When it comes to dog safety,one of the most important things is to use products that are pet friendly.
So is castile soap safe for dogs? Castile soap is completely biodegradable and free of harmful chemicals. when used as a soap or shampoo it cleans effectively and provides a good P.H. balance to your dog’s skin.
In addition, it works well on removing dirt, oils, and pests while still being gentle on sensitive skin.
In this guide, you will discover everything you need to know about castile soap for dogs. Along, with a safe and effective Castile soap recipes that you can easily make at home.
Let’s jump in….
Benefits of Castile Soap on Dogs
- It is known to effectively clean and provides a good ph. Balance to your dog’s skin.
- Free of harmful chemicals
- Can help dogs who have itching issues
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Kills bacteria
- Works Fabulously on removing dirt, oils, and even pests.
- It is completely biodegradable
- It contains no fragrances.
- Has a long proven track record and is popular.
Unscented or Scented Castile Soap Which One Is Better?
Whether you use unscented or naturally scented liquid castile soap they both work excellent.
But when essential oils are added to castile soap they can help your dog’s skin tremendously.
So, What are essential oils?
The definition of essential oils is “essential” in the sense that it contains the “essence of” the plant’s fragrance—the characteristic fragrance of the plant. And are generally extracted by distillation, often by using steam.
One thing,you don’t want to use on your dog is a shampoo made for humans. Our skin PH is different than dogs. Human skin ph ranges from 5.5-5.6 while the dog’s skin ph is 6.2-7.4.
However, Shampoo for humans will be too acidic for dogs. And can cause problems such as skin irritations.
Below, you will find a list of the best essential oils to add to Castile soap. So that your dog will smell great and will have a healthy-looking coat.
Best Essential Oils For Castile Dog Shampoos
Does your dog suffer from fleas?
Liquid Castile soap with peppermint oil has been known to prevent dogs from getting pesky fleas.
It also helps to cool sore muscles and soothe upset stomachs. From the facts I have read online Anti-flea chemical soaps or pills can be very harmful to your home. And for your family.
Think of how your kids love to rub and cuddle your dog and other pets in your home.
When I tried castile soap for the first time instead of the normal chemical pesticide stuff the fleas literally fell off my dogs as soon as I started rubbing it into my dog’s hair.
And Overtime using liquid castile soap, I’ve noticed that my dog’s coat started to look shinier and healthier. It caused me to really Love this stuff.
The AKC American club made a great homemade shampoo recipe for a flea repellent dog shampoo.
Homemade Dog Shampoo With Essential Oils
- 10 ounces of warm water
- 2 ounces of aloe vera gel
- 1 tablespoon of Castile Soap
- 2 drops of Peppermint Essential oil
The one that I use and has worked great for my dog is Dr. Bronner’s soap (Peppermint) It is a popular choice.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is a favorite choice for humans. But when added to Liquid Castile soap for dogs it will help with anxiety. Often from vet visits or car rides. And is also great for itching, allergies, and burns.
A recent study found that when dogs are exposed to lavender essential oil they have more time resting. You can find the study here.
You can also use the same recipe above. And switch out peppermint for Lavender. Or I found that Dr. Brooner ‘s soap with lavender works just as good.
Cedarwood
When added to Castile shampoo it can help your dog by:
- Repelling pest
- Boosts hair health
- Calming Agent
- Antiseptic for the lungs (kennel cough)
- Helps with Arthritis
Here is an easy recipe to follow:
- 1 Dirty dog
- 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil
- 2 ounces of Aloe Vera
- 1 cup of Liquid Castile Soap
- 1 ounce of vegetable glycerin
- 1-ounce raw apple cider vinegar
- 5-8 Drops of Cedarwood
Vinegar has antibacterial properties that also help with keeping a shiny coat. This shampoo recipe will leave your pet clean, soft, and smelling good.
What You Should Avoid In Dog Shampoos
All the chemicals listed below are normally found in soaps or shampoos.Washing your dog with these chemical can create problems.
Let’s take a look on what YOU should avoid.
Artificial fragrance
The artificial fragrance that is added to soaps and shampoos have been linked to cancer. And also been known to cause reproductive problems.
The Fragrance is made up of many different ingredients. And most are not on the label. So you don’t know what you are buying.
Formaldehyde Preservatives
It has been known to cause burning, itching, blistering. And may cause scaling of the skin. It has also been linked to cancer. But no study has proved it.
Mineral oil
It is mostly in dog shampoos. Mineral oil is a mixture of hydrocarbons. And comes from crude oil. It can be a possible toxin within your body. And is said to cause allergies.
As a matter of fact, the unnatural additives strips away the dog’s natural oils that are naturally released on his/her skin.
Untrue labeling
When you are shopping for a new dog shampoo or for your family pet you will notice that some labels state 100 % all-natural with all-natural ingredients. This is not true.
What they don’t tell you is that there might be 1 natural ingredient. And 99 other unhealthy ones that are lab-made.
Just make sure when you buy a new shampoo or soap that it is stamped with the certified logo from USDA. That means it is certified organic and has been tested.
On the other hand, if you can’t find USDA organic look on the ingredient label to see if there are any chemicals in the product.
Some say made with all certified with all organic ingredients.
Sodium benzoate preservative
When mixed with vitamin C it creates benzene. Benzene is linked with leukemia. If Sodium benzoate is not mixed with citric or ascorbic acid, it can be considered safe.
Neurotoxicity
Any Chemical that is in soaps or shampoos is very harmful to animals. This is because animals have skins that are very sensitive. This can be neurotoxic.
The meaning of Neurotoxins are toxins that are poisonous or destructive to nerve tissue (causing neurotoxicity).
Conclusion:
Is Castile Soap Safe For Dogs?
Yes!
But remember: When buying soap for your dog make sure it is cruelty-free and made with chemical-free ingredients.
If you are looking for a natural soap make sure it is stamped with a USDA certified logo on the label.
This will make you feel confident that you are getting an all-natural product.
Alternatively, if you can’t find a USDA certified soap then read the label to make sure it is made with all certified products.
Some labels are marked 100% natural,but only have 1 natural ingredient.
As a matter of fact,It is a common marketing trick. Make sure you avoid using tea tree oil or tea tree scented products, as it is toxic to pets.
When washing your dog always avoid the eyes. Even though liquid castile soap is safe it can still irritate the eyes.
Castile soap is not only good for dogs,but it is also great form humans too!
If you are interested in knowing more about the organic lifestyle check out our other blog section.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is pure Castile soap used for?
There are endless ways to use it. But the most common ways are Shampoo, body wash, hand soap, All-purpose household cleaner, dish soap, laundry detergent, Window cleaner, Ant spray, and Makeup remover. The ways you can use it are endless.
Will Castile soap kill fleas?
Yes, but only when the soap comes into contact with the fleas while wet. Once the fur dries out, the soap will have no effect against fleas. Castile soap will not kill the flea eggs. But the best approach is to bathe your pet frequently. This will ensure that you are killing off newly hatched fleas. Also, fleas hate the smells like peppermint or eucalyptus. Those essential oils will make a good addition to castile soap.
Can I use lavender Castile soap on my dog?
According to the ASPCA Due to the variability in concentration, formulation and possible quality of essential oils, it is best to completely avoid directly applying them to your pet. It is better when diluted with a carrier oil or shampoo. Lavender is typically safe to use once diluted. But always consult with your veterinarian about which products are best for your pet’s individual needs.
What ingredients should not be in dog shampoo?
Formaldehyde
Artificial fragrance
Pthalates
Artificial colors
Sodium benzoate
Mineral oil
Paraben preservative
Triethanolamine
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Propylene glycol
Sodium benzoate preservative
Irene Mills, is a dedicated wife. And, a mom of two young children. She graduated as a Bachelor in Science with an orientation in Architecture. As well as Literature, and Language. She thrives, in the writing of drama, romance, and adventure. With a high interest in the truth of nature and Organic lifestyle. Want to know more? check out our about us page.
