Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

10 Best Mosquito Repellents for Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

dog owner applying mosquito repellent on his pet dog outdoors

dog owner applying mosquito repellent on his pet dog outdoors Spending the weekend camping is a great way to get outside and spend time away from technology. With a fishing pole and your trusted hound, you can forget about work problems for a bit and worry about less important things. Unfortunately, the mosquitoes buzzing around during your fishing session can be just as irritating as jumbled paperwork.

With so many supplies tucked into your camping bag, though, adding multiple bottles of mosquito repellent for you and your dog can be difficult. These reviews cover repellents that can be applied monthly, as well as spray options that can be used on humans too.

divider-dog paw

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2025

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Wondercide Topical & Indoor Spray Wondercide Topical & Indoor Spray
  • Kills fleas and ticks
  • No harsh chemicals
  • Suitable for dogs and cats
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray
  • No DEET
  • Uses natural oils
  • Can be applied every 2 hours
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    K9 Advantix II Spot Treatment K9 Advantix II Spot Treatment
  • Waterproof
  • Monthly doses
  • Interrupts the flea life cycle
  • TevraPet Activate II Collar TevraPet Activate II Collar
  • Adjustable collar
  • Works on contact
  • 12-month protection
  • Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent
  • Water-based formula
  • Safe for dogs and horses
  • Can be applied directly or with a clean towel
  • The 10 Best Mosquito Repellents for Dogs

    1. Wondercide Topical & Indoor Spray — Best Overall

    Wondercide Topical & Indoor Spray

    Product Form: Spray
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: 4, 16, or 32 ounces

    As our best overall mosquito repellent for dogs, the Wondercide Topical & Indoor Spray uses a holistic approach to killing and repelling mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. Along with the cedarwood scent, it’s also available in lemongrass, peppermint, and rosemary.

    Due to the lack of harsh chemicals, Wondercide can be used when needed and around your house to prevent pest infestations on the carpet, couch cushions, and your pet’s bedding.

    While some of the available fragrances are safe for cats, felines are more sensitive to essential oils. Dogs might not have a problem, but your cat is more likely to suffer from an allergic reaction to certain scents.

    Pros
    • Suitable for dogs and cats
    • Available in different scents
    • Repels mosquitoes
    • Kills fleas and ticks
    • No harsh chemicals
    • Can be used on carpets, furniture, and pet bedding
    Cons
    • Cats are sensitive to essential oils

    2. Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray — Best Value

    Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray

    Product Form: Spray
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: 8 ounces

    When it comes to our pets, affordable supplies are always the way to go, which brings us to the best mosquito repellent for dogs for the money. The Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray is a DEET-free formula that uses natural oils like lemongrass and geraniol to repel mosquitoes. Since it does not use chemical pesticides, Vet’s Best is suitable for regular applications every 2 hours.

    Sold in 8-ounce bottles, this option is easy to slip into a rucksack for hiking trips and is also safe for humans over 2 years old.

    Some dogs can be sensitive to certain scents and may find the lemongrass and geraniol mixture displeasing.

    Pros
    • No DEET
    • Uses natural oils
    • Can be applied every 2 hours
    • Affordable
    • Good for hiking trips
    • Safe for humans over 2 years old
    Cons
    • Some dogs hate the smell

    3. K9 Advantix II Spot Treatment — Premium Choice

    K9 Advantix II Spot Treatment

    Product Form: Spot treatment
    Life Stage: Puppy, adult, senior
    Size: 2, 4, 6, or 12 doses

    If you’re not afraid to spend more to protect your dog from pests, K9 Advantix II Spot Treatment is a veterinarian-recommended solution. Formulated to start working within 12 hours of application, K9 Advantix II repels and kills mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Applied once a month, it helps interrupt the flea life cycle to prevent future infestations.

    The waterproof formula also lets your dog get up to their usual watery mischief whenever they’re outside without the repellent washing off.

    For owners on a budget, this option is one of the more pricey treatments available. It’s also unsuitable for use on or around cats due to the chemical pesticides.

    Pros
    • Monthly doses
    • Repels and kills ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes
    • Interrupts the flea life cycle
    • Recommended by veterinarians
    • Begins working within 12 hours
    • Waterproof
    Cons
    • Unsuitable for cats
    • Expensive

    4. TevraPet Activate II Collar For Dogs

    TevraPet Activate II Collar For Dogs

    Product Form: Collar
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: Adjustable

    Dogs love the outdoors and collect pests like they’re going out of fashion. The TevraPet Activate II Collar enables you to target the major menaces to your dog’s comfort with one collar. Designed to kill fleas and ticks on contact, this collar also helps repel mosquitoes. This option starts working within 24 hours and lasts for 6 months, with the two-pack giving you a total of 12 months of protection. The collar is adjustable to suit adult dogs and puppies over 12 weeks old.

    Some dogs can have an allergic reaction to the chemicals used in this collar and it can be ineffective against fleas unless paired with another prevention treatment.

    Pros
    • Works on contact
    • Repels and kills fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes
    • Adjustable collar
    • Pack of two
    • 12-month protection
    • Begins working within 24 hours
    Cons
    • Some dogs can be allergic to the ingredients
    • Can be ineffective against fleas

    5. Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent

    Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent

    Product Form: Spray
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: 32 ounces

    For doggy owners who spend time outside around horses, the Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent enables you to protect both animals at once. Its gentle formula is suitable for horses and dogs and can be applied directly or with a clean towel. The Farnam Repel-X is a water-based formula designed to repel six species of flies, including mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, and ticks, to make long days at the stable more pleasant.

    Although it’s safe for horses and dogs, this insecticide should be kept out of the reach of children. Some users have also had issues with the bottles arriving broken or leaking during use.

    Pros
    • Water-based formula
    • Safe for dogs and horses
    • Can be applied directly or with a clean towel
    • Repels mosquitoes and other common pests
    Cons
    • Not safe for children
    • Bottle leaks

    6. Nantucket Spider Natural Insect Repellent

    Nantucket Spider Natural Insect Repellent

    Product Form: Spray
    Life Stage: Puppy, adults, and seniors
    Size: 8 ounces

    It can be difficult to find repellents that check all your boxes, but the Nantucket Spider Natural Insect Repellent is bottled in recycled plastic and is cruelty-free, non-GMO, and vegan. The bottle also has a lockable trigger to prevent leaks when stored in a bag during trips outdoors.

    Formulated with organic ingredients, Nantucket Spider repels fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes without relying on chemical pesticides. It doesn’t use DEET to kill bugs either, so this option is safe for dogs of all ages.

    Nantucket Spider has a strong smell that some dogs and owners with sensitive noses may find unpleasant. It can also leave your dog’s fur feeling sticky.

    Pros
    • Lockable trigger
    • Bottles are made from recycled plastic
    • Non-GMO
    • Organic ingredients
    • No DEET
    • Repels ticks, mosquitoes, and fleas
    • Vegan
    Cons
    • Some dogs find the smell unpleasant
    • Can leave fur feeling sticky

    7. Bug Soother Spray Natural Insect Repellent

    Bug Soother Spray Natural Insect Repellent

    Product Form: Spray
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: 8 ounces

    Spending a day outside hiking or fishing is a fun way to relax with your dog, but bugs can make these fun outings irritating. The Bug Soother Spray Natural Insect Repellent is safe for humans of all ages as well as dogs, so you don’t have to carry around multiple bottles of different formulas. It uses lemongrass oil combined with vanilla for extra fragrance to provide natural protection from flying insects like mosquitoes and gnats, and can even ward off fleas.

    Unlike other bug sprays that repel mosquitoes, Bug Soother is not formulated to kill or repel ticks and may be ineffective against these critters. The lemongrass oil is also the only active ingredient, and it might not be as effective in fending off mosquitoes as some other options.

    Pros
    • Safe for humans and dogs
    • No chemical pesticides
    • Lemongrass and vanilla scent
    • Suitable for days out hiking or fishing
    • Repels mosquitoes and fleas
    Cons
    • Doesn’t kill ticks
    • Only contains one active ingredient

    8. Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Wipes For Dogs

    Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Wipes For Dogs

    Product Form: Wipes
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: 50 wipes

    For dogs that hate sprays, the Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Wipes enable you to protect them against pests without stressing them out. Along with the protection against fleas and ticks, these wipes also kill and repel mosquitoes. Designed with a plant-based formula without chemical pesticides, they can be used on furniture, pet bedding, and collars. The wipes enable you to spread the product evenly over your dog’s fur and pay close attention to sensitive areas like their ears.

    Due to the moisture contained in these wipes, you need to make sure the lid is shut so they don’t dry out. Some of the essential oils are toxic to cats and can cause allergic reactions in some dogs.

    Pros
    • Kills fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes on contact
    • Gentle application
    • Can be used on furniture, pet bedding, and collars
    • Plant-based formula
    Cons
    • The lid needs to be kept closed
    • Some of the essential oils are toxic to cats
    • Can cause allergic reactions in some dogs

    9. ShieldTec Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Prevention for Dogs

    ShieldTec Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Prevention for Dogs

    Product Form: Spot treatment
    Life Stage: Puppy, adult, and senior
    Size: 4 or 12 doses

    Some dogs can be wary about spray bottles, and ShieldTec Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Prevention takes away the stress by providing a topical spot treatment option. Applied once a month, ShieldTec is safe for use on puppies and is waterproof, so outdoor adventurers can still benefit from the protection even when soaked through. It’s formulated to repel and kill mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and lice on contact and is one of the more affordable topical prevention solutions.

    ShieldTec uses chemical pesticides that although safe for dogs, can cause allergic reactions in some canines. Several users have mentioned that this product is greasy, doesn’t dry quickly, and smells like cooking oil.

    Pros
    • Repels mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and lice
    • Kills pests on contact
    • Destroys flea life cycle
    • Waterproof
    • Safe for puppies
    • Affordable
    • Monthly doses
    Cons
    • Ingredients can cause allergic reactions in some dogs
    • Doesn’t dry quickly
    • Smells like cooking oil

    10. Medella Naturals Insect & Mosquito Repellent for Dogs

    Medella Naturals Insect & Mosquito Repellent for Dogs

    Product Form: Spray
    Life Stage: Adult
    Size: 4 ounces

    If you’re looking for a spray that doesn’t use chemicals and is safe for your kids and your favorite fur babies, the Medella Naturals Insect & Mosquito Repellent can be used on humans and pets. The formula doesn’t use DEET, so it’s completely safe for your pooch while still repelling mosquitoes and other flying insects. It’s waterproof and isn’t affected by sweat during overly warm or humid days.

    Some users have found that the scent of this natural deterrent can be overpowering and unpleasant and attract bees. Medella Naturals can also have a sticky consistency when applied and can be uncomfortable. It’s also only available in small 4-ounce bottles.

    Pros
    • No DEET
    • Repels mosquitoes, gnats, and other flying insects
    • No chemical pesticides
    • Safe for humans of all ages and dogs
    • Waterproof
    Cons
    • Attracts bees
    • Has a bad smell
    • Sticky when applied
    • Only available in small bottles

    divider-paw

    Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Mosquito Repellent for Dogs

    Mosquitoes bother our dogs just as much as they annoy us, and mosquito repellents are the easiest way to provide protection. Choosing the best option isn’t always as simple as you might think, however. This section will look at everything that you need to consider before purchasing a dog-friendly mosquito repellent.

    If you’re ever unsure about what option to choose, double-check with your veterinarian. They’ll be able to suggest the best products for your dog.

    Did you know you can talk to a vet online? Click on the image or button below to schedule a call: PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1


    Formulated for Dogs

    If you’re new to buying mosquito repellent for your dog, it can be easy to assume that the one that you use is safe enough. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Many mosquito repellents designed for humans can be toxic to pets, whether they’re natural or not. While some natural mosquito repellents for dogs are safe for humans to use too, the same can’t be said for formulas designed with humans in mind.

    Make sure the mosquito repellent states that it’s for dogs on the label before you use it anywhere near them.

    azawakh-dog-walking-outdoors_otsphoto_shutterstock
    Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock

    Ingredients List

    One of the most important things to remember when buying mosquito repellent for your dog are the ingredients used in the formula. Many of the ingredients that we’re familiar with in mosquito repellents designed for humans are toxic to canines. To keep them safe, paying attention to pet-friendly contents is essential.

    Essential Oils

    Essential oils have their pros and cons. While they can be beneficial in killing and repelling pests like mosquitoes, their use around animals isn’t always cut and dry. Depending on the oil, it may be safe or toxic to your pet, depending on how sensitive they are to the oil in question.

    Cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and birds tend to be more sensitive to contact with essential oils and diffusers, but canines can suffer from sensitivities to essential oils too. Before you choose a natural mosquito repellent, make sure the essential oils used in the ingredients are diluted and are safe for your pooch.

    You should also consider whether your dog is sensitive to particular scents. Their noses are stronger than ours, and they might find that subtle smell that you enjoy to be overpowering and unpleasant.

    No DEET

    You’re probably familiar with DEET and its effectiveness. Unfortunately, DEET can cause various health issues in dogs, from eye problems and respiratory issues to stomach upset and seizures. It’s one of the main reasons that repellents formulated specifically for humans aren’t good for dogs.

    Dog-friendly brands of mosquito repellent won’t use DEET, but to be safe, purchase an option with “DEET free” on the label.

    See Also:

    divider-dog

    Final Thoughts

    Safe for use around your home and on your dog, Wondercide Topical & Indoor Spray is our best overall mosquito repellent for dogs. It repels mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks with natural essential oils, and some of the available fragrances are safe for cats. If you need a budget option that’s safe for humans too, Vet’s Best Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray is a DEET-free alternative to many human-only repellents.

    Keeping you and your dog safe from mosquitoes is essential for everyone’s comfort. For your next outing, we hope these reviews help you find the best repellent for you and your dog.

     


    Featured Image Credit: Aleksey Boyko, Shutterstock

    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    What Do Mobility Assistance Dogs Do? Qualities, Tasks & FAQ

    Mobility assistance dogs take “man’s best friend” to the next level. They’re not only a loyal, reliable companion but essential for people who...

    How Much Exercise Does My Labrador Need? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

    While Labrador Retrievers are popular companion dogs worldwide, they were initially bred as sporting dogs and retained much of their working prowess even...

    Winter Wienerland: Draper and Rue’s Snowy Adventures

    Welcome to the Wednesday Dogs of Dogster! Every Wednesday, we share a story from one of our Dogsters. This week is about Meagan...

    Black and White French Bulldog: Info, Pictures, Origin & History

    The French Bulldog has catapulted up the popularity charts in recent years. They’re currently ranked at the top of the American Kennel Club...

    More related

    When Should I Spay or Neuter My Great Dane? Vet Approved Facts

    Neutering/spaying dogs is common among pet owners looking to prevent health conditions, behavioral issues, and pet overpopulation. The standard is to spay or...

    Why Is My Dog Aggressive Toward Children? 7 Vet-Verified Reasons

    Dogs showing aggression toward any child is a huge red flag that needs addressing straight away. Most aggression is due to fear, but...

    How Long Does a Portuguese Water Dog Live? Vet-Verified Average Lifespan, Data & Care Guide

    Dogs’ expected lifespans can vary significantly depending on their breed. One key factor that can influence a dog’s lifespan is their weight, meaning...

    What to Put in a Dog First Aid Kit: 20 Vet-Approved Essential Items

    Whether you’re hanging out at home with your dog or taking them for a walk, an emergency situation is always a possibility, so...

    Keep reading

    Can Dogs Have Beets? Vet-Reviewed Nutritional Facts & FAQ

    For many people, beets aren’t the first vegetable that comes to mind when they’re at the grocery store or getting ready to make dinner. They are an often maligned and underrated vegetable that adds flavorful depth to dishes, not to...

    Beets on a white wooden surface

    Can Dogs Eat Apple Pie? Vet-Verified Nutrition Facts & Info

    We can share a lot of our food items with our dogs, permitting we know the safety and nutritional quality. After all, our dogs are omnivorous just like us. However, when it comes to sweet treats and heavily processed goods,...

    Dogster-Can-Dogs-Eat-Apple Pie

    Can Dogs Eat Cardamom? Is It Safe? Vet Reviewed Dietary Guidance

    If you’re a dog owner and a fan of flavorful spices, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to share your love for cardamom with your furry friend. Cardamom is a popular spice used in various cuisines worldwide and is...

    Can Dogs Eat_Cardamom

    Does Rachael Ray Dog Food Come From China? Facts & Recall History

    Rachael Ray Dog Food is known for being a relatively affordable dog food brand with good quality formulas and nutritious recipes. This brand sources its ingredients and manufactures its food in multiple locations, but none of these locations include any...

    Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Variety Pack Wet Dog Food

    Are Dogs Allowed in Whole Foods? 2025 Pet Policy & FAQ

    Many people like to shop with their pets, and you likely have seen a few dogs in stores during your shopping excursions, which might cause you to wonder if you can take your dog to the local Whole Foods. Unfortunately,...

    woman holding shopping cart at a market

    Can Dogs Have Chia Seed Pudding? Vet-Reviewed Health & Nutrition Guide

    Chia seed pudding is a delicious vegan snack made by soaking chia seeds in plant-based milk. It’s often enjoyed as a breakfast or dessert and pairs well with fruit. If you enjoy eating chia seed pudding, you may be wondering...

    two fruit with Chia Seed beverages on glass cups

    Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes? Health & Nutrition Facts

    Whether eaten raw or cooked in a delicious sauce, tomatoes are a staple of many human diets. If you’re tempted to slip your dog a slice, you’ll first want to determine whether dogs can safely eat tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes are...

    Can Dogs Eat Tomatoes

    10 Best Foods for Husky Puppies in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Siberian Huskies are working dogs who were bred to pull sleds across the tundra, but they’re also affectionate companions that enjoy being around humans and other pets. To keep your Husky puppy healthy, you’ll need to serve a nutritious diet...

    young siberian husky eating