Creating Canine Colognes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Dogs are beloved companions, but they can get a little smelly from time to time. While regular bathing and grooming are important, too much bathing can be harmful to dogs. Luckily, there is a solution to keep your dog smelling fresh between baths: dog cologne. Dog cologne can be made at home, using essential oils, water, and alcohol. However, it is important to note that not all essential oils are safe for dogs, and some can even be toxic. Safe essential oils for dogs include lavender, orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, chamomile, rosemary, and vanilla. When applying dog cologne, it is important to avoid the dog's head, eyes, nose, and mouth, as these areas can be sensitive and prone to irritation.

Choosing the right essential oils

The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing essential oils for your dog cologne is safety. Some essential oils can be toxic to dogs, so it's important to do your research and choose oils that are known to be safe for canine use.

Once you've confirmed that an essential oil is pet-safe, you can consider its scent and any additional benefits it may offer. For example, lavender essential oil is widely recommended for use in dog colognes because it has a pleasant scent and can help to calm anxious dogs. Similarly, chamomile essential oil is known for its soothing properties, while peppermint essential oil can help to soothe joint pain.

If you're looking to create a citrusy scent, sweet orange essential oil is a good option, as it has cleansing and purifying properties. Other essential oils that are safe for dogs include grapefruit, lemongrass, rosemary, and vanilla.

It's important to note that even pet-safe essential oils should be used in moderation and diluted appropriately. Always consult your veterinarian before adding essential oils to your dog's coat, and never use them on cats.

When in doubt, opt for a pre-made, pet-safe cologne or consult a professional groomer for advice on choosing the right essential oils for your dog's cologne.

Using safe ingredients

When making cologne for dogs, it is important to use ingredients that are safe for your furry friend. Many commercial products contain chemicals such as synthetic fragrances, parabens, and phthalates, which can cause skin irritation and other skin conditions. These products should be avoided, especially if your dog has sensitive skin.

Instead, opt for natural and safe ingredients to create a cologne that will not only make your dog smell pleasant but also provide additional benefits. Essential oils are a great choice as they are soothing and have relaxing effects on dogs. However, it is important to note that not all essential oils are safe for dogs, and some may even be toxic. Always choose essential oils that are known to be safe for canine use, such as lavender, orange, grapefruit, lemongrass, chamomile, rosemary, and vanilla.

When creating your DIY dog cologne, use a blend of these safe essential oils and avoid peppermint oil. Mix the essential oils with distilled water or boiled tap water, and clear, high-proof alcohol such as vodka or everclear. You can also use witch hazel as a substitute for alcohol.

It is also important to note that dog colognes should be used in moderation. While moderate usage poses no risks, overuse can cover up the odour of certain health conditions. Additionally, strong perfumes can change a dog's mood, irritate their skin, and influence their relationship with other animals. Therefore, always use dog colognes sparingly and avoid the dog's nose, eyes, genitals, and areas without fur.

Blending the oils with water

Step 1: Choose the Right Water

The type of water you use is important. The best option is distilled water, as it is free from impurities that could interfere with the essential oils. If distilled water is not available, you can use boiled tap water that has been cooled. Boiling the water removes microorganisms, but it may still contain some mineral salts.

Step 2: Prepare the Water

Pour the water into your spray bottle. If you're using boiled water, make sure it has cooled down before handling. Fill the bottle to just below the neck, leaving enough space for the essential oils and any other ingredients.

Step 3: Add Essential Oils

Now it's time to add the essential oils. The number of drops will depend on the size of your spray bottle and the strength of scent you desire. For a 4 oz. bottle, 5-6 drops of essential oil is usually sufficient. You can use a single oil or create a blend of different oils. Popular choices include lavender, chamomile, niaouli, helichrysum, eucalyptus, and peppermint, all of which are known to be safe for dogs.

Step 4: Mix and Blend

This step is crucial to achieving the perfect perfume consistency. After adding the essential oils, close the bottle and gently roll or swirl it. Avoid shaking the bottle too vigorously, as this can break down the chemical bonds in the oils. Mix until you no longer see oil floating on the water's surface.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the oil and water are blended, you can add any additional ingredients, such as alcohol or witch hazel, which can help emulsify the mixture and make it last longer. Give the bottle a final gentle shake to ensure all the ingredients are combined.

Storage and Usage Tips:

• Store your homemade dog cologne in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and longevity.
• Before each use, gently shake the bottle to ensure the oil and water remain mixed.
• When applying the cologne, avoid your dog's delicate areas, such as the eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Always test the cologne on a small area of your dog's skin to ensure it doesn't cause any irritation.

Application

When applying cologne to your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, always avoid spraying it on their head, especially the eyes, nose and mouth, as this can cause irritation and discomfort. It is also a good idea to test a small area on your dog's skin the first time you use the cologne, to ensure that it does not cause any skin irritation.

You can use the cologne directly on your dog's coat, spraying it from a safe distance to ensure an even application. Giving your dog a treat while you spray can help to make the experience more enjoyable for them. After spraying, you can use a comb to ensure the cologne is evenly distributed through their fur.

You can also use the cologne on your dog's bedding, blankets, or furniture to keep these areas smelling fresh. Simply spray the cologne onto the desired area and gently massage it into the fabric, or let it air dry. Reapply as needed until the unwanted smell is gone.

In addition to using it as a fabric freshener, you can also use the cologne as an air freshener. Simply spray it into the air in areas where your dog tends to spend a lot of time to purify and clear any unpleasant odours. You can use it daily or as needed.

It is important to note that, while these colognes are made with natural ingredients, they should still be used in moderation. Dr Crnec suggests using deodorising colognes every few days, usually before or after regular brushing or combing. This will help to keep your dog fresh between baths and may even extend the time between grooming sessions.

Storage

Use a glass spray bottle to store your dog cologne. The size of the bottle can vary depending on the amount of cologne you make. Common sizes include 2 oz and 4 oz. The spray bottle makes it convenient to apply the cologne directly to your dog's coat.

Store your homemade dog cologne in a cool, dry place. Keeping it away from heat sources and direct sunlight will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from spoiling. A consistent temperature will also ensure that the ingredients do not separate, so avoid storing it in places with extreme temperature fluctuations, like near a heater or in a cold garage.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of your homemade dog cologne will depend on the ingredients used and the storage conditions. Typically, if stored properly, it should last for several months. However, it's important to monitor the cologne for any changes in smell, colour, or consistency. If you notice any signs of spoilage, discard the cologne and make a fresh batch.

Labelling

Label your dog cologne bottle clearly with the date of preparation and the ingredients used. This will help you keep track of how long it has been stored and when it might be time to make a new batch. You can also include the number of drops of essential oil you added, so you can adjust the recipe in the future if needed.

Travel

Your homemade dog cologne is safe to carry with you when travelling. You can easily take it outside in your bag or pocket, ensuring that it is properly secured and won't leak. However, remember to store it properly when you return home, following the same guidelines for a cool, dry place.

By following these storage instructions, you can ensure that your homemade dog cologne stays fresh and effective for as long as possible. Remember to pay attention to any changes in the cologne and always check the ingredients you are using to ensure they are safe for dogs.

Frequently asked questions