Ditch the Chemicals: Natural Flea & Tick Prevention for Outdoor Dogs

One of the not fun parts of pet ownership is dealing with various pests that like to trail along on the fun. Fleas and ticks particularly are common bugs known for attaching themselves to dogs and cats and causing a variety of health issues. In this blog we’ll talk about why flea and tick prevention is important, options for prevention, and common symptoms of flea and tick infestations.

Why Flea and Tick Prevention Matters for Dogs

Fleas and ticks can carry harmful parasites and diseases that affect not only your dog's comfort but their overall health and well-being. These pests are more than just a pain for you and your pup; They can lead to a plethora of concerns like constant itchiness, dry or irritated skin, hair loss, allergic reactions, and uncomfortable hot spots. Left unaddressed, flea and tick infestations can also lead to serious illnesses like Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and other threatening diseases.

Prevention not only helps safeguard your pet from serious disease, but it also reduces the risk of these pests entering your home and affecting humans and other animals. Flea and tick control is a crucial part of maintaining a happy, healthy, and itch-free life for your pup.

When to Start Flea and Tick Prevention

Contrary to popular belief, fleas and ticks can be a threat to your pet year-round, not just when the weather is nice! Because of this, it’s important to think about when to start your dog's protection. Ticks thrive in 4 degree weather, so starting your prevetion early and continuing into late fall is recommended. You may want to have your pet protected during all months of the year, not just in the spring and summer months. Even when temperatures drop, these pesky insects can survive indoors and in milder climates. Skipping treatment in the off-season can still leave your pup susceptible to infections.

Location, your dog’s lifestyle, and the local biome can all contribute to factors that determine your pup’s risk level. Consult your vet to figure out the best type of prevention your pup, whether that’s a monthly tablet, topical medication, or a natural remedy.

Natural Flea and Tick Prevention Options

At Unleash the Pawsitive we recommend a more natural way of flea and tick prevention. If you do plan to use Natural remedies we suggest have 3-4 options on board to make sure your dog is well protected. There are many chemical-free options you can explore. Some of our favourites include:

1. Tickless Ultrasonic Tick Repeller
Protect your dog from ticks and fleas with the Tickless ultrasonic repellent, a chemical-free and eco-friendly solution for your pet's health. This innovative device uses ultrasonic waves to repel pests, offering a safe alternative to traditional chemical treatments. Simply attach the Tickless repellent to your dog's collar, and enjoy continuous protection without the need for harmful substances. The device is easy to use, durable, and suitable for dogs of all sizes and breeds.

Tickless Active is also a form of tick prevention for yourself and family members as well.

2. Atlantick Insect Repellent

Tick Attack™ Botanical Insect Repellent: Product bottle with label, providing natural protection against ticks and mosquitoes.

Atlantick Botanical Insect Repellent is a powerful, all-natural solution designed to keep ticks and other biting insects at bay. Made with pure, natural ingredients and a refreshing lemon eucalyptus scent, this repellent is both effective and gentle, offering a safe alternative to chemical-based products. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors or enjoying time in your backyard, this repellent ensures peace of mind with long-lasting protection.

Atlantick Insect Repellent can also be used as tick prevention for yourself and family members.

3. Atlantick Flea and Tick Remover and Card
The Atlantick Tick Pick is the ultimate tool for both dogs and their owners to manage tick encounters effectively. This all-in-one kit includes a tick remover, an informative tick identification card, and a handy key hook for easy access on-the-go. The tick remover is designed to safely and efficiently extract ticks from your pet's fur, ensuring their health and comfort. The identification card helps you recognize various tick species, so you can stay informed about potential risks.

Post-Walk Protection: Lint Rollers & Wipes

One super simple but effective trick to help reduce the risk of ticks hitching a ride into your home is using a lint roller on your dog after walks, hikes, or outdoor playtime. While it may sound a bit unconventional, a lint roller can actually pick up ticks that haven’t latched on yet. Give your pup a quick once-over, especially on the legs, belly, and chest—anywhere that might brush against tall grass or shrubs. It’s a fast, chemical-free way to catch pests before they have a chance to bite.

A close-up image of a hand pulling out Earth Rated Lavender Compostable Wipes from the packaging, demonstrating their ease of use.

Pair this with a quick wipe-down using Earth Rated Dog Wipes for a refreshing clean that also helps remove any lingering debris, allergens, or bugs. These plant-based wipes are hypoallergenic and free from alcohol and parabens, making them a gentle, everyday option—even for sensitive pups. They’re especially great for cleaning paws, bellies, and around the ears after outdoor adventures. It’s one more easy layer of protection that works hand-in-hand with other natural flea and tick prevention methods.

Other Types of Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

1. Topical Flea and Tick Preventives:
These treatments are applied topically between your dog’s shoulder blades once a month. The medication is absorbed through the skin, into the blood stream then travel to the sebaceous glands. Common ingredients in topical medications include fipronil, imidacloprid, permethrin, pyriproxyfen, and (S)-methoprene. If topical preventives are necessary try to look for vet-recommended brands that offer protection against both adult fleas and eggs and that continue the fewest amount of ingredients. Topical treatments that cover a wide range of parasites can be more harmful with multiple chemicals.

2. Oral Flea and Tick Preventives:
Oral tablets are a convenient and effective way to prevent fleas and ticks. Given once a month, these chewable tablets offer prevention from the inside-out by circulating through your dog’s bloodstream to kill ticks and fleas once they bite. Common ingredients in oral medications include isoxazolines like fluralaner, sarolaner, and lotilaner, as well as spinosad and lufenuron. Again we recommend talking to your vet and finding a prevenative with the least amount of ingredients.

3. Flea and Tick Collars:
Flea and tick collars contain chemicals that repel pesky bugs and come in collar-form that can be easily slipped around your pup’s neck for hassle-free administration.
We do NOT recommend flea and tick collars.

Signs Your Dog May Have Fleas or Ticks

Even if your pup is on prevention meds, it’s important to check them for fleas and ticks regularly, especially in the warmer months. Keep your eyes peeled for any of these common signs:

Consistent scratching, itching, licking, or biting
Irritated and/or red hotspots or areas of skin
Fleas, flea dirt, or visible larvae
Scabs or hair loss
Tiredness or lack of appetite
Ticks are often mistaken for a skin tag or wart

If your dog is displaying any of the above signs or you suspect your dog has fleas or ticks, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.

Protecting Your Home from Fleas and Ticks

Pesky fleas and ticks can make their way from your pet onto objects in your home. Fleas especially can live in bedding, furniture, and carpets and rugs and can jump around from place to place. To help prevent the spread of bugs from your pup to household objects, wash your dog’s beds and bedding regularly, vacuum your carpets and rugs every few weeks, and bathe your pup every several weeks or after long outdoor adventures.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Flea and Tick Protection for Dogs

With a large variety of flea and tick prevention options, you can explore various options that work best for you pup depending on their age, lifestyle, activity level, and other factors. Staying vigilant about pest prevention year-round will help keep your dog happy and healthy no matter what itchy intruders stop by to say hello. Remember to always consult your veterinarian before implementing any new medications.

If you have any questions or are wondering the best solution for your dog, drop us a line! We’re happy to help you choose the best prevention for your dog based on their needs.

Until next time,