What to Do About Dog Fleas

Fleas can make a dog miserable. The saliva from a flea can cause more damage and irritation than just an itch. Flea bites not only cause potential skin allergies, but a bite from a flea can bring on infections caused from intestinal parasites. The following techniques may help get rid of dog fleas.

  1. Flea Shampoo

    • Flea shampoos can get rid of fleas immediately. Although shampoos do not kill flea eggs, they will kill adult fleas on the dog. Work the lather onto the dog's head first, following behind the ears, down the neck, onto the back of the dog and then the rest of his body. Be careful to not get any shampoo in the dog's eyes. Rinse thoroughly and dry the dog off with a towel.

    Flea Collars

    • Flea collars can help get rid of fleas, but they are not as effective as flea shampoo. Although the flea collar is better than using nothing at all, the collar will not kill all fleas or the flea eggs. Flea collars are usually cheaper than most flea control options. They may not work as well in hot, humid environments and where fleas are most prominent.

    Topical Flea Control

    • Topical flea control products, such as Advantage and Frontline, are common flea treatments that can be obtained from your veterinarian. The monthly flea treatment is sold in a small tube and can be applied at the base of the neck or around the base of the tail. Within 24 to 48 hours, adult fleas and flea eggs are killed. This dog flea treatment is effective if used according to directions.

    The Pill

    • Program is a pill sold only by a veterinarian. Although the pill does not kill adult fleas, it is known to be an effective treatment because it stops the flea life cycle. When an adult female flea bites a dog, the flea digests the pill's ingredients. These ingredients are passed onto the flea eggs, preventing the eggs from hatching. Program is sold in various doses, depending on the size of the dog.