Are you wondering what dog fleas look like? If your four-legged friend has been scratching more than usual or maybe their fur is looking a bit thinner, it could be that your dog has fleas.
Did you know that there are different species of fleas, such as dog fleas, cat fleas, rabbit fleas and human fleas? And more than one type of flea may have attached itself to your pet. However, dog fleas are probably the most common type that your pup will come into contact with.
What do dog fleas look like?
Dog fleas are small parasites that typically measure between 1-2.5 millimetres long, if they're an adult flea. They tend to be brown or reddish-brown in colour.
It can be very difficult to notice one individual flea but depending on your dog's coat or fur, you may notice these a little easier. Flea eggs, on the other hand, are white, around half a millimetre long and oval in shape. Female fleas can lay as many as 40 eggs per day.
What are the signs that my dog has fleas?
If you answer yes to any of the following questions, it could be very likely that your dog has fleas, according to the RSPCA:
- Is your pet scratching?
- Areas of hair loss, bald or sore patches?
- Spots or scars?
- Redness and irritation?
- Thickened skin in areas (e.g. around ear edges)?
- Can you see tiny dark specks in its fur, or small browny-black insects scurrying about?
- Do you have any unaccounted for insect bites yourself?
How do I check for dog fleas?
The easiest way to check for fleas on your dog is to use a fine toothed comb to groom your pet and hold it over a white surface such as paper towel or toilet paper. That way it will be easy to see any fleas or flea droppings.
Drop some water onto them and if they turn a reddish-brown colour, this tends to be a strong indicator that your dog does in fact have fleas.
What harm can fleas cause dogs?
According to The Kennel Club, fleas can cause serious disease in dogs, as well as cats, "such as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) and even anaemia. Fleas can also carry tapeworm larvae, which can infect your pet if they accidentally ingest fleas while they are grooming themselves."
Even though fleas can bite humans, they can't live on our skin. You may have noticed some itchy bites on areas such as your arms or ankles if your dog has fleas, which may cause a rash. If this is a concern, you should contact your doctor, a pharmacist or the NHS for more advice.
How do I treat dog fleas?
There are a few different way to get rid of fleas. It may be worth consulting a vet but you can buy most of these treatments over the counter.
- Spot-on treatments - often the easiest and most effective way of treating and preventing fleas, this small vial of liquid is applied to the back of your dog’s neck. You’ll find a range of these to choose from.
- Sprays - these are now used less frequently because of how effective spot-on treatments are.
- Powders - these can be quite a messy way of treating fleas as the powder needs to remain on your dog’s coat to be effective, which can be quite a trial if you have a pup who doesn’t like to sit still.
- Collars - previously these weren’t the most effective and could irritate the dog’s fur further. But there are newer options available from your vet which disperse the active ingredient throughout their body rather than simply on their neck.
- Tablets and liquids - being absorbed into the dog’s body, these either kill fleas when they have been bitten, or sterilise fleas so they can’t reproduce.
- Injections - injections are available in some cases to prevent the development of flea eggs. However, a topical treatment may be needed at the same time.
You'll also want to treat your home, as fleas can survive in the environment without a host for many months. This means vacuuming floors, furniture and skirting boards, and cleaning your bedding regularly. Don't forget to throw away or empty the vacuum's dust bag after each and every use to prevent any flea eggs or larvae from developing inside.
And if your home is centrally heated, you may need to continue to treat your home and your pet all year round for fleas.
24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers
KONG - Tires - Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers - For Medium/Large Dogs
This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.
READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding
Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.
Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.
Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.
One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...
Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.
This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.
Pet-Fun Medium Mango - Safe Fun Durable Rubber Dog Chew Toy for Boredom, Virtually Indestructible Treat Dispenser, Long-Lasting Slow Feeder, Tough Strong Teething Toy for Medium/Small Dogs
This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.
Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot.
Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.
KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Football Dog Toy
Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.
This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.
This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.
Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.
Beco Pets Rough & Tough Crab Recycled Polyester Dog Toy
With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.
This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy.
This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!
.jpg?crop=1xw:1.00xh;center,top&resize=980:* "TastyBone Roast Chicken Knotted Bone Dog Chew Toy")
This knotted dog bone, complete with a tasty chicken flavour, will help to prevent boredom. Tested to withstand aggressive chewing, it ensures the gums and teeth of your dog stay healthy with every bite.
This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.
Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.
This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise.
We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.
In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £4.
Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.
