The Best Dog Repellent Sprays
Chewing helps promote healthy teeth and gums in dogs of all ages, but especially in puppies that may still be growing. The problem, of course, is when our pups decide to chew things they shouldn't, such as furniture, doors, or our favorite pair of shoes. To keep your dog away from these and other household items, you need one of these canine repellent sprays. Consisting of bitter extracts and other natural ingredients, they'll deter your canine from gnawing on your stuff. Some can also be used to get them to stop biting at their own body parts, which can happen when a dog is suffering from hot spots or skin irritation. Here, we present a list of our favorites in dog repellent sprays.
OUT! Go Here Attractant Indoor
The power of the spray
Although it falls within the same category as other repellents, this spray from OUT! is more along the lines of positive reinforcement. In other words, this spray is considered an attractant spray since it encourages canines to pee or poo wherever it is sprayed. For example, if you’re training your puppy, you can give their training pad a couple of spritzes of OUT! to direct them. Not all dogs are equally attracted to the spray, so results will vary. However, considering the absurdly low price point on this spray, we think it’s worth a shot.
Pros:
- Parents can rest easy because the formula is safe to use around children.
- This helps train puppies as well as older dogs.
- We like that it can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Cons:
- Some may find this product more effective than others. It really depends upon the dog.
Bodhi Dog New Bitter 2 in 1 No Chew & Hot Spot Spray
Keeping it natural
Some repellent sprays rely on artificial chemicals as their active ingredient, but this Bodhi Dog Bitter spray is truly 100-percent natural. Its only components are eucalyptus, lemongrass oil, menthol, peppermint oil, and clove oil, which create a powerful deterrent for keeping your dog off pretty much anything it’s applied to. And because it’s all-natural, it’s also safe to spray on sensitive fabrics, furniture, and even your pets themselves.
Pros:
- It’s very strong, so a little goes a long way.
- We love that it’s non-toxic and steroid-free. Plus, it’s ethically and sustainably sourced.
Cons:
- This has a strong smell, even for us humans.
Grannicks Bitter Apple Taste Deterrent For Dogs
Safe and effective
Dog repellent sprays can be hit-and-miss, but this Grannicks Bitter Apple has a track record of producing reliably consistent results for dogs of all types and in households of all kinds. In particular, this product is effective even in the great outdoors, so you can deter your dog from chewing on that new patio set. Better yet, the sharp-tasting solution is naturally derived from apples, so you can rest assured it’s safe for your pet. Still, it’s strong enough to deter them from gnawing on your furniture or clothes. It’s even effective and safe for discouraging them from nibbling on themselves.
Pros:
- The smell isn’t pungent or overwhelmingly strong, but we found that the bitter taste was a great deterrent.
- You can spray it on your dog’s paws if your dog is a nail-biter.
Cons:
- It may require more frequent application than other brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog repellent spray?
Dog repellent sprays, or anti-chew sprays, are bitter liquids that come in cans and can be used to deter your pet from chewing or biting unwanted things. While their formulas vary, they often consist of alcohol and other natural ingredients that taste unpleasant to dogs, thereby preventing them from licking it. In addition to discouraging dogs from chewing furniture, clothing, and other household items, they can also be used to deter them from biting or licking injuries and hot spots on their own bodies.
How do I use a repellent spray?
These sprays can be directly applied to whatever object you’re trying to deter your dogs from chewing. Most sprays come in aerosol bottles, making them easy to administer. Some anti-chew sprays may need to be applied more frequently than others. In general, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe and effective use.
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