Good vs. Bad Scented Candles for Dogs: What to Look For

As a proud fur parent, I’m always looking for ways to make our home cozy and welcoming—not just for me but for my pup too. I love lighting scented candles and keeping the air fresh, but I recently learned how some of these can actually be harmful to dogs. It was an eye-opener, and I wanted to share what I found so fellow pet parents can keep their furry friends safe and happy.

Are Scented Candles Bad for Dogs?

Short answer: Yes, but not all. You just need to be careful about the ingredients used. Remember that dogs have 300 million olfactory receptors (smell receptors) while humans only have about 5 to 6 million. This sensitivity allows them to detect even the faintest odors we might not notice.

When considering candle safety for dogs, there are two primary concerns. First, could the scents or fumes from candles harm your dog’s sensitive nose or overall health? Second, what should you do if your dog decides to chew on or eat a candle? Understanding these risks and how to prevent them can help keep your furry friend safe while you enjoy the ambiance of candles.

1. Candle Scents and Dogs

Some candles release smoke, and fumes, or contain essential oils that can irritate your dog’s respiratory system. To minimize risks:

Use a candle snuffer to reduce smoke when extinguishing candles.
Avoid paraffin candles, as they release harsher chemicals. Instead, opt for soy, coconut, or beeswax candles, as they do not emit toxins and are also environmentally friendly. These candles burn cleanly and safely, reducing potential risks.
Check for dog-safe essential oils, as some can be toxic.

2. If Your Dog Eats a Candle

Most candles, such as those made from soy, and beeswax, are non-toxic and will pass through your dog’s digestive system without issues. Soy candles are especially soft and safe. However, if your dog eats a candle:

Monitor for symptoms like vomiting or constipation.
Be cautious if your dog swallows the wick or metal parts, as they could cause blockages.
Contact your vet immediately if any concerning symptoms appear.

Related Article: Are Plug-in Air Fresheners Safe for Cats?

What Scents Are Toxic to Dogs?

The following essential oils can be harmful to dogs, especially in high concentrations. While the amounts in candles are often low, it’s best to avoid these scents to ensure your dog’s safety:

Anise
Cinnamon
Citrus (d-limonene)
Clove
Garlic
Juniper
Pennyroyal
Peppermint
Pine
Sweet birch
Tea tree (melaleuca)
Thyme
Wintergreen
Yarrow
Ylang ylang

Toxic Candle Ingredients to Avoid

When buying your next scented candles, check if they contain these harmful ingredients.

Acetaldehyde: This chemical is a known respiratory irritant and has been classified as a probable human carcinogen. For pets, exposure to acetaldehyde can irritate their sensitive respiratory systems and cause discomfort.
Acrolein: This is a byproduct of burning certain materials and can be highly toxic when inhaled. It can lead to respiratory irritation and inflammation in both humans and pets, especially those with pre-existing conditions like asthma.
Formaldehyde: Found in some synthetic candle materials, formaldehyde is a carcinogen that can cause respiratory issues, watery eyes, and nasal irritation in pets due to their heightened sensitivity to airborne chemicals.
Lead: Some older or low-quality candles have lead-based wicks. When burned, lead releases toxic fumes that can cause lead poisoning in pets, leading to neurological and gastrointestinal issues.
Paraffin Wax: Derived from petroleum, it releases harmful chemicals such as benzene and toluene when burned. These toxins can irritate pets’ lungs and worsen respiratory conditions over time.

This is not a complete list of scents that are harmful to dogs. To check if a scent is risky, search for it by name on the Pet Poison Helpline website.

What Fragrances Are Pet-Friendly?

Some scented candles can benefit dogs, providing calming or aromatherapy effects. Here are dog-friendly scents:

Bergamot
Chamomile
Eucalyptus
Ginger
Lavender
Rosemary

How to Safely Burn Candles Around Dogs

Enjoying candles with your dog at home is possible by following these simple safety tips:

Never leave candles unattended: Dogs can accidentally knock them over, causing burns or fires.
Choose natural materials: Opt for soy, beeswax, or vegetable-based wax candles with unbleached cotton wicks to avoid harmful chemicals.
Keep candles out of reach: Place candles on high, stable surfaces to prevent accidental contact.
Trim wicks regularly: A shorter wick creates a cleaner, safer burn with less smoke and soot.
Use a candle snuffer: Snuffing candles reduces smoke, which can irritate your dog’s sensitive nose.
Ventilate the area: Ensure the room is well-ventilated to avoid overwhelming your dog with strong scents.
Store candles safely: Keep unused candles in a drawer or cabinet to prevent your dog from chewing or ingesting them.
Monitor your dog’s reaction: If your dog seems uncomfortable, leaves the room, or acts oddly, extinguish the candle immediately.