Is Fleas Common in Dogs?

A flea infestation in your dog can be very uncomfortable and difficult to treat. While treatment is necessary once you notice fleas, prevention is also important. The best way to prevent a flea infestation is to keep your dog clean and dry. Keeping your yard clean is also a great way to keep fleas at bay.

Fleas start out as eggs. They are small, measuring between one and two mm, and can live for seven to 14 days. Female fleas lay up to 40 eggs a day. They hatch out into tiny larvae that burrow into carpets, upholstery, and dog bedding.

Fleas are easily visible, as they are brown and about one-two mm long. You can also spot flea dirt on your dog’s fur. To test for flea dirt, simply stick a small speck of flea dirt to damp tissue paper. When the flea dirt contains blood, it will turn red.

Another way to tell whether your dog is infected with fleas is to consult your vet. Your veterinarian can prescribe medications to soothe the itching and control the irritation. You can also look into pet insurance for your pet, which will cover the costs of many common pet conditions. With Pet Insurance, you don’t have to worry about unexpected medical costs if your dog gets fleas.

It is important to treat your dog for fleas as early as possible. Dogs have very soft fur, which makes fleas very attractive to them. Even the smallest flea bite can trigger an allergic reaction in your dog. Treating flea infestations in your dog is an easy process.