Does My Dog Have Fleas?
WouterIf you notice your dog scratching its fur, your first thought may be: Does my dog have fleas? Fleas live on your dog and their eggs fall on different parts of the dog’s body. Fleas develop from an egg to an adult in just 12 to 14 days. Fleas also have the ability to jump from one host to another. In their lifetime, fleas can live for up to 180 days. This means that they can be present on your dog for three to six weeks in typical household conditions.
You can identify fleas on your dog by checking his fur and any areas he frequents. If you notice any feces, you should immediately report them to your vet or an exterminator. A flea infestation can be very painful and cause your dog to be extremely irritable and miserable.
Fleas are tiny insects with flat bodies that range in size from one-eighth of an inch. Fleas are dark brown, almost black in color, and are very agile. They can jump very high to get to their host, and they are fast and able to evade a dog’s claws and teeth.
If you suspect your dog has fleas, give him a warm flea bath. You can also apply a veterinary-recommended flea treatment to eliminate fleas. Alternatively, you can see a veterinarian, who will diagnose the condition and recommend the best course of treatment.
