Fleas are naturally attracted to dogs and breed rapidly in their coats especially if the fur is thick. While there are two types of domestic fleas – cat fleas and dog fleas, the former is more common in American homes and breeds on both dogs and cats. Fleas can proliferate rapidly so at the first sign you should take appropriate steps. Getting rid of fleas once they have infested your home is not an easy task and might need professional intervention. But you can get rid of fleas on dogs if you act immediately and do not give the fleas a chance to breed. By not taking immediate action, you risk having the fleas transferring to your family members including babies and children. Flea bites can cause irritation and allergy to children and pregnant women. The formation of itchy lumps on human skin is the symptom that fleas are present in the home. Hence, you need to remove the fleas from its source host which is the pet.

What is the best way to get rid of fleas on dogs?

When you notice your dog scratching vigorously, biting and licking its skin, examine its fur for signs of fleas.  You can recognize them as small insects that move rapidly or even leap when discovered. You will have to treat your dog for fleas, and at the same time treat your home as the fleas would have spread and laid their eggs which will soon hatch and multiply. While your home needs to be vacuumed and treated with a suitable pesticide, you should take more care with your dog. Use a flea-specific pesticide, flea dip or flea powder which is recommended by your veterinary store which will not harm your dog. Apply it over the fur as recommended in the instructions taking care to work it deep into the skin where the fleas shelter. To make fully certain you are rid of fleas, repeat the process after a week.