How do I Apply Flea Treatment to a Dog?

Fleas are insects that suck the blood from dogs. They live and produce eggs in a dog's hair. Fleas can be brought inside by a dog and get into carpet and clothing. According to Stop The Fleas, fleas can live up to 100 days with no food. The only way to get rid of fleas is to kill and prevent them.

  1. Shampoo

    • Flea shampoos kill fleas and help remove their eggs from the dog's hair. Put your dog in a bathtub with water and lather on shampoo. Follow the directions on the shampoo bottle. When finished, rinse and dry the dog. Flea shampoos kill fleas instantly. Shampoo as needed.

    Topical

    • Most topical flea treatments come in a small tube-like applicator. Some topical treatments will require two drops of liquid between the shoulder blade monthly. Other topical treatments require a line of liquid from the shoulders to the tail. Topical flea treatments start killing fleas instantly. As noted by K9 Advantix, it can take up to 24 hours to kill 98 percent of fleas.

    Sprays

    • Several different flea sprays are available. You spray the flea treatment directly onto the dog's hair. The flea spray also deodorizes. Sprays are safe for animals with sensitive skin. Spray it on the dog as needed.