How do I know if my dog has fleas?

Most pet owners dread the thought of their beloved dog having fleas, so it’s important to stay vigilant and look out for any signs or symptoms. Here are some of the tell-tale signs that can indicate your pup has fleas:

Look for flea droppings (flea dirt)

Fleas will leave behind traces of their presence in the form of small, black flea droppings. Specifcally, flea droppings will usually be reddish-brown in colour and can be spotted in your pup’s fur.

Biting & scratching

If your pup is feeling itchy and bitey, it really could be fleas. Look out for interruptions in your pup’s fur from frequent scratching and be sure to check for any bumps or scales.

Examine your pup for fleas

A very simple way to check your pup for fleas is to simply run a flea comb through their fur. By doing this, you may be able to physically see the presence of small insects and you can also observe any black flea dirt.

Check your pup’s bedding

Your pup’s bedding is a likely spot for fleas to hide and reproduce. Take a good look at the bedding to see if you can spot any bugs or flea dirt. You can also try wetting some of the bedding and leaving it for a few hours to see if any fleas are attracted to the dampness.

Consult your veterinarian

If you’re still uncertain, it’s best to give your local veterinarian a call and get expert advice. Your veterinarian will be able to advise you on the best course of action and may also be able to give you medication to help get the fleas under control.

If you ever suspect your pup has fleas, it’s important to act quickly and decisively. By following the steps above you can quickly assess the situation and tackle it effectively.