How to Make Dog Cologne

If your canine companion has an odor that only a dog could love, it may be time for a little freshening up. A dog bath can be time consuming and if you have a busy schedule you may not have time to indulge your dog with a full bath. Sometimes a bottle of dog cologne can be a good substitute. The only problem is dog colognes tend to have ingredients that can irritate your dog's delicate skin and mucous membranes. Why not try the healthier alternative of making your own? It's a relatively quick and easy process to make dog cologne at home:

Items Needed:

• 3 ounces of purified water
• 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin
  
• 1 teaspoon almond oil
• Bottles of essential oils of your choice
• Spritz bottle

Gather Your Supplies

The best place to get your supplies is at your local health food store or natural food market. They generally carry the supplies you need plus a nice selection of essential oils. Spend some time in the store experimenting with different combinations of essential oils using testers and a cotton ball to create various scent combinations. You'll want to choose essential oils that aren't too overpowering since dogs have a very keen sense of smell and may find the odor to be irritating. Lavender is a good scent for relaxation while peppermint essential oil gives a fresh, energizing scent. While you're there, skim through a few books on aromatherapy to determine the benefits of each scent. Generally, you'll want to a maximum of two or three essential oils to create your dog cologne.

Determine the Best Ratio of Essential Oils

Once you have your supplies home, spend a little time experimenting to determine what ratio of essential oils gives the most pleasing scent. Write down your chosen ratios to use in the basic recipe above.

Combine your Ingredients

You'll want to use around fifteen drops of essential oil with the above recipe. Add the drops of your chosen essential oils in the ratio you selected to a glass bowl. In a separate glass bowl, mix together the olive oil, vegetable glycerine, and purified water. Slowly add the essential oils and stir thoroughly.

Place your newly mixed dog cologne into a spritz bottle. Be sure to shake it thoroughly before spraying it on your dog. Don't be tempted to use this cologne spritz on a cat since cats can be quite sensitive to the effects of essential oils.

Your newly mixed dog cologne is all natural without harsh ingredients that can cause skin irritation. Be sure to spray your dog lightly to avoid overpowering him with scent and avoid spraying around his eyes or mouth. Your dog will smell fresh and natural without having to undergo a time consuming, messy bath. It's a solution you both can live with.