Does Neem Oil Work For Dogs?

You may have heard the hype about neem oil for us, but what about for our furry friends? Does neem oil have any benefits for dogs?

Neem oil comes from the seeds and bark of the neem tree, a plant native to India. It may be used as-is or combined with other oils or creams for topical application. Dog owners generally use it as a natural insecticide and pesticide to repel fleas and ticks, or for wound healing. The oil has an unpleasant taste that deters licking.

However, some dogs may be allergic to neem oil or may have a negative reaction due to certain conditions or prescription medication. Before giving your dog neem oil, consult your regular veterinarian!

Benefits of neem oil

Neem oil has been used in India for thousands of years. It is said to have antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

It is effective for killing mosquitoes, mites, fleas, different types of ticks, and internal parasites. Note that it is not effective against tapeworms or brown dog ticks.

It may also be useful for relieving itchiness caused by insect bites, chafing, atopic dermatitis, ringworm, fungal infection, food allergies, and even some kinds of mange. This occurs because it kills the microbes which cause infections and infestations externally, and absorbs into the bloodstream when applied regularly to prevent them from recurring.

Neem oil may also be useful for improving dental health and supporting the immune system and liver.

How to use Neem Oil for your dog

Note that neem oil is potent and should be diluted before applying it to your dog Do not apply neem oil to sores and open wounds. Here are some ways it may be used:

Dabs

Dilute the neem oil in a light carrier oil such as olive oil or grapeseed oil (1:10). Use a cotton ball to dab areas prone to infection and infestation twice a week such as the head, tails, shoulders, ears, and flanks. You may also use it to soothe inflammation.

Neem oil shampoo

Mix your dog’s shampoo with a bit of neem oil a few minutes before use (1:1). Note that it will break down over time, so never mix an entire bottle. Allow the mixture to sit on your dog’s skin for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.

Neem Oil Spray

Make your own insect and pest repellent by mixing neem oil and warm water in a 1:10 ratio. Spray it all over your dog’s body immediately before heading outside.