Top 4 Dog-Safe Mosquito Repellents

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. The devoted pet parents on the Wag! team conduct independent research to curate products our own pets would pawsitively love! All prices are up to date as of July 2023.

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Think mosquitoes only come out in the summer? Think again. In some areas throughout the US, these pesky pests are active all year round. 

Protecting your dog from mosquito-borne illness is essential for their health. Mosquitoes carry heartworm, West Nile virus, and other diseases. Although heartworm preventatives can prevent infection, mosquito bites can still cause discomfort for your dog.

If you're having trouble keeping mosquitoes off your mutt, try a dog-safe bug repellent. These affordable sprays come in a variety of formulations, from all-natural solutions for pups with sensitive skin to heavy-duty protection for outdoorsy pups and working dogs.

We've sniffed out 4 of the best mosquito repellents on the market — scroll on to discover our top picks!

Price: $6.23 / 8 ounces

Average customer rating: 4.1 / 5 stars

Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to fresh, all-natural ingredients with Vet's Best Mosquito Repellent. Made with lemongrass and geraniol oils, this affordable mosquito repellent has earned rave reviews from hundreds of happy pet parents on Chewy and Amazon. 

It's safe for dogs aged 12 weeks and up. Shake well before applying, and don't forget to reapply every 2 hours for maximum protection.

Not only is Vet's Best Mosquito Repellent great for dogs, but it even works on humans too! If you're sensitive to DEET or just want to keep the bugs at bay without using skin-irritating chemicals, Vet's Best is a furrific choice.

Product image sourced from Chewy. Copyright Compana Pet Brands.

Price: $10.99 / 8 ounces

Average customer rating: 4.2 / 5 stars

Not only does Medella Naturals keep biting bugs at bay, but it also deters gnats and flies. (Note that it won't kill fleas or ticks, but it's effective at repelling them.)

This lemongrass oil spray contains vitamin E, lemon, and a splash of vanilla for an extra fresh scent. Online reviews from satisfied pet parents praise this repellent for not being sticky or oily.

It's safe for both two- and four-legged children, but be sure to read the packaging carefully. We couldn't find any info on whether this spray is safe for puppies and dogs with sensitive skin. If you have questions, reach out to the manufacturer.

Product image sourced from Amazon. Copyright Medella Springs.

Price: $24.99 / 32 ounces

Average customer rating: 4.3 / 5 stars

Mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and lice, meet your match! Absorbine's Ultrashield EX Insecticide delivers heavy-duty protection against 70+ insect species, including deer ticks and other carriers of Lyme disease.

This one's a little pricier than some of the other dog-safe mosquito repellents on our list, but it also comes in a bigger bottle — pawfect for EXtra large pets. (See what we did there?)

Absorbine Ultrashield EX Insecticide is safe for dogs, horses, donkeys, and mules over 12 weeks of age. You can also use this powerful bug spray to treat your dog's bedding, your home, and your yard.

Always read and follow packaging directions. If needed, reapply every 3 to 4 weeks.

Do not use this product on or near cats — it contains permethrin and pyrethrins, both of which are highly toxic to cats. Unlike other products on our list, this repellent isn't an all-natural solution. Use with caution in dogs with sensitive skin.

Product image sourced from Chewy. Copyright Absorbine.

Price: $17.99 / 1-ounce spray bottle + 16-ounce refill

Average customer rating: 4.4 / 5 stars

Searching for a more natural solution to your mutt's mosquito problems? Look no further than Bug Soother. Made of lemongrass oil and castor oil, this mosquito repellent is one of the safest on the market. The product label even promises that chickens and tigers can use it! 

As well as mosquitoes, this spray repels no-see-ums, gnats, and black flies. Be aware that it may not be effective against all species of mosquitoes.

Bug Soother's parent company, Simply Soothing, is owned by women and located in Iowa, which means you and Callie can feel good about supporting a small American business.

Product image sourced from Amazon. Copyright Simply Soothing.

Is it safe to use DEET on my dog?

No. DEET is toxic to dogs. While experts aren't sure exactly what makes it toxic, this compound is known to attack dog's central nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

Can I use mosquito repellents made for humans on my dog?

Never apply a product that's not formulated for dogs to your pet. And vice versa, don't use a bug spray made for dogs on yourself unless the product packaging says it's also safe for humans. 

If you have any concerns about using bug repellents on your dog, consult your veterinarian.

Can I make my own mosquito repellent for dogs?

While some pet parents swear by homemade bug sprays for dogs, keep in mind that many essential oils are toxic to dogs.

To stay safe, skip the Pinterest tutorials and purchase a vet-approved product instead. If you'd really like to try your paw at making your own insect repellent, consult your vet first.

Is it safe to use citronella on dogs to repel mosquitoes?

No, citronella is toxic to dogs. Ingesting citronella can cause symptoms ranging in severity from vomiting to convulsions. Always keep products containing citronella out of your pet's reach.