Can You Use Head Lice Shampoo on Dogs?

If your dog is experiencing a lice infestation, you may be wondering, “Can you use head lice shampoo on dogs?” The answer is no. While humans are prone to lice and the products available to treat them are generally safe for your dog, some shampoos can be harmful to your pooch. Fortunately, there are natural solutions that can help rid your dog of lice without using harmful chemicals.

The first step in treating your dog for lice is to thoroughly clean it. This means washing all bedding and clothes in hot water and sanitizing them. You should also wash your dog’s dishes, combs, and brushes. Lice typically stay on the host dog for a long time, so cleaning these items thoroughly is essential to getting rid of them.

In addition to human lice, you may also find adult lice on dogs. This type of lice comes from a different species than human lice. Dog lice are not contagious and you shouldn’t be concerned about spreading the infection to your dog. A shampoo for head lice won’t pass lice from one person to another. Dog lice are spread through kennels, parks, and rolling around together.

Another way to treat your dog for lice is to use a special shampoo that contains fipronil. Fipronil is available over-the-counter, and it spreads through the oils on your dog’s skin, killing lice on contact. Luckily, lice aren’t too hard to kill, and you can find several effective shampoos in the market. One such shampoo is Vet Basics Lime Sulfur, which contains antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. It is also effective against mange and ringworm.