How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dogs

Mosquitoes are not only incredibly annoying biting pests, but they are also dangerous. In fact, mosquitoes are considered one of the most – if not the most – dangerous pests to humans and animals.

When we think of mosquitoes, we often think of the problems they can cause us as people. They leave itchy bites that can become infected due to us scratching. Mosquitoes can also transmit a number of serious diseases that can be devastating and sometimes even deadly.

But people are not the only victims of serious illnesses as a result of mosquito bites. Our pets can be impacted as well.

Join us today as we talk about how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs.

But First, Meet The Mosquitoe

The Mosquito is considered one of the most deadly insects in the world.

Mosquitoes are common pests not only in the United States but throughout the world. They are prevalent in every continent except for Antarctica, where it is too cold for these pests to survive.

Although we have villainized nearly all mosquitoes, it’s actually only half of the mosquitoes that bite. That’s right – only female mosquitoes bite and drink blood. Male mosquitoes, on the other hand, are beneficial pollinators that feed on plant nectar.

Female mosquitoes drink blood because they rely on the iron in the blood to help them conceive and lay eggs.

Mosquitos are ancient pests, having lived on the earth for over 100 million years. Furthermore, they far outnumber humans and animals, with an estimated 110 trillion mosquitoes buzzing about worldwide.

Of those 110 trillion mosquitoes, there are about 3,000 different species, and 176 of these species call North America their home.

Not all mosquitoes are dangerous, but many are. They can spread serious diseases to people and pets, and mosquitoes are responsible for over one million deaths each year, according to RTI International.

Mosquitoes are also deadly to animals, which includes both livestock and pets. So, are wondering how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs?

In order to do this, we must first understand what puts dogs at risk of mosquito bites. Keep reading to learn more.

What Attracts Mosquitoes To Dogs?

Dogs play outside and tend to be more active in areas where mosquitoes may congregate.

Mosquitoes don’t just prefer human hosts; they will feed on most any mammal. This includes dogs, cats, livestock, and wild animals like raccoons, skunks, possums, and deer.

In general, mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide mammals’ breath and the sweat they produce. Another reason dogs may be at higher risk for mosquito bites is due to their lifestyle when playing outside.

Dogs tend to play near brush or in areas where mosquitoes may congregate in higher volumes. They are also not looking out for mosquitoes in the same way we humans are, nor are they usually protected by mosquito repellents. (We should note here that you should never use a mosquito repellent on dogs that contain DEET).

With all that said, most dogs are bitten by mosquitoes under the same circumstances humans are bitten – when they are simply out and about enjoying hikes, walks, or backyard time.

The best way to protect your dog in the backyard is to understand what mosquitoes are attracted to and remove sources that could make them more prevalent around your property.

Mosquitoes are highly attracted to stagnant water sources because this is where the breed and lay eggs. Stagnant water sources could be sources like ponds or water fountains, but they could also be sources that may surprise you like your pet’s water bowl, overturned buckets, old tires, and even ponds or flooded gutters left out to sit for a few days.

It’s important to recognize what could attract mosquitoes to your property to help ensure your pets are safe. Of course, it’s also important to know how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs using a proper repellent that is pet-friendly.

Remember, mosquitos are more than just irritating to our pets – they could be deadly.

Why Are Mosquitoes Dangerous For Dogs?

Mosquitos can pose a serious risk to dogs, just as they can for people.

When it comes to knowing how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, being proactive is key. But why is it important to keep mosquitoes away from dogs?

Just as mosquitoes can carry and transmit serious and sometimes even deadly diseases to people, they can also transmit and spread deadly diseases to our four-legged friends.

Some of the most serious diseases mosquitoes are known to spread to animals include diseases like:

• Heartworm
• West Nile Virus
• Venezuelan Equine Encephalomyelitis Virus
• And Tularemia

Symptoms from a mosquito-borne illness in dogs can be serious. In fact, some of the most common symptoms of the above ailments caused by a mosquito bite to dogs include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Coughing
• Weight Loss
• Shortness of Breath
• Lethargy
• Decreased Appetite
• Disorientation
• Abnormal Aggression
• Weakness
• Swollen Abdomen or legs
• Loss of Stamina
• Depression
• Circling
• Muscle Spasms
• Difficulty Walking
• Difficulty with Coordination
• Disorientation
• Swollen or Painful Lymph Nodes
• Increased Heart Rate
• Convulses
• Abnromale Head Psoture
• Tremors
• Organ Failure
• And Seizures

While it can be uncommon for dogs to come down with a mosquito-born illness, it is not rare for dogs to get bitten. Not only can mosquitoes be dangerous to dogs, but mosquitoes can also leave behind itchy and even painful bumps after bites that can become infected if your dog scratches or chews the area too incessantly.

So, do you know how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs? If not, don’t worry – we are here to help.

Best Products For How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dogs

There are a variety of products you can invest in to help prevent mosquito bites in dogs.

There are a few methods you can use when it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs. These methods include the use of products you can purchase at your local pet supply store as well as home remedies and steps you can take for yard maintenance at home.

While working on how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs safely, it’s imperative that you don’t use products designed for humans only on your canine friends.

Here are a few things to remember when it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs:

Don’t

• Do not use mosquito repellents on pets that contain DEET
• Do not use undiluted essential oils on dogs to keep mosquitoes at bay
• Do not use common insecticides directly on dogs for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs
• Do not use products that are not specified specifically for canine use

DO

• Use products recommended by professionals or pet care experts
• Avoid products your dog could be allergic to or have aversive reactions to
• Apply a small amount of dog mosquito repellent to your dog’s skin first before spraying him down entirely
• Contact your veterinarian if you are not sure of the best mosquito repellent product for your dog

What To Look For In The Best Mosquito Repellent For How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dogs

When looking for the best mosquito repellent for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, we recommend looking for natural mosquito repellents that are free of any harsh chemicals for strong insecticides. It’s also important to look for products that are specifically made for pet use.

Avoid using products that contain DEET or chemical insecticides, as mentioned above, and look for products that will not harm your dog if it gets into his eyes, nose, or mouth.

Many types of mosquito repellent for dogs can also help to repel a number of other pests like ticks, fleas, and mites.

Whichever product you choose for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, the important thing is that you do your research and that you are sure the products will be safe for your dog’s sensitive skin and coat.

If you’re not sure where to begin when it comes to products for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, we have you covered with a list of our favorite products below.

Wondercide Flea And Tick Repellent

No products found.

Wondercide is a common pest control product we recommend when it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs. Wondercide is a natural pest control product that is free of harsh chemicals like DEET or pyrethrins.

The product works using plant-based ingredients like essential oils and is safe to spray directly on your dogs or cats to protect them from fleas, mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks.

You can also use this Wondercide Pest Control Spray indoors on fabrics, upholstery, and in kitchens where food is stored and prepared.

Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray

No products found.

Another Wondercide product we recommend when it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs is Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray. Again, this product uses plant-based ingredients and essential oils to protect your yard and garden from a variety of pests.

This product can provide long-term pest control from pests like gnats, mosquitoes, roaches, fleas, ticks, and more. It is also perfectly safe to use on garden plants and edible plants, and there is no spray or wait time, meaning it is safe to use in yards and in areas where children and pets will be immediately playing.

Medella Naturals Insect and Mosquito Repellent

No products found.

Since DEET and other chemical mosquito repellents can be toxic to dogs, it’s best to look for repellents that are DEET and chemical-free for how to keep mosquitos away from dogs. One such product we would recommend for this is the natural mosquito repellent spray that is safe for children and pets above.

Medella Naturals is a spray that is made with plant-based ingredients like lemongrass oil and vanilla and comes in an 8-ounce bottle that is ready to use. It provides temporary protection from mosquitoes and other flying and biting insects and is safe for your dog’s skin and coat.

Repel-X Insecticide And Repellent For Dogs And Animals

No products found.

If you live in an area near a stagnant water source like a lake, pond, or swamp, you may need a more intensive form of mosquito repellent when it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs.

One of the products we recommend is Repel-X Insecticide and repellent. This product by the Farnam store is specifically designed to repel mosquitoes, flies, biting gnats, fleas, and ticks from dogs and other pets like horses.

We should note that this spray does include a small amount of insecticide known as pyrethrin, which is designed to kill and repel pests. For this reason, do not use it on your dog if your dog has sensitivities to certain ingredients.

If you’re unsure of using this type of product on your dog as a method for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, we suggest trying a small amount on your dog first to ensure there is no aversive reaction. We also suggest considering speaking with your veterinarian if your dog has sensitivities to certain products.

Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Spray For Dogs

No products found.

Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Spray is another product designed specifically for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs. The product also helps to protect your dog from certain pests like fleas and ticks.

Like many of these pet-safe products and sprays for how to keep mosquitoes from dogs, Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Spray is made with natural ingredients and certified oils that are safe to use around pets.

However, this product is not designed to be sprayed directly on dogs and is best to use around dog bedding and outside in dog runs. When applied correctly, the product can protect up to 5,000 square feet.

Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent

No products found.

Last we have Greenerways Organic Insect Repellent. This product is DEET-free, making it safe to use not only on dogs but also on children and even babies. The spray is organic and made with all-natural ingredients.

It is also free of GMOs and works using plant-based ingredients that will not harm or stain clothing. It is ideal for taking camping or hiking and can be sprayed directly on your dog and your gear.

For best results, it should be shaken well before use and should be sprayed on your dog avoiding his eyes, nose, and mouth.

Best Products To Soothe Mosquito Bites On Dogs

Mosquito bites can be itchy for our four-legged friends.

Knowing how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs is important, but it’s also important to know how to soothe those itchy mosquito bites dogs can get when they are outside. Bites on dogs can lead to a variety of problems, especially if dogs itch or chew the bite area repeatedly.

Luckily, there are several products you can use to help control and reduce itching, which can help when it comes to those pesky mosquito bites.

Take a look.

Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Itch Relief Shampoo and Spray

No products found.

Most everyone has experienced a mosquito bite, and we all know how itchy and irritating they can be. Our dogs can also experience this annoying and itchy irritation.

The above product is a veterinary formula that provides pets with a clinical solution to itchy skin, hot spots, and bug bites. The product works as both a shampoo and a topical spray to help provide immediate relief to your pet’s skin.

The spray can help reduce itching, licking scratching, and biting, which can help reduce potential infections caused by abrasions or scratches.

Some of the active ingredients include lidocaine and hydrocortisone to reduce swelling and itching, as well as allantoin to help stimulate healing. The product is specifically made for dogs and cats and is designed to soothe immediately as opposed to burn or cause irritation once applied.

Pet MD Hydrocortisone Spray For Dogs And Cats

No products found.

Hydrocortisone is an important ingredient that helps to alleviate the itchiness and irritation of bug bites in both people and pets. One product we recommend for alleviating mosquito bites on dogs is a product by Pet MD.

The Pet MD Hydrocortisone Spray above is specifically designed for dogs and cats and helps reduce itching, inflammation, soothes bug bites, and helps reduce allergies.

Home Remedies for How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dogs

Essential oils and other types of household ingredients can help to keep mosquitoes under control

Protecting your dog from mosquitoes is important, but it’s also important not to use ingredients or products that could harm your dog. Remember, dogs are much more sensitive to certain smells than we are, and they can be especially overwhelmed by strong smells of essential oils and other ingredients.

So while natural ingredients are often safer for your dog, they are not always better. When making homemade pest control products for your pet, it’s best to do plenty of research. We also recommend testing a small amount on your dog before spraying his body down completely.

With that noted, let’s now take a look at some of the best do it yourself methods you can use for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs.

How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dogs With A DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray

The first home remedy you can use when it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs is to make your own mosquito repellent spray by following the below steps.

You Will Need:

• 1 Spray Bottle
• 15 Drops of Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil
• 2 Ounces of Witch Hazel or Almond Oil
• 1 Cup of Water

Instructions:

Dilute the essential oils in the water and then add the mixture to the spray bottle. Then you can add two ounces of witch hazel or almond oil. Experts recommend using almond oil if your dog is going to be playing in the water, as the oil will ensure the mosquito repellent stays put.

Shake the spray bottle until the mixture is combined thoroughly, and then apply a small amount to your dog’s coat. Wait about half an hour to ensure there is no reaction before spraying this product over your dog’s entire body, avoiding his eyes, nose, and mouth.

How To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Dogs Using Essential Oils

There are other essential oils aside from eucalyptus oils that can repel mosquitoes from your dog naturally, and they include:

• Basil oil
• Lavender Oil
• Verbena Oil
• Pine Oil
• Rosemary Oil
• Lemon Balm Oil
• Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
• Peppermint Oil
• And Catnip Oil

You can make your own essential oil spray as we listed above for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, but it’s important to remember to always dilute the oil first. Never apply concentrated essential oils to your dog’s body.

Along with making your own essential oil spray for your dog using the diluted essential oils listed above, you can also dilute the oils and put them on a bandana around your dog’s neck. Other options include spraying down a doggy t-shirt or another item of clothing your dog can wear while playing outdoors.

Tips And Tricks For Keeping Mosquitoes Away From Dogs

Along with using products and home remedies to keep mosquitos away from dogs, you can also use the below tips.

When it comes to how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs, you can take the same measures you would typically take for pest control. This includes backyard maintenance and using year-round pest control regimens for outdoor use.

We also recommend you follow the below tips and tricks as specified by experts.

Remove Excess Water Sources Around Your Home

As we discussed above, mosquitoes are highly attracted to stagnant water sources. Stagnant water sources around the home like swamps, overturned buckets, puddles, and children’s pools can all be an attractant to mosquitoes because these are the types of environments where mosquitoes breed and lay eggs.

Consider either cleaning these sources or removing them altogether. If you have water sources around your home like ponds, it’s suggested that you use mosquito dunks or other methods to control mosquito larvae and eggs.

Keep Your Lawn Mowed And Remove Leaf Litter and Debris

Home maintenance can help to reduce the number of problematic pests around your home like mosquitoes, flies, gnats, fleas, and more.

Consider Using Mosquito Candles Or Tiki Torches When Outside With Your Dog

Along with knowing how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs by using products you purchase or home remedies like those listed above, you should also use products like dog-safe tiki torches or candles to help repel mosquitoes.

There are plenty of natural mosquito candles and tiki torch products that use oils or are made with ingredients that are harmless to pets but repulsive to biting pests like mosquitoes, gnats, and biting flies.

Invite the Mosquito Predators

Inviting mosquito predators is an easy and inexpensive way to go about how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs. Some of the most common mosquito predators include small birds, frogs, toads, and bats.

Avoid Letting Your Dog Outside During Dawn And Dusk

Mosquitoes tend to be most active during dawn and dusk, so another great way to help keep mosquitoes away from dogs is to schedule the times you walk or exercise your dogs before these times.

Use A Pet-Safe Pest Control Method Year-Round To Keep Mosquitoes Under Control

Not all insecticide sprays are safe to use around pets and children, but there are many products that are perfectly safe to use in your yard that can help provide your home with continuous protection from these biting pests.

We have already listed a few products you can use for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs above, but there are many more you might consider after doing some of your own research.

And remember, when it comes to how to protect dogs from mosquitoes, being proactive is key. Understand your region, when mosquitoes are most active, and what in your yard or on your property could be attracting mosquitoes to your yard can all help when it comes to knowing how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs.

So, what do you think about our tips for how to keep mosquitoes away from dogs? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

Thanks for reading!