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How Do I Treat Fleas on a Puppy?

B. Koch
B. Koch

Fleas on a puppy can cause serious health problems, but the typical remedies for fleas used on adult dogs cannot be used on puppies because they are too harsh. There are, however, a number of milder remedies that can be used for puppies with fleas. Bathing the puppy in a mild dishwashing soap is helpful, followed by combing. Also, the puppy’s surrounding environment should be disinfected.

It is easy to spot fleas on a puppy. They are visible as small, brown, flat insects with three sets of two legs. Fleas survive by biting their hosts and sucking their blood. Their bites cause redness and itching on most dogs, yet some dogs have little or no reaction to them.

Fleas can be easily spotted on puppies.
Fleas can be easily spotted on puppies.

It is not uncommon for puppies to have fleas. In fact, fleas are more of a problem for puppies than for adult dogs. While adult dogs may experience itching and discomfort from fleas, too many fleas may cause small puppies to become anemic. Anemia can lead to a number of health problems, as it weakens the immune system, which causes the puppy to be more susceptible to all kinds of illnesses.

Bathing a puppy with mild dish washing soap and then combing it's fur can help treat flea infestations.
Bathing a puppy with mild dish washing soap and then combing it's fur can help treat flea infestations.

Puppies under eight weeks of age, must be treated for fleas differently than grown dogs would be. They are more sensitive to the harsh chemicals and pesticides that are used to treat larger dogs. Fleas on a puppy should be treated with a lukewarm bath in a dishwashing detergent that is mild enough not irritate the puppy’s skin and does not contain any dangerous pesticides. After the bath, the puppy should be gently combed with a flea comb, which should remove any remaining fleas. Any live fleas that are removed with the comb should be put into a bowl of hot water to kill them.

Puppies younger than 8 weeks cannot tolerate harsh chemical flea treatments.
Puppies younger than 8 weeks cannot tolerate harsh chemical flea treatments.

A bath and a flea comb may kill the fleas on a puppy, but measures must be taken to be sure the puppy does not become infected again. If a puppy with fleas is still with its mother, it is most likely that the mother dog also has fleas and should be appropriately treated. All dog bedding should be washed in hot water, and the house should be thoroughly vacuumed, especially in corners and around floorboards where fleas like to live. All measures to eradicate fleas should occur on the same day. Fleas reproduce quickly, so a disinfected area may easily become infected again within a matter of days.

Flea bites on a puppy will create discomfort and pain.
Flea bites on a puppy will create discomfort and pain.

Once the puppy is eight weeks old, a flea infestation may be remedied in other ways. Commercial flea treatments such as Frontline® or Advantix® are widely recommended. These products are administered about once a month and kill and repel fleas and ticks. Flea killing products such as powders, shampoos, or collars are not recommended, as they are strong and may irritate a pet’s skin and are less effective than the monthly medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the safest way to treat fleas on a young puppy?

The safest way to treat fleas on a puppy is to consult with a veterinarian, who can recommend a treatment plan appropriate for the puppy's age and weight. Generally, puppies under 8 weeks old may not be able to use conventional flea treatments, so a vet might suggest a gentle bath with warm water and mild soap or a flea comb to manually remove fleas.

Can I use over-the-counter flea treatments on my puppy?

Over-the-counter flea treatments can be used on puppies, but it's crucial to choose products specifically formulated for them. According to the American Kennel Club, puppies must be at least 8 weeks old for most over-the-counter topical and oral flea preventatives. Always read the label for age and weight guidelines and consult your vet before use.

How often should I treat my puppy for fleas?

The frequency of flea treatment depends on the product used and the severity of the infestation. Monthly applications are common for preventative measures. However, in the case of an active infestation, more frequent treatments might be necessary. Always follow the product's instructions and your veterinarian's advice for the best results.

Are there any natural remedies for treating fleas on puppies?

Natural remedies for fleas on puppies include diatomaceous earth, which can be sprinkled on the puppy's coat and bedding, and essential oils like lavender or cedarwood, diluted and applied sparingly. However, natural does not always mean safe, so it's important to consult with a vet before trying these methods, as puppies have sensitive skin.

What should I do if my puppy has a severe reaction to a flea treatment?

If your puppy has a severe reaction to a flea treatment, such as excessive scratching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate veterinary care. Reactions can be life-threatening, and prompt treatment is essential. After stabilizing your puppy, your vet can suggest alternative, hypoallergenic flea control options.

How can I prevent flea infestations in the future?

To prevent future flea infestations, maintain regular flea control treatments as recommended by your vet, keep your puppy's environment clean by vacuuming frequently and washing bedding, and use flea preventatives year-round. Additionally, treat other pets in the household and consider treating your yard if fleas are a persistent problem.

Discussion Comments

Terrificli

It can be OK to use chemicals to treat a puppies environment for fleas, but be careful. Those chemicals can harm a puppy, so treat when the puppy is elsewhere and then reintroduce the dog to its environment after the chemicals are no longer considered harmful.

Make sure to read the warning labels on the flea spray or whatever it is you use. Those will tell you when the chemicals used are no longer considered harmful to humans or pups.

Melonlity

Remember -- use a mild dishwashing soap or shampoo especially made for puppies. Do not use shampoo meant for humans on puppies or full grown dogs. Those are very harmful and can be too drying, but a lot of people use them just because they don't know any better.

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    • Fleas can be easily spotted on puppies.
      By: Cosmin Manci
      Fleas can be easily spotted on puppies.
    • Bathing a puppy with mild dish washing soap and then combing it's fur can help treat flea infestations.
      By: Viorel Sima
      Bathing a puppy with mild dish washing soap and then combing it's fur can help treat flea infestations.
    • Puppies younger than 8 weeks cannot tolerate harsh chemical flea treatments.
      By: PHB.cz
      Puppies younger than 8 weeks cannot tolerate harsh chemical flea treatments.
    • Flea bites on a puppy will create discomfort and pain.
      By: absolutimages
      Flea bites on a puppy will create discomfort and pain.