Diatomaceous Earth and Dogs

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a nontoxic way to control both external and internal parasites in dogs. It can be put in food for intestinal worms, and used on a dog's bedding and around the house and yard for flea control.

  1. Features

    • Diatomaceous earth is very fine sand made up of the fossilized remains of hard shelled algae called diatoms. It kills fleas and parasites mechanically by dehydrating them.

    Types

    • DE is available in several grades. Some is used for swimming pool filtration and some agricultural uses. To use DE around your home and for your dog, make sure you get food-grade DE.

    Internal Uses

    • Hookworms and other internal parasites can be treated by sprinkling DE on a dog's food. For a large dog, use one tablespoon of DE daily for ninety days, then maintain the dose every three days for life. Use half the amount for small dogs.

    External Uses

    • Sprinkle DE anywhere you think may harbor fleas and vacuum after two days. It can also be combed through your dog's coat for topical flea control.

    Considerations

    • DE is a non toxic way to control pests and parasites but in order to be effective, it must be used on an ongoing basis.