Over 198,000 TikTok hashtags show DIY pet skin remedies are trending, but vets caution they may damage dogs’ skin.
On TikTok, thousands of pet owners are sharing and trying home treatments, such as apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, and essential oils, to soothe itchy or irritated skin, with over 198,000 hashtags highlighting just how popular these trends have become.
Just like a baby’s skin, a dog’s skin is delicate and easily disrupted. Even so-called ‘natural’ products can damage the skin barrier, making dogs even more prone to irritation, infection, and flare-ups.
With this in mind, Dr Tanya Leslie, Veterinary Advisor for DOUXO, explains why some popular home remedies can be dangerous and how owners can safely manage sensitive skin in dogs.
While certain ingredients are often labelled as natural, they can negatively impact a dog’s skin:
Coconut Oil Misuse
Coconut oil forms a heavy layer that, if used in too large quantities, can trap moisture and heat against the skin. While this might be tolerated on hairless human skin, in dogs, it matts up their fur, trapping in heat and moisture against the already disrupted skin.his encourages yeast and bacteria to multiply, which can worsen irritation rather than soothe it.
Essential Oils
Even oils considered ‘gentle’ for humans can be dangerous for dogs. Dogs have thinner skin than humans, so some of these oils can be directly irritating to their them. In addition, dogs don’t have the same liver enzymes that humans do, so if the oils are absorbed through the skin or they if lick the oils off, they are unable to process them as humans would, which can lead to things like vomiting, tremors or collapse. Bear in mind that dogs also have a far greater sense of smell than humans. So what might smell fresh and light to us is likely to be overwhelming to our dogs.
Apple Cider Vinegar
This is sometimes recommended as a natural antiseptic; however, the acidity can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance. A dog’s skin barrier relies on a delicate pH level in order to maintain healthy bacteria and prevent irritation. Applying vinegar directly, especially to already inflamed or broken skin, can cause stinging, dryness, and further barrier damage, delaying healing.
Potential Skin Effects
Using these products improperly may lead to several skin problems:
The skin barrier is composed of three interconnected parts:
Whenever one part of the skin barrier is breached, dogs may develop signs such as flaky or dry skin, hot spots, redness, and scratching.
Tanya Leslie, Veterinary Advisor for Douxo, adds:
“Dog owners sometimes reach for home remedies because they assume ones with natural ingredients aren’t harmful, but these can also compromise a dog’s skin barrier.”
“I’d recommend using clinically proven and veterinarian-formulated products like the DOUXO® S3 range that soothe itching and protect the skin, prevent flare-ups, while promoting long-term skin health. Simple routines, like rinsing your dog after a walk and gently wiping down their coat, can also help remove allergens before they trigger irritation.”
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