Let’s suppose you have gone out for a walk – you are absorbing the sunbeams and enjoying the crisp air flowing through your hair. But as you are about to take a turn, a not-so-friendly four-legged canine lunges towards you.

Its saliva flies as it growls at you. You instantly look around for something to protect yourself from the aggressive dog. But nothing seems worthy of safeguarding. If you have found yourself in a similar situation, you might be searching for options. Are you looking for a way to keep canines at arm’s length?

You require a dog deterrent spray or pepper spray. It is the most economical and easy-to-use option that is readily available. It is the most general non-lethal self-defense product. Moreover, it is a powerful tool for combating assault. Law enforcement agencies and police departments use this weapon. However, you can also learn how to use it safely.

Best Pepper Spray For Dogs

When should you use pepper spray? Pepper sprays, also called OC sprays, can be used for both animal and human attackers. However, these sprays are illegal in several countries and states.

Since many different brands claim they have the most potent pepper spray, each one offers a unique formulation, heat concentration percentage, spray pattern, and a different trigger type.

It becomes quite challenging to isolate the most potent pepper spray for dogs. We have created this thorough and unbiased guide to help you out. Let’s discuss each product in detail!

Comparing Best Pepper Spray For Dogs

Pepper Spray
Range
UV Dye
30 feet
No
12 feet
No
10 feet
Yes
12 feet
No
16 feet
Yes
12 feet
Yes
12 feet
Yes
20 feet
No
16 feet
Yes
10 feet
No
1.
Udap Bear Spray with Griz Guard Holster

Udap Bear Spray with Griz Guard Holster

  • Keeps spray accessible
  • Allow users to clip the spray conveniently
  • Fits perfectly in all bear spray canisters
  • Holster design offers instant shooting
  • Made in the US

Do you go for a walk or run in a sketchy neighborhood that has big, scary dogs? Or do you go on hunting trips occasionally and want something potent to protect yourself from bears?

This Udap spray is what you need to stop canines in their tracks and send them running. It is exceptionally lightweight, and it provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. Moreover, it possesses active ingredients that disperse instantly and take minimum time to stop the bear or dog attack.

This pepper fogger is the most efficient tool to disperse a substantial amount of OC because it has a broad spray pattern, inhalable particle size, and enhanced range.

What’s more, this safety spray is manufactured by the bear attack survivor, and it is the hottest spray allowed by the law.

What else? It comes with a durable and sturdy plastic holster that allows you for a quick draw if needed. It is not flimsy. It has a clip to provide easy access; you can easily slide out the spray and put it back. Plus, you can easily shoot from the holster design.

Oddly enough, several users mentioned that the case might be uncomfortable and challenging to remove the spray from.

Furthermore, the USA-manufactured spray bottle has a vivid orange color that does not go unnoticed. Thus, you will not lose it easily.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Disperses instantly
  • Bright orange bottle
  • Broad spray pattern
  • Excellent range
  • Inhalable particles
  • Sturdy holster
Cons
  • The case might be a bit uncomfortable
  • May face issues in removing the spray from the case
2.
SABRE Dog Deterrent Spray

SABRE Dog Deterrent Spray

  • All-natural spray
  • Contains 1.0% major capsaicinoids
  • 75-ounce canister
  • 4-month shelf life
  • Deliver fourteen, one-second bursts
  • Spray up to twelve feet
  • Possess a safety lock
  • Comes with keyring

If you reside in a dog-on-a-leash community and you often encounter Bull terriers, German shepherds, etc., you might want a strong and easy-to-use spray.

This all-natural dog deterrent spray has 1.0% major capsaicinoids. It is the maximum strength permitted by the EPA. However, it is a humane deterrent, and it does not cause long-term injury or pain to the dogs.

What’s more, this effective and safe spray prevents aggressive dog attacks by dispersing a powerful stream. Thus, minimizes aggressive situations and prevents horrific injuries that can happen to you, your furry friend, or the attacking dog.

Furthermore, it delivers approximately fourteen one-second bursts that are perfect enough to stop the dog in its track. Plus, it prevents wind blowback; therefore, you can quickly run and save yourself.

What else? This spray bottle allows you to spray up to twelve feet. Plus, the presence of a safety lock avoids accidental discharges. Thus, the safety lock does not let the product go to waste. Moreover, this compact canister comes with a keyring attachment for easy access. Plus, you cannot use a 0.75-ounce spray bottle for more than four years.

Not to mention, this Sabre all-natural protector pepper spray is ISO certified – meaning that it ensures that it is a high-quality product.

Oddly enough, several reviewers mentioned a few drawbacks. The end piece that allows the keyring to hang might break; thus, it minimizes the convenience of accessing the canister.

Furthermore, the spray bottle is fitted inside the plastic case. Beware! If it is not appropriately glued, the canister may fall and can get lost.

Pros
  • Maximum strength
  • Prevents accidental discharge
  • Protects at a safe distance
  • Easy-to-use
  • Lightweight
  • Shoots far
  • ISO certified
Cons
  • Not a high-quality end piece for a keyring
  • The canister might fall if not fitted properly
3.
Mace Brand Pocket Pepper Spray

Mace Brand Pocket Pepper Spray

  • Small size
  • The US-manufactured
  • 6-ounce spray
  • Spray up to ten feet
  • Fast-acting delivery system
  • 10% OC pepper
  • Invisible UV dye
  • TSA/FAA compliant

Are you searching for a pepper spray that has a feminine feel to it but is compact and functional? You may have found it. This useful and accurate pocket spray comes with a powerful formula and has an advanced and fast-acting delivery system that will safeguard you from dog attacks.

Moreover, this US-manufactured pepper spray has a powerful stream pattern that provides long-range protection up to ten feet.

What about its potency? This 1.6-ounce canister has a powerful OC pepper formula, and its effects last for about forty-five minutes. It irritates the respiratory system and causes coughing. Plus, it can impair vision and create an intense burning sensation on the skin.

Furthermore, its invisible UV dye leaves a long-lasting residue; thus, making it easy to identify and investigate the assailants.

How is this product great for self-defense? This pocket-size, powerful pepper spray weighs only twelve grams, and it contains up to fifteen bursts. Thus, you can carry it easily wherever you go. Its finger-grip design lets you grasp the product quickly and maximize your target accuracy.

Plus, it has a unique flip-top safety cap that avoids misfires and accidents; hence, making the spray safer and more convenient to use.

Oddly enough, users mentioned that the top might not be secure properly. The lid might open if it rubs against something. Moreover, the pepper spray has a built-in keychain for easy and fast access.

What about the process of dispersing the mist? The process is relatively straightforward. You only have to place the thumb on the flip-top safety cap and push down the actuator button to spray.

What else? This pepper spray is 100% TSA/FAA compliant. It means that you can take this canister anywhere you want around the world.

Pros
  • Compact
  • Travel-friendly
  • Easy-to-use
  • Leaves a long-lasting residue and effects
  • Powerful pepper spray
Cons
  • The top may not be securely closed
4.
HALT Dog Repellent

HALT Dog Repellent

  • Contains capsaicin
  • Produces a stream
  • Allows you to spray at twelve feet
  • The US-manufactured
  • Convenient
  • Travel-friendly
  • Offers you to clip on to your bag or belt

Are you scared of the enormous unfriendly snarling dogs in your neighborhood? Don’t worry because Halt will save your day! The Halt will halt those attacking dogs in their tracks.

This product contains capsaicin, which is a naturally occurring extract of peppers. When it is sprayed on the dog’s face, it causes temporary but extreme discomfort.

What’s more, this canister produces a stream, and you can spray from a safe distance at about twelve feet; thus, it gives you enough time to run and protect yourself.

What else? This US-manufactured spray is easy-to-use, lightweight, compact, and easily fits into the pocket. You can carry it anywhere you want. Plus, its perfect size allows you to clip it on the belt or a pouch.

Surprisingly enough, users mentioned that it might not work best if the spray is shot at twelve feet. It will correctly work if you are standing at about eight or ten feet. Furthermore, this canister does not have a perfect grip.

Pros
  • Powerful spray
  • Straightforward to use
  • Portable
  • Compact
  • Allows to spray at a safe distance
Cons
  • It might not work at twelve feet
  • Does not have a good grip
5.
Guard Dog Security Pepper Spray

Guard Dog Security Pepper Spray

  • Half ounce spray
  • Small in size
  • UV dye
  • Twist top system
  • 16 feet spray distance
  • Includes belt-clip and keychain
  • The US-manufactured

You should include this miniature pepper spray in your essentials because it makes protection and security safe, convenient, and effective.

What else? This OC pepper spray has 18% red pepper content (2 million SHU) that allows you to spray accurately at a distance of sixteen feet. Its concentrated ingredients immediately immobilize the assailants and prevent violent attacks at a maximum distance.

Oddly enough, users claimed that the mist does not reach sixteen feet. It goes perfectly to ten to twelve feet.

How is its design so functional? This miniature spray comfortably sits in hand. It has a hard case with a twist top that avoids leakage; plus, you can even lock it to prevent any leakage. Furthermore, it features a sturdy belt clip and keychain. The versatile keychain is attached for immediate self-defense.

What’s more, this pepper spray has a hidden feature, i.e., invisible UV dye. Plus, pepper spray does not wash off easily. Thus, making it easier for law enforcement to identify and verify the assailant.

Moreover, this US-manufactured spray is laboratory-tested, and it is available in five different colors. You can choose anyone according to your preference. Besides these positive pointers, several people mentioned that even if the winds are not blowing, the mist might blow backward, and you can feel the burning sensation.

Pros
  • Very handy
  • Travel-friendly
  • Potent
  • Laboratory-tested
  • Provides instant self-defense
Cons
  • The mist might not reach sixteen feet
  • The spray may blow mist backward
6.
SABRE RED Pepper Gel Spray

SABRE RED Pepper Gel Spray

  • Maximum strength spray
  • Reinforced twist lock
  • Adjustable hand strap
  • 35 powerful bursts
  • 12 feet spray distance
  • Comes with UV dye

If you want to run away from the aggressive dogs in the neighborhood, you might want a formula that has ample amounts of capsaicinoids to incapacitate the attacker. The SABRE RED pepper gel is designed to give extra security. The presence of an adjustable hand strap offers instant protection by allowing you immediate access.

Moreover, this US-made pepper spray is long-lasting and reliable. You can use it for self-protection for up to four years.

How is this Sabre pepper gel safe? This professional-grade OC spray is backed by HPLC lab testing. Plus, it has a greater range, and the particles of this spray travel 20% farther than the traditional pepper sprays.

Its twelve-foot range and thirty-five bursts deliver protection against multiple attackers at a safe distance. Furthermore, this spray is dispensed as a sticky gel substance that gets attached to the attacker’s skin. Since it is thicker, the pepper gel spray reduces blowback.

Moreover, it is safe to use indoors. Why? Because this gel spray does not atomize like other standard pepper sprays available. Thus, it is designed not to affect others in the immediate area.

What else? This non-intrusive and lightweight canister has a UV marking dye. Plus, it possesses a reinforced twist lock that secures the trigger. Hence, it protects from accidental discharge, and you can store the spray easily in your gym bag or a purse.

Surprisingly enough, several reviewers mentioned that the stream of this product is not very strong. It hardly reached ten feet. Plus, the quality of the adjustable hand strap is not the best.

Pros
  • Potent
  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Reliable
  • Long-lasting
  • Gel spray
Cons
  • Not a very potent stream
  • Low-quality adjustable hand strap
7.
POM Pepper Spray

POM Pepper Spray

  • Premium-grade FDA polymer case
  • UV dye
  • 4% capsaicinoids
  • A 0.5-ounce canister
  • The US-manufactured
  • Flip-top technology
  • Comes with a pocket clip
  • Powerful stream pattern

This unit might check all your requirements because it is fantastic, has a perfect size, and is a useful tool! This premium-grade OC spray comes in a durable premium-grade FDA polymer case. It is the most potent formula that contains 1.4% major capsaicinoids with UV marker dye.

Moreover, this 0.5 fluid ounce bottle is enough to stop the attacks. The mist can disperse quickly at ten to twelve feet. To make the assailant run away, the canister produces ten seconds of continuous spray up to 20+ half-second bursts.

What’s more, this sleek and modern designed case can produce a powerful stream. It is compact, lightweight, and perfect for everyday carry.

Surprisingly enough, users mentioned that this skinny product might not provide a superior grip for big manly hands. It can become difficult to access and locate the flip-top to spray the mist.

Furthermore, this US-manufactured non-lethal spray is HPLC tested. This formula is legal in all fifty states. Plus, every canister has a different expiration date that is written at the bottom.

What remarkable features does it offer? This environmentally sound product is available in three base colors and ten ring colors. It offers flip-top technology with a floating actuator head that allows optimal performance.

This excellent technology makes the unit accurate, safe, and easy to use. Plus, it prevents accidental misfires.

What else? It comes with a patented ambidextrous pocket clip that can easily clip onto the handbag, backpack, or pocket. Oddly enough, people mentioned that the clip could be tighter.

Pros
  • Durable product
  • Potent spray
  • Pocketable and lightweight
  • Straightforward to use
  • HPLC tested
  • Legal in all fifty states
Cons
  • Does not offer an excellent grip for manly hands
  • The clip might not have a tighter grip
8.
Zarc Vexor Pepper Spray

Zarc Vexor Pepper Spray

  • Fiery-hot
  • Shoots up to twenty feet
  • Last for four years
  • Flip-top design
  • Comes with a belt clip
  • Capable of rotating at 360-degrees

This safe and accurate self-protection spray is perfect for both men and women. This fiery-hot canister is trusted by the military and police worldwide.

It is non-toxic, powerful, and fire-hot; however, it is a non-lethal spray. Its concentrated formula causes respiratory and eye irritation. Thus, stopping the attacker or a huge dog right in its tracks and giving you enough time to run and protect yourself.

What’s more, it is the best repellent tool that is reliable and long-lasting. You can use it for four years maximum. Plus, this US-made pepper spray is HPLC tested, and ISO certified.

What makes this pepper spray unique? This spray can emit mist up to twenty feet. Its extensive spray range gives you the benefit of running away quickly. Plus, this spray is not available in all states.

Surprisingly enough, users reviewed that the peppery mist does not reach twenty feet. It only shoots up to ten to twelve feet. Furthermore, it has a flip-top design with a belt clip. This unit is easy to use; you only have to flip the top and press. You can also easily and safely attach to the belt with an integrated clip.

Plus, it is equipped with full-axis (360-degrees) technology that fires away from the peppery mist from every angle.

Pros
  • Powerful spray
  • ISO certified, and HPLC tested
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to use
  • Long-lasting
  • Fires from every angle
Cons
  • Does not shoot to twenty feet
9.
Guard Dog AccuFire

Guard Dog AccuFire

  • Laser spray
  • Sixteen feet distance
  • Twist-top system
  • Comes with keychain and belt-clip
  • UV dye
  • 18% OC pepper
  • ½-ounce canister

You do not want to use pepper spray on poor souls, but preparedness is essential when these canines growl at you. This Accufire laser spray has laser point aim technology. This ½-ounce canister allows you to spray an aggressor from sixteen feet; thus, providing you a safe distance from an oncoming threat.

Is this product easy to use? Like other units mentioned above, this pepper spray is also easy to use. You only have to point and press the actuator to irritate the attacker’s throat, skin, and eyes. Moreover, it has a twist-top and a push-button; therefore, it provides an easy and safe operation by preventing accidental discharge.

What else? It is a laboratory-tested spray formula that contains 18% OC pepper. This canister shoots a fiery stream of a nonlethal deterrent powerful enough to stop the attacker in its tracks. Furthermore, it is lightweight and portable. Plus, it is ideal for runners, men, women, or anyone who is seeking self-defense.

Not to mention, this unit comes with an invisible UV dye to verify the assailant instantly.

What’s more, this pepper spray comes with a belt clip and keychain that allows convenience and always makes you ready for any attack events. Plus, it comes with a protected 4 life program, which means you will get a free replacement.

Besides its positive pointers, there are a few drawbacks. Users mentioned that the laser light is not bright, but it is relatively dim. Plus, it might not have a comfortable handgrip.

Pros
  • Laboratory tested
  • Offers free replacement program
  • Lightweight
  • Portable
  • Offers maximum strength
  • Long-distance for defense
  • Straightforward to use
Cons
  • Not a bright laser light
  • Uncomfortable hand grip
10.
PetSafe SprayShield Animal Deterrent Spray

PetSafe SprayShield Animal Deterrent Spray

  • Citronella scent
  • Belt clip
  • Ten feet spray distance
  • Compact
  • 4 ounces spray

This compact pepper spray can easily fit into the pockets of family members, dog walkers, and joggers who like to take stalls around the neighborhood. Plus, it is also perfect for people who enjoy cycling or running.

What features does this unit include? This pepper spray is handy to deal with low to medium aggression. It deters the dog and stops it in its tracks.

What’s unique about this spray is that it has a citronella scent. Upon releasing the mist, the smell distracts the threatening dogs and does not harm them. Thus, this formula is a safe and humane way to deter aggressive animals.

Moreover, this 2.4 ounces small-sized spray comes with an added belt clip so that you can carry it easily wherever you are planning to go.

Furthermore, this spray produces a powerful ten-foot stream for up to twelve seconds. It gives peace of mind and protects you and your dog.

Surprisingly enough, several people mentioned that it is slightly more expensive than the other pepper sprays, and it is only effective for low or medium-aggressive dogs. It will not work for highly violent aggressive dogs.

Pros
  • Portable
  • Lightweight
  • Ideal for low or medium aggressive dogs
  • Scented
  • Safe to use
Cons
  • Will not deter too violent dogs.
  • Expensive

Pepper Spray For Dogs Buyer’s Guide:

pepper spray for dog walkers

Well, we all know that it is no fun to use a dog deterrent spray on someone else’s dog; however, sometimes, it becomes necessary to keep yourself, your dog, or your child protected.

Even though you won’t use it, pepper spray is essential that should be in your pocket or a handbag. You never know when you face a huge snarling dog! The self-defense at hand will save you from mini heart attacks.

We all want to buy top-notch pepper spray for dogs. But are all pepper sprays the same? Unfortunately, not! Every brand creates a different pepper canister with various features. So what to look for when buying the best pepper spray for self-defense against dogs?

We have pointed out a few considerations that you should look for when buying the pepper canister for dogs. Check it out below:

Size

The size of the pepper spray depends on where you intend to store or carry it. If you want to keep it at home, you can buy slightly bigger ones.

However, if you are traveling all the time, you might want to opt for the one that is portable and lightweight. Its compact size will allow you to keep it in your purse, handbag, or your pocket.

Moreover, these compact canisters come with adjustable straps and keyrings that allow convenience. You can easily take them while you are running or taking your dog out for a walk.

Range

Opt for the pepper sprays with a more extended range because they protect you better than the close-range sprays.

Furthermore, the long-range sprays give you enough time to protect yourself and run away from the assailant. However, the only problem with a long spray range is that you might not aim accurately.

Legality

Look for the sprays that are legal in all fifty states. However, some of the most potent pepper sprays are not legal in all states because of the canister weight, size, ingredients’ amounts, or type.

Therefore, before purchasing, it is essential to check your state’s law. Moreover, several brands mention which states their pepper spray can be shipped at.

Do not forget to read who is allowed to purchase pepper spray and from where!

Number of Shots

The more shots in the canister, the longer you can use. The pepper spray bottle should offer more shots so that you can spray more than once; plus, use it against multiple growling dogs.

Furthermore, when you buy a unit, you have to test the shot every year to ensure that it is still functioning correctly.

Generally, a shot lasts for half a second. So if the pepper spray has twenty-five to thirty-five shots, it means that the canister will last for about ten to fifteen seconds.

Longevity

Some pepper spray lasts for four years, and they expire. Some have separate expiration dates marked at the bottom.

Your pepper spray canister should have greater longevity. Moreover, many brands offer replacement programs for life. In this program, you get a free replacement spray for life.

Safety Feature

You do not want to invest in a pepper spray that can accidentally disperse pepper while carrying it in your bag, purse, or pocket. It should also not deploy particles when handling the canister.

The pepper spray you are about to purchase should have a twist-top or a flip-top to prevent accidental discharge. It makes handling and portability much more effortless and safe.

Spray Types

Pepper sprays have different spray patterns, and each of them has various advantages.

StreamGelFogFoam

A stream pattern sprays similarly to a water gun and has a liquid base. This pattern provides a ten feet spray distance. It is perfect for outdoor use, but it can be affected by the environment and hit you or anyone around you.

A gel pattern sprays like shaving cream, but it is quite sticky; thus, it cannot affect you or anyone around you. This pattern offers a much longer range of about ten to fifteen feet.

A fog pattern covers a broader area; thus, making it easier to acquire the target. It offers a long range of up to twenty-five feet. Since it provides a long range, it means the canister will have fewer shots.

A foam pattern is similar to a gel pattern but it is stickier and thicker than other types. Due to this, it minimizes the chances of spraying unwanted subjects. This kind of spray pattern offers six feet spray distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between pepper spray and Mace?

Mace is a generic name for pepper sprays, and it is also a brand. To accurately learn the difference, you have to understand that not all pepper sprays are Mace, but all Mace are pepper sprays.

Will human pepper spray work on dogs?

Human pepper sprays are more potent than the ones designed for humans. Since dogs’ senses are much more sensitive than humans, it is better to use the pepper spray that is specifically formulated for dogs.

Do pepper sprays expire?

Yes, they do! They last for about three to five years. However, it is recommended to replace it more frequently to acquire the best results.

How long do pepper sprays usually last?

It depends on the brand and the heat strength. Usually, the pepper spray lasts between thirty to forty-five minutes.

Can I bring pepper spray on an airplane?

Yes! However, it is recommended to check the restrictions before the flights. Moreover, mostly domestic flights allow, and international flights consider it a weapon. Plus, only a four-ounce canister with a safety mechanism is permitted.

What are some post-spray symptoms?

These are the symptoms that a dog experiences.

  • Temporary blindness
  • Coughing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swollen eyelids
  • Burning pain
  • Excessive tears
Can you use dog pepper spray on humans?

Dog pepper spray is not as potent as human pepper spray. It is preferable to buy human pepper spray than to use the dog one.

However, you can use it on humans because it will work to deter an assailant.

Is it illegal to pepper spray a dog?

Pepper spray is not illegal. You can easily carry it in all states. However, some brands do not ship to some states. Plus, an individual should be 18 or older to purchase a pepper spray.

Conclusion

Pepper spray consists of capsaicinoids that deter oncoming aggressive dogs. They are excellent self-defense tools that do cause harm in the long run and are easy to use.

It is essential to know that you should not use human pepper spray. Why? Because the dog deterrent spray is less potent than human pepper spray. Plus, dogs are much more sensitive to smell.

What’s more, always go for the top-quality product. Go through our buyer’s guide to understand what to look for when purchasing a pepper spray to deter canines.

If you are still unsure which one to select, these are our top picks. These best pepper sprays for dogs will not disappoint you!

SprayShield Animal Deterrent Spray – Perfect for Warding Off Aggressive Dogs: This citronella spray tastes and smells terrible to dogs, and it does not burn as severely as pepper spray. This spray is less aggressive, but it does the perfect job of deterring dogs.

SABRE RED Pepper Gel Spray – Effective Spray for Runners: This pepper spray is perfect for runners, and it does not disperse the mist like other traditional ones. Its gel pattern does not affect other subjects in your surroundings. Plus, it is very potent.

You have reached the end! I hope this guide about pepper sprays was informative, and you collected all the necessary pieces of information you needed!

 

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