Can Head Lice Pass to Dogs?

Dogs aren’t immune to head lice, but it’s still possible for them to pick them up. The common way for these bugs to spread is through direct head-to-head contact with an infested human. The good news is that it doesn’t need to be a major issue. Fortunately, treating head lice isn’t difficult.

Dogs are not at risk of acquiring head lice from children, but they may have lice from their owners. If you suspect your child has head lice, be sure to contact a veterinarian or health care provider. The veterinarian will provide treatment recommendations for the lice and can help prevent further infestations. This treatment is just as important for dogs as it is for humans.

If your dog has lice, you should isolate him from other dogs during treatment. The process may take weeks. You may want to treat all dogs in your household as well. However, you must be aware that the lice are highly contagious. Nevertheless, aggressive and persistent treatment can lead to a complete cure. You should also ensure your dog’s health and safety by using preventative measures year-round, such as flea and tick prevention.

If you suspect your dog has head lice, you should first examine your dog’s scalp. While you can’t see the lice, you’ll notice tiny white nits close to the hair roots. They’re about the size of a sesame seed and will look ticklish and itchy. You can also check your dog’s skin with a flea brush or comb. You should keep in mind that head lice may be confused with dandruff.