21 Homemade Remedies to Repel and Get Rid of Fleas in your Dog

Translated by Nick R

Haven’t you realized that you have at hand the ingredients to get rid of those horrible fleas?

Here I’ll explain the benefits of these methods, how to prepare them and how they work on fleas.

What is a flea? 

Fleas are parasites that feed on our furry friend’s blood. They depend on a host for safe food and for the females to start their reproductive cycle.

This cycle has a high reproductive rate (females lay 30 eggs per day), and the animal becomes infested due to the high number of fleas growing and feeding.

To learn more about the diseases caused by these parasites and how to get rid of them with other methods, I invite you to read the 8 tips to avoid contagion and eliminate fleas from your dog.

Why use home remedies against fleas? 

Some governmental and non-governmental organizations have released articles reporting some of the adverse effects that flea products could cause on our pets if not administered correctly.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) 

An article published by PETA on flea control with a safe solution proposes natural and less dangerous methods.

It mentions that some medications of direct application such as sprays or pipettes have active ingredients composed of chemicals such as imidacloprid, fipronil, methoprene, pyriproxyfen, and permethrin, which are dangerous and have caused some dogs serious health problems associated with the digestive system, among others.

EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) 

In addition, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published an article in 2009 assessing these flea products. Most of the incidents reported in pets were due to misuse, resulting in health problems of the skin, gastrointestinal and nervous system.

However, the EPA veterinary team concluded that these products can be used safely, but with the correct directions and labeling on the product. This meant that the products needed to be better described in terms of components and the amount indicated for the canine or feline.

One of their findings was that small breeds were more affected by flea control products than large breeds. In addition, they stress the importance of knowing the exact weight of the animal to determine the dosage that can work for the animal, especially in small breeds.

FDA (Food and Drug Administration) 

On the other hand, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an informational bulletin indicating “possible adverse events associated with isoxazoline-containing flea and tick products”.

The products containing isoxazoline as one of their active ingredients “have been associated with adverse neurological reactions, including muscle tremor, ataxia (impaired coordination or balance), and seizures in some dogs and cats.”

That means that while they were determined to be safe and effective products, it is vitally important to know the product information so that veterinarians can determine whether the pet can take this product with isoxazoline based on their medical history. However, pet seizures can occur without a prior history.

Annotations 

It’s clear that these deworming products were endorsed and proven effective and safe to use. However, if you are hesitant to use these products, you may choose other solutions that have natural compositions and are chemical-free.

In addition, most of these products are available at home or can be purchased very easily and are cheaper compared to chemical products specialized in killing these parasites.

On the other hand, you should know that these remedies are not long-lasting, so if you want to avoid medications, try to make it a habit to apply these substances both to your dog and the environment to maintain the repellent and protective effect.

How do these home remedies kill fleas? 

To know how these remedies and flea repellents work, you must first understand how fleas breathe.

The flea’s respiratory system consists of a trachea that branches inside the body into thin tubes called tracheoles.

Fleas need oxygen to reach their cells directly, so orifices called spiracles or stigmata located on the thorax and abdomen open outward and allow passage of oxygen. The spiracles are connected to the trachea as this one branches out, travels through the body, and transports oxygen to their cells.

One major difference between our breathing and fleas‘ is that they breathe with their body directly, whereas we use our mouth and nose along with the internal system. In addition, we use blood to transport oxygen, while fleas transport it directly.

Manuel Manzano Cristóbal, Veterinarian at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Zaragoza, explains that it is important to block the flea’s stigmata, as it is what directly connects the outside with the inside of this parasite.

Manzano gives us an example with sodium bicarbonate, which plugs these orifices thanks to its drying effect, killing not only adult fleas, but also getting rid of them in all their stages, such as eggs, larvae, and pupae, because in those stages they breathe in the same way.

These substances kill fleas in two ways. The first is by contact, that is, when the flea carries the scent of the substance through its trachea which also carries oxygen, it will reach the flea’s interior and kill it.

The second way is by biting. When the flea bites the host (in this case the canine) and starts sucking the blood, it dies because the blood is “contaminated”. In other words, the canine previously ingested some liquid or solid substance that was then transported into the bloodstream making the blood toxic and harmful to the fleas.

21 Homemade remedies to repel and eliminate fleas from my dog. 

Here I’ll show you the different methods to control those pesky fleas that hurt your furry friend.

Remember that, for best results, it’s necessary to treat both the canine and his environment, since, if both are free of fleas, repellents will help a lot to avoid infesting your house and fleas jumping on your dog.

Warning: although these remedies are recommended by veterinarians, it doesn’t mean that they are safe methods for all dogs.

Before trying any canine home remedy, be sure to consult your veterinarian to rule out a possible allergic reaction to any of the components of these remedies.

You can also try using a small dose for 2 to 3 days to make sure your pet doesn’t have an allergic reaction or intoxication. If you don’t see something in those days, you can progressively increase the dosage until you reach the normal application.

Diatomaceous Earth 

Diatomaceous earth is a rock formed from fossilized remains of an algae. It’s an excellent natural remedy because it is non-toxic to animals and humans.

Additionally, thanks to its composition, it allows you to get rid of fleas by dehydrating them. You can get it in gardening stores or places where they sell specialized products for plants and crops. You can also buy it online.

Method 1 

You will need:

• Diatomaceous earth, either food grade or natural.
• Gloves
• Mask/mouthpiece

Procedure 

1. First you must put on a mask and gloves (optional) and then take your pet to a place where you can get it dirty. Ideally, this place should not have too much air to prevent the powder from spreading in the environment.
2. Then, get the diatomaceous earth ready in a container, take it and start sprinkling it on its fur from the neck down.
3. Massage and impregnate well the diatomaceous earth on the fur and skin of the canine.
4. Cover the body well, from the neck to the tail and paws, but avoid the areas of the eyes, nose, ears, inside and muzzle of the dog because the powder can cause irritation.
5. Put a small amount on his head and massage gently and be careful with his ears, only on the external part.
6. Finally, check that it has been well covered and that the soil has made direct contact with the skin, both in the whole area of the back and the whole area of the abdomen.
7. Leave the diatomaceous earth to act for 5 days and then on day 6 you bathe it to eliminate the white spots and remains of dust that were left on its skin.

This method is recommended every 2-3 weeks. However, if you notice that after this time no fleas have reappeared on your dog, you can do it monthly.

It’s important that you acquire food-grade or natural diatomaceous earth, because it has no chemical treatments so that it won’t be toxic neither for you nor for the canine.

The effect of diatomaceous earth 

Some adverse effects that diatomaceous earth has on parasites such as fleas, ticks, etc, include abrasive damage to the jaw (this means that it is loosened from the skin by friction), absorption of the wax causing dehydration (since the cuticle (the outer layer that forms the exoskeleton) needs to be moist to maintain the exoskeleton).

Other effects produced by this soil are the perforation of the tracheal walls (the tubes that carry oxygen directly to the cells) and starvation of the larvae, i.e. it prevents them from further development and they die due to lack of food.

In the environment 

You can spread this same earth in every corner of your house, including your garden and the outside of your house. Let it stay overnight and the next day collect the dust very well either with a vacuum cleaner or a broom, making sure there is nothing left. If there are fleas in these places, the fleas will be dead once they come in contact with the soil.

Sodium bicarbonate 

Sodium bicarbonate is a mineral derived from natron, another natural mineral. It’s an antacid that helps relieve heartburn in people.

Method 2 

You will need:

• 2-3 tablespoons of sodium bicarbonate (powdered).
• 1 liter of water
• A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• A large or medium spray can/atomizer/spray bottle

Procedure 

1. First, pour the liter of water and the tablespoons of baking soda in a separate container and stir.
2. Then pour the stream of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, which acts similar to vinegar, in case you don’t have it.
3. Wait a moment for the vinegar to pass the effervescence effect, then stir everything and move this solution to the container you’ll use for spraying.
4. Apply it on the fur and skin of your dog, impregnating both well, taking care in areas such as the eyes, nose, ears in the inner part and muzzle.
5. Do this every time you go for a walk with your canine.

The effect 

The reaction mechanism of baking soda when activated by apple cider vinegar or lemon juice is more effective than when it’s dry. Its drying effect will help to obstruct the spiracles through which fleas breathe, killing them.

In addition, apple cider vinegar contains a high level of a potassium salt, which has an adverse effect on the fleas’ keratin cuticle.

In the environment 

This solution works great in the crevices of your home as well; potential living areas for fleas to thrive in.

Once the baking soda dries, it forms tiny crystals that will help trap any fleas that pass by and kill them.

Also, you can use baking soda powder alone and it will also help get rid of fleas in the environment. For this, just sprinkle it in all the corners of your house, carpets and even your furry one’s bed.

In this case, leave it overnight and vacuum it the next day, if you can’t, be sure to pick up everything well with a broom and for carpets and bedding, shake well and then clean. The purpose of dry baking soda is to dehydrate both fleas and their eggs.

Lemon 

Lemon contains a high amount of citric acid, which is very beneficial and nutritious for your health. In addition to its flavor, its aroma is equally strong and highly flavoring.

Method 3 – Rubbing lemon

You will need:

• 1-2 lemons depending on the size of the canine
• Comb (optional)

Procedure 

1. First, cut the lemon into slices.
2. Then you should have your dog ready and start rubbing the lemon directly on his skin, especially on the areas where the flea has already bitten or where you can see signs of DAPP (flea allergy dermatitis).
3. Remember to be careful with the areas around the eyes, muzzle, nose and inside the ears.
4. You can start this treatment on the areas most affected to see how the pet reacts to the lemon exposure on his skin.
5. If he reacts well, you can rub it calmly on the skin, preventing him from licking until the lemon dries on his skin.

With the comb

1. Use the comb if the dog’s coat is too long or if the lemon is not sufficiently impregnated when rubbing it in.
2. To use the comb, first squeeze one or two lemons in a shallow bowl and then soak the bristles.
3. Once the juice soaks into the bristles, comb your pet’s hair, taking care not to rub the pet’s sensitive areas.

You can do either of the two procedures 2-3 times a week and if you no longer see signs of fleas on their skin, you can continue to do it only once a week.

Method 4 – Lemon bath 

You will need:

• Half a cup of lemon juice
• 2 cups of water
• Dog shampoo

Procedure 

1. In a bowl, mix the lemon juice with the water and stir well.
2. Then add some of the shampoo and mix it until everything is well diluted.
3. Bathe your dog as you normally do and use this solution, taking care with his eyes, muzzle and the inside of his ears.
4. Let it act as indicated in the shampoo’s instructions or for 5 to 10 minutes, then rinse well.
5. You can do this every other bathing.

Method 5 – Lemon Spray 

You will need:

• 2 lemons
• 1 liter of water
• Spray container

Procedure 

1. Cut the lemons in slices, then put them in a saucepan and boil them.
2. Let them boil for 5 minutes and then let them rest overnight.
3. The next day pour the liquid from the infusion into the spray container.
4. You will spray your dog taking care with the eyes, nose, muzzle, genitals and inside of the ears.
5. Do this weekly twice or thrice.

In the environment 

This liquid works great to be spread in the environment, especially in places frequented by your pet and in the corners where fleas are likely to be.

The effect 

The limonene, a chemical in the peel of citrus fruits, gives the lemon insecticidal properties in any of the three combinations. In high concentrations, it helps repel insects, including fleas, which are very sensitive to the scent of lemon.

Vinegar 

Vinegar is a liquid with a strong, sour smell resulting from the fermentation of wine. It’s composed of acetic acid at a concentration of 3% to 5%, and other components in small quantities such as citric acid and tartaric acid.

Apart from normal vinegar, apple cider vinegar is also used because it contains other components such as fiber and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, sodium, among others.

Method 6 – Vinegar spray 

You will need:

• Vinegar or apple cider vinegar 500ml
• Water 500ml
• Spray container

Procedure 

Whether you want more or less of this solution, just mix both vinegar and water in the same amounts. This will depend on the size of your dog or how often you want to use it.

1. In a separate container, mix the water and vinegar and stir it very well.
2. Once combined, transfer it to the spray container.
3. Apply it all over your dog’s body every time he goes for a walk. Remember not to spray the eyes, nose, muzzle and the inside of the ears.

In the environment 

This mixture creates a hostile environment for fleas to repel them from infesting your home. Sprinkle this solution in every corner of your home, including furniture and areas where the canine stays. You can do it 2 to 3 times a week.

Method 7 – Vinegar bath 

You will need:

• 10 ml to 15 ml of regular or apple cider vinegar.
• Special liquid shampoo for bathing your dog.

Procedure 

1. Take the vinegar and mix it with a considerable amount of shampoo.
2. After you have integrated it well, bathe your dog with the mixture. By rubbing the shampoo well, you will make the foam
3. After that, leave the shampoo to act for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse it well.
4. Repeat this process every time you bathe your dog.

Method 8 – Vinegar drink 

You will need:

• 1 tablespoon of regular or apple cider vinegar.
• 4 cups of water

Procedure 

1. Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar with 4 cups of water and stir well.
2. This solution, you can give it to your dog in his daily water.
3. First check if he likes it so he will continue to drink water normally.
4. If your dog likes it, you can give him the vinegar with water 2 to 3 times a week.

Method 9 – Vinegar spray 2 

You will need:

• 6 cups of apple cider vinegar
• 4 cups of water
• Pinch of sea salt
• Spray container

Procedure 

1. Mix the vinegar with the water in a bowl.
2. Then add the pinch of sea salt and stir until it dilutes very well.
3. Once the solution is ready, transfer it to the spray container and keep the remaining solution in another closed container.
4. Spray it on your dog being careful with sensitive areas such as the eyes, nose, muzzle and the inside of the ears.
5. You can do it every time you take your dog for a walk or 2-3 times a week.

The effects 

Due to its composition and the acetic acid it contains, vinegar acts as a very good repellent against fleas. In addition, the effect of the repellent will increase when using apple cider vinegar, thanks to the potassium salt whose concentration is very high.

Another benefit of apple cider vinegar is that it helps to balance the skin pH, which is another natural way to treat fleas, as it creates a hostile environment for fleas.

On the other hand, vinegar combined with shampoo has a powerful effectiveness. While, the normal bath helps to get rid of fleas a little, the mixture with vinegar allows an acidic foam to be generated.

For the case of ingested vinegar, it will help keep fleas at bay and also benefit the canine’s coat and skin to be healthier.

Beer yeast 

It’s a “single-celled fungus that feeds on sugars and hydrogenated compounds through the enzymes it produces”. Yeast is beneficial for both humans and canines because it brings vitamin components good for health.

You can get it in stores of raw materials, bakeries. In the case of special yeast for dogs, you can go to your veterinarian or a place specialized in animal products.

Method 10 – In their food 

You will need:

• Half to 2 teaspoons of beer yeast (there is a special yeast for dogs).
• Portion of wet or dry concentrate (the usual amount consumed by your canine).

Procedure 

1. Depending on your dog’s size, give him the amount of yeast he needs: if he is small, give him half a teaspoon, if he is medium, 1 teaspoon and if he is large, 2 teaspoons.
2. Mix that portion of yeast with his regular food. If the food is dry, soak the yeast with a little water to make it easier to consume.
3. Only give him the yeast food once a day, optionally in the first meal of the day.
4. Repeat this process continuously for a week and repeat it when you see signs of fleas again.

Method 11 – Topical solution 

You will need:

• Beer yeast (amount needed depending on the size of the canine).
• Some water

Procedure 

1. In a bowl, add some water with the yeast and mix well.
2. Once you see that the yeast has been diluted enough, start massaging your canine with this solution.
3. Be careful not to rub in the eyes, muzzle and the inner area of the ears.
4. You can do this once every 1 or 2 weeks depending on the state of infestation in your home; if it is very little you can do it every two weeks.
5. If the environment is free of fleas, do it when you notice again any sign of these parasites on your canine.

The effects

In the case of ingestion, the yeast after consumed by the dog has certain components such as sulfur that are eliminated by the dog’s hair follicle in the form of hormonal chemicals. This released sulfur will naturally act as a flea repellent.

When applied directly to the canine’s skin and coat, the yeast acts as a repellent as well. The difference in this case is that it uses its components such as the B group of vitamins, which besides helping to keep the area healthy, are scientifically proven to be an excellent repellent.

Essential Oils 

Oils are a mixture of concentrated liquids containing volatile aromatic substances extracted from plants and flowers. They are called volatile because the composition of their molecules can change state rapidly whether in liquid, solid or gaseous form.

Among the essential oils that help repel or even kill fleas are rosemary, lavender, cedar, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, coconut, clove, basil and rose geranium. You will want to get them with the most natural composition possible and only a little chemical treatment.

Also, for most cases where essential oils are used topically, they should be applied once they are diluted, as undiluted they can be dangerous and toxic to canines.

They can be diluted with water, but with water they won’t mix as well (since the oil has a higher density than water), so they are easier to disperse when used with a sprayer.

On the other hand, essential oils can be diluted with apple cider vinegar to treat the environment. Another option for topical use is diluting with carrier oil such as coconut oil or also called vegetable oil, which is a safer way to dilute the essence.

Method 12 – Essential oil spray 

You will need:

• Lavender, basil, rose geranium, lemongrass, peppermint, eucalyptus, rosemary or cedar essential oil.
• 400 ml of water
• Spray container

Procedure 

1. To start with, add a drop of the essential oil to half a cup of water (approximately 125 ml).
2. As you increase the amount of water, also increase the number of drops up to 5 drops in an amount of 400 ml.
3. After you stir it well, transfer it to the spray and apply it to your dog in the areas where he cannot lick himself, such as the nape of his neck, in case you do not have an Elizabethan collar to keep him from licking himself.
4. You can also apply the solution on the whole coat, taking special care on the eyes, the muzzle and inside of the ears.
5. After applying the solution, make sure your dog doesn’t lick it until it is dry, so you can put an Elizabethan collar on him.
6. Repeat this process 1 to 2 times a week.

Method 13 – Shampoo with essential oil 

You will need:

• Rosemary or cedar essential oils.
• Dog shampoo or conditioner

Procedure 

1. Mix 3 – 4 drops of these essences with the shampoo or conditioner with which you bathe your dog.
2. Stir well and let the product act for the time indicated.
3. Then try to rinse the canine very well.
4. You can do this when it’s time for your dog’s bath.

Method 14 – Collar with essential oil 

You will need:

• Lavender, rosemary, clove or cedar essential oil.
• Water
• Neck collar only (no breastplate) or a handkerchief

Procedure 

1. In a bowl where you can immerse the necklace, add 4 tablespoons of water and 4 drops of the essential oil.
2. Mix it very well and then soak the necklace or scarf with this solution.
3. Leave it for 30 minutes to 1 hour, take it out so it can drain and dry well.
4. After it has dried well, put it on your furry friend’s neck.
5. To keep the scent active, repeat this process weekly or whenever you feel the odor is fading.

Method 15 – Topical application 

You will need:

• Coconut essential oil

Procedure 

1. Take a teaspoon of the essence and apply it to your hands.
2. Rub the oil a little bit until your hands are well coated.
3. Then you are going to rub this essence directly on the canine’s coat, making sure that it is well impregnated and you no longer have any essence on your hands.
4. You can do this once a week.

The effects 

The first benefit of these oils is their power as excellent repellents; some of them have a stronger component that can be used to kill fleas.

The ones that work as a repellent are basil oil, lavender oil, lemongrass oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil and rose geranium oil. Moreover, oils that not only act as repellents, but also kill fleas are cedar and clove oils.

Another effect these essences provide is to alleviate itching and scratching due to bites. They help reduce infections and strengthen the healing of wounds caused by fleas.

When it comes to health matters, they are also excellent for aromatherapy, some essences help dogs with anxiety or stress problems to calm down. Other oils such as coconut oil are excellent for the coat shine and to minimize the canine’s body odor.

Medicinal and aromatic plants 

These plants, thanks to their composition, have medicinal properties that help prevent or cure a condition in both humans and dogs.

On the other hand, there are others with a great aromatic power which are used as spices in the kitchen. Among the medicinal and aromatic plants we have lavender, wormwood, rosemary, chamomile, mint, fennel and rue.

Method 16 – Aromatic oil 

You will need:

• Lavender, rosemary, mint or wormwood.
• Half a cup of olive oil
• Airtight container
• Eye dropper
• Dog neck collar

Procedure 

1. In the airtight container, add the half cup of olive oil.
2. Then dip a handful of 4 to 6 branches of your chosen herb in the oil.
3. Seal the container and put it in a dry and cool place for 15 days or a month (to increase the aroma).
4. Once that time has passed, with the dropper you will put 4 to 6 drops on your furry’s collar.
5. You can do this weekly or until the collar’s scent becomes faint.
6. You can refrigerate the mixture for 3 to 4 weeks. If the smell gets too strong or unpleasant after that time, you should get rid of the rest of the solution.

Method 17 – Fragrance bag 

You will need:

• Dried lavender or wormwood branches.
• Lemon peel
• Cedar shavings
• A small cloth bag that can be closed with a string.

Procedure 

1. Put the dried branches, the lemon peels, and some cedar shaving inside the cloth bag.
2. Close the bag with your fingers and push down the ingredients to leave enough space to close the bag.
3. Tie it with a ribbon or string and you will have a fragrance bag.
4. Put it in places like a corner of your furry one’s bed. You can also put it in other places in the house.
5. Change the mixture monthly.

Method 18 – Aromatic powder 

You will need:

• Rosemary
• Peppermint
• Rue
• Fennel
• Wormwood
• A coffee grinder or a mortar and pestle (container to crush spices)

Procedure 

1. Pick an equal amount of all the herbs and let them dry a little bit.
2. Put them in the grinder or mortar and start grinding them until you have a fine powder.
3. You will sprinkle this powder in the corners of your house, furniture, and on the rugs and carpets.
4. Once the smell of the powder gets almost imperceptible, vacuum or sweep it up very well.
5. Do this process when you see signs of flea infestation in your home.

Method 19 – Chamomile Infusion 

You will need:                                              

• Chamomile
• 1 to 2 liters of water (depending on the size of your dog, use 2 liters for large dogs).

Procedure 

1. In a pot, boil a liter of water and a handful of chamomile for 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Let the solution get lukewarm and then bathe your dog with it.
3. Try to soak all parts of the dog, especially those that are already irritated by flea bites.
4. Be careful with the eyes, the muzzle, and the inner part of the ears.
5. You can do this for 3 to 4 continuous weeks if the canine’s skin remains irritated.

The effects 

These herbs are excellent repellents due to their components, and unbearable odors for fleas.

Another specific effects of chamomile are the calming effect it has on itching. It also acts as an antiseptic and promotes healing and, due to its dragging effect, gets rid of fleas during bathing.

Powdered substances 

Substances such as salt or boric acid are good options for treating fleas in the environment.

Boric acid is obtained from a mineral called boron and is then converted into a chemical compound with various uses. It works as a plague poison, is beneficial for the skin, and has an antiseptic effect.

Try these home methods when you see signs of flea infestation in your home.

Method 20 – Salt 

You will need:

• Salt or sea salt (as much as you want to use on the areas you want to cover).
• Mortar (grinding bowl)

Procedure 

If it is sea salt, as it is a bit coarser, grind it in a mortar into a fine powder.

Sprinkle this powder in the corners where fleas may live, including carpets.

Let the salt sit for 12 to 48 hours, then remove the powder with a vacuum or sweep thoroughly.

Method 21 

You will need:

• Boric acid (as much as you want to use on the areas you want to cover).

Procedure 

1. Spread thin layers of boric acid in corners where fleas may be present and on rugs and carpets.
2. Leave this powder to act for 1 to 2 days, and then vacuum very well.
3. You can wash the carpets one month after applying the powder.

The effects 

Both salt and boric acid have a great dehydrating effect. The exoskeleton of fleas needs a certain humidity to sustain itself and if it dries out, these pests will no longer be able to breathe and, therefore, will die.

In addition, these substances are effective not only on adult fleas but also on eggs and larvae, so this is a very effective method to get rid of fleas in your environment.

Conclusion 

As you can see, there are many ways to deal with fleas both in the environment and on your furry friend. Remember to consult your veterinarian if you plan to use a remedy on your canine and also choose the way that suits you best when it comes to cleaning your home environment.

Remember to introduce them little by little depending on the method, such as ingesting, sniffing or applying to the skin to be aware of possible adverse effects. And you know… the solution is at your fingertips, so don’t wait any longer.