Chloe Adams
Candles can be harmful to dogs, especially scented candles that contain essential oils. The smoke from candles can irritate dogs with respiratory issues, and the scent can trigger allergic reactions. In addition, candles contain toxins that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. If you choose to burn candles, it is important to keep them out of your dog's reach and never leave them unattended. Some dog owners opt for pet-friendly scented candles made from organic and non-toxic materials, or flameless candles that operate on a battery or LED.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candles with vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax | Safer than paraffin wax |
| Toxic chemicals in candles | Harmful to dogs |
| Toxic substances | Poisonous essential oils |
| Pet-friendly candles | Organic & non-toxic |
| Candles with artificial scents or heavy perfumes | Linked to watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing |
| Candles with toxic substances | Can cause liver failure |
| Candles with synthetic scents | Can cause seizures |
| Flameless candles | Much safer for dogs |
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What You'll Learn
Toxicity and harmful chemicals
While candles are ideal for creating a cosy atmosphere and deodorising scents, they may be harmful to dogs. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, and their lungs are smaller, so they are more susceptible to the harmful effects of scented candles.
Many candles contain harmful toxins and chemicals that can be released when burned. These include phthalates, which are known to cause cancer in pets and can also lead to issues with sexual function, fertility, and development. Essential oils, which are often used to scent candles, can be toxic to dogs, and the smoke from any candle can irritate a dog's respiratory system.
Some signs that a dog is having a negative reaction to a candle include watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, itching, and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, dogs have been known to develop intestinal blockages from ingesting candle wax, and there have even been reports of dogs having seizures and experiencing liver failure due to candle exposure.
To minimise the risk to dogs, it is recommended to use flameless candles, air diffusers, or natural odour neutralisers such as baking soda. Pet owners should also keep candles out of their dog's reach and never leave them unattended. If a dog exhibits any signs of distress or illness after being exposed to a candle, it is important to contact a veterinarian or pet poison hotline immediately.
However, not all candles are unsafe for dogs. Organic and non-toxic candles, such as those made from vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax, are generally considered safe for dogs. Pet-friendly scented candles made from soy wax and infused with natural scents like vanilla or caramel biscuits can be enjoyable for both dogs and their owners without causing harm.
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Allergic reactions and respiratory issues
Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, with their sense of smell being at least 10,000 times more sensitive than ours, and some estimates even suggest 100,000 times more sensitive. This means that if you can smell a candle, your dog will be able to smell it too, and the scent will be much stronger for them.
Some candles contain harmful toxins, such as naphthalene, phthalates, and essential oils, which can be dangerous to dogs if ingested or inhaled. Essential oils, in particular, are known to be harmful to dogs and can cause allergic reactions and respiratory issues. If a dog inhales an essential oil that it is allergic to, it may exhibit symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing. In more severe cases, exposure to essential oils can cause seizures, liver failure, or even death.
To reduce the risk of your dog having an allergic reaction or respiratory issue, it is best to avoid scented candles, especially those containing essential oils. Opt for unscented candles made from vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax, as these are less likely to contain harmful toxins. Keep candles out of your dog's reach and never leave them unattended. If you notice any signs of respiratory distress in your dog, such as coughing or difficulty breathing, seek veterinary attention immediately.
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Ingestion and intestinal blockages
While dogs can pass small amounts of candle wax through their digestive tract, ingestion of larger amounts can lead to intestinal blockages. Intestinal blockages in dogs are serious medical concerns that require immediate veterinary attention. They can be caused by several conditions, such as inflammation, parasites, or foreign bodies, including ingested items such as bones, toys, and rocks.
Candle wax can pose a risk of intestinal blockage in dogs due to its tendency to harden as it cools, making it difficult for the wax to pass through the intestines. The risk of blockage is higher in smaller dogs with narrower intestines and when larger chunks of wax are ingested. Additionally, metal or plastic parts of the candle, such as a tea light holder, can pose a definite danger as they are inflexible and more likely to cause an obstruction.
Symptoms of intestinal blockage in dogs may include vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, and excessive drooling. If you suspect your dog has ingested candle wax and is displaying any of these symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately. The veterinarian may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic tests to check for blockages and determine the appropriate course of treatment.
In some cases, veterinary intervention may involve inducing vomiting to expel the wax or, in more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the blockage. The prognosis for intestinal blockages in dogs is usually good when diagnosed and treated promptly. However, intestinal blockages can have serious consequences, including damage to the intestines and dehydration, if left untreated.
To prevent ingestion and intestinal blockages in dogs, it is important to keep candles out of their reach and never leave them unattended. Additionally, opt for pet-friendly, non-toxic, and organic candles to minimise the risk of toxic ingestion.
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Safe alternatives to scented candles
Scented candles can be toxic to dogs, so it is important to choose pet-friendly alternatives. Here are some safe alternatives to scented candles:
Unscented candles
Unscented candles are much less likely to be toxic to dogs as they do not contain essential oils or synthetic scents. Opt for candles made from vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax, which are safer than paraffin wax. Keep in mind that even unscented candles can pose a fire or burn risk, so always keep them out of your dog's reach and never leave them unattended.
Flameless candles
Battery-operated or LED flameless candles are a safer alternative as they don't produce harmful fumes or pose a fire risk. They provide the same relaxing glow as traditional candles without the potential dangers.
Air diffusers or fresheners
Air diffusers and fresheners are a great way to make your home smell nice without the risks associated with scented candles. There are many pet-friendly options available, and you can even use your diffuser to provide your dog with aromatherapy.
Natural odor neutralizers
Instead of masking odors with scented candles, try using natural odor neutralizers like a baking soda solution. This can effectively eliminate odors without introducing potentially harmful fragrances.
Air purifier
An air purifier can help filter and deodorize the air without introducing additional scents. It's a great way to improve the air quality for both you and your dog, especially if your dog has respiratory issues.
When choosing any type of candle or fragrance, always opt for organic, non-toxic options. Avoid essential oils and fragrances that are known to be toxic to dogs. Remember to keep your dog's safety a top priority and give them the option to leave the room if they don't like a particular scent.
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Pet poison hotlines and signs of illness
While candles can be a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, they may pose certain risks to dogs. Candles can cause an allergic reaction in dogs, leading to itching, watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing. In addition, the essential oils and fragrances used in scented candles can contain harmful toxins that may be toxic to dogs, especially if ingested.
If you suspect your dog is having a negative reaction to a candle, it is important to contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline immediately. Some common pet poison hotlines in the United States include:
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 1-888-426-4435
- Pet Poison Helpline: 1-855-764-7661
- AKC Vetline: a 24-hour live telephone service for $99 that provides access to trained pet care professionals and licensed veterinarians.
When calling a pet poison hotline or your veterinarian, it is important to provide as much information as possible about your dog's symptoms and the suspected poison. If your dog has ingested something harmful, it is recommended to bring a sample of the poison or its packaging to aid in diagnosis and treatment.
Some signs of poisoning in dogs include gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea, and neurological signs such as tremors or seizures. It is important to act quickly if you suspect accidental poisoning and to keep harmful substances out of your dog's reach. While not all instances of vomiting or diarrhoea are due to poisoning, it is recommended to follow up with a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen.
To prevent potential issues with candles, it is recommended to opt for unscented candles or those made with vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax. Keep candles out of your dog's reach and never leave them unattended. Always provide your dog with the option to leave the room when introducing a new scent.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, candles can be harmful to dogs. Many candles contain harmful toxins, such as naphthalene, phthalates, and essential oils, which can cause serious illnesses, including aspiration pneumonia, liver failure, and seizures. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, and their smaller lungs make them more susceptible to harm from candle fumes.
Signs that a candle is bothering your dog include watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, itching, and difficulty breathing. If your dog eats a candle, it may cause an intestinal blockage or expose them to toxic substances, leading to a toxic reaction or, in severe cases, surgery.
Yes, there are several alternatives to traditional candles that are safer for dogs. These include flameless candles, air diffusers, natural odor neutralizers (such as baking soda), and air purifiers. Pet-friendly scented candles made from organic and non-toxic ingredients, such as soy wax, are also available.
