What to Feed Your Dog to Prevent Fleas

Fleas cause more than itching and discomfort in dogs. They carry a host of harmful diseases, and may cause anemia in weaker animals. Most pet owners would rather prevent fleas than treat them, and there are a variety of foods that will deter fleas from jumping on or biting your dog. Knowing what to feed your dog to prevent fleas will decrease the need for flea products, resulting in a happier, healthier dog.

  1. Function

    • Flea prevention diets work by strengthening the immune system and repelling fleas through altering the smell of the dog or the taste of its blood. Fleas are more likely to attack a weakened, undernourished dog.

    Supplements

    • Feed your dog a balanced, healthy diet to prevent fleas, and supplement with ingredients known to repel fleas, such as garlic or brewer's yeast.

    Benefits

    • Flea-prevention diets may be as effective as over-the-counter products, and commercial flea control products contain a plethora of harmful chemicals that can cause side effects or allergies in dogs.

    Considerations

    • According to the ASPCA, the ingestion of large amounts of garlic by dogs can cause harmful changes in red blood cells (see Resources).

    Significance

    • According to the American Pet Products Association, medicated flea-prevention products cost an average of $200 per dog per year (see Resources).