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Is it safe to add essential oils to my dog's shampoo for skin issues?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 4 days old | 9.48 lbs

Is it safe to add a few drops of essential oil like citronella or peppermint or both to an existing organic shampoo? He is using human nature's shampoo for pets.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 7th, 2017

I wouldn't recommend adding either of these essential oils to your pets shampoo because they don't provide any health benefits for your dog. Also there is no literature to suggest what is a safe dosage that can be applied to your pet, if at all. If your pet has some skin condition then I would encourage buying a shampoo that is already formulated and tested as safe for Boovs to have. The Duoxo shampoo line (available on line through amazon.com) is a safe and effective alternative that can help if Boovs has a certain skin condition. If he doesn't have a skin condition then a regular over the counter aloe based or oatmeal based puppy shampoo is adequate. The haircoat is most affected by what the pet eats than what is applied topically. Feeding a high quality puppy food such as Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, Evo, or Eukanuba are best. Best wishes with Boovs and his skin. Take care.

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