Can You Use E45 Cream on Dogs? [Updated Guide]

e45 cream is a popular household name, especially in the UK. It has a wide variety of uses but is mainly used for dry or itchy skin conditions. e45 proves effective and has maintained a high demand as one of Britain’s most popular skincare products for many years. Clinically proven to treat and soothe dry, itching, flaking, chapped, rough, calloused skin including sunburn. So we know it works great for us but what about dogs?

To answer the question e45 can be used on dogs and at times is an effective remedy for a variety of skin conditions. Many people have used e45 on their dogs and have shared success including recommendations from some veterinarians. I’ve seen some blogs talking about how e45 only softens skin and should not be used. These claims are totally wrong. It was originally created in hospitals and is scientifically proven to treat a wide variety of skin conditions.

With all this being said we recommend that you buy specific products that have been formulated especially for dogs. (We have included some examples at the bottom of the page).

As E45 is an emollient, it seals moisture. Paraffin creates a breathable and hypoallergenic layer over damaged skin which protects it from irritants whilst lanolin works to heal and soften the upper skin layers.

That being said e45 is not FDA-approved for use on dogs, and there are many alternatives that are specifically designed for dogs that should be used instead if feasible. e45 should be used as a backup if specifically designed dog creams or sprays are not available. 

e45 is known for its simplistic ingredients including paraffin and lanolin. It has an anti-inflammatory effect that is known to soothe the skin and prevent itchiness.

Generally, products that are designed for humans should not be used for pets. Although with the correct supervision and application e45 can be used effectively on dogs. We should however focus on identifying the underlining issues which are causing the irritations to our dog’s skin. e45 is not a long-term solution, it should be seen more as a way to soften the symptoms. 

Concerns About Using E45 Cream With Dogs

There are obviously concerns and precautions we should take when using e45 on dogs. We should take these into account and consider them seriously as there can be some potentially harmful effects depending on the nature of your dog.

• Licking and digesting the cream – Dogs have a habit of licking and scratching their wounds. If the cream is applied to an easily accessible place it’s quite likely that your dog will try to lick it. Digesting e45 clearly is not a good idea and this is where the issues arise. Digestion of any type of cream should be avoided and if you cannot guarantee that your dog won’t lick the area of application then you should hold off using it. 
• Open wounds and infections – e45 cream should 100% not be applied to areas of the skin which have open wounds or have an infection. The cream is designed to be used on the surface of the skin it should never be applied in areas where it can come into contact with your dog’s bloodstream.
• Hypersensitive skin – like humans some dogs are born with skin that is hypersensitive. If your dog is known to have skin conditions where the body overreacts you should avoid using any cream other than recommendations from a trained professional. 
• Quantity of application – e4 should only be applied in small amounts and be rubbed into the area to the point where it is absorbed by the skin. Large amounts will not produce greater results and will often just cause discomfort for your pet dog.

E45 Alternatives

There are many FDA-approved alternatives that are specifically designed for use on dogs. These depend on the nature of the issue, there are a number of creams and more commonly used sprays. Sprays are generally better for itchiness whilst creams are used for specific skin conditions. If you are having consistent issues with your dog I would recommend a visit to the vet first and foremost. A lot of the time there are underlying conditions that create these irritations which we are totally unaware of.

Other than sprays and creams there are a wide variety of products such as shampoos, tablets, and supplements that can be used depending on your preference. Can you use e45 on dogs? Yes, you can but you should use products specifically designed for dogs if and when possible. They’re relatively cheap and available at most supermarkets.

Recommendations for Itchiness/Skin Conditions in Dogs

Disclaimer: If you purchase any of the following items via links from our website we make a small commission which comes at zero cost to you. This in no way affects our recommendations. We rarely recommend products and the ones we do we know firsthand their quality.

Yunderm – Itching dog 

Yuderm itching dog spray is used for dogs with sensitive or itchy skin. It calms sensitive skin, reduces itching and scratching, and helps maintain healthy fur.

Tropiclean Shampoo for Pets – Medicated Itch Relief

pH Balanced, Soap Free, Paraben Free, and Dye Free. Made with naturally derived ingredients and safe when used as directed on puppies, kittens, dogs, and cats with sensitive skin 12 weeks or older.

Buckie & Cleo Dog Skin Cream – Natural Soothing Balm For Sore, Itchy, Dry, Or Irritated Skin

Good for everyday scratches and scrapes including dog bites, cuts, scabs, and insect bites. Bacuri Butter has anti-fungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.