Ways to Keep Flies Off of Dogs

Flies can be a nuisance for humans, but they can create absolute misery for dogs. Flies will swarm around and bite a dog's ears and skin, and if the bite marks begin to bleed, the flies may even attempt to lay their eggs on the affected area. You should do everything possible to keep flies off of your dog.

  1. Petroleum Jelly

    • Petroleum jelly, when mixed with flea spray, can provide powerful resistance against flies. Newsday recommends using a flea spray containing pyrethrum as the active ingredient. Spray some of the flea remedy over the petroleum jelly and mix it. Apply the mixture directly to the dog's fur to keep flies from swarming around.

    Commercial Products

    • Pet supply stores offer sprays and creams designed specifically to keep flies off of pets. Read the labels of different products and find one suitable for your dog. Apply the spray or cream to your dog's fur according to the manufacturer's instructions. Always apply the product before sending your dog outdoors.

    Keep the Dog Indoors

    • If your dog has a persistent problem with flies outdoors, try keeping the animal indoors during the heat of the day. Reserve walks and outdoor activities for the mornings and evenings, when flies are less prevalent. You can also reduce the number of flies in your immediate outdoor environment by spraying insecticides.

    Clean Your Outdoor Environment

    • If the dog's outdoor environment contains uneaten food, fecal matter or garbage, remove them at once. Clean up your dog's messes, move all trash to an area where your dog does not inhabit, and consider moving the food indoors. These types of materials attract flies, and can create infestations.