Is Picaridin Safe to Use on Dogs?

Spring is here, and as temperatures begin to rise, warm weather becomes the norm once again. People start spending more time outdoors and staying outside later, which often means mosquitoes showing up to ruin the fun. While bug repellents can easily protect people, many wonder how to best protect their pets from unwanted bug bites. With more people moving away from DEET-based repellents, a common question arises: are picaridin-based repellents safe for dogs?

Picaridin has been rigorously tested and is a safe and effective alternative to DEET. It is scent-free, non-greasy, safe on skin, and doesn’t damage clothing or gear. Many modern insect repellents, including products like HUNT Repellent, use picaridin as their active ingredient to provide long-lasting protection without the drawbacks commonly associated with DEET.

While it picaridin is great to use on yourself and your loved ones, there is often one member of the family that goes overlooked. Dogs can greatly benefit from protection against mosquitoes, flies, and ticks as they can cause irritation and transmit illnesses like heartworm disease. However, not everyone has insect repellent on hand that is approved for use on dogs.

It is important to know that DEET-based insect repellents are extremely toxic to pets according to the ASPCA.  If DEET is absorbed through a dog’s skin, inhaled, or ingested it can lead to neurological problems, gastrointestinal issues, and even death.

Picaridin is a safer alternative to DEET, but little is known about its effect on dogs. While picaridin is believed to be non-toxic to dogs, there are no studies that have been done solely on pets. If you are considering using picaridin-based insect repellent on your dog, it is best to ask your veterinarian first.

Ultimately, it is up to the user to decide if picaridin is safe to use on their dog based on this information. If picaridin is applied, it is best to monitor your dog for signs of illness, irritation, or distress. As always, pet safety should come first. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian before applying any insect repellent to your dog.