Does My Dog Have Fleas?

does my dog have fleas

Symptoms of Fleas in Dogs

Spotting the signs of fleas isn’t too hard. Your dog might be scratching more than usual, and their skin could look irritated, red, or even scabby. Excessive biting and chewing can lead to hair loss. While other things can cause itching, there are specific signs to look for, which we’ll cover next…

Inspecting Fur and Skin

To check for fleas, carefully examine your dog's skin. Look for tiny, dark insects that resemble small ants. Fleas often hide in warm, protected areas like your dog's armpits and groin. Gently part their fur to get a clear view of their skin.

You might also notice tiny black specks resembling fine black pepper on your dog’s skin. This is actually flea poop, a sure sign of a flea problem. To confirm, collect a few specks on a white paper towel and add a drop of water. If they turn reddish-brown, it’s flea dirt.

Using a Flea Comb

How do I know if my dog has fleas? Well, using a flea comb allows you to closely examine the skin of your dog, and potentially collect any first or fleas when running it through their fur. Discarding them in soapy water or squashing them in a paper towel will ensure they’re disposed of.

Are You Getting Bitten?

Fleas aren’t just a problem for pets; they love to bite humans too. You might notice small, red bumps in clusters or lines, often on your legs and ankles but also on your arms, waist, or other exposed areas. These itchy bites are a strong sign of a flea infestation.

Book a flea and worm treatment appointment

Does My Dog Just Have Allergies?

If you’ve given your pet their fela treatment and they’re still scratching, it could be that it’s allergies or dermatitis. However, it’s best to check with our vets at Woodward Practice, as it could be that their treatment hasn’t worked for them.

Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs

Excessive scratching, biting, and licking
Red or scabby skin
Itchy, runny eyes
Itchy ears and ear infections
Sneezing and coughing (especially if your pet has asthma)
Vomiting and diarrhoea
Snoring (due to nasal congestion)
Chewing paws
Intense itching at the base of the tail (common in flea allergies)

Outdoor causes : Allergens: pollens, grasses, ragweed, trees, fleas

Indoor causes: Allergens: dust mites, cleaning chemicals, mould, wool, cotton, mildew, prescription drugs, cigarette smoke, perfumes, rubber and plastic materials

You may be able to determine your pet’s allergy yourself by limiting their exposure to any of the above or changing their diet. For the best advice, speak to our professionals today to be oriented in the right direction.

Why Visit Woodward Practice?

When consulting with a vet, you can ensure your pet gets the care they need and that their comfort and quality of life come first. If you’re asking How do I know if my dog has fleas? And none of the advice here applies or is of help, then call today to book an appointment.

Accurate Diagnosis: Symptoms like itching can be caused by various conditions beyond fleas, such as allergies, skin infections, or hormonal imbalances. A vet can conduct a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause.

Safe and Effective Treatment: Over-the-counter flea treatments might not be suitable for all pets, especially those with underlying health issues or sensitivities. Your vet can prescribe the safest and most effective medication based on your pet's specific needs.

Prevention: Your vet can recommend preventive measures to protect your pet from fleas and other parasites year-round.

Allergy Testing: If allergies are suspected, your vet can perform allergy tests to identify specific allergens and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Secondary Infections: Severe flea infestations or allergic reactions can lead to secondary infections. A vet can prescribe appropriate antibiotics or other medications if necessary.