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.

Several herbs and essential oils can be used as natural remedies to repel or eliminate fleas. These include lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, cedarwood, rosemary, and neem oil. Essential oils are often used in homemade flea sprays, diluted in water or a carrier oil, and applied to pets or their environment. Herbs can also be used to create flea-repellent collars or added to pet bedding.

Here’s a more detailed look at some natural flea remedies:

Essential Oils:

Lavender:

A popular choice due to its pleasant scent for humans and its ability to repel fleas and ticks. It can be used in a spray, added to pet bedding, or applied to a collar.

Lemongrass:

Known for its citrusy scent and insect-repelling properties, lemongrass oil can be effective in repelling fleas.

Peppermint:

Fleas strongly dislike the smell of peppermint and it can even kill them at high concentrations. It can be used in a spray or added to pet bedding.

Cedarwood:

Cedarwood oil is a potent natural flea repellent and can be used to treat both pets and their environment.

Rosemary:

Rosemary can be used to make a flea-repelling dip or added to pet bedding and collars.

Neem Oil:

Neem oil is an effective natural remedy for flea and tick control, repelling and soothing irritated skin.

Tea Tree Oil:

A few drops of tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil can be massaged into a pet’s coat to help repel fleas.

Herbs:

Lavender: As mentioned, lavender is a great herb for repelling fleas, and can be planted around the yard.
Rosemary: Similar to its essential oil, rosemary can be planted in the yard or added to pet bedding.

Mint: Mint, including peppermint and spearmint, is a natural flea repellent and can be planted or used in a spray.

Catnip: Catnip can be used to make a flea-repelling spray.

Wormwood: Wormwood is another herb that can be used for flea control.

Other Natural Remedies:

Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar can help repel fleas.

Coconut Oil: Rubbing coconut oil into a pet’s coat can help deter fleas.

Important Considerations:

Dilution:

When using essential oils, it’s crucial to dilute them properly with a carrier oil (like coconut oil, grapeseed oil, or almond oil) to avoid skin irritation.

Safety:

While many essential oils are safe for dogs, some can be toxic to cats. Always research the safety of any oil before using it on your pet.

Home Environment:

Treat your pet’s environment (bedding, carpets, etc.) with natural flea repellents as well to help eliminate the infestation.

Professional Advice:

Consult with a veterinarian or pest control professional for advice on the most effective and safe flea control methods for your specific situation, especially if you have a serious infestation.