Dog Vinegar Rinse for Fleas

Fleas are the bane of any dog owner’s life, here in New Zealand the most common types of flea are cat, dog, human and rat (ewww). Of these the cat flea is most prevalent with dog fleas the second most likely. Both can take up residence on your dog and cause excessive scratching and skin issues. 

This dog rinse helps to repel fleas but it won’t kill them, it’s more of a preventative measure that works well in combination with diatomaceous earth.

For this recipe you can use normal brown vinegar or apple cider vinegar (I prefer cider vinegar). Fleas are not fond of vinegar, they don’t like the smell or taste.

Thanks to my model Cruz for his unending enthusiasm!

Dog Vinegar Rinse for Fleas

Dilute 1/3 cup vinegar to 2/3 cup warm water

5 drops lemongrass essential oil

*Don’t use our cleaning vinegar as it’s too strong. I like to use apple cider.

Combine in a jug and stir to combine.

Wash your dog with a natural shampoo (I use The Dashing Hound castile based shampoo) then pour the rinse carefully over your dog avoiding eyes, rub in and do not rinse out.

Let your dog dry and then apply diatomaceous earth which drys out the insect’s exoskeleton, this won’t kill eggs but will kill fleas once hatched. Rub into your dog’s coat every couple of days and leave, also dust the areas where your dog sleeps or spends a lot of time sitting.

Diatomaceous earth is safe for dogs and cats and won’t harm them if they lick some of it off.

You can purchase diatomaceous earth at most hardware stores.