Jessie Taylor
Dogs have an extremely sensitive sense of smell, with between 200 and 300 million scent receptors compared to just 5 or 6 million in humans. This means that dogs may be more likely to be irritated by candle scents. While candles are generally considered safe for dogs, some candles contain harmful ingredients and toxic essential oils that can be dangerous for dogs if ingested, inhaled, or if they come into contact with their skin. These toxic oils can cause serious health issues in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhoea, liver failure, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, and respiratory issues. In addition, the wax could get caught in a dog's digestive tract, leading to an upset stomach or diarrhoea, and the wick could become a choking hazard or cause damage to the intestines.
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What You'll Learn
Dogs and candle ingestion
While candles are generally considered safe for dogs, ingesting candle wax can be harmful to dogs. Some dog breeds, such as Labradors, Spaniels, and Retrievers, are more prone to ingesting non-food items and may be tempted to eat a candle due to its scent.
If ingested, candle wax can cause blockages in the digestive tract and lead to an upset stomach or diarrhea. Small dogs are more susceptible to illness or infection, as their smaller bodies may have a worse reaction than larger breeds. Additionally, the wick or metal parts of the candle may cause damage to the intestines, acting as choking hazards or cutting up the dog's insides.
Some candles contain harmful ingredients and toxic essential oils that are dangerous for dogs. Paraffin wax, found in many commercial brands, releases toxic substances when burned, including formaldehyde, which has been linked to cancer and asthma in humans and can also affect dogs. Essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts, can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or if they come into contact with a dog's skin. Oils such as tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus, wintergreen, pine, sweet birch, cinnamon, and citrus oils can cause serious health issues in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhoea, liver failure, and nervous system damage.
If you suspect your dog has ingested candle wax, it is important to contact a veterinarian or animal poison control hotline immediately. They may recommend inducing vomiting or taking an X-ray to assess for potential damage. To reduce the risk of candle ingestion, it is advisable to opt for flameless, battery-operated candles or choose candles made from natural waxes such as soy, beeswax, coconut, or vegetable wax, which are less toxic and break down more easily if ingested. Keeping candles out of your dog's reach is always a smart precaution.
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Toxic candle ingredients
Candles can be toxic to dogs if they contain specific ingredients or are consumed in large quantities. While most candle ingredients are not toxic, some additives like dyes, scents, and wicks can be problematic.
Paraffin wax, for example, is a cheap candle wax that releases toxic substances harmful to dogs. It is derived from petroleum refining and releases harmful chemicals when burned, including benzene and toluene, which are known carcinogens. These chemicals can cause respiratory issues and contribute to indoor air pollution.
Essential oils are another common candle ingredient that is toxic to dogs. Wintergreen, tea tree, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, cinnamon, and citrus essential oils are some of the most harmful and can cause liver and nervous system damage in canines, as well as irritation in the mouth and throat.
Synthetic fragrances in candles can also contain hidden toxins like phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption and reproductive issues. These chemicals are often used to prolong scents but can trigger allergic reactions and sensitivities.
Even the wick of a candle can be dangerous. Some wicks, especially in cheaper candles, contain lead or other heavy metals that can be released into the air when burned, posing serious health risks, especially for dogs.
To avoid these toxic ingredients, opt for candles made with natural waxes like coconut, soy, or beeswax, which are non-toxic and burn cleaner. Choose candles with wicks made from sustainable natural materials like cotton, hemp, or wood, and avoid metal-core wicks. Look for candles that are transparent about their ingredients and avoid those with undisclosed ingredients or generic terms like "fragrance" or "parfum," which can hide toxic chemicals.
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Essential oils and dogs
While essential oils may have health benefits for humans, they can be toxic to dogs. Essential oils are highly concentrated liquid compounds made from plants. They are often used to give candles strong, delicious scents. However, they are very toxic to dogs. Oils such as wintergreen, tea tree, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, cinnamon, and citrus are some of the most harmful to dogs. Essential oils have been known to cause liver and nervous system damage in dogs, as well as irritation in the mouth and throat.
If you want to use essential oils in your home around your dog, it can be done safely with some research and caution to ensure your dog's safety. Some essential oils are considered safer than others for dogs, but you should still always use them sparingly and only after consulting with your veterinarian. Oils that are tolerated by one animal may not be as well tolerated by another. For example, lavender oil is considered safe for dogs and can be calming or relaxing for some dogs when applied to a dog's bandana or blanket.
It is important to note that essential oils should always be diluted, usually by adding them to a neutral carrier oil. Applying undiluted essential oils topically can be irritating to the skin. This is counterproductive for treating skin conditions and can add to your dog's discomfort. Improper use of essential oils with dogs can cause behaviour changes, adverse central nervous system effects, or respiratory problems—all of which can be serious.
If your dog gets into any essential oils, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Take the bottle of the product with you, or text/email a photo for advice. You can also call the Pet Poison Helpline for additional guidance.
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Candle fumes and irritation
While candles are generally considered safe for dogs, they can still pose some risks. The main concern regarding candle fumes and irritation is the potential presence of harmful substances and chemicals in the candle's ingredients, particularly in scented candles.
Candles made with paraffin wax, for example, release toxic substances when burned, including carcinogens, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, benzene, and toluene. These toxins can compromise air quality and have been linked to cancer, allergies, asthma, nausea, and headaches. Paraffin wax is also linked to digestive problems in dogs if consumed and, in extreme cases, can lead to a coma.
Essential oils used to scent candles can also be highly toxic to dogs. Oils such as wintergreen, tea tree, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and citrus oils can cause serious health issues if ingested, inhaled, or if they come into contact with a dog's skin. Potential issues include vomiting, diarrhoea, liver failure, irritation in the mouth and throat, and nervous system damage.
In addition to the risks posed by certain ingredients, the act of burning a candle releases fumes and particulate matter that can irritate a dog's respiratory system. This can lead to eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as coughing, sneezing, and breathing difficulties. Prolonged exposure to particulate matter may also contribute to heart and lung problems over time, according to ongoing research.
To minimise these risks, pet owners can opt for candles made from natural waxes such as soy, beeswax, coconut, or vegetable wax, which tend to burn more cleanly and emit fewer toxins. Unscented candles are also a safer option, as they are less likely to contain essential oils or synthetic fragrances that can irritate a dog's sensitive sense of smell or cause toxic reactions. It is also important to keep candles out of a dog's reach to prevent accidental ingestion or injury.
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Safe candles for dogs
While candles are generally considered safe for dogs, there are some potential dangers to be aware of. Dogs have a much better sense of smell than humans, and may be irritated by scented candles.
Some candle ingredients are toxic to dogs, such as essential oils, which can cause liver and nervous system damage, as well as irritation to the mouth and throat. Wintergreen, tea tree, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, cinnamon, and citrus essential oils are some of the most harmful. Paraffin wax, often found in commercial brands, releases several toxic substances harmful to dogs.
If a dog ingests a candle, the wax could get caught in its digestive tract, leading to an upset stomach or diarrhea. Additionally, candle wicks are often secured with small pieces of metal that could cut up a dog's insides.
To ensure your dog's safety, it is recommended to use organic soy, coconut, or beeswax candles, which are less likely to be toxic and break down more easily if ingested. Vegetable wax is also a safer alternative to paraffin wax. Unscented candles are a good option, as they are less likely to contain essential oils or synthetic scents. When in doubt, opt for flameless, battery-operated candles, especially if your dog is prone to knocking things over.
Some brands, such as Companion Candles, offer pet-friendly candles that are free from harmful toxins like phthalates, parabens, and carcinogens. These candles are made with natural ingredients like coconut-soy wax and phthalate-free fragrance oils, ensuring a safer option for your furry friend.
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Frequently asked questions
Candles are generally considered safe for dogs, but some candles contain harmful ingredients and toxic essential oils that are not suitable for dogs to be around.
Candles made with paraffin wax, which is a by-product of petroleum refining, are unsafe for dogs. Paraffin releases several toxic substances that are harmful to both humans and dogs.
Soy wax, coconut wax, and beeswax candles are considered safer than paraffin wax. These natural waxes minimise the potential exposure to hazardous chemicals for your dog.
Call an animal poison control hotline or your vet immediately.
