- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Most dog parents like to relax with a good book, a long soak in the bath, and our favorite scented candles. But are candles bad for dogs? Jessica Lockhart, PhD, CAAB, founder of Fairview Behavior Associates, says candles are generally considered safe for dogs.
However, some candles contain harmful ingredients and toxic essential oils that are not suitable for dogs to be around.
If you love lighting candles in your home, keep reading to learn how to burn candles safely around your dog.
Why Are Scented Candles Bad For Dogs?
Scented candles are great for giving as gifts and creating cozy atmospheres. But, many pet parents aren’t aware of the dangers they hold. Scented candles are bad for dogs for many reasons, including:
- Paraffin: Paraffin is a cheap candle wax often found in commercial brands. It releases several toxic substances harmful to humans and dogs.
- Essential oils: Many scented candles contain essential oils that smell nice. Some oils are poisonous to dogs and can cause harm if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through a dog’s skin. Dr. Nell Ostermeier, DVM, founder of People + Pet Integrative Therapies, explains that you can’t control how much oil is in candles.
- Burns: Curious pups may come too close to a flame or sniff a recently put-out candle and burn themselves.
- Fire hazard: A candle left unattended can easily be knocked over by a dog playing nearby.
- Ingestion: Dr. Lockhart says some dog breeds are more prone to ingesting non-food items (Labradors, Spaniels, Retrievers, etc.) and may want to taste the candle. Eating wax can cause blockages and toxicity due to the harmful chemicals.
If you’re wondering about specific brands (i.e., Bath and Body Works and Yankee Candles), most large companies use paraffin wax and essential oils in their formulas, which can harm dogs.
How Do Scented Candles Affect Dogs?
“Dogs have an extremely sensitive nose and detect scent profiles in a different way than people do,” Dr. Lockhart explains.
Candles that contain artificial scents or heavy perfumes have been linked to the following:
- Seizures
- Poor kidney function
- Poor liver function
- Ear infections
- Skin problems
Additionally, these popular essential oils are toxic to dogs and should be avoided:
- Peppermint
- Pine
- Citrus
- Cinnamon
- Tea tree
Finally, you shouldn’t burn candles if you have a dog with health problems. If your pup has any of the following, Dr. Ostermeier says to stop burning candles:
- Seasonal allergies
- Bronchitis
- Asthma
7 Signs Your Dog is Affected by Candles
A few minor signs your dog may be negatively affected by candles could include watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing. The fumes may be irritating. Blow out the candle and move them to fresh air.
Also, if your dog experiences the following symptoms, you should take them to the vet immediately. They may be experiencing essential oil poisoning:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Persistent coughing and sneezing
- Lameness or paralysis
- Depression
- Loss of appetite
- Hypothermia
If you think your dog ate any candle wax, call an animal poison control hotline or your vet immediately.
How To Safely Light Candles
Before you throw out your favorite candles, there are some safe ways for you and your pup to enjoy the gentle glow of a candle.
1. Choose unscented candles
Unscented candles likely don’t contain essential oils or synthetic scents, so they’re much less likely to be toxic to your dog. You can have the warm flickering glow of your candles without your dog eating or smelling harmful fumes.
2. Pick dog-safe materials
Dr. Ostermeier says candles with vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax are much safer than paraffin wax.
3. Keep candles out of reach
Make sure to keep candles out of your dog’s reach. “Dogs that are playful may accidentally nudge tables or other pieces of furniture where candles are burning,” Dr. Lockhart explains. Keep candles up high to fend off any accidental burns.
4. Never leave candles unattended
It’s good practice not to leave candles unattended, especially when you have a dog. Dogs have a knack for climbing and jumping when curious, so it’s best not to leave them alone with a lit candle.
5. Use dog-friendly essential oils
Paraffin-free candles containing dog-safe essential oils can still be enjoyed at home. For example, Dr. Lockhart says lavender has been associated with reduced stress, lower cortisol levels, and increased time spent resting in dogs.
Are There Better Dog-Safe Alternatives?
If you don’t want to risk a dog-friendly candle, the options below will help remove odors and create the same atmosphere.
- Flameless candles: Candles that operate on a battery or LED are much safer for your dog to be around and give the same relaxing glow.
- Air diffusers/fresheners: Air diffusers are a great option for pet parents who still want their home to smell nice. You can also use your diffuser to give your dog a much-needed aromatherapy session! Or, if you prefer the convenience of an air freshener, there are many pet-friendly options on the market.
- Natural odor neutralizers: Home recipes for neutralizing odors, such as a baking soda solution, can also work well if you need to disguise a particular smell.
- Air purifier: Rather than replacing certain smells with new ones, an air purifier can filter and deodorize the air.
Whether you choose a dog-friendly candle or a safer alternative, give your pup the option to leave the room when introducing a scent. Our pups’ can’t tell us they don’t like the scent but can show us by leaving the room!
