Using diluted tea tree oil for your dog’s skin infections

Dogs can get allergies and itchy skin, too

Did you know that allergies can be as annoying and painful for dogs as it is for some people? Experts estimate that as many as 1 in 7 dogs suffer from allergies. And those allergies often cause symptoms such as itching, irritation, and inflammation.

Dog allergies fall into four categories and can be caused by the following things:

  • Fleas and other biting insects
  • Irritants that come in contact with the skin
  • Inhaled allergens, such as dust mites, molds, pollens, grasses, and molds
  • Foods, drugs, and supplements

In the case of skin infections related to allergies, your veterinarian may prescribe a medication, depending on the symptoms and severity of your dog’s skin infection. In some cases, mild to moderate  skin infections may be effectively managed with over-the-counter, topical products. However, if left untreated  such mild skin infections can develop into hot spots, which are extremely troublesome  for pets.

What is tea tree oil and how can it help skin infections?

Pet guardians should be aware that pure tea tree oil (as well as other pure essential oils) is  considered toxic for pets and should never be used in its pure undiluted or “raw” form.

Tea tree oil is a natural essential oil with curative properties that help soothe and protect dogs’ skin. When used correctly and in a diluted form on pets, tea tree oil can be very effective in treating and preventing topical bacterial and yeast/fungal infections. Tea tree oil  is an excellent anti-inflammatory, so it helps reduce skin inflammation that can lead to itchiness and irritation. It also has great antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties that can help prevent and treat a whole host of skin problems.

Due to its effectiveness, tea tree oil is found in many pet grooming products in varying diluted concentrations.

How should I administer tea tree oil to my dog?

Tea tree oil must not be ingested, and should be applied externally only, and only in its diluted form.  Products such as Be Soothed Spray and Be Soothed Shampoo contain a diluted amount of tea tree oil. While the percentage of tea tree oil in these products is proprietary, rest assured they are well below the level considered toxic to dogs and puppies (over 8 weeks of age.) As with any new product, always seek the advice of your veterinarian before applying to your dog.

Tea tree oil should not be used on cats. Use caution when applying tea tree oil if you have cats in the house.

*Article updated October 17, 2013

Have pet health questions? For any medical concerns, we always recommend you consult your veterinarian. However, for non-emergency questions, you can contact Dr. Dym directly using our Ask the Vet form.

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69 Comments

  1. My dog was itching himself raw. It was horrible. As advised by our wonderful Vet, dogs can be allergic to certain foods.Lamb and Beef being two of the biggest culprits.She told me to put my American Bulldog on one type of protein for 8 weeks.i chose Kangaroo meat, as we live in Australia and Roo meat is high protein/low fat. After only a week on his diet change, the horrible itching and scratching stopped. He had been drawing blood before that. Prior to putting him on a Beef mince diet, he was on a Chicken mince diet. The chicken mince never upset his skin, but the Beef sure did.
    I also avoid dog foods with any grain in them, as this always seemed to create ear infections and fungal foot rashes on my AB.
    So, try grain free and avoid Lamb and Beef and see how your go.

  2. What do you use to dilute with tea tree oil

  3. Hi Brenda. The ingredients in our Be Soothed for Dogs are Deionized water, pure tea tree oil (melaleuca alternifolia), non-ionic surfactants, DMDM Hydantoin.
    ~ Abby, PetMeds Pro

  4. How much can I put in my dogs shampoo. She has horrible mites

  5. What are the proper proportion of a carrier oil and tea tree oil and what carrier oil do you use to dilute with the tea tree

  6. What do i delute tea tree with for fleas on my dog

  7. for every 1 to 2 drops of tea tree oil add 12 drops of a carrier oil (olive oil, coconut oil or almond oil)

  8. My vet recommended to my 68 pounds labrador mix 85%coconut oil and 15% tea tree oil
    I mixed in a bowl
    Put gloves on and rubbed to her skin /coat / massaged her whole body.
    She slept like a baby and no more itching
    I did for 2 nites

  9. I rescued a yorkie with terrible mites and fleas that has left him hairless. I have wasted so much money going to vets for a solution to no avail. Can someone PLEASE tell me how much tea tree oil and what to dilute it with for an 8lb love of my life.

  10. Shannon ThompsonJune 15, 2022 at 7:48 pm

    Kim
    2 drops of tea tree oil to 10 drops of carrier oil . Olive oil or almond oil or coconut oil

  11. Hi, I have a 9 year old pitbull/mastiff and he has a horrible skin condition. He has bumps all over his skin filled with puss and crusty. Also it gives out a bad smell. What can I do?
    I think he needs antibiotics.
    Can you give me some solutions please?
    Thank you

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