12 Best Mosquito Repelling Plants Safe for Dogs
Mosquitoes—those tiny, irritating bloodsuckers that can ruin a perfectly lovely evening in your backyard. We all know the drill: itchy bites, buzzing around your ears, and the constant worry that your dog might be next on their list.
But here’s the good news: You don’t need to douse your garden in toxic sprays to keep these pests away. Enter the world of mosquito-repelling plants that are safe for dogs.
Yep, that’s right—nature’s very own bug repellent, and it won’t harm your furry best friend. Imagine a garden that smells delightful to you, keeps mosquitoes at bay, and is totally dog-friendly. Sounds like a win-win, doesn’t it?
How We Chose Mosquito-Repelling Plants Safe for Dogs:
When selecting the best mosquito-repelling plants that are safe for dogs, we didn’t just pick any plant with a good reputation.
We carefully chose varieties that tick all the right boxes: they repel mosquitoes effectively, are non-toxic to dogs, and are easy to grow and maintain.
After all, what’s the point of having a beautiful garden if it’s not safe for your furry friend?
First off, we focused on natural mosquito repellents—plants that release scents or oils that mosquitoes simply can’t stand. We looked at scientifically-backed options, like catnip, which studies have shown to work even better than DEET, and lemon balm, which emits a scent mosquitoes detest.
We wanted plants that not only smell nice to us but also make pests want to stay far, far away.
Next, we ensured that each plant we recommended is safe for dogs. The last thing you want is a beautiful garden that could harm your pet. While some plants are effective mosquito repellents, they’re also potentially harmful to animals.
That’s why we ruled out the likes of citronella plants that are toxic to dogs and focused on herbs, flowers, and grasses known to be harmless to our four-legged friends.
Finally, we kept in mind the practicality of each plant. We looked for plants that could thrive in a variety of climates, from full sun to partial shade, and that could fit different garden sizes.
Whether you’re looking to grow something in a container on your balcony or fill up a large garden bed, we’ve got you covered.
With these criteria in mind, we’ve handpicked plants that are not only effective but also dog-friendly and easy to incorporate into your garden. Enjoy a mosquito-free backyard without the worry!
12 Dog-Friendly Plants That Keep Mosquitoes Away—Naturally!
1. Basil
Oh, basil—the herb that’s perfect for adding flavor to your pasta and keeping mosquitoes at bay. This little powerhouse doesn’t just make your spaghetti taste better, it also makes your yard less attractive to pesky insects.
The aromatic oils released by basil, especially lemon basil and cinnamon basil, are a natural deterrent for mosquitoes. And the best part? Basil is totally safe for dogs.
Just imagine your pup lounging around a basil-filled garden without a care in the world. Bonus: It’s easy to grow and can be potted, so it’s perfect for smaller spaces or even window sills.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering and benefits from occasional feeding.
2. Lavender
If there’s one plant that has the best of both worlds—a relaxing fragrance and mosquito-repelling powers, it’s lavender. Not only does lavender smell heavenly (hello, stress relief), but it also deters mosquitoes with its potent scent.
Dogs might not be able to appreciate the aroma like we do, but they’ll definitely appreciate the lack of bites. Lavender is considered safe for dogs, making it a fantastic choice for both beauty and function in your garden.
Whether you’re planting it in your backyard or keeping it in a pot near the door, lavender will work wonders. Ever wondered why lavender works so well? It’s all about the essential oils that mosquitoes can’t stand.
Plus, it’s a perennial, so once you plant it, you get to enjoy it year after year. Now that’s the kind of low-maintenance beauty we love.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and occasional watering. Lavender benefits from a yearly trim to maintain shape.
3. Catnip
It’s not just for your cat anymore! Catnip (yes, that plant that sends your kitty into a frenzy) is an amazing mosquito-repelling plant and a safe option for dogs.
This little herb contains nepetalactone, a compound that mosquitoes absolutely hate. In fact, studies have shown that catnip can be even more effective than DEET (the active ingredient in most commercial insect repellents).
But don’t worry, while your dog might not get the “happy dance” effect from catnip, it’s still perfectly safe for them to be around. So why not give your yard a dual-purpose upgrade?
It’s fun for your cat and effective against mosquitoes. Who knew your dog’s favorite plants could double as insect shields?
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 12-36 inches tall (30-90 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and moderately fertile soil. Needs occasional watering to stay lush.
4. Lemon Balm
Need a plant that’s both mosquito-repelling and smells like a tropical vacation? Lemon balm is your plant. This vibrant green herb gives off a citrusy scent that’s highly attractive to us, but a total turn-off for mosquitoes.
If you’re a fan of making herbal teas, lemon balm might already be a staple in your kitchen. But did you know it’s also great for keeping your yard pest-free?
Plus, it’s safe for dogs. Like most mint-family plants, lemon balm tends to spread quickly, so it’s perfect for ground cover if you need to fill some empty space in your garden.
The best part? It thrives in both sun and shade, making it a versatile option for any garden setup. Want to keep the mosquitoes away while sipping a refreshing lemon balm iced tea? You’ve got this.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 18-24 inches tall (45-60 cm) and 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Grows best in moist, well-drained soil with regular watering.
5. Rosemary
When you think of rosemary, you probably think of it as the perfect herb for seasoning roasted chicken. But did you know that it’s also a fantastic mosquito repellent?
Rosemary has a strong, aromatic scent that mosquitoes can’t stand. And lucky for us (and our dogs), it’s perfectly safe for our furry companions.
Whether you plant it in the ground or keep it in pots on your patio, rosemary does double duty—it adds flavor to your meals and keeps the mosquitoes away.
Plus, it’s a perennial, meaning it’ll come back year after year, saving you time and effort. Can’t beat a plant that’s both practical and beautiful, right?
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires minimal watering once established, but occasional feeding helps it thrive.
6. Peppermint
Peppermint is another mint-family powerhouse that mosquitoes can’t stand. You know that refreshing scent you love in tea and desserts?
Well, mosquitoes find it incredibly off-putting. Peppermint is also safe for dogs, so you can plant it without worrying about your dog’s safety.
The best part? It’s an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance herb that spreads quickly, making it perfect for filling in gaps in your garden. It can be grown in the ground or in containers to prevent it from overtaking other plants.
And, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a bit of peppermint freshness in their outdoor space?
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 12-18 inches tall (30-45 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Needs consistently moist soil and benefits from regular pruning to keep it from spreading uncontrollably.
7. Geranium (Pelargonium)
If you want a plant that’s not only great at repelling mosquitoes but also adds some lovely color to your garden, then geraniums (specifically Pelargonium varieties) are a must-have.
These vibrant, hardy plants release a citronella-like scent that mosquitoes absolutely detest. But don’t worry, geraniums are safe for dogs. They’re perfect for pots, hanging baskets, or garden beds, and they’ll brighten up any space.
While they aren’t technically mosquito-repellent like citronella plants, their strong scent does the trick. Plus, they’ll give your garden some serious curb appeal. Why not have a plant that’s pretty and practical?
- Plant Type: Perennial (usually grown as an annual)
- Size: 12-18 inches tall (30-45 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Geraniums need regular watering and benefit from occasional fertilization.
8. Marigold
Marigolds are one of the most common garden plants—and for good reason! These colorful, cheerful flowers aren’t just pretty to look at; they’re also natural mosquito repellents.
The pyrethrum compound in marigolds’ petals is known to repel mosquitoes and other pests. What’s even better is that marigolds are safe for dogs.
These flowers are great for planting around the edges of your garden or in containers on your deck.
Not to mention, marigolds are easy to grow and require little attention. If you want a quick fix to mosquito problems in your garden, marigolds are definitely the way to go.
- Plant Type: Annual
- Size: 12-18 inches tall (30-45 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Marigolds need regular watering and occasional deadheading to encourage continuous blooming.
9. Citronella Grass
Ah, citronella—the classic mosquito repellent plant! This tall, ornamental grass is famous for its citronella-like scent, which mosquitoes can’t stand.
But before you rush to plant a citronella plant, make sure you’re getting citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus), which is safe for dogs.
This plant is different from citronella-scented candles, which can be harmful to pets. Citronella grass is best grown in containers since it can spread and take over your garden.
It’s perfect for summer patios and gardens, where it’ll deter mosquitoes and add a touch of tropical flair.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm) and 12-24 inches wide (30-60 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering and benefits from occasional feeding.
10. Thyme
Thyme is a low-growing herb that does more than just add flavor to your dishes—it also repels mosquitoes with its strong, aromatic oils.
Not only is thyme safe for dogs, but it also thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it a great option for low-maintenance gardens.
You can plant it in the ground, or even grow it in containers on your windowsill. Plus, thyme is an excellent companion plant, working well with other herbs and vegetables in your garden.
Ever thought about pairing thyme with your basil? It’s a match made in mosquito-repellent heaven.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 6-12 inches tall (15-30 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Needs minimal watering once established, but regular pruning helps keep it tidy.
11. Lemon Verbena
Lemon verbena is a fragrant herb that gives off a citrus scent mosquitoes cannot stand. Not only is it safe for dogs, but it also adds a bright, zesty fragrance to your garden.
If you love making herbal teas, lemon verbena should be on your list. It’s not just for drinks—it’s also a natural mosquito deterrent.
This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall, so it’s perfect for filling up garden beds or growing in containers on your deck. And hey, with its tropical feel, it’s also a fantastic ornamental plant.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 24-36 inches tall (60-90 cm) and 18-24 inches wide (45-60 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Needs regular watering, especially in the summer months.
12. Sage
Finally, sage—the herb that has it all: great flavor for cooking, medicinal benefits, and mosquito-repelling properties. Sage releases a strong aroma that mosquitoes find unappealing, and it’s safe for dogs. You can grow it in your garden or in containers on your balcony.
Sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a low-maintenance option for any garden. Plus, it’s a perennial, so you’ll get to enjoy it for years.
Ever burned sage leaves in a bundle? It’s not only good for clearing the air but also for keeping those pesky bugs at bay.
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Size: 12-24 inches tall (30-60 cm) and 12-18 inches wide (30-45 cm)
- Care requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Requires regular watering and occasional pruning.
Final Words
In conclusion, creating a mosquito-free garden that’s safe for your dog is easier than you think! By choosing plants like basil, lavender, and catnip, you can naturally repel mosquitoes while ensuring your furry friend’s safety.
These plants not only keep pests away but also add beauty and fragrance to your garden. With just a little planning, you can enjoy a peaceful, bite-free outdoor space for both you and your dog.
So, why wait? Start planting these dog-safe, mosquito-repelling plants today and let nature do the hard work for you!
