Fleas and ticks are common outdoor annoyances that can cause significant discomfort for our pets. While there are many chemical treatments on the market, many pet owners are seeking more natural solutions to avoid exposing their dogs to potentially harmful chemicals. Using essential oils as support, combined with a holistic approach for fleas and ticks, can offer a safer, chemical-free choice for pet owners.
Natural solutions can be effective, but they often work differently from chemical treatments, requiring a more comprehensive approach for optimal results. Scientific studies support the efficacy of many essential oils and natural products, but also emphasize using them correctly and as part of an integrated plan, so in this blog, we’ll cover how essential oils can help support flea and tick prevention, and offer a comprehensive approach that includes diet, supplements, and environmental management.
Why Choose Natural Flea and Tick Prevention?
Chemical flea and tick treatments can be effective, but they often come with risks. Many chemical treatments contain ingredients that can cause irritation or harm to your dog’s skin and nervous system, leading to potential side effects or long-term health risks. Additionally, overuse of these chemicals can lead to pest resistance, making them less effective over time.
On the other hand, combining holistic tips for managing fleas and ticks with essential oils for support offers a safer, more sustainable solution. These methods don't rely on harmful pesticides and can be highly effective when used properly. However, natural deterrents like essential oils often require multiple applications and a comprehensive approach to achieve the best results.
What Are Essential Oils and How Do They Work?
Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that capture the potent wellness compounds from different parts of the plant like flowers, leaves, bark, or roots. Some essential oils have been extensively studied for their antimicrobial and repellent properties. For instance, a search on PubMed.org reveals over 10,000 studies on the antimicrobial effects of various essential oils, and more than 500 studies focus specifically on their insecticidal activity.
Essential oils are also very concentrated, so for safety and best practice, they should be properly diluted. Undiluted oils can irritate your dog's skin or cause adverse reactions, which is why dilution is important. A little bit goes a long way, and when diluted correctly, essential oils can be spread over a larger area to maximize effectiveness.
Why Dilute Essential Oils?
Because essential oils are highly concentrated, applying them directly to your dog’s skin—known as using them 'neat'—can cause irritation. Diluting essential oils in a carrier, such as coconut oil, olive oil, or water, helps spread the oils more evenly across your dog’s skin and coat without overwhelming their system. This allows the oils to cover a larger area and be processed more easily, minimizing the risk of irritation. Since essential oils don’t mix well with water, they are typically blended with a carrier oil. However, other products like natural Castile soap, plant-based cleaners, vodka, or witch hazel can also serve as carriers. When using water, it's helpful to add one of these emulsifiers to help the oils mix properly.
As a general rule, I use about 0.5% to 1% dilution for small dogs, around 5 % for medium sized, and up to 10% for large dogs. Download my quick and easy dilution guide for dogs HERE.
Best Essential Oils for Flea and Tick Support
Certain essential oils have been scientifically studied and these studies have shown them to work effectively at deterring and even killing fleas and ticks. Below are some of the top essential oils studied for both fleas and ticks:
1. Geranium Oil
Geranium oil is effective at repelling and killing tick larvae. In lab tests, it showed 100% repellency against tick nymphs, while also proving effective against the brown dog tick across all stages. It can also help repel fleas, making it a great choice for both pests. Geranium oil is gentle enough for dogs but best practice is to dilute to prevent skin irritation
2. Kunzea Oil
Kunzea is often referred to as "tick bush" in Australia, and it has shown promise in repelling ticks. While there’s limited direct research on its effects on fleas, its effectiveness as a tick repellent has been well-documented. Studies show kunzea oil can repel biting insects – for example, it offered protection against mosquitoes comparable to citronella in lab tests. Kunzea oil is mild but powerful and can be used in combination with other oils.
3. Palo Santo Oil
Palo Santo, or “holy wood,” contains compounds like guaiol and bulnesol that studies show are toxic to ticks and insects. It’s been shown in this study to repel and kill ticks and may have a similar effect on fleas. Palo Santo is often used in holistic flea and tick sprays for dogs.
4. Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood oil has been shown in studies to be an effective insect repellent, successfully deterring both fleas and ticks. It works by causing paralysis and dehydration in insects, making it a powerful addition to any flea or tick deterrent blend. Additionally, cedarwood oil is considered mild and safe for dogs when properly diluted.
5. Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil has a fresh citrus scent that fleas and ticks may find unpleasant. It’s been studied as a natural repellent for pests. Combined with citronella oil and spearmint oil, this study showed it provided comparable tick repellency to 20% DEET in a 24-hour test. Lemongrass oil contains citral and geraniol, which repel insects; it’s common in natural flea collars and shampoos.
6. Peppermint Oil:
Peppermint contains menthol and menthone which can neurotoxically affect insects. In this study peppermint oil and clove oil showed ~94% flea mortality at 4% concentration in one hour. Additionally, this study found that peppermint exhibited strong tick larva kill in lab tests.
7. Thyme:
Thymol is a natural compound found in thyme essential oil, and it is one of the main active ingredients responsible for many of the oil's beneficial properties. Thymol has been studied for its antibacterial, antifungal, and insect-repellent qualities. Thymol has been shown to be effective in combating pests like fleas and ticks, making it a valuable addition to pest control blends.However, thyme is considered a "hot" oil, meaning it can cause skin irritation if not properly diluted. For pets, it should be used sparingly and in low concentrations.
8. Lavender:
Lavender oil is gentle but has notable repellent activity. In one trial, lavender oil (30% in a carrier) gave 100% tick repellency, similar to geranium. It won’t kill fleas outright, but fleas and ticks tend to avoid the scent. Lavender also soothes skin and can help discomfort from flea bites. It’s a good choice for sensitive dogs when used in combination with other oils.
9. Clove oil:
Clove oil, rich in eugenol, is highly potent. In a study, a 4% dilution killed 100% of fleas within one hour in laboratory conditions. However, clove oil is considered a "hot" oil, meaning it can cause increased skin sensitivity and irritation. For this reason, it should be used at a low concentration (0.5–1%) on pets to prevent skin irritation. If you don't have clove oil, ginger oil was also used in this study, and you could swap it out for ginger. However, I wouldn't use both clove and ginger in the same recipe, as both are 'hot' oils and may irritate your pet’s skin.
Tip: Essential oils are volatile, meaning their effects may not last as long as synthetic chemicals. Reapply natural repellents more frequently, especially before outings. Also, combining oils can have a synergistic effect – for example, in this study, a mix of peppermint, thyme, ginger, geranium, and other oils was found to repel ticks better than single oils alone in one screening study.
How To Use Essential Oils
When using essential oils for pest support, there are several effective methods I recommend, including adding them to baths (whether in shampoo or a dip), using them in sprays, or applying them as a powder. While collars are available, dogs have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell. Applying oils directly to the collar may not be as effective for the rest of the body, and the concentration near the head could be too strong. Instead, using a spray or powder that you can comb or massage through your dog’s coat allows for more even distribution and in my experience, better results.
Bath: Add a few drops of your chosen essential oil to your dog’s natural shampoo. Gently work it through your dog’s coat, then rinse thoroughly.
Neem Shampoo or Rinse: If you have neem oil, you can make a quick flea shampoo by adding ~1 teaspoon of neem oil to 16 oz of a gentle, all natural dog shampoo and mixing well. I also like to pick an essential oil and add that to the shampoo as well. This works with the neem oil and also gives it a better aroma. Use this to bathe your dog, working it well into the coat and letting it sit on the coat for 5-10 minutes before rinsing (so the neem has time to affect the parasites). This can kill fleas on the dog and leave a residue that may keep working for a few days. You may want to bathe your dog weekly, or as needed, depending on your dog’s activity level and flea exposure.
Alternatively, create a neem leave-in rinse: add 5 ml neem oil and a few drops of lavender or geranium oil to 1 quart of warm water. After a bath, pour this over the dog (avoiding the face and eyes), rub in, and towel dry without rinsing. Neem’s bitter smell will fade as it dries, but it continues to protect. This is especially good for dogs with flea allergies or sensitive skin, as neem also soothes inflammation.
Flea Comb Dip: Make your flea-combing sessions more effective by using a comb dip solution. Fill a bowl or basin with hot water and a squirt of Castile soap. Optionally, add 2–3 drops of an essential oil like geranium or cedarwood to the water – the aroma will repel fleas and the soapy water will help drown them. This way, you’re not just removing fleas, you’re killing them so they can’t hop back. Keep this bowl next to you as you comb your dog. After each stroke with the flea comb, dunk it into the soapy water and swirl to dislodge any caught fleas, eggs, or dirt. You can also take a rag and dip it into this solution and wipe it over your dogs fur in areas that are hard to comb.
Spray: To create a spray, mix essential oils with water and a carrier oil. Lightly mist your dog’s coat before heading outdoors. Remember, even with an emulsifier, it’s important to shake well every time you spray. For best results, follow up with a quick brush, comb, or a rub with your hands to evenly distribute the mixture.
Here Are My 2 Best Recipes I've Used for Fleas and Ticks
These are the recipes I’ve personally used and found effective for flea and tick support. Of course, feel free to customize these with your own favorite oils from the list above, or experiment with different combinations. Since daily applications are usually required, it’s important to keep an eye out for any sensitivities your dog may have. Every dog is different, so you may need to adjust the amount of oil, use a different emulsifier instead of neem, or make other modifications based on how your dog responds.
Flea Repellent Spray Recipe
Ingredients:
20 drops of Geranium oil
10 drops of Peppermint oil
20 drops of Cedarwood oil
5 drops of Clove oil
1 tablespoon of neem oil
1 cup of water
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, combine all the ingredients.
- Shake well before each use.
- Lightly mist your dog’s coat before going outside and massage or brush in.
- Be sure to avoid the face, especially the eyes and nose.
Tick Repellent Spray Recipe
Ingredients:
20 drops of Geranium oil
20 drops of Kunzea oil
20 drops of Palo Santo oil
10 drops of Lemongrass oil
5 drops of Peppermint oil
1 tablespoon of neem oil
1 cup of water
Instructions:
- In a spray bottle, mix all the ingredients.
- Shake well before each use.
- Apply before going outdoors or as needed.
- Mist your dog’s coat, avoiding the face, and rub or brush in.
Powder: You can make a pest powder by combining food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE), bentonite clay, and essential oils. This method is less preferred, as you need to apply it sparingly. If your dog has allergies or respiratory sensitivities, stick with other methods. I typically use ½ cup of DE, ½ cup of bentonite clay, and 50 drops of essential oil for a natural pest powder.
Multiple Applications: Essential oils, while effective, are volatile, meaning their effects may wear off more quickly than synthetic chemicals. For continuous protection, you'll need to reapply them more frequently, especially before your dog goes outdoors, and sometimes even during the day depending on the level of exposure.
Consistency is key, particularly during peak flea and tick seasons. If you live in a hot and humid environment, which is ideal for fleas and ticks, starting the application before an infestation occurs is much easier and less labor-intensive than dealing with pests after they’ve already appeared. Preventive care is always more effective in the long run than waiting until the problem arises.
A Comprehensive Natural Approach to Flea and Tick Prevention
A dog’s overall health and diet can influence how attractive they are to fleas and ticks. While no food will magically 'ward off' all parasites, a strong immune system and certain nutrients may make your dog less appealing to pests and better equipped to handle exposure. While essential oils play an important role in flea and tick prevention, they work most effectively when combined with other natural methods. Here’s a breakdown of a comprehensive approach to keeping your dog protected.
1. Regular Grooming
Regular grooming is a critical part of managing fleas and ticks naturally. Bathing your dog and combing their coat with a flea comb will help remove fleas, ticks, and their eggs. You can apply your essential oil spray or powder during grooming sessions for added protection. Frequent flea and tick checks are essential. After each outdoor adventure, be sure to thoroughly check your dog for ticks and fleas before they come inside.
2. Environmental Management
Fleas and ticks don’t just live on your dog; they’re also in your home and yard. Here are some environmental strategies you can implement:
Environmental Management: Keeping Your Home and Yard Flea-Free
Effective environmental management is one of the best ways to reduce flea and tick populations in and around your home without using chemicals. By focusing on cleaning, maintaining your yard, and using natural pest control methods, you can significantly lower the risk of an infestation.
Frequent Cleaning and Vacuuming (Indoors)
Regular cleaning is essential to eliminate fleas in your home, especially since fleas can live in carpets, furniture, and cracks. Vacuuming daily can remove fleas at all stages—adults, eggs, larvae, and pupae—from areas your dog frequents, such as their bedding, surrounding carpet, under furniture, baseboards, and cozy nooks.
Vacuuming Tips: Focus on the areas where your dog spends the most time, and be sure to vacuum up flea dirt and organic matter that flea larvae feed on. After vacuuming, dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately outside, as fleas can escape inside the vacuum.
Washing Bedding: Wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and toys in hot, soapy water every 1-2 weeks. If you have a severe infestation, wash bedding more frequently, and include your own bedding if your dog sleeps with you.
Steam Cleaning: Using a steam cleaner on carpets or upholstery is an effective way to kill fleas at all stages. The steam (above 95°F) reaches deep into the fibers and kills fleas, larvae, and eggs on contact.
By maintaining a clean indoor environment, you can greatly reduce the flea population without relying on toxic chemicals.
Natural Flea Control Enhancements
Diatomaceous Earth (DE): To boost its effectiveness, mix 10 drops of essential oil (like lavender or lemongrass) per cup of DE and shake well. Sprinkle this mixture on your carpets or furniture, let it sit, then vacuum up the excess. This adds a natural scent while fighting fleas.
Homemade Flea Trap: Set up a simple flea trap at night by placing a lamp or nightlight a few inches above a shallow pan of soapy water. Fleas will jump toward the light and fall into the water, where they will drown. In the morning, you may find many dead fleas, which helps monitor flea populations and eliminate adults.
Treating Your Yard
Maintaining your yard is essential for preventing fleas and ticks from invading your home. Here are some natural ways to manage pests in your outdoor spaces:
Lawn Maintenance: Mow the grass regularly and trim shrubs to reduce the places where fleas and ticks can hide. Fleas and ticks prefer moist, shaded spots, so rake up leaf litter and clear dense ground cover. Allow more sunlight to hit the ground to help dry out flea larvae.
Physical Barriers: If possible, fence your yard to prevent wildlife like raccoons, stray cats, and deer from bringing fleas and ticks into your space. You can also create a gravel or wood-chip barrier between wooded areas and your lawn, which can make it harder for ticks to cross into your yard.
Cedar Mulch: Cedar chips act as a natural repellent for fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes due to the aromatic oils in the wood. Consider using cedar mulch in your garden beds or around the perimeter of your yard to deter pests. Many pet owners report a reduction in ticks after using cedar mulch.
Beneficial Nematodes: Applying beneficial nematodes (microscopic worms that target flea larvae) to your lawn can drastically reduce flea populations. These nematodes are safe for pets, people, and plants and work by attacking flea larvae in the soil. You can find nematodes commercially and apply them in spring and mid-summer to keep flea numbers down. Within 24–48 hours, you may notice a significant drop in fleas. Nematodes can also help control other pests like termites and ants.
Plant-Based Repellents
Using certain pest-repelling plants in your garden can complement other natural flea and tick prevention methods. While not a standalone solution, these plants can offer additional protection:
Lavender, rosemary, marigolds, and lemongrass are known to have mild deterrent effects on fleas and ticks. Planting these around your yard or in areas where your dog spends time may help reduce the presence of pests.
Diet and Nutritional Supplements
Your dog’s overall health plays a crucial role in how susceptible they are to fleas and ticks. A healthy, species-appropriate diet supports a strong immune system and helps keep pests at bay. While no food can magically ward off parasites, certain nutrients and supplements can make your dog less attractive to pests and better equipped to handle exposures.
Healthy, Low-Carb Diet
A balanced, low-carb diet rich in real meat, vegetables, and healthy fats is one of the best ways to support your dog’s skin and immune system. Holistic veterinarians often emphasize that the best protection starts with a fresh food or raw food diet that is low in carbohydrates. Dogs that consume processed, high-carb kibble may experience more inflammation and weaker immune responses, which can make them more vulnerable to fleas and ticks. A strong, well-nourished dog is less likely to suffer severe infestations and can recover more quickly if they do get bitten.
Dietary Supplements That Can Help Boost Resilience
Alongside a healthy diet, certain supplements can help improve your dog's resilience to pests:
Brewer’s Yeast
Brewer’s yeast is often marketed as a natural flea repellent due to its high B-vitamin content, especially thiamine, which can create a scent that fleas find unappealing. Anecdotal evidence suggests that giving brewer’s yeast tablets or powder daily may reduce flea populations for some dogs. However, controlled studies have shown mixed results—one study found that feeding dogs 14g of brewer’s yeast per day did not significantly repel fleas. Despite this, brewer's yeast is safe and nutritious, providing essential B vitamins and protein. It can be used as a supplement alongside other natural flea control methods.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or flaxseed oil, are known for their ability to improve skin health. A well-conditioned coat and strong skin barrier can make it more difficult for fleas and ticks to latch on. Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory effects that can soothe itching and irritation caused by flea bites. Adding a high-quality fish oil to your dog’s diet, or feeding them oily fish like sardines or salmon, can help support skin health and discourage infestations.
Garlic (in Moderation)
Garlic has long been used as a natural remedy for fleas. The idea is that certain compounds in garlic, such as allicin, exude through your dog’s skin, creating an odor that fleas find unpleasant. Some integrative veterinarians recommend small doses of fresh garlic during flea season. Dr. Katie Kangas, DVM, suggests up to ¼ teaspoon of freshly chopped garlic per 15 lbs of body weight daily. While garlic can be helpful, it must be used in moderation, as large quantities can be toxic to dogs. Always avoid garlic if your dog is anemic or taking certain medications, and never use garlic in cats. Fresh garlic is the most effective form, while garlic powders or tablets are less potent.
Probiotics
A healthy gut is essential for a strong immune system, and probiotics can help maintain gut balance. Supporting your dog's gut health with probiotics can improve their overall resilience and help their body ward off external threats, including fleas and ticks. Probiotic supplements specifically designed for dogs are a great way to enhance their defense mechanisms naturally.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an effective, natural remedy for fleas and ticks. It contains lauric acid, which has flea-killing and repellent properties. Coconut oil can be rubbed into your dog’s coat to repel fleas, and it may also help smother flea eggs. Additionally, applying coconut oil topically can soothe dry skin, support healing from flea bites, and even reduce secondary skin issues like yeast infections. You can also add a small amount of coconut oil to your dog’s diet (around 1 teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight) to improve skin health from the inside. However, be cautious with the amount, as too much coconut oil can cause mild diarrhea. When applied topically, be sure not to overdo it, as excessive amounts can leave the coat greasy.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Flea and Tick Prevention
Incorporating a healthy diet, using essential oils safely, and maintaining a clean environment are key steps in keeping your dog free from fleas and ticks. By combining these holistic methods with consistent applications of natural deterrents, you can provide your dog with safer, more sustainable protection compared to chemical treatments.
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