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

Two drops of essential oil. These oils naturally repel fleas

Citronella, Eucalyptus, Tea tree and Rosemary

Only use two drops of oil in this recipe.

Combine all ingredients in a jug.

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.

If you have a cat do the same for the cats area (don’t douse your cat in this rinse as they will not be fond of this at all). You can use diatomaceous earth on your cat. Do not use essential oils around your cat as they are highly sensitive.

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