How To Effectively Remove Fleas From Dogs – And Prevent Them From Returning

Getting rid of fleas from homes and removing fleas from pets are two very frustrating challenges. While the remedy for both requires different methods, they are both part of the complete process for effective flea removal.

Read more on best techniques and do-it-yourself methods for getting rid of fleas in your home with this helpful article we previously published.

Now, focusing solely on eliminating the fleas on your dog, you will find that the effective method is not as complex as expected. You may have read or been recommended a specific concoction or product to apply for treatments, but a solid solution includes: identification, lather, and repetition.

Here is a list of supplies you will need to get started:

• Flea comb or a fine-tooth comb
• Poster board or white sheets of paper
• Small to medium Tupperware container
• Paper towels
• Flea Shampoo
• Apple cider vinegar

Identify Fleas Are Present On Your Dog

It is important to inspect your four-legged companion to confirm there is a flea presence. After all, it’s no use treating for fleas when there is none or another problem is causing your pet’s discomfort.

To start the inspection, you can begin by filling a Tupperware container up with water and a squirt of liquid soap. Stir the soap into the water to make it somewhat bubbly. Next, lay down white poster board or another light-colored platform on the floor.

Dip your flea comb into the soapy water and run through your pet’s fur over the neutral-colored floor. Since flea dirt are little black specks, the contrast of the light color will allow you to easily spot any that fall off during the combing process.

Place any black specks that fall off on a damp paper towel. If the speck turns to a rust or blood color, this is a good sign that fleas are present.

Continue to graze the skin while combing in an attempt to catch some of the fleas. Any fleas found on the comb should immediately be submerged in your soapy water dish.

Make sure to comb near the ears, neck, hind legs, and tail. If you don’t find any flea dirt, examine your dog’s underside by pulling back some of the hair to find signs of fleas.

Here is a helpful video that demonstrates this process:

Properly Shampooing Your Dog For Flea Treatment

Use any dog flea shampoo; even a baby shampoo can do the job. If you notice any irritation or bad reaction discontinue the shampoo and consult your veterinarian. The key to a successful flea bath is the right technique.

First, soak your pet with water. Then, apply the shampoo and thoroughly lather into his fur – 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye out at the tail, as fleas will attempt to evade to this area during the lather. Let the shampoo sit for another 5-10 minutes before rinsing.

During the rinse, be sure to thoroughly scrub the fur to dislodge any fleas. Repeat the bathing process weekly until the fleas are gone.

Next, are some tips to use after bath treatments to continue the battle with fleas on your pet.

Post-Bath Tips To Make The Most Of Your Flea Treatment Efforts

Add Apple Cider Vinegar To Their Drinking Water

Creating this concoction will stave off fleas by making their skin undesirable to the blood-sucking pest. The correct mixture is for every 40 pound pet, add 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to 1 quart of water in their bowl.

Bonus: It improves the skin and coat of your panting buddy!

Wash Pet Bedding

Pets can spend a significant amount of time on their bed. This is where flea eggs can nest and easily jump back on to their host when hatched.

Washing pet bedding often can eliminate the current flea problem and prevent a future one. Be sure to dry in high heat to exterminate the fleas.

Vacuum Carpeted Areas

Another common place for fleas and their eggs to hide is in the fibers of the carpet. Vacuum regularly, especially after a flea infestation. Remember, to throw away the bag each time during an ongoing problem.

Conclusion

Effective flea treatment for dogs is not about finding the right substance or mixture to douse your hairy dependent. Getting this frustrating off your pet requires a thorough inspection, frequent bathing, and preventative techniques.