Where Do Fleas Hide on Dogs?

You can spot fleas by looking for their dirt, or flea dirt. Fleas are a reddish-brown, one-eighth-inch-long pests. They are extremely thin and can jump very high. Flea dirt looks like coffee grounds, and is a good indicator that your pet has fleas. Flea dirt is most likely to be found near your pet’s sleeping area, as fleas lay most of their eggs at night. However, the bed is not the only place fleas hide.

Fleas hide on all parts of your dog’s body, but are particularly prone to hiding in thick coats of hair, especially toward the back. If your dog is suffering from flea allergy dermatitis, you can look for secondary hair loss, redness, and hot spots.

Fleas also prefer moist and warm areas on your dog or cat’s skin. These areas are often located under the tail and belly, where they can find a host. Then, they will crawl up the dog’s skin to feed. If you notice adult fleas on your dog or cat’s skin, you should remove them as soon as possible.

In the meantime, you can purchase over-the-counter products to kill fleas. But make sure you follow instructions carefully. Avoid applying the product into your dog’s eyes or nose, and wear protective gear while applying the treatment. In addition to flea control, you should also keep your dog’s upholstery clean and disinfected as often as possible. Also, keep an eye on your dog’s stool for signs of flea infestation.