Dogs and House Cleaning Products: Safety Tips

Did you know that some cleaning products can be toxic to dogs? Here are some essential safety tips to keep your dog safe and your house clean!

Pay attention to the labels 

Many cleaning products contain chemicals that can be harmful to dogs if ingested or inhaled. Some of the most common hazardous ingredients include:

• Bleach: Can irritate the skin and respiratory system. If ingested, it may result in serious gastrointestinal issues.
• Ammonia: May cause irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory system.
• Phenols: Found in disinfectants, these can be toxic if ingested and can lead to liver damage.
• Essential Oils: While natural, some essential oils (like tea tree oil, eucalyptus and citrus oils) can be toxic to dogs.

Before using any cleaning product, always check the label for harmful ingredients. Labels and packaging usually tell you if a product can be used around pets and sometimes gives indications on how to use it safely. For instance, some products can be toxic at the moment they are being used but it becomes inoffensive once it has completely dried.

Choose pet-safe cleaning products

One of the best ways to ensure your dog’s safety is to use pet-safe cleaning products. Nowadays there are more and more non-toxic cleaning brands. Look for products that are labelled as “pet-safe” or “non-toxic.” You can also use some everyday items that work great for cleaning, like:

• Vinegar: A natural disinfectant that can be used to clean surfaces and eliminate odours.
• Baking Soda: Effective for deodorising carpets and fabrics.
• Castile Soap: A gentle soap that can be diluted for various cleaning tasks.

Keep products out of reach

Just like you would do with a toddler in the house! Dogs are curious, they love to sniff, lick and play with anything. The best way to prevent any hazard is to store your cleaning supplies in a cupboard that is out of reach, or to have a lock on the cupboard. When cleaning, try to do so in a separate area from your dog or keep them in a different room until the cleaning is complete.

If you suspect your dog has been exposed to harmful cleaning products, contact your vet or an emergency animal clinic right away.