So, you've got fleas on your hands, or should we say your dog's fur? This article's here to help! We'll cover everything from how to tell if your pooch has been bitten to whether they can get fleas even in winter.
We'll also talk about the health risks of a full-blown flea infestation, and give you some natural tips for getting rid of them. Whether you're dealing with a current flea problem or just want to be ready for the future, this is a must-read for every dog owner.
What Do Fleas Look Like?
Fleas are small insects, like little brown dots. They're so small, you might need a magnifying glass to see them! They don't have wings, but they can jump really high.
This is what fleas look like on your dog:
And here's what a flea looks like under a microscope:
What Do Flea Bites Look Like on a Dog?
Flea bites look like small red bumps on your dog's skin. They often appear in groups of three or four, or in a straight line. Unlike mosquito bites, they stay small and don't swell up much. You might also see a red ring around the center of the bite.
How Long Can a Flea Survive Without a Dog?
Fleas need to eat every 12 hours or so to stay healthy. If they're removed from a dog after a meal, they lose all the extra weight and energy they gained within just 12 hours.
Fleas usually die of hunger within four days if they can't find another host. Interestingly, it seems like fleas get used to their host. One study found that fleas that had fed for five days on a dog died quickly (2-4 days) when taken away. But fleas that only fed for 12 hours lived for a much longer time (14 days) after being removed.
Can Fleas On Dogs Get On Humans?
Yes, fleas from dogs can definitely bite humans! Even though they're easier to spot on our skin, we might not notice them right away, so they can still give us a bite. Some people seem more likely to get bitten than others, maybe because of their body odor or how they breathe. Fleas are drawn to the carbon dioxide (CO2) we exhale, because it's a sign of a warm-blooded creature they can feed on.
Do Puppies Get Fleas?
Yes, puppies can get fleas, and it's even more worrisome than with adult dogs. Fleas sucking blood can make a puppy anemic, which means they don't have enough red blood cells to keep their body working properly. Signs of anemia in puppies include pale gums, weakness, and lack of energy.
My Dog's Scratching, But I Don't See Fleas!
It's frustrating when your dog is scratching like crazy, but you can't find any fleas. There are a few reasons why this might be happening, including allergies, infections, or even dry skin. Fleas can also be hiding in the fur where you can't see them, or they might be more active at night. Sometimes, even after you treat for fleas, the itching can linger.
We've talked more about this in detail in our article on Dog Is Always Itching and Scratching But Has No Fleas
Do Dogs Get Fleas in the Winter?
Yes, dogs can still get fleas even in winter! While there are fewer fleas around during colder months, they can still live on your dog and in your home. And when you turn on the heat, fleas can survive even in freezing temperatures.
What Could Be Causing My Dog To Get Fleas Over & Over?
If your dog keeps getting fleas, it could be because their immune system isn't strong enough to fight them off, or it could mean that the flea life cycle isn't being broken.
Fleas lay eggs that hatch into new fleas, and they're always looking for a meal! To get rid of fleas for good, you need to break this cycle. This means giving your house and garden a really thorough cleaning, even without using harsh chemicals.
A study found that many people don't realize fleas can live in their homes and gardens, and they think fleas only come from other pets. But that's not always true!
Do Fleas Live In Grass?
While fleas don't live directly on the grass, they can jump onto blades of grass and wait for a dog to come by. This means your dog could pick up fleas from the grass. Keeping your yard clean and free of debris can help reduce the number of fleas around. And in areas with lots of rain, the water can wash away flea eggs and larvae.
Can Fleas Make My Dog Sick?
Unfortunately, fleas can cause some health problems for dogs. A serious flea infestation can lead to anemia, especially in young or older dogs. This means their body doesn't have enough red blood cells to function properly.
Fleas can also carry tapeworm eggs, which can cause an internal parasite problem. While most dogs recover from tapeworms, they can cause nutrient deficiencies.
Puppies, older dogs, and dogs with weak immune systems are most at risk from flea-related problems.
In rare cases, fleas can also spread a bacteria called Bartonella. This can cause fever and inflammation in different parts of the body, including the heart. Bartonella is found all over the world.
How Can I Naturally Minimize Fleas on My Dog?
Want to protect your pooch from fleas without harsh chemicals? At Sparkly Tails, we partner with artisans around the world who share our love for animals and the planet. We offer a range of natural and eco-friendly pet products to help keep fleas away.
Browse our selection below and enjoy free shipping on orders over £50 (UK), €100 (EU), or $125 (International).
100% Natural & Organic Dry Dog Powder Shampoo
This gentle powder, made from oats and tapioca, removes impurities and leaves your dog's fur looking fresh and clean. Added calendula soothes and smooths their skin, while geranium essential oil provides a soft, lingering scent that naturally deters fleas and ticks.
This natural formula helps to minimize fleas, making it a great choice for keeping your dog comfortable and flea-free! For an extra-smooth experience, use it in conjunction with the TOUTOU Massage Brush. The powder is suitable for frequent use on all skin and hair types, and it's even safe for humans! Its soft scents and COSMOS organic certification make it a truly natural and gentle choice for your dog.
Flea and Tick Repellent Dog Shampoo
Give your dog the gift of a fresh, clean coat and natural flea protection with this “Stop Bugging Me” Liquid Shampoo! Crafted with love and the finest natural ingredients.
It’s pH-balanced, mild and gentle on skin and fur, and free of parabens and SLS. It's enriched with bug-deterring Neem oil and lemongrass, leaving your dog's coat smelling fresh and clean. This shampoo is vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and biodegradable, making it a healthy choice for your dog and the environment.
Natural Bug Off Spray, Flea And Tick Repellent
Lovingly crafted by experienced dog groomers at Waggy Wagon in London. This natural spray harnesses the power of essential oils to create a safe and effective barrier against those bugs. Made with a blend of Aqua, Witch Hazel, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Eucalyptus, Sweet Orange, Citronella, and Rose Flower essential oils, this spray is gentle on your dog's skin and fur, while effectively deterring fleas and ticks.
