4 DIY Dog Nose Balm Ideas (Safe & Handcrafted)

As someone who adores animals and lives with a range of pets, from dogs to cats and even rabbits, I’m always looking for ways to pamper them and keep them healthy. One thing I’ve noticed with my dogs, especially during certain seasons, is that their noses can get dry and cracked. It’s not just an aesthetic thing—dry noses can make dogs uncomfortable, and that’s something I want to avoid for my furry friends. So, I started experimenting with DIY dog nose balms, and I have to say, it’s been a game-changer! Not only are these balms simple and fun to make, but they also use natural ingredients, so I know exactly what’s going on my dog’s sensitive nose.

Nose Balm for Dogs: Is It Advisable?

Yes, dog nose balm is not just advisable—it’s often necessary! Dogs’ noses can become dry and cracked due to various reasons, such as exposure to the sun, cold weather, or even certain allergies. A dry nose can make it uncomfortable for dogs to sniff around (which is basically their favorite hobby) and can sometimes lead to more severe issues like infections if left untreated. A well-moisturized nose is crucial for keeping them comfortable and healthy.

DIY nose balms are a great way to take care of your dog’s nose naturally, without harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients. Plus, making your own balm means you can customize it based on your dog’s specific needs, whether they need extra moisture or a little sun protection.

DIY Dog Nose Balm: Step by Step

Let’s get into the fun part—making your own dog nose balm! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide that will walk you through the entire process.

Materials Needed

• Beeswax pellets: $5–$8
• Coconut oil: $5–$7
• Shea butter: $6–$10
• Olive oil: $3–$6
• Small containers or tins: $3–$5
• Optional: Vitamin E oil, lavender essential oil (dog-safe): $5–$10

Total cost: Around $10–$15, depending on what you already have on hand.

Phase 1: Melting the Ingredients

Start by melting the beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter in a double boiler. You’ll want to use about 2 tablespoons of each, but you can adjust the amounts depending on how much balm you want to make. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure everything is melting smoothly.

Phase 2: Adding Oils and Optional Extras

Once the mixture is fully melted, remove it from the heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a few drops of vitamin E oil if you have it. If you want to add a scent or some extra soothing power, you can add 2–3 drops of dog-safe essential oils like lavender. Stir well to make sure all the ingredients are combined.

Phase 3: Pouring and Cooling

Carefully pour the melted mixture into small containers or tins. Let the balm cool and solidify at room temperature for a few hours. Once it’s fully set, it’s ready to use! You can store the tins in a cool, dry place or even in the fridge to keep them fresh for longer.

3 Easy DIY Dog Nose Balm Ideas

Now that you know the basics, let’s explore a few variations you can try based on your dog’s needs. Each one is simple to make and uses natural, dog-friendly ingredients.

1. Basic Coconut Oil Nose Balm

This is the simplest and quickest recipe, perfect for when you want something moisturizing but don’t have a lot of ingredients on hand. All you need is equal parts coconut oil and olive oil. Melt the coconut oil, mix in the olive oil, and pour it into a tin. Let it cool, and you’re done!

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer and helps soothe dry, cracked skin. This balm costs about $5 to make and is ideal for dogs with mild dryness or as an everyday moisturizing balm.

2. Soothing Shea Butter Balm

If your dog’s nose is really dry or even cracking, this shea butter balm will provide extra soothing moisture. Use 2 tablespoons of shea butter, 1 tablespoon of beeswax, and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Melt the ingredients together, then stir in 1 teaspoon of olive oil. This thicker balm helps seal in moisture and provides a protective barrier for the nose.

This costs around $10 and is perfect for dogs with severely dry noses or those who spend a lot of time outdoors.

3. Healing Balm with Vitamin E and Lavender

For dogs with sensitive skin or noses that need a bit of healing, try adding vitamin E and lavender oil to your balm. Start with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of beeswax, and 1 tablespoon of shea butter. After melting, stir in 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil and 2 drops of lavender essential oil. Lavender is soothing and anti-inflammatory, while vitamin E helps repair skin.

This balm costs about $12 and is great for dogs with irritated or inflamed noses.

Dos & Don’ts in Dog Nose Balms

• Do: Always use dog-safe ingredients like beeswax, coconut oil, and shea butter. These are gentle and moisturizing for sensitive skin.
• Do: Apply the balm regularly, especially during harsh weather or after your dog has been outside for a long time.
• Don’t: Use essential oils that are toxic to dogs, like tea tree or eucalyptus. Stick to dog-safe options like lavender.
• Do: Store the balm in a cool, dry place and make fresh batches as needed.
• Don’t: Forget to monitor your dog for any allergic reactions, especially if they’ve never used a balm before.

FAQs

1. How often should I apply nose balm to my dog?

It depends on how dry their nose is, but typically once a day or after being outdoors is a good starting point. You can apply it more frequently during extreme weather conditions.

2. Can I use human lip balm on my dog’s nose?

No, human products often contain chemicals or ingredients that are harmful to dogs. Always stick to dog-safe balms with natural ingredients.

3. What should I do if my dog licks the balm off?

Don’t worry! The ingredients in these DIY balms are safe for dogs to ingest in small amounts. Try distracting your dog with a treat or toy after applying the balm to give it time to absorb.

4. What’s the best way to apply the balm?

Use your fingers to gently rub the balm into your dog’s nose. If your dog is squirmy, you can also try using a soft cloth or cotton pad to apply it.

Creating your own DIY dog nose balm is not only a fun and creative project, but it’s also a fantastic way to take care of your pet’s health naturally. Whether your dog has a dry nose from the cold winter months or just needs a little extra moisture, these balms are easy to make and will keep your dog feeling comfortable and happy. So gather your ingredients, get mixing, and show your dog some love with a homemade nose balm they’ll appreciate!