Tyler Brooks
Candles can be harmful to dogs, especially scented candles, which can emit toxic chemicals that can be dangerous if inhaled or ingested by dogs. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, and their smaller lungs make them more susceptible to harm from scented candles. Essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts, can be toxic to dogs and cause serious health issues such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and liver failure if ingested. Other chemicals found in candles, such as phthalates, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer in pets. To keep your dog safe, it is recommended to use unscented candles made from soy, beeswax, or vegetable wax, or opt for flameless candles or air diffusers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Candle wax type | Paraffin wax may emit toxic chemicals when burning. Soy, beeswax, or vegetable wax are safer alternatives. |
| Scents | Artificial scents, heavy perfumes, and essential oils can be harmful to dogs and may cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, or other serious health problems. |
| Toxic substances | Some candles contain toxic substances also used as pesticides or plastic softeners, which can increase the risk of cancer. |
| Fire and burn risk | Dogs may accidentally knock over candles, so it's important to keep them out of reach. |
| Ingestion | Ingesting candle wax is generally not harmful, but consuming large amounts or wax containing toxic substances can be dangerous. |
| Alternative options | Flameless candles, air diffusers, natural odor neutralizers, and air purifiers are safer alternatives to scented candles. |
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What You'll Learn
Toxic candle chemicals
While candles can add to the ambiance and fragrance of your home, many scented candles contain toxic chemicals that can harm dogs. These candles can emit chemicals that can irritate a dog's lungs and cause serious illness, including aspiration pneumonia.
One of the most common toxic chemicals found in candles is paraffin, an inexpensive candle wax derived from petroleum, oil, or coal shale. Burning paraffin releases potentially dangerous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and phthalates, which have been linked to health issues in both humans and dogs. In humans, exposure to these chemicals has been associated with headaches, shortness of breath, and coughing. In dogs, VOC exposure can cause similar symptoms, as well as nausea and damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system.
Another toxic chemical found in candles is naphthalene, which is often used as an insecticide and pest repellent. When burned, naphthalene turns into a toxic gas, making it effective at killing insects but harmful to dogs and humans.
Some candles may also contain lead-core wicks, which were banned by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission in 2003 due to their hazardous levels of lead emission. Exposure to high amounts of lead has been linked to hormone disruption, behavioral problems, and learning disabilities.
To keep your dog safe, choose unscented candles made from natural materials such as beeswax, soy wax, or vegetable wax. These candles are much less likely to contain toxic chemicals and are safer for both you and your dog. It is also important to keep candles out of your dog's reach and to provide proper ventilation when burning candles to minimize the risk of inhaling harmful fumes.
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Essential oils
Some essential oils that are known to be toxic to dogs include cinnamon, citrus, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree (melaleuca), wintergreen, and ylang-ylang. Both ingestion and skin exposure to these oils can be harmful to dogs, and the effects can be even more severe for puppies and dogs with liver disease.
If you use essential oils in your home, it is important to keep them out of your dog's reach and to never apply them directly to your dog's coat or skin. If your dog comes into contact with essential oils, wash them off immediately with liquid dish soap, and seek veterinary advice. Signs that your dog may have been poisoned by essential oils include watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, and gastrointestinal upset.
While some essential oils may be harmful to dogs, there are also dog-safe essential oils that can be enjoyed at home. It is always best to consult your veterinarian before using any essential oils around your dog to ensure their safety.
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Respiratory issues
Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans. Their lungs are also smaller, so they are more susceptible to the effects of scented candles, which can emit toxic chemicals when burned.
Some candles contain paraffin, an inexpensive candle wax derived from petroleum, oil, or coal shale. Burning paraffin releases potentially hazardous chemicals, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and acrolein. While studies suggest that the levels of exposure to these chemicals are too low to be a direct health hazard to humans, dogs are much more sensitive, and these fumes may be irritating to them.
In addition, scented candles often contain essential oils, which are highly concentrated plant extracts. These oils can be toxic to dogs if ingested, inhaled, or if they come into contact with their skin. Oils such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and eucalyptus oil can cause serious health issues in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhoea, and even liver failure if ingested. Burning candles with these scents can also release fumes that are harmful to a dog's respiratory system, leading to irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and causing respiratory issues such as coughing, sneezing, and breathing difficulties.
Even if a candle does not contain essential oils, the fragrance may be created using toxic chemicals. These chemicals can cause an allergic reaction or irritate existing respiratory problems in dogs. They can also build up in the body over time, increasing the risk of cancer.
To keep your dog safe, choose unscented candles made of soy, beeswax, or vegetable wax. Flameless candles that operate on a battery or LED are also a safer option, as they do not produce smoke, which can irritate a dog's respiratory system. If you want to add a scent to your home, you can use a pet-friendly air freshener or natural odor neutralizers, such as a baking soda solution.
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Pet poison hotlines
Scented candles can be dangerous for dogs for several reasons. Firstly, they can emit toxic chemicals that can be harmful to dogs when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Dogs have a much more sensitive sense of smell than humans, and their smaller lungs make them more susceptible to the effects of these toxins, which can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and even cancer. In addition, essential oils—which are often highly concentrated and toxic to dogs—are commonly found in scented candles.
If you think your dog has inhaled or ingested something toxic, it is important to act quickly. You can call a pet poison hotline for advice. The ASPCA Poison Control, for example, is available 24 hours a day, every day, and can be reached at $(888) 426-4435. Their team of experts provides up-to-date and tailored advice for animal poison-related emergencies. Additionally, the Pet Poison Helpline's website allows you to search for specific scents to check if they pose a potential risk to your dog.
It is also important to be mindful of the signs that your dog may be negatively affected by candles. Minor symptoms include watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing. If you notice these signs, blow out the candle, open windows, and take your dog outside to recover. If the symptoms persist or worsen, take your dog to the veterinarian immediately, as they may be experiencing essential oil poisoning.
To keep your dog safe, it is recommended to choose unscented candles made from soy, beeswax, or vegetable wax. These options are much less likely to contain harmful toxins and will allow you to enjoy the warm glow of a candle without risking your dog's health. Flameless candles, air diffusers, and natural odor neutralizers are also great alternatives to create a pleasant-smelling environment without endangering your furry friend.
Remember, candles also pose a fire and burn risk to dogs, so it is crucial to keep them out of your dog's reach and never leave them unattended. By taking these precautions and being vigilant about your dog's health, you can enjoy a cozy atmosphere without putting your furry friend in harm's way.
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Safer alternatives
Scented candles can be harmful to dogs, as they can emit toxic chemicals that can irritate a dog's lungs and respiratory system. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, and their smaller lungs mean that they are more susceptible to harm from scented candles.
If you want to light candles around your dog, there are some safer alternatives to consider:
- Unscented candles: Unscented candles are much safer for dogs as they do not contain essential oils or synthetic scents, making them less likely to be toxic. Opt for candles made from vegetable wax, soy, or beeswax, as these are less likely to contain harmful chemicals.
- Pet-friendly scented candles: While scented candles should generally be avoided around dogs, some candles are specifically designed to be pet-friendly. These candles use natural and non-toxic ingredients, such as soy wax, to create gentle fragrances that are safe for both you and your dog to enjoy. Vanilla, Fresh Bamboo, and Honeydew Melon are some examples of dog-friendly scents.
- Flameless candles: Battery-operated or LED flameless candles provide the same relaxing glow as traditional candles without the risk of fire or toxic fumes.
- Air diffusers: Air diffusers allow you to enjoy various scents without the potential dangers of a lit candle. You can even use a diffuser to provide your dog with a soothing aromatherapy session.
- Natural odor neutralizers: Instead of introducing new scents, you can opt for natural odor neutralizers, such as a baking soda solution, to eliminate unwanted odors.
- Air purifiers: Air purifiers can help filter and deodorize the air without introducing additional fragrances.
When choosing candles, avoid those made with paraffin wax, as they can release toxic substances. Also, be cautious of candles containing essential oils, as these can be toxic to dogs due to their high concentration. Always keep candles out of your dog's reach to prevent accidental burns or ingestion of wax, and never leave lit candles unattended.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, scented candles can be bad for dogs. They can emit chemicals that can harm a dog's lungs and cause allergic reactions or irritate existing respiratory problems. Some scented candles contain toxic substances that are also used as pesticides or plastic softeners.
Flameless candles, air diffusers, natural odor neutralizers, and air purifiers are some alternatives to scented candles that are safer for dogs.
Candles that contain artificial scents or heavy perfumes can be harmful to dogs. Essential oils like tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and eucalyptus oil can cause serious health issues in dogs such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and even liver failure if ingested.
