What are Natural Flea Killers for Dogs?

The natural flea killer for dogs is a natural herb or oil that can be used to kill fleas and manage infestations. Pet parents often use a natural flea killer for dogs as it is a budget-friendly option and free from harmful chemicals.
According to Pet MD, natural flea killers for dogs are available in a variety of styles, including oils, oral supplements, and powders. The most popular option is essential oils.
Do Natural Flea Repellents for Dogs Work?
Yes, natural flea repellents for dogs work. However, the exact working mechanism depends on the specific repellent.
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According to My Pet Nutritionist, using a natural flea killer for dogs is much safer than chemical treatments. The site also states that natural repellents are usually effective.
Rather than poisoning fleas and ticks, they repel them. The repelling effect safely prevents a dog from becoming host to fleas.
What are the Benefits of Using Natural Flea Repellent for Dogs?
There are many benefits to using natural remedies for dogs. Here are some of the benefits of using a natural flea killer for dogs:
- No Harsh Chemicals. The regular flea treatment for dogs (topicals, oral tablets, and flea collars) contains insecticides and chemicals that can kill adult fleas and larvae. Common ingredients are permethrin, pyrethrin, and fipronil. Natural flea killers and repellents are free from such chemicals.
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin. Mainstream, chemical flea prevention products may cause irritations and allergic reactions in sensitive dogs. Natural flea repellents are safe even for dogs with skin sensitivities.
- Easy to Use. Most natural flea repellents for dogs are easy to use. All they take is simple scrubbing of the dog’s coat with hands, saturating the fur with a mix in a spray bottle, or pouring a shampoo mixture over a dog’s coat will work.
- Budget-Friendly Protection. Many natural flea repellents are inexpensive and can be made with ingredients the pet owners already have in their homes, such as lemon juice or coconut oil. Others can be purchased online for budget-friendly prices.
What Repels Fleas in Dogs Naturally?

There are many products and methods available in stores and online that work to repel fleas naturally. Listed below are a few examples that may work for your dog.
Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar. The Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar is made with natural ingredients and offers various health benefits, including solving the flea problem in dogs.
After you wash a dog with its normal soap, mix one-part apple cider vinegar (ACV) with five parts of warm water and pour it over the dog. Rub the apple cider vinegar into the dog’s skin and let it sit for a minute or two. Rinse with warm water afterward.
Wholistic Pet Diatomaceous Earth. The Wholistic Pet diatomaceous earth product consists of organic ingredients. In addition to repelling fleas naturally, diatomaceous earth supports the dog’s overall health.
Diatomaceous earth kills and prevents fleas and flea eggs from dogs and the environment. It works by damaging the exoskeleton and draining the water from the fleas’ bodies. However, only diatomaceous earth labeled as “food-grade“ is safe for dogs.
Essential Oils. Essential oils can be great for treating and killing fleas on dogs. However, in their raw form, oils can be dangerous to dogs. Vitality Extracts states that only diluted oils are safe for dogs.
You can use one drop of essential oil (eucalyptus, palmarosa, lavender, lemon, clary sage) per one milliliter of carrier oil (like coconut oil). Do not use wintergreen, pennyroyal, clove, or peppermint essential oils, as they can be dangerous to dogs.
Lemon Juice. Lemon is a natural flea-repellant and can be used in the form of a lemon spray as a daily preventative. Simply mix water and a few drops of lemon juice into a spray bottle.
Instead of spraying, you can practice lemon juice baths. Just add a few drops of lemon juice to the dog’s shampoo. This is a great recipe for making a DIY flea shampoo.
A lemon juice bath can also be an effective way to prevent and treat fleas. A few drops can be added to any dog-safe shampoo. You can also make a DIY flea shampoo by adding equal parts of lemon juice and baking soda to the shampoo.
Zesty Paws Coconut Oil. The Zesty Paws coconut oil can be used internally or externally on the dog’s fur. When used on the dog’s skin, it helps relieve itchiness and irritation caused by flea bites.
Coconut oil, in general, doesn’t kill fleas. However, it is the most commonly used carrier oil in natural flea repellents for dogs. Plus, with the flea bite managing component, coconut oil is a 2-in-1 product for dogs.
- The Bragg ACV is raw, unfiltered, and crafted from organically grown apples. It is USDA certified organic, Non-GMO Verified, and Kosher certified.
- Drinking a daily dose of Bragg Organic ACV offers many health benefits. ACV can help support a healthy immune system, aids in maintaining a healthy weight, delivers prebiotics, and helps you maintain normal glucose levels.
- The Bragg ACV Vinegar is made from organically grown apples, and offers various health benefits. To easily incorporate ACV into your diet, you can take a daily 2 oz shot, pour it over your salad, drink in a morning elixir with water and lemon, or add it to your hot tea.
What is the Best Natural Flea Repellent for Dogs?

There are some natural flea remedies available that are specific for removing and preventing ticks and fleas. Here are some highly recommended natural flea killer for dogs products.
TropiClean Natural Flea & Tick Maximum Strength Shampoo for Dogs. This shampoo will ensure your dog is flea-free by killing adult fleas, flea larvae, and flea eggs, as well as ticks and mosquitos. The shampoo is made with essential oils and repels pests for up to 7 days. It is safe for dogs 12 weeks and older. It will also leave a pet smelling fresh and citrusy.
Tropiclean Natural Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs. This natural flea spray for dogs kills fleas, larvae, eggs, and ticks on dogs 12 weeks or older. It is made from essential oils and free from harmful ingredients. The spray can be applied directly to a dog’s coat or bedding. However, be careful not to spray it on the dog’s eyes, mouth, and nose.
Wondercide Flea, Tick and Mosquito Spray for Dogs. This pest-repelling spray can be used on dogs and cats. It is family-safe and made from essential oils. The product kills and repels fleas, flea larvae, flea eggs, ticks, and mosquitos on contact. Because of its gentle formula, it is approved and recommended by holistic vets.
The natural flea killer for dogs can be used on its own or in conjunction with flea combs. Flea combs are excellent for removing fleas physically. For example, after applying the natural flea treatment, just comb your dog to remove dead fleas. Leaving the fleas to fall the natural way would take much longer.
Also, it is important to eliminate the fleas from the environment – the dog’s bed, carpet, and other furniture. Vacuuming is efficient for achieving flea control, but if dealing with a severe flea infestation, it might be a good idea to talk with a professional cleaning service.
How do You Make Homemade Flea Killer for Dogs?

There are various natural home remedies that can be made using simple ingredients to kill fleas. For example, you can put fresh rosemary in boiling water to make a chemical-free flea dip.
According to Pet MD, juices from both oranges and lemons can get rid of fleas on dogs. Just put a few juice drops in the dog shampoo or dish soap and bathe your dog with the DIY flea shampoo.
Here is a simple recipe for a natural flea killer for dogs from Animal Hearted:
Ingredients
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 quart of warm water
- 1 cup of liquid dish soap
Directions
- Mix the warm water and the apple cider vinegar together in a large bowl
- Slowly add the liquid dish soap
- Mix all of the ingredients and pour them into a spray bottle
- Give the bottle a gentle shake to ensure everything is properly combined.
You can use this flea shampoo just like any regular dog shampoo – massage it in the dog’s skin and let it stay for 5 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Finally, dry the dog’s coat with a towel or hairdryer.
By Anant Shastri, Updated February 21, 2023 Anant Shastri, Writer Anant Shastri is a published author based in India. Being a writer for more than a decade, he has managed to publish his own poetry book entitled Darkness in the Fool, a collection of poetry focusing on learning to find joy even in the midst of solitude. Lean about our Editorial Guideline By Anant Shastri 5 years agoRelated Posts
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FAQs
The Best Natural Flea Killer for Dogs: Does It Work? ›
Vinegar. Combine 1 quart of water, 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, and 1 cup of baby shampoo or liquid dish soap. Use this mixture to bathe your dog once or twice a month. Vinegar kills fleas and ticks on contact and can prevent future infestations.
Do natural flea treatment for dogs work? ›So far, there seems to be no conclusive evidence that natural remedies work to treat or prevent fleas. There are also concerns about the safety of these remedies, which are largely untested and unregulated.
How do you get rid of fleas on dogs fast naturally? ›One of the first solutions to get rid of fleas is to bathe your pet. Just lukewarm water, or water and a mild soap, can help get fleas off your pet's fur and skin. The dish soap can help to drown adult fleas. If you're thinking about using a flea shampoo or something similar, talk to your veterinarian first.
What kills fleas immediately on dogs? ›An oral fast-acting tablet that contains Nitenpyram is the safest way to kill fleas on dogs instantly. You can also bathe your dog in hot soapy water with Dawn to kill adult fleas, but this is not a good long-term solution.
How do you get rid of fleas on a dog without a vet prescription? ›There are essential oils that can be added to your dog's shampoo or topical flea treatment. These include eucalyptus, lavender, and lemon oil. Just be sure to use a safe essential oil that is diluted properly before applying it to your dog. Lastly, you could use omega supplements.
What do vets recommend for fleas in the home? ›According to the American Animal Hospital Association, NexGard's chews are FDA-approved to help kill adult fleas before they can lay eggs, providing protection from fleas and ticks for a full month.
How do you get rid of fleas naturally? ›Natural Remedy: Diatomaceous Earth
This talc-like powder is made from silica, the same stuff that makes up sand. You can sprinkle it on carpets, bedding, and furniture. Let it sit for several hours, then vacuum it up. It kills fleas by drying them out.
Natural flea repellents such as citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and geraniol may naturally repel fleas. If your pet doesn't mind a spray bottle, dilute a few drops of your chosen repellent into 10-13 fl oz of water and spray directly onto your pet's coat.
Can vinegar get rid of fleas on dogs? ›Apple cider vinegar can't kill fleas, but it can help to repel them. Fleas don't like the smell or taste of it, so they're likely to avoid your pet if they have it on their fur. Dilute apple cider vinegar in water and add it to a spray bottle.
What is the best homemade flea killer? ›Create a flea spray by mixing 4 liters of vinegar, 2 liters of water, 500 ml of lemon juice and 250 ml of witch hazel in a large spray bottle. Before applying the product around your home, you should vacuum properly, emptying the contents into an outside bin, and wash any bedding/cushions that could be infested.
What kills fleas and eggs on dogs? ›
We recommend Frontline Plus Flea & Tick Treatment, a topical liquid that you apply to the skin between your dog's shoulder blades once a month. If you prefer shampoo, Adams Plus is extremely effective in killing adult fleas, eggs, and larvae.
How do you make homemade flea killer for dogs? ›Vinegar. Combine 1 quart of water, 1 cup of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, and 1 cup of baby shampoo or liquid dish soap. Use this mixture to bathe your dog once or twice a month. Vinegar kills fleas and ticks on contact and can prevent future infestations.
What household product kills fleas on pets? ›Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar's slightly acidic pH level creates an inhospitable environment for fleas. Mix six cups of ACV with four cups of water (use a 6:4 ratio), add a pinch of salt, and spray the mixture on your dog's coat and underbelly, making sure to avoid their eyes and any wounds they may have.
Capstar. Capstar is available without a prescription, and it starts killing fleas within just a few hours. It's generally a safe option for cats and dogs at the appropriate dosage.
What is the safest and most effective flea treatment for dogs? ›If chemical products are necessary for additional flea or tick control, NRDC recommends s-methoprene or pyriproxyfen, which are less toxic ingredients—but read the labels carefully because some products use them with other, more harmful pesticides.
What do dog groomers use for fleas? ›In some cases, a groomer will use a fine-toothed flea comb, like Safari Wood Handle Flea Comb for Dogs, to remove fleas on the pet's head while they are soaking for the required time. Captured fleas can then be rinsed down the drain.
What do groomers use for fleas? ›On some pets, fleas and ticks may be deterred by essential oils like peppermint oil and cedar oil. Groomers may use shampoos and flea deterrent sprays containing these natural oils as a topical layer of protection for your pet.
What is an emergency flea treatment for dogs? ›Capstar (nitenpyram) is a fast-acting flea treatment tablet for use in dogs and cats that starts killing fleas in only 30 minutes. A single dose of Capstar kills 90% of adult fleas within 4 hours for dogs and 6 hours for cats, ridding your pet of these pesky parasites.
What do fleas hate the most? ›Citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and rosemary will all naturally repel fleas. If your dog doesn't mind a spray bottle, dilute a few drops of your chosen essential oil into a 300ml-400ml of water and spray directly onto your dog's coat.
What eats fleas off dogs? ›Nematodes: These guys are small worms that feed off flea larvae. They are super effective and you should see an improvement in your flea population in only two days.
Can I put baking soda on my dog for fleas? ›
By mixing baking soda and salt into a formula you are making a dehydrating agent. This will dry out the fleas, their eggs, and the larvae. This will kill them off so that they do not reproduce and spread. The main point of handling a flea infestation is to stop it from spreading.
Can I spray my dog with white vinegar and water for fleas? ›In short: using vinegar solution or white vinegar on your pet's fur or in their drinking water will not kill fleas. There is a chance ACV could repel fleas because they don't like the taste, but it is only a mild detergent and is not the best flea remedy. ACV should not be your first choice for natural flea treatment.
How often can I spray apple cider vinegar on my dog with fleas? ›Once a week, spray your dog's fur with the mixture. Although not scientifically proven to get rid of flea, the acidic taste of the vinegar may repel fleas and other parasites. If your dog dislikes being sprayed, dip a washcloth into the mixture and rub your dog's coat. There is no need to rinse your dog afterward.
Can I wash my dog in apple cider vinegar for fleas? ›For minor flea infestations, washing your dog with a gentle shampoo, followed by a thorough rinse then spraying on apple cider vinegar diluted with an equal amount of warm water. Allow your dog to drip or shake dry. The vinegar rinse will acidify your pet's skin making it unattractive to fleas and ticks.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of fleas? ›Outdoor Flea Removal
A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution may just be your answer. Peroxide is a common insecticide used in gardens and other agricultural sites. Not only does it kill fleas due to its toxic nature, but it can also eradicate other pests from your foliage as well.
Dawn dish soap will drown fleas that are on your pet, killing them quickly. However, it does nothing to prevent reinfection with fleas, so you are likely to see an ongoing flea issue with your pet unless you switch to a proper preventative flea product.
Why does my dog keep getting fleas? ›If your dog is constantly being reinfested with fleas after treatment, it is most likely there is an environmental infestation in or around your house. The adult fleas we see on pets represent only 5% of the total population. The other 95% are immature stages in the environment.
Can I put lemon juice on my dog for fleas? ›Fleas don't care for the scent of lemon ,or the limonene in lemons, so applying it to your pet's coat can deter fleas.
Why won't my dog's fleas go away? ›Not treating often enough. Fleas go through a life cycle of egg, larvae, pupae and adult. Most flea treatments just kill adult fleas, but fleas can continue to emerge for months after you think an infestation has ended. When a newly emerged female flea finds a host, she can lay eggs within one day.
What kills fleas in 30 minutes? ›Capstar has a rapid onset of action – starts killing fleas within 30 minutes – and continues to rapidly kill fleas for 24 hours.
What natural product kills fleas instantly? ›
You can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, which is both effective in dealing with pests. Mixing essential oils like cedar or lavender can make the solution powerful. You can damp cloth with a vinegar solution on infested areas and on your pets to ensure that all fleas will be gone for good.
What is the number one killer for fleas? ›#1 Best Overall: Vet's Best Outdoor Flea & Tick Spray
It's a concentrated formula meant specifically for outdoor use. It kills all these little critters on contact but without the use of any harsh chemicals.
- How do I know if my pet has fleas? ...
- Finding the right treatment. ...
- Frontline® Flea Spray for Dogs and Cats. ...
- Frontline® Plus for Dogs and Cats. ...
- Seresto™ Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs and Cats. ...
- Capstar® Flea Control for Dogs and Cats. ...
- Advantage® II for Dogs and Cats.
Bravecto Spot-on for Dogs kills pre-existing and new infestations of paralysis ticks for 6 months and treats and controls brown dog ticks for 12 weeks. It also controls fleas on dogs within 8 hours of administration, and subsequently controls flea re-infestations for 6 months.
What is the best solution for fleas? ›- Use baking soda. ...
- Sprinkle salt. ...
- Lemon spray. ...
- Wash all bedding in hot, soapy water. ...
- Use rosemary. ...
- Hire a steam cleaner. ...
- Use a powerful vacuum. ...
- Use a pet-safe flea spray.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar's slightly acidic pH level creates an inhospitable environment for fleas. Mix six cups of ACV with four cups of water (use a 6:4 ratio), add a pinch of salt, and spray the mixture on your dog's coat and underbelly, making sure to avoid their eyes and any wounds they may have.
Some can potentially help to manage a flea problem, but they cannot successfully resolve one. Most home remedies for fleas only affect the adult flea species, leaving the larvae and eggs unaffected. This creates a window of opportunity for another flea infestation to occur as the eggs hatch and larvae develop.
Do dogs really need flea medicine? ›The answer is yes, flea and tick preventatives need to be applied year-round in order to keep your pets safe. Read on to learn more about how fleas and ticks operate, the dangers they can harbor, and how best to protect your dogs and cats.
Is it safe to use natural care flea and tick spray on dogs? ›SAFE TO USE - You can use it on your dogs and cats, 12 weeks and older, as directed. Since it's a plant-based formula, it's safe to use around the whole family.
Does apple cider vinegar stop fleas on dogs? ›Apple cider vinegar can't kill fleas, but it can help to repel them. Fleas don't like the smell or taste of it, so they're likely to avoid your pet if they have it on their fur. Dilute apple cider vinegar in water and add it to a spray bottle.
What is the least harmful flea and tick treatment for dogs? ›
If chemical products are necessary for additional flea or tick control, NRDC recommends s-methoprene or pyriproxyfen, which are less toxic ingredients—but read the labels carefully because some products use them with other, more harmful pesticides.
What is an instant homemade flea killer? ›Mix 1/4 cup of distilled vinegar with 3/4 cup water in a spray bottle for a homemade flea spray. Use the spray on any water safe surfaces you've noticed fleas on. You can also add vinegar to the wash when cleaning color safe pet beds and linens.
How do I get rid of fleas on my dog at home? ›- Use a powerful vacuum on any floors, upholstery, and mattresses. ...
- Employ a steam cleaner for carpets and upholstery, including pet beds. ...
- Wash all bedding, including your pet's, in hot water and detergent.
Natural flea repellents such as citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and geraniol may naturally repel fleas. If your pet doesn't mind a spray bottle, dilute a few drops of your chosen repellent into 10-13 fl oz of water and spray directly onto your pet's coat.
What happens when you don't get rid of fleas on dogs? ›Fleas are the number one cause of skin disease in pets and can cause problems ranging from simple itchiness to weeping sores, scaly skin and a strong smell. In severe cases they can cause anemia.
What happens if a dog doesn't get treated for fleas? ›Left untreated, fleas can multiply rapidly and make your dog seriously ill. That's why it's important to check your dog for fleas on a regular basis and act quickly to eliminate any outbreaks that occur. Some dogs are severely allergic to flea saliva and can experience extreme discomfort even from a single flea bite.
Do fleas just stay on dogs? ›Fleas don't just stay on your dog. They can also be found all through your house, and especially in areas where your dog spends a lot of her time.
What shampoo kills fleas and ticks on dogs? ›About Beaphar Dog Flea Shampoo:
Beaphar Dog Flea Shampoo is a specially formulated medicinal cleansing shampoo designed to control flea infestations in dogs and puppies from 12 weeks.
Our vote for the best natural flea and tick product is Wondercide's line of products. They include organic, human-grade ingredients that kill the flea and tick life cycle upon contact and provide ongoing prevention. They offer natural sprays, shampoos, oils, and tonics, as well as yard and home control products.
Is peppermint oil toxic to dogs? ›Many liquid potpourri products and essential oils, including oil of cinnamon, citrus, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree (melaleuca), wintergreen, and ylang ylang, are poisonous to dogs. Both ingestion and skin exposure can be toxic.