DIY Flea and Tick Spray Recipe

Spring is just around the corner, and where we live, it already feels like it has arrived! If you are a dog owner, it is time to start a flea and tick prevention routine. It can be hard to get control of a flea or tick infestation once it has begun, and that is why I suggest starting at the first sign of warm weather. My DIY flea and tick spray recipe can be used alone or with other flea and tick preventions.

We love using this recipe at our house, but remember, all animals react differently to essential oils. Always dilute essential oils before using them on your pet and check with your vet before using essential oils on your pet for the first time.

Avoid sensitive areas when applying essential oils to your pet.

Flea and Tick Spray Recipe

For a 2 oz spray bottle (double ingredients for 4 oz bottle):

3 Drops Lavender Essential Oil

3 Drops Cedarwood Essential Oil

2 Drops Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil

2 Drops Geranium Essential Oil

2 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil

1 Tbs Grain Alcohol / Vodka or Apple Cider Vinegar

2 oz Water

Combine all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before each use. Spray on dogs fur. For thick coats, work in with fingertips or brush.

NOTE: If your dog is sensitive in any way, I recommend diluting the recipe with more water.

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Other Ways to Use Essential Oils Against Fleas and Ticks

Lavender – Lavender is known to keep both fleas and ticks away, and for preventing tick eggs from hatching. Adding 5-10 drops to your dog’s shampoo can help to sooth irritated skin and prevent infection.

Lemongrass – The active ingredients citral and geraniol are natural flea repellants. Adding five drops of lemongrass oil to a spray bottle, and filling the rest of the bottle with water, can produce a basic spray for use on your pup, carpet, or furniture. I suggest using vodka in place of water for carpet and furniture, as it dries quickly.

Peppermint – By applying peppermint oil to the area of your dog that has been affected by fleas, this essential oil can relieve skin irritation and inflammation. It is also useful for killing flea larvae in your home and on your pet.

Rosemary – Rosemary oil acts as a flea repellant and can help heal flea bites. Additionally, rosemary can be beneficial for a healthy coat. Add 5 drops to enough of your dog’s shampoo for one wash to keep fleas off of him.

Cedarwood – Fleas and ticks are deterred by cedarwood, so adding a few drops to a carrier oil or your dog’s shampoo can help to keep them off your pup.

Lemon Eucalyptus– Fleas dislike the strong smell, so adding it into your bath time routine can help greatly in keeping your pup flea-free. Add three drops of oil per tablespoon of dog shampoo, apply to your dog’s coat, then wash the shampoo out thoroughly.

How to Use Your DIY Flea and Tick Spray

Direct Application: Spray on dogs feet, chest, and back of neck.

Passive Application: Spray on a bandanna and tie around dogs neck.

Home Application: Spray entryway mats, dog beds, and other areas where your dog frequents.