Why Do Fleas Keep Getting on My Dog?

If your dog keeps getting fleas, there’s a good chance you’ve brought them home. Fleas are small, parasitic insects that live on animals. They jump from grass to dog’s fur, where they wait for their chance to feed on blood. Fleas may also come from other pets or wild animals. Fortunately, you can prevent flea infestation by finding the source of the infestation and controlling it as early as possible.

Fleas are tiny, but they’re hard to spot in your dog. You can spot them by swabbing your dog with a white towel. If your dog’s fur turns a reddish color after rubbing against a white towel, it may be a flea. Fleas are not harmful to dogs or humans but can cause itching. Fleas have a life cycle, so the treatments you apply to your dog’s skin and coat may not be effective. Typically, treatments will only kill adult fleas, but they may not kill flea eggs or larvae. If your dog seems to have fleas, consult a vet.

If fleas are persistent, consider bathing your pet. Flea shampoos contain chemicals that can kill adult fleas, but the water used to bathe your dog can also strip the skin’s oils and leave it dry and irritated. This is especially important for pets with sensitive skin.