Summer’s here—and so are the mosquitoes. While most of us are used to slapping a few away or dousing ourselves in bug spray, our dogs aren’t so lucky. Those itchy bites are just as miserable (and sometimes dangerous) for them as they are for us. The good news? You don’t have to let your pup become a buffet for bugs. With the right mosquito spray for dogs—whether it’s a homemade blend or a store-bought solution—you can help keep your canine companion bite-free all season long.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- Why mosquito protection matters for dogs
- Safety tips before using any spray
- Easy DIY mosquito repellent recipes for dogs
- and more!
Let’s jump in!
Affiliate links included below. If you buy anything through our links, we earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Why Mosquito Protection Matters for Dogs
Mosquito bites aren’t just annoying—they can actually be harmful to dogs. In fact, mosquitoes are the primary carriers of heartworm, a potentially fatal disease that affects the heart and lungs. Even if your dog is on a preventative, bites can still cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and infections.
And let’s be honest—seeing your dog constantly scratching or whining from bites isn’t exactly the picture of summer fun.
Protecting your dog from mosquitoes is about comfort, yes—but it’s also about their long-term health.
Safety Tips Before You Spray
Before you whip up your own mosquito repellent or grab one off the shelf, keep these safety tips in mind:
✔ Avoid human bug sprays. DEET and Picaridin are toxic to dogs and should never be used on them. Even natural oils that are safe for us can be harmful to pets.
✔ Essential oils can be tricky. Some oils—like tea tree, clove, or pennyroyal—are dangerous for dogs. Always dilute oils properly and consult your vet before use, especially if your dog has allergies or skin conditions.
✔ Test first. Do a patch test on a small area before applying any spray all over your dog’s coat.
✔ Don’t spray faces. Use your hands to gently apply sprays around your dog’s ears and avoid the eyes, nose, and mouth completely.
✔ Reapply often. Natural sprays wear off faster than chemical ones, so reapply every couple of hours if your dog is outdoors for long periods.
Easy DIY Mosquito Spray Recipes for Dogs
Looking to go the natural route? Here are a few safe, simple recipes you can make right at home.
Recipe #1: Apple Cider Vinegar & Essential Oils Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 cup raw apple cider vinegar
- 5 drops lavender essential oil (repels mosquitoes and soothes skin)
- 5 drops cedarwood essential oil (safe and effective for pests)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional: helps the spray stick to fur)
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before each use.
- Lightly mist your dog’s coat, avoiding the face.
Recipe #2: Lemon & Rosemary Infusion Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 1 quart boiling water
Instructions:
- Place lemon slices and rosemary in a bowl.
- Pour the boiling water over them.
- Let steep overnight, then strain and pour into a spray bottle.
- Store in the fridge and use within a week.
This one smells great and is safe for most dogs with sensitive skin.
Recipe #3: Neem Oil Natural Repellent
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 teaspoon organic neem oil (natural insect repellent)
- 1 teaspoon mild unscented castile soap
Instructions:
- Mix everything in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray lightly onto your dog’s coat.
Neem oil has a strong scent, but it’s incredibly effective against a wide range of biting bugs.
What is the Best Store-Bought Mosquito Spray for Dogs?
If DIY isn’t your thing or you just want something quick and ready to go, I recommend going with Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray (Also repels mosquitoes). There are other options, but I like this one the best.
- Uses cedar and rosemary oil (also comes in other scents)
- Safe for dogs of all ages and even indoor use
- Cruelty free and USA Made
- Bonus: also repels fleas and ticks!
Kills and repels fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes using plant-powered essential oils—no harsh chemicals. This 3-in-1 spray is safe for dogs, cats, and even your home when used as directed. It breaks the flea life cycle, eliminates pests on contact, and leaves behind a calming rosemary scent. Gentle enough for puppies and kittens, yet strong enough to protect your whole home. Holistic vet-approved, mom-owned, and made in the USA.
Before using any store-bought product, make sure to read the label and double-check the ingredients for anything that might irritate your specific pup.
Tips for Keeping Mosquitoes Away (Without Spray)
A good mosquito repellent spray is only part of the solution. Combine it with these additional mosquito-busting strategies:
- Use dog-safe citronella candles in outdoor spaces.
- Dump standing water in flowerpots, birdbaths, and buckets—prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
- Keep your pup indoors at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes are most active.
- Use mosquito-proof netting around dog beds or crates if you’re camping or hanging outside.
- Use vet-prescribed heartworm prevention—it’s a must, not a maybe.
A Quick Note on Natural Remedies vs. Flea & Tick Protection
You’ve probably noticed that a lot of mosquito sprays—especially the DIY kind—focus on natural ingredients like vinegar, essential oils, or lemon. And when it comes to repelling mosquitoes? That’s often enough. Their weak spot is scent, and strong-smelling plant oils like lavender, citronella, and neem can be surprisingly effective.
But ticks and fleas? They’re a whole different beast.
While natural remedies may help repel these pests to a degree, they’re not nearly as reliable as prescription or vet-recommended products. Fleas and ticks are persistent, resilient, and sneaky. They don’t just fly in and take a nibble—they dig in, hide in fur, and lay eggs that spread fast. That’s why most vets don’t recommend relying solely on natural sprays for full-on flea or tick prevention.
So what’s the takeaway?
Use natural mosquito repellents to protect your dog from bites—especially short-term outdoor exposure.
But for flea and tick control, pair sprays with a monthly preventative from your vet. That combo gives you both the day-to-day relief and the long-term protection your pup really needs.
Final Thoughts
Mosquitoes may be relentless, but you’ve got options. Whether you choose to mix up a gentle DIY spray in your kitchen or grab a vet-recommended product off the shelf, the key is protecting your dog consistently and safely. Just like us, they deserve a summer free of swatting and scratching.
And remember—no spray, no matter how amazing, replaces heartworm prevention. Talk to your vet about the best plan for your pup, then layer on the repellents for extra protection.
Stay safe, stay bite-free, and go enjoy that sunset walk with your best friend (bug-free!).
