Summer is on its way, which means mosquitoes are too.
This is the time of year when many pet owners are searching for safe and effective ways to protect their dog from insects and common summer pests.
I've tested many different homemade bug spray for dogs, but many were not effective.
It's unlikely that any natural remedy will be as effective as chemical-filled commercial products.
Due to their strong chemical formulations, such commercial products are formulated to be very effective at killing pests, but they can also have some nasty side effects and be dangerous to dogs.
The natural homemade mosquito repellent recipes that I'm sharing today are the type of natural mixtures that I have tried with my own pets many times while fighting off bugs.
I've found them to be effective against the most common insects, at least in the area of Maine (where I live), including mosquitoes.
How to Make Homemade Bug Spray for Dogs
Homemade Bug Spray for Dogs with Essential Oils
Essential oils are becoming very popular in both the human and pet medical fields.
Most essential oils are non-toxic to dogs, but some of them can indeed be harmful.
Before using any kind of essential oils with your dog, you should do your research and discuss it with your veterinarian.
It's important to always dilute essential oils before applying them to your dog's skin.
Straight oils could cause skin irritation in dogs.
Carrier oils can be used to dilute essential oils and help them absorb into the dog's skin.
Some of the most common carrier oils are:
- Coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
- Grapeseed oil
Below are two of my favorite essential oils-based bug spray recipes for dogs.
Recipe #1
In a spray bottle, combine:
- 2 oz. of carrier oil OR witch hazel
- 15 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil (e.g. Artizen)
- 6 drops peppermint essential oil (e.g. Healing Solutions)
- 6 drops cedarwood essential oil (e.g. Artizen)
Be sure to shake the bottle well before every use.
Spray this homemade bug spray for dogs on your pup every 2-3 days.
You'll notice when the fragrance begins to wear off.
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, you may want to spray him daily.
Recipe #2
In a spray bottle, combine:
- 1/2 cup witch hazel
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp. rubbing alcohol
- 10 drops rosemary essential oil (e.g. Healing Solutions)
- 20 drops lavender essential oil (e.g. Pura D'Or)
- 20 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil (e.g. Artizen)
- 30 drops citronella essential oil (e.g. Artizen)
- 30 drops geranium essential oil (e.g. NOW Foods)
Be sure to shake the bottle well before every use. Spray this homemade bug spray for dogs on your pup every 2-3 days. You'll notice when the fragrance begins to wear off. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, you may want to spray him daily.
MORE: 10 Essential Home Remedies for Dogs To Have At Home
Homemade Bug Spray for Dogs with Herbs
You may have already heard of some common herbs that can repel insects on dogs. Some people plant these herbs around their homes to keep away unwanted pests.
You can also use them in homemade bug spray that is natural and safe for every member of your family (two- and four-legged).
Recipe #3
- 32 oz. apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp. dried sage
- 2 tbsp. dried rosemary
- 2 tbsp. dried lavendar
- 2 tbsp. dried thyme
- 2 tbsp. dried mint
Store all of these ingredients in a glass jar, and leave it on your counter for 3 weeks.
Shake the jar at least once per day.
After 3 weeks, strain out the herbs.
Pour a 1:1 ratio of this homemade bug spray and water into a clean, empty spray bottle.
Store it in the refrigerator when not in use. Be sure to shake the bottle well before every use.
Spray this homemade bug spray for dogs on your pup every 2-3 days.
You'll notice when the fragrance begins to wear off.
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, you may want to spray him daily.
READ NEXT: My 3 Favorite Home Remedies for Fleas On Dogs
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