Flea and Tick Natural Remedies: Do They Really Work?

Seeing your dog itch is one of the most uncomfortable sights for a pet owner. The cause could be a medical condition or something as simple as fleas and ticks. Many pet owners rely on collars, sprays, or chews to keep these pests away - but what about natural remedies? Do they work as well as the Internet claims? In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at natural flea repellents for dogs and whether they are effective in preventing flea and tick infestations in pets. 

How We Listed Each Homemade or Natural Method?

This list is not based on guesses or theories. We scoured Reddit threads, YouTube videos, and pet care blogs for real-world insights into what pet owners actually use. Then, we made a list of the methods people trusted the most. We also checked the ingredients in these remedies and how they are applied.

What are the Main Homemade or Natural Methods?

Many pet owners look for natural flea and tick treatments, hoping to avoid chemicals in commercial products. While some natural methods might have mild repellent properties, they often fail to provide full protection. Some homemade treatments may even cause skin irritation or toxicity.

Below, we’ll list down some of the most popular natural methods, how they work, and why they might not be the safest or most effective choice for your pet.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a widely used natural flea repellent for dogs because of its strong smell and acidity that repel fleas. However, there’s no concrete proof that supports its effectiveness. 

You can add small amounts to a dog’s water; however, applying it directly to the skin can cause irritation, especially for dogs with sensitive skin. Apple cider vinegar can also dry out the coat, which causes itchiness. Remember that this method alone won’t prevent an infestation or stop the spread of flea-borne diseases.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice contains citric acid that neutralizes odors, freshens up a dog’s coat, and is used to repel fleas. While it has a strong scent that might temporarily keep fleas away, it doesn’t kill them or prevent re-infestation. It is important to be cautious with its application, as direct application can cause skin irritation and discomfort. If swallowed, lemon juice can also cause upset stomachs in pets.

Essential Oils 

Some essential oils can help keep fleas away when used the right way. Oils like citronella, cedarwood, rosemary, geranium, cinnamon, and lavender have natural properties that make them a good choice for flea prevention. However, some oils can be toxic when applied incorrectly or in high concentrations.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which not only suffocates fleas on contact but also provides relief from skin irritation caused by flea bites. While this might help remove a few fleas, it doesn’t prevent new ones from infesting your dog. Coconut oil also leaves a greasy residue, which can attract dirt and dust, causing allergic reactions. Applying too much can lead to clogged pores and skin irritation.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural pesticide that some pet owners use to repel fleas and ticks. While it has some insecticidal properties, it must be used carefully. Neem oil has a strong smell that some dogs find unpleasant. It can cause vomiting, lethargy, or skin irritation if applied in high concentrations. However, commercial flea products for dogs use diluted neem oil in them.  

Dish Soap

Dish soap kills fleas by breaking down their protective coating. Fleas reproduce quickly, so new ones will appear within days without continuous treatment. Giving your dog a bath with dish soap can also strip natural oils from its skin, causing dryness, irritation, and discomfort. 

Baking Soda

Some believe baking soda dehydrates fleas, but no scientific evidence proves this. Applying baking soda directly to a dog’s fur may do more harm than good, as inhaling it can cause respiratory irritation. While baking soda can help deodorize carpets and pet bedding, it is not a reliable method.

Garlic

Some pet owners add garlic to homemade flea-prevention chews, thinking it will keep fleas away. Garlic has been a part of natural pet care for centuries due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, its benefits can vary based on a dog's size and the amount given. Garlic can harm dogs in large quantities, causing digestive issues or damaging red blood cells.

Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol can kill fleas on contact and reduce moisture buildup on the pet’s skin. However, it’s not safe for pets as it can dry out a dog’s skin, causing irritation or even burns. If a pet licks or inhales it, it could cause alcohol poisoning or breathing problems.

Cedar Oil 

Cedar oil is a natural insect repellent used in some flea repellent sprays. It can be safe for pets in the right concentration, but stronger formulas may cause skin irritation or breathing issues in some dogs. It is not a preferred choice to eliminate flea infestation. If you choose cedar oil, it’s best to choose a properly formulated product rather than a homemade mix.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is one of the most dangerous oils for dogs. This oil absorbs quickly into the skin and can enter the bloodstream. Pets groom themselves frequently, increasing the risk of ingestion, which can be dangerous or even fatal. Even in diluted forms, it can cause severe poisoning. Your pet can experience symptoms like vomiting, tremors, weakness, and even death in some cases.

Salt

Some people use salt to kill fleas since it dries out flea eggs and larvae. While it can work on carpets and bedding, putting salt directly on a dog’s coat can dry out their skin and cause irritation.

Boric Acid (Borax)

Boric acid is used to kill fleas in carpets, but it is harmful if pets lick or inhale it. Dogs that come into contact with it may experience drooling, upset stomach, or even neurological issues. While it can help reduce fleas in the home, it should never be put directly on a pet.

What Does Really Work to Protect Your Dogs?

With so many flea and tick products for dogs out there, finding the right one can be frustrating. You want something that works but won’t cause side effects. Our products are designed to protect your dog without exposure to harsh chemicals.

Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs

This adjustable, waterproof collar offers long-lasting protection with a blend of natural essential oils. Ingredients like citronella, cedarwood, rosemary, geranium, and cinnamon oil keep fleas, ticks, and other pests away. The collar is designed to be adjustable for dogs of every size and can be trimmed to ensure a perfect fit. Since it slowly releases its active ingredients over time, you won’t need to reapply anything daily.

Features:

• Waterproof and durable for all seasons

• Works for any size dog

• Made with plant-based ingredients

• Helps keep fleas, ticks, and bugs away

Flea & Tick Chews for Dogs

FurLife’s Flea & Tick Defense Chews work from the inside out. It contains natural ingredients like garlic, brewer’s yeast, and apple cider vinegar, which repel pests and promote gut health and immunity.  All you need to do is toss a couple of tasty chews a day, and your dog gets full protection without the need for sprays or topical treatments.

Features:

• Made in the USA with natural ingredients

• Helps with seasonal itchiness and pest prevention

• Supports digestion and immune health

Flea & Tick Pendant for Dogs

This lightweight pendant easily clips onto your dog’s collar and protects your dog from fleas and ticks. It’s made with citronella, cedarwood, lemongrass, peppermint, geranium, and rosemary oils. These ingredients are especially known for their natural pest-repelling properties. 

Features:

• Waterproof and durable

• No chemicals or messy applications

• Easily attaches to any collar

Flea & Tick Spray for Dogs

This flea and tick spray provides instant relief from pests while being safe for use around kids, plants, and other pets. It’s made with natural oils like cedarwood, spearmint, and sesame. Its natural properties keep fleas, ticks, and even ear mites away.

Features:

• Safe for homes with kids and multiple pets

• Works quickly for immediate relief

• Uses natural, plant-based ingredients

Final Thoughts

Fleas and ticks don’t just make dogs itch; they can bring health problems. While DIY methods might seem like a natural solution, they’re often hit or miss. Some ingredients can be helpful, but if they’re not properly formulated, they may not be effective or safe.

This brings up another problem. Not every flea and tick product on the market is trustworthy. Many contain harsh chemicals or untested ingredients, which is why it’s important to choose wisely. Look for lab-tested products with 5-star reviews made with safe, natural ingredients. 

That’s exactly why FurLife exists. Our flea and tick products are carefully made with natural ingredients to ensure long-lasting protection without the risks of any adverse effects. Our goal isn’t just to get rid of fleas; it’s to do it in a way that keeps your pet healthy and comfortable.