We know our dogs love to play outside, and we usually love being outside with them. That is, until those pesky mosquitoes and bugs come and get us. Many plants help keep them away, but not all are suited for us pet parents, for they can harm our pups. We’ve put together a list of five dog-friendly plants to help repel mosquitoes and bugs:
Basil (Ocimum Basilicum)
Basil isn’t just a flavorful addition to your meals; it also helps repel mosquitoes, flies, and other bothersome bugs, making it a great dog-safe option for your garden or patio.
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Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
With its soothing scent and beautiful purple blooms, lavender naturally wards off mosquitoes and fleas while being completely safe for your canine companion.
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Catnip (nepeta catonia)
While famous for driving cats wild, catnip also contains nepetalactone, a compound known to repel mosquitoes more effectively than DEET chemical sprays, and it’s nontoxic to dogs!
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Peppermint (Mentha Piperita)
The invigorating aroma of peppermint deters mosquitoes, ants, and even ticks, and it’s safe to grow around dogs when used with care and not ingested in large quantities.
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Rosemary (Salvia Rosmarinus)
This hardy herb not only enhances your cooking but also acts as a natural insect repellent, keeping mosquitoes and other bugs at bay without posing a risk to your pup.
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Bug-Repelling Plants That Are Unsafe for Dogs
In your search for the best plants to repel mosquitoes and bugs, make sure you avoid these toxic plants, as they are a high health risk for our furry friends:
- Citronella: Popular in candles and garden plants, citronella contains oils that can cause skin irritation, vomiting, and even central nervous system issues in dogs if ingested or touched.
- Geraniums: While beautiful and effective at deterring insects, geraniums are toxic to dogs and can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, skin rashes, and loss of appetite.
- Marigolds (certain varieties): Some types of marigolds may cause mild irritation to a dog’s skin or digestive tract, especially if they chew on the flowers or leaves.
- Garlic Plants: Garlic is highly toxic to dogs and can damage their red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia if consumed in any form.