What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Candle

As much as we love our dogs for being playful, funny, and goofy, it may come at a price. Dogs are some of the most joyful creatures on earth, and nearly 40% of households in the US have one. However, with excitement also comes confusion. Statistics released in December 2022 by The Kennel Club show that dogs are 53 percent more likely to be treated for eating human food or objects that are poisonous to them. 

If you’re a dog owner or an owner of any pet, you may know the familiar feeling of terror when you realize they just ate something they weren’t supposed to. Now imagine it’s your favorite candle. So now the question you’re probably asking yourself is, “What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Candle?” and “Are candles bad for dogs?”. Fear not; let’s go over exactly why candles are bad for dogs and what to do if they ingest one. 

What Happens if My Dog Eats a Candle or a Wax Melt?

If your dog eats a candle or wax melt, it is important to call the vet immediately. In most cases, the wax will pass through their system without causing any damage. However, if there are other substances, such as fragrances or additives, they can be toxic and cause digestive issues in dogs. Additionally, if your dog ate a large amount of wax, it could cause a blockage in their intestines and require medical attention. 

To avoid this situation, look for pet-friendly candles free of toxins and fragrances to ensure your dog’s safety. Luckily, at Pet Safe Candles, you can be sure your pup will stay out of harm’s way when using our dog-safe alternatives to traditional candles. Plus, these dog-friendly candles come in a variety of scents — including peach nectar — so you can enjoy the same fragrances as regular candles without having to worry about your dog’s safety. Ultimately, always keep an eye on your dog when candles or wax melts are lit or present to ensure they do not try to eat them. Taking these precautions can help create a safe environment for both you and your dog.

By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of harm to your dog if it accidentally consumes a candle. However, it’s important to note that if your dog has ingested a candle or wax melt and is showing any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it is best to contact your veterinarian immediately. With the proper precautions and a quick response, you can help ensure your dog’s safety if they ever eat a candle or wax melt.

Is Candle Wax Digestible?

Candle wax is not digestible and should not be consumed. Candles typically contain paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum or shale oil. This type of wax does not dissolve in the stomach and can obstruct it if ingested.

It’s important to note that tea tree candles may still contain some paraffin wax. Tea tree candles are made with a blend of soybean oil and paraffin wax. Therefore, if a tea tree candle is accidentally swallowed, it can still cause an obstruction and should be treated as a medical emergency.

Overall, candle wax is not digestible and should be avoided. By opting for soy or beeswax-based candles, you can enjoy your candles without worrying about potential health risks. However, if a candle is accidentally swallowed, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. Doing so can help minimize the risk of experiencing any complications from ingesting the wax.

Which Candles Are Toxic to Dogs?

Unfortunately, some candle types and waxes can be harmful if ingested by a pet, such as paraffin wax, scented candles (including those made with essential oils), lead wicks, and any containing heavy metals or dye. Furthermore, if your dog eats any of these items, it could cause health issues ranging from mild gastrointestinal distress to severe problems requiring medical attention.

The best pet-friendly alternative is an all-natural soy wax candle that does not contain any synthetic fragrances or dyes. Soy candles are also a good choice because they burn cleanly and with little to no soot residue. Additionally, soy candles are non-toxic and biodegradable, making them an excellent choice for pet owners looking to create a pet-friendly home environment.

Training Tips to Candle-Proof Your Dog

While knowing what to do in an emergency is crucial, prevention is always the best medicine. A little bit of training and management can go a long way in keeping your curious canine away from your candles. These practical tips can keep your home cozy and your dog safe.

• Master the “Leave It” Command: A rock-solid “leave it” command is one of the most valuable tools in your training arsenal. It teaches your dog to ignore a tempting item on cue. Practice this regularly with low-value items and gradually work your way up to more tempting things (like a tasty-smelling, unlit candle).
• Reward the Good Behavior: Instead of only reacting when your dog shows interest, reward them for ignoring the candle. If you’re relaxing with a candle lit and your dog is settled calmly on their bed, praise them and give them a treat. This teaches them that good things happen when they stay away.
• Create “No-Go” Zones: Teach your dog that certain surfaces, like coffee tables or mantels where you place candles, are off-limits. Consistency is key here. Every time they put their paws up, gently correct them and redirect their attention elsewhere.
• Redirect Their Curiosity: If you see your dog sniffing around a candle, don’t just yell “No!” Instead, redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy or a fun puzzle feeder. This gives their brain and mouth something safe to do.
• Supervision is Everything: Ultimately, the most foolproof method is supervision. Never leave your dog unattended in a room with a lit candle, no matter how well-trained they are. A moment of boredom or a particularly enticing scent can override even the best training.

Are Some Dogs More Vulnerable Than Others?

You might be wondering if your dog’s breed or personality makes them more likely to sample a candle. The short answer is yes — certain traits can definitely make a dog more susceptible to this dangerous curiosity. While any dog can get into trouble, here are some things to look out for:

• Puppies and Adolescents: This is the most obvious group. Puppies explore the world with their mouths. They are still learning what is food and what isn’t, making a colorful, nice-smelling candle a prime target for a taste test.
• The “Super Chewers”: Some dogs are just born to chew. If your dog regularly destroys toys, furniture, or other household objects, they are at a higher risk. To them, a block of candle wax might just look like a new and interesting chew toy.
• Highly Food-Motivated Dogs: Does your dog live for mealtime and follow every crumb that falls to the floor? These food-driven pups are particularly susceptible to scented candles. A candle that smells like vanilla bean, pumpkin spice, or apple pie can easily be mistaken for a real treat.
• Bored or Anxious Pups: A dog without sufficient mental or physical stimulation will often create its own “fun,” which can include destructive behaviors such as chewing on non-food items. Similarly, some anxious dogs chew as a self-soothing mechanism.

When it comes to breed, it’s less about a specific breed and more about inherent traits. For example, retriever breeds like Labradors and Goldens were bred to carry things in their mouths, so they may be more prone to picking up and chewing on objects. Scent hounds like Beagles might be irresistibly drawn to a fragrant candle. However, the bottom line is that you know your dog best. Paying close attention to their individual personality and quirks is the best way to assess their risk.

At Pet Safe Candles, We Value Your Dog’s Safety

Pet Safe Candles is the perfect solution for dog owners worried about their pets eating a lit candle. Our dog-safe candles are made with all-natural ingredients and come in an easy-to-use container that prevents your dog from getting close enough to eat them. You can relax knowing that your dog is safe around our candles. Our products are ethically sourced and rigorously tested to meet the highest standards of pet safety. 

We offer a wide selection of scented, unscented, and even aromatherapy options, so you’re sure to find something just right for your pet’s needs. Our amber oak moss wax melts are specially formulated to be dog-safe and pet-safe, so you can enjoy them safely in your home.

Unlike conventional candles that use synthetic fragrances, our candles and wax melts are 100% natural, using only pure essential oils without artificial additives. Plus, our candles burn longer than regular ones, providing hours of peace of mind and excellent illumination. 

Get dog-safe candles at Pet Safe Candles and give your dog the gift of safety. Shop now!