If you are a dog lover and a candle lover, you might wonder if candles are safe for your furry friends. After all, you want to enjoy the cozy ambiance and pleasant aroma of candles without harming your pup’s health or well-being.
Are Candles Safe for Dogs? The answer is: it depends. We will explain what makes a candle safe or unsafe for dogs, and how to choose the best candles for your home and your pet.
Wax
A lot of candles on the market are made with paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, coal, or oil shale. Paraffin wax can release toxic chemicals when burned, such as benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde. These chemicals can irritate your dog’s respiratory system, cause allergic reactions, or even increase the risk of cancer.
Soy wax, beeswax, and vegetable wax are all safe options. These waxes are biodegradable and do not release harmful chemicals when burned. They also burn cleaner and longer than paraffin wax.
Wick
The wick is the part of the candle that holds the flame. Some wicks are made with metal cores, such as lead, zinc, or tin. Metal wicks can emit harmful metals into the air when burned, which can also affect your dog’s health.
The wicks of safe candles are made with cotton or wood, which do not contain metal cores or chemicals.
Dye
The dye is the substance that gives the candle its color. Some dyes are synthetic and contain artificial colors, which can also release toxic substances when burned.
The dyes of safe candles are natural and plant-based, such as turmeric, beetroot, or indigo.
Fragrance
The fragrance is the scent that the candle emits when burned. Some candles are scented with synthetic fragrances or essential oils, which can also be harmful to dogs. Synthetic fragrances can contain phthalates, which are chemicals that act as plasticizers and can disrupt your dog’s endocrine system. Essential oils can contain compounds that are toxic to dogs, such as phenols, ketones, and terpenes.
Some common essential oils that are toxic to dogs include:
- Wintergreen
- Tea tree
- Peppermint
- Pine
- Sweet birch
- Cinnamon
- Citrus
Conclusion
The good news is that there are many candles on the market that are safe for dogs. These candles are made with natural and non-toxic ingredients. Wander Fragrances was founded by a dog mom. We strictly follow the non-toxic list of to make sure every burn is clean and healthy for you and your furry friends.
Make sure you follow some safety tips when burning them around your pets. Never leave lit candles unattended, and keep candles out of reach of dogs or children. If your dog shows any symptoms of irritation, allergy, or poisoning, it's best to check with your veterinarian immediately.