Whether it’s a brisk evening walk or summer afternoon in the park, bug bites can seriously ruin the fun. Here are five insect repellents that are safe and effective for your pup.
Safe Bug Sprays for Dogs
What makes these bug sprays safe?
At Natural Dog Company, we’re incredibly eco-friendly. We also believe that natural products are healthier and safer for our pets. All five of our recommendations are all-natural and meet the EPA’s requirements for minimum risk pesticides.
Don’t use DEET products on dogs
DEET is an incredibly effective insect repellent with a relatively low toxicity rating. But that doesn’t mean you should douse your pet in Cutter Backwoods before your evening run.
Dogs don’t know they shouldn’t lick bug spray off their bodies. But even if your dog doesn’t ingest it, DEET can still be absorbed through the skin. Just like the active ingredients in some lawn pesticides, DEET can build up in your dog’s body over time. High concentrations can cause all sorts of problems, including inflammation, tremors, respiratory problems (when inhaled), and in rare cases, seizures.
If you think your pet ate DEET, please contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Ask Your Vet About Essential Oils
Are essential oils safe for pets? In general, essential oils are considered to be safe for both humans and dogs. But according to the AKC, there’s very little scientific research about the risks of using essential oils on your cat or dog.
Remember: Natural doesn’t always mean safe. If you’re an essential oil user, think about how potent a few drops of peppermint oil can be. Without proper use or application, oils can irritate the skin and cause gastrointestinal problems when ingested. Some oils, including cinnamon and citrus, are even poisonous to dogs and cats.
The best thing to do is talk to your veterinarian before using essential oils on your pet. Your vet can help you determine which oils might be appropriate and outline proper dosages and dilutions.
Summed Up: The 5 Best Dog-Safe Insect Repellents
| Safe Insect Repellents | Active Ingredients |
| Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent for Dogs and Cats | Peppermint Oil (4%), Geraniol Oil (2%), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (0.36%) |
| Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray | Soybean Oil (23%), Castor Oil (10%), Citronella (4%), Cedar (2%), Lemongrass (2%), Rosemary (1.5%), Geranium (1%), Peppermint (1%) |
| Natural Care Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs and Cats | Eugenol (Clove Extract) (0.46%), Peppermint Oil (0.2%), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (1.78%) |
| Wondercide Lemongrass Natural Flea & Tick Spray for Pets + Home | Cedarwood oil (4.2%), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (2.2%), Lemongrass oil (1.5%), Sesame oil (0.1%) |
| Richard’s Organics Flea & Tick Spray | Cinnamon (1.5%), Rosemary (1.5%), Peppermint (1.5%), Cedar, Clove (1%), Eugenol (Clove Extract) (1%) |
Is your dog scratching bug bites raw? Read our guide to learn more about soothing itchy bites from mosquitoes, fleas, and other insects.
