Is Incense Bad for Dogs? A Clear Answer with Expert Knowledge

Incense has been used for centuries in various cultures and religions for spiritual and medicinal purposes. However, with the increasing popularity of aromatherapy, incense has also become a common household item to create a relaxing ambiance. While it may be a pleasant scent for humans, it’s still essential for us to wonder if incense is bad for dogs?

Some owners may want to use incense to cover up pet odors, but it’s important to note that dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, so it’s better to use a pet odor eliminator. The smoke and fragrance from incense can irritate their sensitive noses and airways, causing respiratory issues. Additionally, some types of incense may contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled by dogs.

Is Incense Harmful to Dogs? A Quick Dive Into the Science

Incense sticks, often used to fill a room with pleasant fragrances, are made up of a blend of herbal and wood powder, fragrance materials, adhesive powder, and a bamboo stick. But, according to a study in the Journal of Clinical and Molecular Allergy, when burned, they release more than just a soothing scent. Incense smoke contains a cocktail of particles and gasses that can be harmful to health.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s in the smoke:

• Particulate Matter (PM): Burning incense produces a significant amount of particulate matter. In fact, it gives off over four times the amount of particulates than a cigarette does when burned.
• Harmful Gasses: Incense smoke releases various gasses, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), to name a few.
• Toxic Compounds: The smoke also contains volatile organic compounds like benzene, toluene, and xylenes. Plus, it emits aldehydes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other potentially harmful organic compounds.

These pollutants aren’t just a theoretical concern. In areas with frequent incense burning, like certain temples, the air pollution has been observed to have negative health effects. When inhaled, these pollutants can disrupt the respiratory system. They’ve been linked to allergies, skin reactions, and even some cancers.

For our furry friends, with their keen senses and smaller bodies, such exposure could be concerning. As always, it’s best to be cautious and ensure a well-ventilated environment when burning incense, or consider alternativ-e-archive methods to keep your space smelling fresh.

Understanding Incense

Incense is a fragrant substance that is commonly used in religious ceremonies, meditation, and aromatherapy. It is made from a combination of aromatic plant materials, including resins, woods, and herbs, and is often burned to release its scent.

While incense can have many benefits for humans, it can be harmful to dogs if they are exposed to it for prolonged periods of time. This is because the smoke that is produced by burning incense can irritate a dog’s respiratory system, causing coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.

In addition to respiratory problems, incense can also cause skin irritation and allergies in dogs. This is because the fragrant oils that are used to make incense can be irritating to a dog’s skin, causing redness, itching, and inflammation.

It is important to note that not all types of incense are created equal. Some types of incense are made with more natural and less harmful ingredients, while others may contain chemicals and synthetic fragrances that can be more harmful to dogs. However, dogs are more sensitive to specific essential oils in incense, such as sandalwood, and these can be toxic to dogs.

There’s also a larger context to consider when assessing what our pets are exposed to on a daily basis.

According to a study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), our pets, especially dogs and cats, are exposed to high levels of harmful chemicals, similar to what humans face. Just like kids can get sick from polluted water or air, pets can too. And because pets age faster than humans, they can get health issues from these chemicals much quicker. This is why it’s so important for your dog’s health to reduce the amount of volatile chemicals in their environment.

Note: If you are considering using incense in your home, it is important to take precautions to protect your dog from the harmful effects of the smoke. This can include burning incense in a well-ventilated area, using natural and non-toxic incense, and keeping your dog away from the area where the incense is burning.

Potential Hazards of Incense to Dogs

Incense is a popular household item used to create a pleasant aroma. However, research shows it can pose a potential risk to humans and dogs. Here are some of the potential hazards of incense to dogs:

Ingestion Risks

Incense can be toxic to dogs if ingested. Ingestion of incense can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Some types of incense may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs, such as essential oils. Essential oils are toxic to dogs and can cause a range of symptoms, including respiratory distress, seizures, and even death.

Inhalation Risks

Inhaling incense smoke can also be harmful to dogs. Incense smoke can irritate a dog’s respiratory system, causing coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Inhaling large amounts of incense smoke can also lead to more serious respiratory problems such as recurring colds, bronchitis or pneumonia.

Incense can also refer to “herbal incense,” which sometimes contains synthetic cannabinoids. Studies show that these and other marijuana-related products can be very toxic to dogs, especially when inhaled. 

In fact, research shows that inhaling smoke in general is very bad for dogs. And, burnt incense produces four times the particulate matter (PM) of cigarette smoke. Particulate matter refers to the tiny particles or droplets in the air that can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially causing health issues.

A study published in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that dogs with respiratory diseases were more frequently exposed to incense burning compared to control dogs (30% vs. 13%).

Eye Irritation Risks

Burning incense can also cause eye irritation in dogs. The smoke can irritate the eyes, causing redness, swelling, and discharge. Prolonged exposure to incense smoke can also lead to more serious eye problems, such as conjunctivitis.

Symptoms of Incense Poisoning in Dogs

Incense can be harmful to dogs if ingested or inhaled. The symptoms of incense poisoning in dogs can vary depending on the type of incense and the amount ingested or inhaled. Some of the common symptoms of incense poisoning in dogs include:

• Vomiting;
• Diarrhea;
• Coughing;
• Sneezing;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Lethargy;
• Loss of appetite;
• Tremors; and
• Seizures.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog after exposure to incense, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. In severe cases, incense poisoning can be fatal.

It is important to note that some types of incense, such as those containing essential oils or synthetic fragrances, can be more toxic to dogs than others. Additionally, dogs with pre-existing respiratory or neurological conditions may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of incense.

To prevent incense poisoning in dogs, it is best to avoid using incense in the home or to use it in a well-ventilated area away from pets. If you do use incense, be sure to keep it out of reach of pets and to dispose of it properly.

Which Types of Incense are Most Dangerous for Dogs?

When it comes to incense and dogs, some types of incense can be more dangerous than others. The following types of incense have been known to cause harm to dogs:

• Frankincense: This type of incense contains compounds called boswellic acids, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs.
• Myrrh: Myrrh contains terpenes and resins that can cause irritation to a dog’s skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Ingestion can also lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues.
• Sandalwood: Sandalwood contains santalols, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and gastrointestinal upset in dogs.
• Patchouli: Patchouli contains patchoulol, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, and digestive issues in dogs.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, which can cause irritation to a dog’s skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Ingestion can also lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues. 

It is important to note that these are not the only types of incense that can be harmful to dogs. Some dogs may be more sensitive to certain types of incense than others, and even small amounts of certain compounds can be dangerous.

If you suspect that your dog has ingested or come into contact with any type of incense, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. They can help you determine the best course of action to keep your dog safe and healthy.

Treatment Options for Incense Poisoning

It is important to note that home remedies or over-the-counter medications should not be used to treat incense poisoning in dogs. These can be dangerous and potentially worsen the symptoms.

If you suspect that your dog has been exposed to incense or is experiencing symptoms of incense poisoning, contact your veterinarian immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Preventive Measures

Safe Alternatives

If you want to create a pleasant aroma in your home without putting your dog’s health at risk, there are many safe alternativ-e-archives to incense. Here are some options to consider:

• Dried Herb Bundles: Dried bundles of herbs like sage, lavender, and rosemary can be lightly heated or burned to release a subtle scent. This is an ancient practice known as “smudging.”
• Soy or Coconut Wax Candles: These are natural alternativ-e-archives to paraffin wax candles. They burn cleaner and can be found unscented or scented with natural oils.
• Simmer Pots: Fill a pot with water, add slices of citrus fruits, herbs, or spices like cinnamon and cloves, and let it simmer on the stove. This method can fill your home with a delightful aroma.
• Potpourri: A mixture of dried petals and spices placed in a bowl can be a great way to add a gentle fragrance to a room. Refresh the scent by adding a few drops of essential oils. Just make sure to keep the potpourri out of your dog’s reach as it is toxic for dogs to ingest it.
• Bamboo Charcoal: These are natural air purifiers. While they don’t emit a fragrance, bamboo charcoal can help neutralize odors in your home.
• Beeswax candles: Beeswax candles are a safe alternativ-e-archive to traditional candles and incense. They are made from natural materials and do not contain any harmful chemicals.
• Fresh flowers: Fresh flowers can add a pleasant scent to your home without putting your dog’s health at risk. However, it is important to keep flowers out of your dog’s reach, as some plants can be toxic to dogs.

Creating a Dog-Safe Environment

In addition to using safe alternativ-e-archives to incense, there are other steps you can take to create a dog-safe environment in your home:

• Keep incense and other scented products out of your dog’s reach: Store incense and other scented products in a secure location where your dog cannot access them.
• Use a high-quality air purifier: An air purifier can help remove harmful particles from the air, including those produced by incense.
• Monitor your dog’s behavior: If you notice that your dog is coughing, sneezing, or exhibiting other signs of respiratory distress, it may be a sign that the incense is bothering them. Remove the incense from your home and consult with a veterinarian if your dog’s symptoms persist.

By taking these preventive measures, you can enjoy a pleasant scent in your home without putting your dog’s health at risk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

In conclusion, while incense may provide a calming and relaxing atmosphere for humans, it can be harmful to dogs. The smoke and fragrance from incense can cause irritation to a dog’s respiratory system, leading to coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. In addition, some types of incense may contain toxic ingredients that can be harmful if ingested by dogs.

It is important for dog owners to be aware of the potential risks associated with burning incense around their pets. If incense is burned in the home, it is recommended to keep dogs in a well-ventilated area, away from the smoke. It is also important to choose incense made from natural ingredients and avoid those that contain chemicals or synthetic fragrances.

While there is limited research on the specific effects of incense on dogs, it is generally recommended to err on the side of caution and avoid using it around pets. If a dog does experience symptoms of respiratory distress after exposure to incense, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

Overall, while incense may be a popular choice for creating a relaxing environment, it is important for dog owners to consider the potential risks to their pets before lighting up. By taking the necessary precautions and choosing natural, non-toxic options, dog owners can create a safe and peaceful home environment for both themselves and their furry companions.

Meet Your Experts

Tamsin De La Harpe

Author

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.

Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs.