To know if your dog has fleas, look for these key signs:
- Intense Scratching or Biting: Flea bites cause severe itching, so your dog may scratch or chew their skin frantically, especially around the neck, hind legs, and base of the tail
- Excessive Grooming and Hair Loss: Fleas can make dogs groom excessively, leading to hair loss or small wounds called hot spots
- Visible Fleas or Flea Dirt: Fleas are tiny reddish-brown insects visible on the fur, often near the rump and tail. Flea dirt looks like tiny black or dark brown specks (flea feces) that turn reddish when wet, indicating digested blood
- Red, Irritated Skin or Rash: Flea bites can cause red, bumpy, or inflamed skin, sometimes leading to scabs or crusting if the dog scratches a lot
- Behavioral Changes: Your dog may become restless, agitated, or lethargic due to flea irritation or anemia caused by blood loss from heavy infestations
- Check Bedding: Look for dark specks or "rice grain"-like flea eggs or tapeworm segments in your dog's bedding or around their anus, which can indicate flea presence
How to check your dog for fleas:
- Use a flea comb to sift through your dog’s fur, focusing on the base of the tail and warm areas like the armpits and groin. Fleas or flea dirt may be caught in the comb
- Part your dog’s fur and inspect the skin closely for live fleas or flea dirt
- Collect any black specks on a white paper towel and wet them; if they turn reddish, it confirms flea dirt
If you find fleas or signs of infestation, bathe your dog with flea shampoo and consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment
. In summary, look for intense scratching, visible fleas or flea dirt, irritated skin, hair loss, and check with a flea comb to confirm if your dog has fleas
