Dog-Safe Insect Repellent

This summer, being outside is a great way to beat the boredom and spend social-distancing time with friends and family. However, even a beautiful summer day can be ruined by pesky bugs! If you want to hang out with your dog but not any mosquitoes, here are some dog-safe insect repellents that you can use.

Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray

This bug spray can be directly applied to the skin and is friendly for the whole family. It won't irritate pets or younger members of the family, and it can be safely applied to all of them. It's been shown to provide up to three hours of protection against pests of all kinds, and is cruelty-free, DEET-free, gluten-free, and vegan. 

Skedattle Natural Insect Spray

This DEET-free spray is not only safe to be around dogs, it's safe to be on them! All of its ingredients are natural and organic. It's also non-chemical and biodegradable, so it does no environmental damage. It can applied directly to your skin, so while it won't kill or hurt any insects, it will keep them away from you. Even better, it leaves a yummy vanilla scent so that you'll smell good to everyone else, just bad to the bugs. 

Picaridin Insect Repellent 

This insect repellent comes in a spray and lotion so that it works best with your lifestyle. It won't damage any clothing or items, so you can put it on no matter what summer outfit you're wearing. While it's meant only for humans, it is still safe for your dog to be around it while you're wearing it. Plus, it is super long lasting - anywhere from 8 to 14 hours. 

Cutter Natural Bug Control Spray

This isn't a spray-per-use spray, but rather a repellent that can be sprayed over your yard that lasts for weeks. It can be attached to your hose and then you can spray it throughout your yard, or just on more bug-concentrated areas. While brands like Cutter have many versions of this yard spray, the "Natural" version is pet-friendly and can be used without posting any danger to your pups. This spray repels all kinds of bugs, from mosquitoes to fleas to ants. 

Remember, the most important thing is to avoid any products with DEET in them. DEET products are toxic to animals and aren't too pleasant for humans, either. Thankfully, there are plenty of options out there for you and your pup.