We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Dog Repellents 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

PetSafe ScatMat Indoor Pet Training Mats - Helps Prevent Furniture Climbing - Adjustable Correction Mat - Touch-Activated Design - LCD Pet Mat Controller - Battery Operated - Large, 48" x 20"

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,118
Ease of Use

Most important from
3678 reviews

Ease of Use
On the lowest setting, it only took one time to teach our cats to stay clear. Now, they avoid our good couch and no longer scratch it up.

The PetSafe ScatMat Indoor Training Mat is designed to help train dogs and cats by keeping them off certain areas of your home. One of its standout features is the variety of correction modes, allowing you to choose between tone, low, medium, and high static corrections. This adaptability can be beneficial for different pet temperaments and behaviors. The mat is large (48 x 20 inches), making it suitable for various surfaces like countertops and sofas, which is great for protecting your furniture.

Ease of use is another strong point; just place the mat in the areas you want to protect, and it does the job without requiring constant monitoring. The LCD display shows the correction level and battery status, which adds convenience. The safety timeout feature is also noteworthy; it prevents continuous correction if your pet stays on the mat too long, promoting a safer training experience.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The mat is battery-operated, so you'll need to keep an eye on battery life, and the required battery is not included. Furthermore, while the static correction is designed to be safe, some pets may react negatively to it, which could lead to stress or anxiety. For pet owners concerned about using shock-based training tools, this may not be the best option. Lastly, while it's easy to clean, ensuring the controller is properly attached and removed before cleaning might be an extra step some users find cumbersome.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,118
Ease of Use

Most important from
3678 reviews

Ease of Use
On the lowest setting, it only took one time to teach our cats to stay clear. Now, they avoid our good couch and no longer scratch it up.
#2

PetSafe ScatMat Indoor Electric Training Mat for Cats & Dogs, Sofa, 60" x 12"

Rating
10.0
Type of Repellent
Coverage Area
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
3678 reviews

Type of Repellent
Multiple correction levels, including a warning tone, allow pets to learn quickly and eventually respond without needing the static correction.
Coverage Area
The mat’s placement can successfully block pets from entering restricted areas and prevent them from leaning or pounding on doors and gates.
Duration of Effectiveness
The mat is easy to use with long-lasting batteries, making it a worthwhile investment for indoor pet training.
Ease of Use
The mat is easy to use with long-lasting batteries, making it a worthwhile investment for indoor pet training.

The PetSafe ScatMat is an indoor training mat designed to keep dogs and cats away from off-limit areas like couches, countertops, and doorways by delivering a harmless static correction when stepped on. It stands out with customizable correction levels—ranging from just a tone to low, medium, or high static shocks—making it adjustable for pets with different sensitivities. The mat covers a reasonably sized area (60" x 12"), which fits well for common household zones where pets might be unwanted. Its battery-operated controller has an easy-to-read display showing battery life and correction counts, helping you track usage and maintain it simply.

Safety is well-considered, with a timeout feature preventing continuous corrections and a tone-only option for more sensitive animals. It requires a 9-volt battery (not included), so there is some ongoing cost and maintenance. The static correction method might not suit all pets or owners who prefer non-electrical solutions. The mat is thin and clear, which helps it blend into home environments but might be less durable on heavy traffic floors.

This product is ideal for pet owners wanting a straightforward, adjustable indoor repellent that trains pets without sprays or chemicals. It is not suited for outdoor use or for those preferring scent- or spray-based repellents. Customer feedback is generally positive, with a good rating around 4.3 out of 5, suggesting it works well for most users. The product also comes with a one-year warranty and U.S.-based customer support, adding peace of mind.

Rating
10.0
Type of Repellent
Coverage Area
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
3678 reviews

Type of Repellent
Multiple correction levels, including a warning tone, allow pets to learn quickly and eventually respond without needing the static correction.
Coverage Area
The mat’s placement can successfully block pets from entering restricted areas and prevent them from leaning or pounding on doors and gates.
Duration of Effectiveness
The mat is easy to use with long-lasting batteries, making it a worthwhile investment for indoor pet training.
Ease of Use
The mat is easy to use with long-lasting batteries, making it a worthwhile investment for indoor pet training.
#3

Bonide Repels-All Animal Repellent, 128 oz Concentrate for Outdoor Pest Control, Deter Deer from Garden, People & Pet Safe

Rating
8.8
Type of Repellent
Active Ingredients
Coverage Area

Most important from
972 reviews

Type of Repellent
Effectively keeps deer away from ornamentals, even after rainfall.
Active Ingredients
Has a strong black pepper scent that lingers for a couple of hours, so windows should be kept closed shortly after spraying.
Coverage Area
The concentrate is more economical and allows for wider spray coverage with less product.
Duration of Effectiveness
Protection lasts about 4-5 days before needing a reapplication to maintain effectiveness.

The Bonide Repels-All Animal Repellent is a liquid concentrate designed to keep various animals, including deer and small pests, away from your garden and yard. It uses natural, biodegradable ingredients that create a strong scent to discourage animals without causing them harm. This makes it safe to use around people and pets when applied as directed, which is a big plus if you have a busy household. You mix the concentrate with water and apply it using a spray bottle or sprayer, so it’s fairly easy to use but does require some preparation before application.

The product works as a perimeter spray to protect plants, structures, and outdoor areas. Since it is scent-based, heavy rain or strong winds might reduce how long it lasts, so frequent applications might be needed. Users can expect to reapply according to weather and pest activity.

This repellent is a good choice for gardeners and homeowners looking for a humane and plant-safe way to deter a variety of animals, not just dogs. If you're specifically targeting dogs or need a repellent with a longer-lasting effect or larger coverage area, you might want to consider other options. It balances safety and natural ingredients with ease of use, but regular reapplication is necessary to maintain protection.

Rating
8.8
Type of Repellent
Active Ingredients
Coverage Area

Most important from
972 reviews

Type of Repellent
Effectively keeps deer away from ornamentals, even after rainfall.
Active Ingredients
Has a strong black pepper scent that lingers for a couple of hours, so windows should be kept closed shortly after spraying.
Coverage Area
The concentrate is more economical and allows for wider spray coverage with less product.
Duration of Effectiveness
Protection lasts about 4-5 days before needing a reapplication to maintain effectiveness.

Buying Guide for the Best Dog Repellents

Choosing the right dog repellent can be crucial for keeping unwanted dogs away from your property or ensuring your own dog's safety in certain situations. The key is to understand the different types of repellents available and how they work, so you can select the one that best fits your needs. Here are some important specifications to consider when choosing a dog repellent.
Type of RepellentDog repellents come in various forms, including sprays, granules, ultrasonic devices, and natural remedies. Sprays are easy to apply and can be used on specific areas, while granules are spread over larger areas and provide longer-lasting protection. Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to dogs but inaudible to humans. Natural remedies often use ingredients like vinegar or citrus, which are safe but may be less effective. Choose the type based on the area you need to cover and your preference for chemical versus natural solutions.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in dog repellents determine their effectiveness. Chemical repellents often use ingredients like methyl nonyl ketone or capsaicin, which can be very effective but may cause irritation to pets and humans. Natural repellents use ingredients like citronella, eucalyptus, or vinegar, which are safer but may need more frequent application. Consider the safety of the active ingredients, especially if you have pets or children, and balance it with the level of effectiveness you need.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area of a dog repellent indicates how much space it can protect. Sprays typically cover smaller, targeted areas, while granules and ultrasonic devices can cover larger spaces. For small gardens or specific spots, a spray might be sufficient. For larger yards or properties, granules or ultrasonic devices might be more appropriate. Assess the size of the area you need to protect and choose a repellent that can cover that space effectively.
Duration of EffectivenessThe duration of effectiveness refers to how long the repellent remains active after application. Sprays may need to be reapplied frequently, especially after rain, while granules can last several weeks. Ultrasonic devices provide continuous protection as long as they are powered. If you need a long-term solution, consider granules or ultrasonic devices. For short-term or occasional use, sprays might be more convenient.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor, especially if you need to apply the repellent frequently. Sprays are generally easy to use and can be applied directly to specific areas. Granules require spreading over a larger area, which can be more labor-intensive. Ultrasonic devices need to be installed and powered, but they require minimal maintenance once set up. Consider how much effort you are willing to put into applying the repellent and choose one that fits your lifestyle.
SafetySafety is a crucial consideration, especially if you have pets, children, or sensitive plants. Chemical repellents can be effective but may pose risks if ingested or touched. Natural repellents are generally safer but may be less effective. Ultrasonic devices are safe for humans and most pets but may not be suitable for households with small animals like hamsters or guinea pigs. Evaluate the safety of the repellent based on your household and choose one that minimizes risks while providing the protection you need.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now