Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 5/1/2009

Question
I'm trying to keep mosquitos off my dog. can I use Listerine in a spray bottle and will it work? I used garlic powder sprinkled in her dog food last summer and it didn't seem to bother her and actually helped keep fleas off her and made her coat shine. The local vet said not to but I only did it in the mornings not in the afternoon on her food.

Answer
Carl -


I do not recommend spraying Listerine on your dog.   i have not seen garlic powder work in repelling mosquitoes from dogs.   I did not have success when I tried it on my own dogs.  

There are medications that are effective in repelling mosquitoes from the dog's coat.  Ask your veterinarian if she/he can recommend products that repel mosquitoes.