Dogs and Fleas: Everything Owners Need to Know

Fleas are one of the most common parasites that affect dogs, and they can cause significant discomfort, health issues, and stress for both pets and their owners. Understanding how fleas live, how to spot them, and how to treat and prevent infestations is essential for every dog owner. This guide explains everything you need to know.

What Are Fleas?

Fleas are tiny, wingless insects that survive by feeding on the blood of animals. They are excellent jumpers and can move quickly through a dog’s coat, which makes them difficult to detect.

• Size: Around 2–4mm long.
• Colour: Dark brown or reddish.
• Lifespan: Several weeks to months.
• Reproduction: A single female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day.

The Flea Life Cycle

Understanding the flea life cycle helps with treatment and prevention:

1. Eggs – Laid on the dog but quickly fall off into the environment (carpets, bedding, furniture, dog beds).
2. Larvae – Tiny worm-like creatures that feed on organic debris.
3. Pupae – Develop inside a protective cocoon, which can survive for weeks or months.
4. Adult fleas – Hatch and jump onto a host to feed.

Only about 5% of the flea population lives on the dog at any one time, the rest are in the environment. This is why treatment must tackle both the dog and the home.

Signs Your Dog May Have Fleas

Dogs with fleas often show noticeable signs such as:

• Excessive scratching, chewing, or licking
• Red or inflamed skin, especially around the tail base, belly, or groin
• Hair loss in patches
• Flea dirt (tiny black specks that resemble pepper, which are flea faeces)
• Visible fleas moving through the fur (more obvious on light-coloured coats)

To check for fleas, use a flea comb on your dog’s coat over a white towel. Black specks that turn reddish-brown when wet confirm flea dirt.

Health Risks Caused by Fleas

Fleas aren’t just irritating, they can cause serious health problems in dogs including:

• Constant itching and skin irritation
• Flea allergy dermatitis (a hypersensitive reaction to flea saliva)
• Anaemia (in puppies or senior dogs when heavily infested)
• Tapeworms (dogs can ingest infected fleas while grooming)
• Secondary skin infections from scratching

Treating Fleas on Dogs

There are many effective treatments available, but always consult your vet to find the best option for your dog’s age, weight, and health.

• Spot-on treatments. Applied to the back of the neck, lasting several weeks.
• Oral medications. Tablets that kill fleas quickly, sometimes within hours.
• Flea collars. Some modern collars provide long-term protection (up to 8 months).
• Flea shampoos and sprays. Offer short-term relief but should be used alongside other treatments.
• Flea combing. Helps remove fleas and flea dirt, though not a complete solution alone.

Never use cat flea treatments on dogs, as they may not be effective or safe.

Treating the Home

Since most fleas live in the environment, treating your home is crucial:

• Vacuum carpets, rugs, and furniture daily for several weeks.
• Wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water.
• Use household flea sprays (ensure they are safe for pets) to treat carpets and upholstery.
• Reduce flea-friendly conditions by keeping your home clean and well-ventilated.

Preventing Flea Infestations

Preventing fleas is easier than tackling a full outbreak. Key steps include:

• Regular flea prevention using spot-ons, tablets, or collars all year round.
• Routine checks and grooming.
• Treating all pets in the household, since fleas move easily between animals.
• Frequent cleaning of your dog’s living spaces.

When to See the Vet

You should contact your vet if:

• Your dog has severe itching, sores, or skin infections.
• You notice pale gums or weakness (possible anaemia).
• Fleas persist despite treatment.
• Your dog is very young, elderly, or has existing health issues.

Conclusion

Fleas are a widespread problem for dogs, but with the right approach they can be effectively controlled. By treating both your dog and the environment, you can break the flea life cycle and prevent reinfestation. Consistent prevention is the best strategy, ensuring your dog remains healthy, comfortable, and free from these irritating parasites.