Have you noticed your dog getting restless and scratching the same spot again and again? It might look like a small problem, but it could mean something more serious.
Taking care of your dog’s health is very important, especially when they love to play outside and roll around in the grass.
Sometimes they bring back uninvited guests like fleas and ticks that cause itching, irritation, and even painful wounds.
These tiny pests can make your furry friend feel very uncomfortable and unhappy. So, how to get rid of fleas on dogs naturally?
I have found some easy DIY homemade flea and tick spray for dogs that really work.
They will help protect your dog, keep their coat healthy, and make them feel safe and happy again.
How Fleas and Ticks Can Harm Your Dog?
Fleas and ticks are not only annoying, but they can also be harmful. They feed on your dog’s blood and release saliva that causes itching, irritation, and skin discomfort.
This constant scratching can create red spots, hair loss, and painful wounds that may become infected.
Some dogs also develop flea allergy dermatitis, which causes their skin to become red, swollen, and very itchy, even after a single bite.
Severe infestations can cause blood loss and anemia, making dogs tired, weak, or lose their appetite.
Ticks are more dangerous because they carry diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis that damage your dog’s organs.
Fleas also spread tapeworms and other bacteria that harm the digestive system.
Flea and tick problems can also affect humans, so controlling these pests helps protect your dog and your entire household.
Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray Recipe for Dogs
These are some of the top natural DIY Flea and Tick spray recipes for dogs, with application instructions.
Remember, if you are applying any kind of oil, dilute it first before applying, as it can harm your dog’s skin.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar & Essential Oil Spray
I like this spray because it helps repel fleas and ticks while keeping your dog’s coat soft and shiny.
You’ll need apple cider vinegar, water, vegetable oil, lavender, and cedarwood essential oils. Mix them well and spray lightly on your dog’s coat, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Use it once a week or when needed to keep pests away and the coat healthy.
Steps to Make:
- Add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of water to a spray bottle.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
- Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil and 10 drops of cedarwood essential oil.
- Close the bottle and shake well before each use.
2. Lemongrass & Cedarwood Fresh Coat Spray
I like this spray because it leaves a clean, fresh scent and provides natural protection against fleas and ticks.
You’ll need water, witch hazel, lemongrass, and cedarwood essential oils. The lemongrass adds a bright smell, while cedarwood helps repel pests. It’s safe to use after baths or outdoor playtime.
Spray evenly on your dog’s coat, avoiding sensitive areas, and reapply two to three times a week during warmer months for lasting freshness and protection.
Steps to Make:
- Pour 1 cup of water and ½ cup of witch hazel into a spray bottle.
- Add 10 drops of lemongrass essential oil.
- Add 10 drops of cedarwood essential oil.
- Shake well before spraying on your dog’s coat.
3. Peppermint & Rosemary Repellent Mist
This refreshing mist is one of my favorites because it keeps fleas and ticks away while giving your dog’s coat a pleasant scent.
You’ll need distilled water, apple cider vinegar, peppermint oil, and rosemary oil. Peppermint cools the skin, and rosemary helps nourish the fur. Spray lightly, focusing on your dog’s back and legs.
Use it every few days during flea season for consistent results and to help your dog stay fresh and comfortable.
Steps to Make:
- Mix 1 cup of distilled water and 1 cup of apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Add 8 drops of peppermint essential oil.
- Add 8 drops of rosemary essential oil.
- Shake well before each use and apply lightly over the coat.
4. Witch Hazel & Lavender Gentle Spray
I use this gentle spray for dogs with sensitive skin because it’s soothing and mild. You’ll need witch hazel, water, and lavender essential oil.
Witch hazel acts as a natural cleanser, and lavender gives a calming effect while repelling pests.
It’s great for quick refreshes after walks or grooming. Spray evenly, avoiding the face, and let it air dry. Use it every few days or as needed for soft, fresh, and pest-free fur.
Steps to Make:
- Combine 1 cup of witch hazel and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Add 12 drops of lavender essential oil.
- Shake well before use.
- Lightly mist your dog’s coat and let it dry naturally.
5. Aloe Vera & Neem Soothing Spray
This spray works well if your dog’s skin is itchy or irritated. I like it because aloe vera cools and soothes, while neem oil repels fleas and ticks.
You’ll need aloe vera juice, water, and neem oil. It also helps condition dry fur, leaving it smooth and shiny. Spray evenly over the coat and gently rub it in.
Use it once or twice a week to relieve irritation and protect your dog naturally.
Steps to Make:
- Add 1 cup of aloe vera juice and 1 cup of water to a spray bottle.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of neem oil.
- Shake well to blend.
- Spray evenly over the coat, avoiding the eyes and nose.
6. Rosemary & Lavender Refreshing Spray
I use this mix when I want my dog’s coat to smell fresh and stay flea-free. Rosemary adds shine and strengthens fur, while lavender calms the skin.
You’ll need fresh rosemary, water, apple cider vinegar, and lavender oil.
It’s great after baths or walks to freshen up the coat naturally. Spray lightly once a week for a clean scent and lasting protection against pests while keeping your dog’s coat smooth and healthy.
Steps to Make:
- Boil 2 cups of water and add a handful of fresh rosemary.
- Let it steep for 10–15 minutes, then cool and strain.
- Pour the rosemary water into a spray bottle.
- Add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 8 drops of lavender oil.
- Shake before using and spray lightly on your dog’s coat.
7. Diatomaceous Earth & Neem Herbal Powder
I like this dry mix because it helps kill fleas and ticks naturally without using chemicals. You’ll need food-grade diatomaceous earth and neem powder.
Both work together to dry out and repel pests while keeping your dog’s skin healthy. Gently sprinkle it over your dog’s coat and brush through.
Use it once every two weeks or after outdoor play to keep your pet’s coat clean and pest-free.
Steps to Make:
- Mix 1 cup of food-grade diatomaceous earth with 2 tablespoons of neem powder.
- Stir well to combine evenly.
- Store in a jar with a tight lid.
- Apply lightly over your dog’s coat, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.
8. Olive Oil & Lemon Eucalyptus Spray
This mix is one of my go-to sprays for a light, natural defense against fleas and ticks. You’ll need olive oil, water, and lemon eucalyptus essential oil.
Olive oil helps condition the fur, while lemon eucalyptus repels insects effectively.
Spray lightly before walks or outdoor time, and reapply every three to four days during pest-heavy seasons to maintain a clean, fresh-smelling coat and long-lasting protection.
Steps to Make:
- Add 1 cup of water to a spray bottle.
- Mix in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil.
- Shake well before each use and spray lightly over the coat.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar & Thyme Defense Spray
I like this one because thyme oil adds strong antibacterial and pest-repelling properties while apple cider vinegar balances your dog’s skin.
You’ll need apple cider vinegar, water, and thyme essential oil. The mix helps protect against fleas, ticks, and even odor. Spray it lightly on your dog’s back and legs, avoiding sensitive areas.
Use it once a week to keep your pet safe, fresh, and comfortable during outdoor activities.
Steps to Make:
- Combine 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Add 10 drops of thyme essential oil.
- Shake the bottle well before each use.
- Spray gently over the coat and let it air dry.
10. Lavender & Geranium Light Spray
This gentle spray is perfect if you want something that smells pleasant and repels pests naturally.
You’ll need distilled water, witch hazel, lavender, and geranium essential oils. Lavender relaxes your dog, and geranium oil keeps fleas and ticks away.
It’s light and safe for daily use, especially before outdoor play. Spray evenly on your dog’s coat, avoiding the face, and reapply every two to three days for best results.
Steps to Make:
- Mix 1 cup of distilled water with ½ cup of witch hazel in a spray bottle.
- Add 10 drops of lavender oil.
- Add 8 drops of geranium essential oil.
- Shake well and spray evenly over your dog’s coat.
11. Coconut & Citronella Protective Spray
I like this spray because it offers strong protection against mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks while keeping your dog’s coat soft. You’ll need coconut oil, water, and citronella essential oil.
Coconut oil adds shine and moisture, and citronella keeps bugs away.
Apply it before outdoor time and reapply every few days. It’s great for dogs who spend time in the yard or on walks. Avoid spraying near the eyes or mouth.
Steps to Make:
- Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil if solid.
- Add 1 cup of warm water to a spray bottle.
- Mix in 10 drops of citronella essential oil.
- Add the melted coconut oil and shake well before spraying.
12. Apple Cider Vinegar & Jojoba Shine Spray
I love this one for boosting shine and keeping the coat pest-free. You’ll need apple cider vinegar, water, and jojoba oil. The vinegar balances your dog’s skin pH, and jojoba adds smoothness and moisture.
Spray lightly after grooming sessions to enhance shine and reduce fleas naturally. Use it once a week for the best coat care routine.
It’s gentle enough for long-term use and safe on most coat types.
Steps to Make:
- Mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Add 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil.
- Shake well to blend all ingredients.
- Spray evenly on your dog’s coat and brush through gently.
13. Vitamin E & Lemongrass Coat Spray
This spray is great for keeping your dog’s coat soft, glossy, and pest-free. You’ll need water, witch hazel, lemongrass oil, and vitamin E oil.
The lemongrass repels insects, while vitamin E nourishes the fur and skin. It’s especially good for dry or dull coats.
Spray evenly and let it absorb. Use it once or twice a week to maintain a healthy, shiny coat that naturally resists fleas and ticks.
Steps to Make:
- Add 1 cup of water and ½ cup of witch hazel to a spray bottle.
- Mix in 10 drops of lemongrass essential oil.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vitamin E oil.
- Shake before each use and spray lightly on your dog’s coat.
14. Neem & Peppermint Daily Spray
I like this as a daily-use spray because it offers continuous protection. You’ll need water, neem oil, and peppermint essential oil.
Neem works as a natural insect repellent, while peppermint cools and refreshes the coat. It’s great for dogs that spend time outdoors. Spray lightly each morning before walks.
It keeps fleas away and leaves your pet smelling clean. Use it daily during peak flea months for steady protection.
Steps to Make:
- Pour 1 cup of water into a spray bottle.
- Add 1 teaspoon of neem oil.
- Mix in 8 drops of peppermint essential oil.
- Shake well and apply evenly before outdoor activities.
15. Aloe Vera & Lemon Eucalyptus Mild Spray
I like this blend because it’s gentle, cooling, and effective against fleas and ticks. You’ll need aloe vera juice, water, and lemon eucalyptus oil. Aloe soothes the skin, while the oil repels insects naturally.
This mild mix is ideal for regular use, especially for dogs with sensitive skin.
Spray evenly and reapply every three to four days for consistent protection and comfort. It also helps reduce itching and dryness.
Steps to Make:
- Add 1 cup of aloe vera juice and 1 cup of water to a spray bottle.
- Mix in 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray evenly over the coat and let it air dry.
Precautions and Safety Tips for Using Homemade Sprays
Homemade sprays can be effective, but it’s essential to use them safely to protect your dog’s skin, eyes, and overall health.
- Always dilute essential oils properly before applying them to your dog’s coat to prevent skin irritation or burning.
- Avoid spraying around the eyes, mouth, nose, ears, or any open wounds to keep your dog safe from discomfort or injury.
- Test the spray on a small patch of fur before full use to check for redness, itching, or allergic reactions.
- Never use strong oils like tea tree or clove, as they can be toxic to dogs.
- Store your spray in a dark, cool location away from direct sunlight to maintain the freshness and effectiveness of its ingredients.
- Reapply sprays only as directed and stop immediately if your dog shows signs of irritation or unusual behavior.
Using homemade sprays correctly helps your dog stay pest-free without risking skin problems or chemical reactions.
When to Call a Veterinarian?
Sometimes, home treatments may not be enough to handle flea and tick problems. If your dog keeps scratching, losing hair, or developing sore skin, it is time to visit the vet.
Flea allergy dermatitis can cause serious swelling, redness, and pain that needs medical care.
If your dog shows signs such as shaking, vomiting, drooling, or trouble breathing after using a spray, contact a veterinarian immediately. These could be signs of poisoning or a bad allergic reaction.
A dog with pale gums, weakness, or extreme tiredness may also have anemia from heavy infestations.
Always contact your veterinarian if you are unsure about symptoms or treatments. Quick action helps prevent serious infections and keeps your dog safe and healthy.
Home & Yard: Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
Fleas and ticks do not just live on your dog. They also hide in carpets, furniture, and even your backyard.
To stop infestations for good, you need to clean both your home and outdoor areas. This method is called Integrated Pest Management (IPM).
It combines natural cleaning, regular upkeep, and safe pest control steps to keep your dog and home flea-free.
Deep-Clean Routine: Vacuuming, Laundry, Crate & Bedding Care
Vacuum your home at least twice a week. Focus on spots where your dog sleeps such as rugs, couches, and corners.
Empty the vacuum bag outside right after cleaning so the pests cannot crawl back out.
Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water once a week. Heat kills both adult fleas and eggs.
Wipe down your dog’s crate, bed frame, and any plastic toys with a mild vinegar and water mix.
If your dog rides in the car, vacuum the seats and wash removable covers too.
A clean environment breaks the flea life cycle and prevents them from coming back.
Treating Cracks, Carpets & Upholstery (What Actually Helps)
Fleas and ticks hide in small gaps and thick fabric fibers. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth (not pool-grade) into cracks, under cushions, and along baseboards.
Leave it for a few hours, then vacuum thoroughly. It dries out larvae and adults naturally.
Steam-clean carpets and upholstery once a month. The heat helps kill hidden eggs.
If your infestation is heavier, you can use a pet-safe spray with cedar, peppermint, or lemon oils. Lightly mist the area and allow it to dry before letting your dog back in.
Yard Strategies: Grass Height, Leaf Litter, Barriers & Safe Treatments
Outside, trim grass short to about 2 to 3 inches. Fleas and ticks like tall, shady grass. Rake up fallen leaves and wood piles since they create damp hiding spots.
Create a 3-foot gravel or wood chip barrier between your yard and wooded areas. This helps keep ticks from crawling closer.
Use beneficial nematodes (tiny soil organisms sold in garden centers) to naturally reduce flea larvae in soil.
Avoid chemical yard sprays unless your vet recommends one. Natural options like cedarwood yard spray or neem oil mixed with water can help repel pests safely.
Conclusion
Taking care of your dog’s comfort and safety is a big part of being a good pet parent. Natural flea and tick sprays can make a huge difference when used correctly and regularly.
These gentle DIY recipes help protect your furry friend without using harsh chemicals, keeping them clean, happy, and free from constant itching.
Always follow the directions carefully and watch for any skin reactions after applying a spray.
If your dog’s irritation becomes worse or they show unusual signs, contact your veterinarian right away for proper treatment and advice.
By combining natural care with professional help, your dog can enjoy every day with energy and comfort.
Try one or two of these recipes and let me know if your dog seems more relaxed or comfortable. Share your experience in the comments below.
