Natural Remedies

Will Diatomaceous Earth hurt my dog if He Licks It?

Posted by Laurie (Il, Us) on 07/22/2015

I want to dust my small 11lb dog with Diatomaceous Earth for fleas but I'm afraid he will lick it. He licks everything immediately ..as soon as I apply it. If he were to lick DE, would it hurt his lungs or just hurt him because it's not wet? I read it's suppose to be wet to be ingested.

Replied by Theresa
Mpls., Mn
07/23/2015

Hey Laurie!

If your dog inhales DE it can cause irritation to the sinuses and lungs. Licking may be beneficial - can help eliminate intestinal parasites.

Replied by Wendy
Ohio
07/23/2015

According to this link, food-grade DE won't harm the pet if it eats some of it, since this link is says it can be added to his food.

http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/benefits-diatomaceous-earth/