How to Treat Walking Dandruff

Walking dandruff, or cheyletiella, is a type of mite similar to the flea. These fur mites are often visible by the naked eye and symptoms include itching and sneezing. Walking dandruff earned its moniker because of the fact that when inspecting the dog, they appear like regular dandruff, although they can be seen moving, hence walking dandruff. Luckily, these mites can be treated easily and quickly with a wide variety of solutions.

Things You'll Need

  • Medicine prescribed by vet
  • Flea dip
  • 1/3 chopped clove of garlic
  • 2-3 teaspoons of cider vinegar
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Instructions

  1. The Vet Route

    • 1

      Take your animal to the veterinarian and have him diagnose your pet with walking dandruff.

    • 2

      Purchase medicine from your vet. This may include Inceptor or Advantage Multi, to be given orally at your vet's discretion.

    • 3

      Have your pet tested for heartworms before going on these medications.

    • 4

      Give medicine as directed.

    Flea Dip

    • 5

      Purchase a flea dip, preferably one with a lime-sulfur base.

    • 6

      Apply to your pet while bathing him, following instructions on the bottle or bring the animal to your groomer to have this dip performed.

    • 7

      Look for signs that the mites have resurfaced. However, a flea dip will usually do the trick.

    Natural Remedy

    • 8

      Purchase a clove of garlic and cut off 1/3 of it.

    • 9

      Place in your pet's food. Having him eat it will be a natural repellent to walking dandruff.

    • 10

      Bathe your pet in cider vinegar, using 1 teaspoon for every 2 1/2 cups of water you use.