dilution
1 drop EO + 3 drops carrier = 75% dilution
1 drop EO + 1 drop carrier = 50% dilution
3 drops EO + 1 drop carrier = 25% dilution (higher EO concentration)
For extremely small or sensitive animals, even a toothpick method—dipping a toothpick in EO and stirring it into a carrier—can be used to achieve far less than a full drop of oil.
Why Dilution Matters
Dilution is critical in certain applications, including:
Making spritzes for skin irritation (e.g., post-surgery support, itchy skin, inflammation).
Creating summer bug repellents (e.g., critter control sprays).
Blending oils into shampoos, salves, or ear cleansers for gentle application.
Ensuring safety in long-term use for animals who need extended support.
Many times, neat application is appropriate, especially as you gain experience and your pet becomes accustomed to oils. However, understanding proper dilution ensures safe and effective use.
Want Personalized Guidance?
I know many of you are looking for exact dilution amounts, application frequencies, and protocols—but the reality is, it depends on your pet’s size, health, sensitivity, and specific needs.
This is why I teach muscle testing as a way to get direct input from your dog, ensuring you use essential oils in the way that is best for them.
If you’re ready to deepen your knowledge of essential oils and how they can benefit your animals, reach out to me for guidance.
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