Mosquito-Repelling Plants That Are Safe for Dogs

There’s nothing like ending the day with your dog by your side and the sunset glowing, until mosquitoes show up and ruin everything.

Finding pet-safe ways to keep bugs away can feel impossible with all the bad advice out there. But don’t worry, we’ve got you.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Which mosquito-repelling plants are actually safe for dogs

• Smart planting tips to boost your bug defense

• Easy DIY tricks for a safer, happier yard

Ready to take back your backyard? Let’s go.

Best Mosquito-Repelling Plants That Are Safe for Dogs

These six options aren’t just effective, they’re time-tested favorites I’ve seen work in real yards with real families (and real dogs) across South Florida. They offer mosquito-fighting benefits without sacrificing your pet’s health, your peace of mind, or your landscape’s good looks.

Lavender

Photo Source -> University of Illinois Extension

Lavender checks every box:

1. It’s visually stunning

2. Incredibly fragrant

3. And above all, non-toxic to dogs.

The calming aroma we all love? Mosquitoes absolutely hate it. Plant it in sunny spots ( window boxes, porch containers, or along garden borders) and you’ll not only keep pests at bay but bring a peaceful elegance to your space.

In my experience, lavender is also a crowd-pleaser with homeowners because it does double duty. It repels bugs and relaxes everyone in the household. Just keep an eye on soil drainage; this plant thrives in drier conditions.

Basil (Especially Lemon & Cinnamon Basil)

Photo Source -> Clemson University

Basil’s magic lies in its simplicity. Most mosquito-repelling plants need to be bruised or crushed to work, but not basil. Its oils release passively into the air, especially varieties like lemon basil and cinnamon basil, which add a pleasant citrus or spice aroma while keeping biting insects at bay.

The best part? It’s dog-safe and kitchen-friendly. We recommend planting basil in patio containers or raised herb beds where it’s easy to access and safe from curious canine chompers.

Bonus: basil also repels house flies, making it a multitasker in any pet-friendly garden.

Catnip

Photo Source -> Wisconsin Horticulture University of Wisconsin

This one surprises a lot of people. Catnip isn’t just for felines, it’s one of the most effective mosquito repellents out there. Studies show catnip is up to ten times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. And yes, it’s safe for dogs.

That said, catnip can have the opposite effect on neighborhood cats. If you’re not looking to host a feline block party, place catnip in pots near seating areas but away from open entry points. It’s easy to grow and responds well to frequent trimming.

Lemon Balm (aka Horsemint)

Photo Source -> USU Extension - Utah State University

Lemon balm is one of my personal favorites for customers who want a low-maintenance plant that works in either full sun or partial shade. It has a sharp, citronella-like scent that mosquitoes hate but unlike true citronella plants, lemon balm is completely dog-safe.

It thrives in containers and beds alike, makes a beautiful filler plant, and adds a fresh scent to the air when you brush past it. It’s also a hit with pollinators, especially bees and butterflies, great if you’re trying to keep your outdoor space buzzing with life (minus the mosquitoes).

Peppermint

Photo Source -> American College of Healthcare Sciences

With its sharp aroma and aggressive growth habit, peppermint is a powerhouse in any mosquito-fighting arsenal. The smell alone is enough to deter mosquitoes, ants, and even fleas. And yes, it’s safe for dogs. But there's a caveat… Many pups enjoy the scent a little too much.

Peppermint can be tempting to nibble, and while it’s not toxic, too much can cause stomach upset. That’s why I recommend planting it in raised containers or window planters, out of easy reach. It also spreads rapidly in the ground, so potting gives you better control and mobility.

Rosemary

Photo Source -> University of Maryland Extension

Few plants balance form and function like rosemary. Its woody stems and spiky needles offer a natural barrier, while its strong scent keeps flying insects (including mosquitoes) far from your patio. Best of all, rosemary is 100% safe for dogs and incredibly useful in the kitchen.

Plant it in ground-level beds or large containers along garden edges and walkways. It prefers warm, dry conditions and thrives in our South Florida climate. I’ve seen rosemary thrive year-round with minimal maintenance, making it a favorite among our clients who want something hardy and multifunctional.

Each of these plants has earned its place in our recommended lineup not just for effectiveness, but for safety and versatility. In the next section, I’ll show you how to position and care for them to get the most out of their natural repellent powers without sacrificing your dog’s safety.

How to Use These Plants Effectively

Choosing the right mosquito-repelling plants is only half the battle. To get real results you need to be strategic about where and how you use them. Over the years, I’ve seen homeowners get the best outcome by treating their yards like layered defense zones.

1. Place the right plants in the right spots

2. Create a breeze

3. Activate their natural oils.

Done right, it makes a difference you can feel (and your dog will love too).

Positioning Matters

Where you plant is just as key as what you plant. The goal is to form a natural barrier that mosquitoes don’t want to cross, without making it a buffet for your curious pup.

Line Patios, Entryways, and Dog Paths

Photo Source -> Colorado State University

Think of the spots where you and your dog spend the most time

• Your back patio

• Walkways

• Near the doghouse

• Reading nook in the garden.

These are the areas to protect first. Place lavender, basil, and rosemary around high-traffic zones where mosquitoes love to sneak in.

Use in Raised Beds, Window Boxes, or Ground Cover

Photo Source -> University of New Hampshire

Raised beds and containers give you more control. If your dog is the curious type who samples everything in sight, window boxes and taller planters can help keep plants like peppermint or catnip safely out of nibble range while still doing their job.

Consider Hanging Baskets to Prevent Chewing

Photo Source -> Mississippi State University Extension Service

One of the best tricks we’ve used with customers who have playful or persistent dogs is hanging baskets. Elevating your mosquito-repelling plants helps preserve their leaves, reduces the chance of ingestion, and allows scent to travel farther on the breeze.

Maximize Mosquito Repellent Power

Just planting mosquito-repelling herbs in your yard isn’t always enough. The oils that keep bugs away need to be activated and there are simple ways to do that.

Crush or Brush Leaves Occasionally to Release Oils

Mosquito-repelling plants like lemon balm and peppermint work best when their leaves are slightly bruised. A gentle rub between your fingers or brushing the plant as you walk by can release those powerful oils into the air. It’s a small act that makes a big difference.

Pair with Outdoor Fans for an Anti-Mosquito “Bubble”

If you really want to up your game, place an oscillating outdoor fan near your plant zones. Mosquitoes are weak fliers, and airflow disrupts their ability to land and bite. Combine that breeze with the scent of lavender or rosemary, and you’ve created a hostile environment for bugs without a single drop of chemical spray.

Create Airflow and Spacing for Better Scent Distribution

Tightly packed plants may look lush, but they can block air circulation. Give your mosquito-repelling plants enough space to grow and breathe. This also helps the scent travel more effectively and reduces the risk of mildew or rot in humid areas.

Mosquito-Repelling Plants That Are TOXIC to Dogs

Now, these next few plants are ones I strongly recommend avoiding. Even if they work against mosquitoes, they can do more harm than good for your pup.

Citronella Plants

Citronella plants are not safe for dogs.

The oils in citronella plants (also called mosquito plants or Pelargonium citrosum) can cause vomiting, muscle weakness, and even neurological damage in dogs. I’ve seen cases where dogs simply brushed against a leaf or chewed a small piece and ended up needing emergency care.

And while citronella candles may seem safer, they should still be used with caution. Never burn them near your pet’s lounging area, and never let melted wax be accessible. Even passive exposure, especially for sensitive dogs, can lead to issues.

Geraniums

Geraniums are popular in landscaping for their bright blooms and ability to repel mosquitoes, However, the plant itself contains linalool and geraniol, both of which are toxic to dogs when ingested. That risk increases if your dog is the type to chew on leaves or flowers.

Even if geranium oil in controlled products is considered safe in tiny doses, the live plant is not. If you're landscaping with pets in mind, skip the geraniums.

Garlic & Onion Family Plants

You may have read that garlic repels mosquitoes, and while that’s technically true, it’s incredibly dangerous for dogs. Garlic, onions, leeks, and chives are part of the Allium family, and ingestion can cause serious health problems, including anemia, vomiting, lethargy, and in severe cases, organ failure.

It doesn’t take much. Even a small amount of garlic over time can build up toxicity in a dog’s system. For that reason alone, I always advise customers to leave garlic-based solutions (and garlic plants) out of pet-accessible zones entirely.

Some Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds are often praised as a dual-purpose flower that’s colorful and mosquito-repelling. But not all marigolds are created equal. Certain species, particularly those in the Tagetes genus, can cause skin irritation, vomiting, and drooling in dogs.

If you’re set on using marigolds, research the specific variety first and check toxicity lists from trusted veterinary sources. When in doubt, opt for a safer alternative like lemon balm or basil.

Tea Tree Oil Plants

Both the oil and the plant form of tea tree are highly toxic to dogs. While tea tree oil may show up in natural insect sprays or “green” pest remedies, even small amounts can be harmful.

Symptoms of tea tree poisoning in dogs can include muscle tremors, vomiting, liver damage, and impaired coordination. And because this oil is so potent, even diluted forms should never be used without veterinary approval. If you see tea tree mentioned in any mosquito repellent context, just move on.

I’ve seen too many good pet owners unknowingly plant danger in their yards.

My advice is simple: stick to the safe, vetted plant list, and always double-check before planting anything new. A beautiful garden isn’t worth the risk to your dog’s health.

Ready to Reclaim Your Yard?

You don’t have to choose between a mosquito-free yard and your dog’s well-being. With the right information, smart planting, and a team that truly cares about your family (including the four-legged members) you can have both.

Whether you're planting your first lavender bush or looking for a full-scale backyard transformation, we’re here to help. Our team offers custom mosquito control programs, lawn inspections, and expert guidance on creating a safe, pest-resistant space that’s as comfortable for your dog as it is for you.

From identifying hidden breeding grounds to recommending dog-safe, low-toxicity treatments, we’ll walk every inch of your yard with the same care and attention we’d give our own.