Getting oil out of a dog’s fur
As much as we try to keep our dogs out of harm’s way, they have a knack for finding trouble when we least expect it. One common hazard that dogs often encounter is petroleum-based oils, which can easily spill onto floors or leak from cars and machinery. Petroleum-based products such as motor oil, and engine oil are tricky to remove from your dog’s fur but should be removed quickly to prevent any health complications.
If your dog has come into contact with these oils, it’s crucial to take action quickly to prevent the oil from causing further harm.
Before you begin
Before attempting to wash your dog, check to see if he has ingested any of the oil. If he has licked a petroleum-based oil, this can potentially lead to petroleum poisoning and cause complicated health issues and he should be rushed to the vet immediately.
Additionally, Antifreeze is fatal to dogs, even in tiny doses. If any antifreeze gets on your dog’s fur, we recommend going straight to the vet so he can be thoroughly checked and quickly treated in case any of the substance was ingested.
What materials do I need to remove oil from my dog’s fur?
- Bathtub or a plastic tub that fits your dog
- Mild dishwasher soap (such as Dawn)
Note: Our guide recommends using dishwashing soap to remove oil – this is a one-off use as dishwasher soap is designed to remove oils and grease, making it the best solution for removing oil. Washing your dog in dishwashing soap should not be done regularly it can as it strips away the natural oils that keep your dog’s coat healthy and shiny, leading to skin issues. To see a list of shampoos we do recommend and approved by groomers, visit our best dog shampoos guide.
Step-by-step guide on how to remove oil from dog fur
- Begin by using paper towels to gently absorb or wipe away any excess oil from your dog’s fur.
- Fill a bathtub with warm water and add an emulsifying dishwashing soap that’s designed to cut through grease and oil, such as Dawn.
- Carefully place your dog in the tub, ensuring its coat is thoroughly soaked with water.
- Lather up the soap solution and work it into your dog’s fur, making sure to cover every inch from their skin to the tips of their hair.
- Rinse your dog thoroughly, ensuring that all of the soap is removed from their coat. Repeat the rinsing process if needed.
- Check your dog’s coat to see if there are any remaining oil or soap residues. If there are, repeat the washing process until all of the substances are completely removed.
- Dry your dog with a towel.
When to seek professional help
If your dog’s coat has been contaminated with oil, it’s important to act quickly to remove it. In most cases, following the steps for removing oil from your dog’s coat should be effective. However, there are situations where it may be necessary to seek professional help.
For instance, if your dog is drenched in oil, and it’s difficult to remove, immediately professional help from a dog groomer or a veterinarian. If the oil has penetrated deep into your dog’s coat or skin, it may be challenging to remove it completely on your own and cause more complicated issues if not completely removed.
Also, if your dog has sensitive skin or is prone to skin allergies. If your dog has a history of skin issues, using a dishwashing soap or shampoo that’s not designed for dogs can irritate their skin and worsen the condition.
My dog has ingested oil – what do I do?
If your dog has ingested oil while licking or grooming their coat, it can cause digestive issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea or worst case, petroleum poisoning. In this case, it’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately, especially if your dog is showing any signs of discomfort or pain.
Can I use regular shampoo to wash my dog’s coat to remove oil?
We do not recommend regular shampoo, as it is not formulated to effectively cut through and remove oil from your dog’s coat, which can lead to further skin and coat problems.
Instead, you should use an emulsifying dishwashing soap that’s designed to cut through grease and oil. This type of soap is specifically formulated to break down and remove oily residues from your dog’s coat without damaging its skin or coat.
Can I use scissors to cut out the oil from my dog’s fur?
Never use scissors to cut out oily substances from your dog’s fur coat. If your dog struggles while you cut, you risk cutting your dog’s skin, leading to further complications and a vet visit.
Other resources
We have other guides on how to clean substances from your dog:
