Homemade Dog Grooming Sprays
A grooming mist can help control static and make brushing more comfortable, but anything applied to a dog’s coat must be safe if it is absorbed through the skin or licked off.
Why the original recipes have been changed
Older homemade recipes often recommended peppermint, eucalyptus, citrus, bergamot, lavender and other essential oils. These are no longer included on this page because the safety of a preparation depends on its concentration, formulation and the individual animal.
Oil and water do not remain evenly mixed without a suitable solubilising ingredient. Shaking a bottle does not guarantee that an essential oil has been safely diluted, and concentrated droplets may be sprayed directly onto the skin.
Extra care is required in homes with cats because cats are particularly vulnerable to several essential oils. A product sprayed onto a dog may be transferred to a cat through bedding, close contact or mutual grooming.
Plain Water Grooming Mist
For routine brushing, a very light mist of plain water is the simplest homemade option. It can help reduce static and prevent completely dry brushing.
Directions
- Wash and rinse the spray bottle thoroughly.
- Fill it with fresh drinking water.
- Adjust the nozzle to produce a very fine mist.
- Spray lightly over the coat or directly onto the brush.
- Brush the coat carefully in sections.
- Empty and rinse the bottle regularly to keep it clean.
The coat should be only lightly misted and not saturated. Never spray the dog’s face, eyes, ears, nose or mouth.
For Tangled or Difficult Coats
Plain water may not provide enough slip for a heavily coated or tangled dog. In this situation, use a detangling spray or conditioner specifically formulated and labelled for dogs.
Follow the manufacturer’s dilution and application instructions. Do not assume that a human hair product is suitable because canine skin has different requirements and the dog may lick the product from its coat.
Safe use of grooming products
Patch test first
When using a new canine grooming product, apply a small amount to a limited area and monitor the skin before using it more widely.
Avoid sensitive areas
Do not spray near the eyes, nose, mouth, inner ears, genitals, broken skin, surgical wounds or inflamed areas.
Use good ventilation
Apply sprays in a well-ventilated area and stop if the dog coughs, sneezes, becomes distressed or tries to move away.
Keep bottles secure
Label every bottle clearly and store it where animals and children cannot lick, chew or spill it.
Products to avoid
Do not add the following to a homemade dog grooming spray unless a veterinary surgeon with suitable knowledge has specifically advised you to use a properly formulated product:
- Peppermint essential oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Citrus or orange essential oils
- Bergamot essential oil
- Tea tree essential oil
- Pennyroyal essential oil
- Undiluted vinegar
- Human perfume or body spray
- Human hair conditioner
- Household cleaning or deodorising products
Rosemary or other homemade preparations should not be relied upon for flea prevention. Use a licensed flea treatment selected with advice from your veterinary practice.
Possible signs of a reaction
Stop using the product, prevent the dog from licking it and contact your veterinary practice if you notice:
- Redness, itching or sore skin
- Drooling or repeated licking
- Vomiting
- Coughing or breathing difficulties
- Weakness or unusual sleepiness
- Wobbliness, tremors or seizures
- Swelling of the face, lips or tongue
Sources and further information
This page provides general information only. If your dog has a skin condition, allergies, wounds, hair loss or persistent matting, seek advice from a qualified veterinary surgeon before applying a grooming product.