The Best Way to Kill Fleas on a Dog

Fleas are a common problem in dogs. Fleas not only cause excessive itching for the dog, but if they are ingested they can cause tapeworms. It is important to remove the fleas from the dog and its surroundings as soon as possible. There are several ways to do this, but the best way is to use all-natural methods. Chemical methods are effective, but they can cause skin irritation in some dogs.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea comb
  • Bowl
  • Water
  • Dish soap
  • Tea tree essential oil, 10 drops
  • Lavender essential oil, 10 drops
  • Salt or diatomaceous earth
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a bowl with lukewarm water and a tablespoon of dish soap. Dip a flea comb in the mixture and run it through your dog's fur. This will help you remove a good portion of the fleas that are on your dog.

    • 2

      Draw a bath for your dog. The bath water should be lukewarm, and no more than two to three inches high.

    • 3

      Add 10 drops of tea tree essential oil, which is an all-natural insecticide. Also add 10 drops of lavender essential oil, which is a repulsive fragrance to fleas.

    • 4

      Lather your dog up with the water in the bathtub, and a little bit of dish detergent. Let your pet stay soapy for a total of five minutes. This is just enough time to kill any fleas that are on your dog.

    • 5

      Rinse your dog off and run the flea comb through its hair one more time. This will help you get out any fleas that have died, but didn't get rinsed off.

    • 6

      Leave your dog in the bathroom and treat the rest of your house before the fleas in your home infest your dog all over again. You can do this with either salt or diatomaceous earth. Sprinkle one of those around your home on your floors, fabric furniture, and outdoor play area. Let it sit for a few hours and then vacuum it up.