Is the smell of citronella harmful to dogs? Simply breathing in a candle’s fumes—citronella-scented or not—can be harmful to your dog, especially if your pup has asthma or any other breathing issues. “It is best to keep your pet away from citronella candles,” Matejka says.
Is it okay for dogs to inhale citronella? Besides having no mosquito-deterring citronella oil in it, as a member of the geranium family, they contain geraniol and linalool, both of which are highly toxic to dogs and could cause gastrointestinal distress.
Can I wear a citronella bracelet around my dog? Citronella is one of the most popular natural mosquito repellents. However, the citronella plant is toxic to dogs. Never use citronella candles, oils, and other products around your dog.
Why do dogs hate citronella? Citronella candles are used to keep bugs away from you, but they will have the same effect on your dog. The reason your dog hates the smell of citronella is that the smell is so close to citrus. Wag explains that lemongrass is the primary ingredient in citronella candles.