How Can I Get Rid of Fleas on my Dog?

Our fully inclusive guide on how to get rid of fleas on your dog, the DIY way.

Dogs are more popular than ever before. It’s likely that they’re actually the most popular pet in the world right now – but don’t quote us on that! It’s no wonder why, really. They are known as wo(man’s) best friend, provide us with the best cuddles, and a companion for their life span. The one downside that comes with them? The possibility of them catching fleas.

All it takes is for your dog to come into contact with an infected dog, and they can catch fleas. Much like head lice fleas can jump, and they can even bite us as humans.

Vet bills are expensive, so how can I get rid of fleas on my dog? Is there any way I can do it myself?

Read on for our fully inclusive guide on how to get rid of fleas from your dog, by doing it the DIY way!

Use a Flea Comb

The first at – home method of getting rid of your dog’s fleas we are going to suggest, is by treating them with a flea comb.

This is one of the most highly effective methods of getting rid of fleas, not to mention one of the easiest to do. Not only does it keep your pet free of fleas, happy, and healthy, but they’ll also look well groomed too! Talk about two birds, one stone.

A good quality flea comb will you give the ability to comb out fleas of all sizes, including the larvae and eggs laid by the fleas. The last thing you want to do is miss these out and end up with a secondary infestation, after all.

Before using a flea comb with narrow teeth, you should be sure to make certain that your dogs’ fur is not tatted, or you could cause them some pain and discomfort.

Enhance Your Regular Dog Shampoo

If you think your dog may have fleas, why not give them a bath in their own shampoo – only enhance it a little?

Sure, there are plenty of flea treatment shampoos on the market, and if you’d prefer to go out and purchase one of these directly that’s fine, but you can actually turn your dog’s usual shampoo into an anti – flea shampoo, simply by adding a simple ingredient.

In order to do this effectively, you should add half a cup of dog shampoo, to half a cup of freshly squeezed for lemon juice, then mix with two cups of water. Then, simply add this mixture to a bottle, and use it to bathe your dog on a weekly basis. They’ll not only be flea – free, but will smell lemony fresh!

If you have a larger breed of dog, increase the quantity sizes accordingly. After bathing your dog, you should continue coming it with the flea comb.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a surprisingly good flea – preventative and treatment to use on your dog.

All you need to do is mix one teaspoon of fermented apple cider vinegar, with a quarter of a litre of water. Then encourage your pet to drink this throughout the day!

The apple cider vinegar acts by keeping your dogs’ coat and skin slightly acidic, which natural repels fleas. It also repels ticks too, which is handy.

Do not apply this directly to the skin of your dog, however, as it can really irritate broken skin if there is any. You should also consult with your vet on how much apple cider vinegar your dog can ingest depending on its’ weight.

Wash All Bedding on a Hot Setting

All of the bedding used by your dog should be washed on a hot setting in order to get rid of the fleas once and for all.

It is truly surprising how quickly you can get rid of fleas, their larvae and even their eggs by simply washing the belongings of your pup.

For best results, dry in the dryer on a hot setting also – but make sure the fabric can withstand this before doing it!

Use Boric Acid Powder

Last of all, but by no means least, using boric acid powder can help to get rid of fleas from your dog.

Be sure to put on areas your dog will not lick, and when they are not going to be exposed to direct sunlight, or high levels of humidity over fifty percent.

After a couple of days following application, the eggs should dry out and become neutralised, and the larvae will suffocate to death. After this, you should be sure to do a thorough clean and vacuum of your home, to get rid of flea debris and left over powder.

 Thanks for reading!