Fleas may be tiny, but don’t let their size fool you—they can cause a huge headache once they’ve moved into your home. These little bloodsuckers don’t just bug your dog—they itch, bite, and drive them absolutely nuts.
And it gets worse. Fleas aren’t just annoying, they can also spread diseases and lead to bigger health problems for both pets and humans. So if you’re dealing with a flea issue, you’ll want to act fast.
So… How to Get Rid of Fleas?
Getting rid of fleas on dogs isn’t just a one-and-done deal. It’s a full-on process: think medication, baths, lots of combing, and a serious deep clean of your home.
Let’s walk through how to get rid of fleas for good.
Quick Recap:
- Fleas = major problem for your dog and your home.
- Getting rid of them takes a multi-step approach.
- Flea meds like Credelio Quattro, flea combs, and daily checks are essential.
How to Tell If Your Dog Has Fleas
Wondering if your pup has fleas? Here are some signs to look out for:
- Red, bumpy flea bites—usually around the neck, back, and legs.
- Constant scratching or biting, especially near the tail and hind legs.
- Hair loss and excessive grooming.
- Flea dirt (aka flea poop) or live fleas in their fur.
- Dark specks on bedding or furniture.
- Scooting, restlessness, and even pale gums if the infestation is severe.
- Little white “rice grains” around the butt? That could mean tapeworms, which fleas can carry.
If you notice any combo of these, it’s time to act.
How to Get Rid of Fleas on Dogs
Here’s how to fight fleas and win:
1. Start With a Vet-Recommended Flea Treatment
Your best weapon? A solid flea treatment. These come in pills, topicals, or flea collars. One great option is Credelio Quattro—a chewable that protects against fleas, ticks, and a bunch of other parasites like heartworms and roundworms.
It kills fleas super fast (within 8 hours!) and keeps working. Be sure to ask your vet what’s best for your dog.
2. Use a Flea Comb Daily
Daily flea checks are a must during an active infestation. A metal flea comb helps remove fleas, eggs, and flea dirt from your pup’s coat. Do it in the bathtub to keep any critters from making it to your carpet.
Dip the comb in soapy water between strokes to kill whatever you catch.
3. Bring Them in for a Professional Flea Bath at Barks in the Bay
If you’re not up for battling the fleas at home—or just want it done right—we’ve got you covered at Barks in the Bay!
Our flea bath service is gentle and effective. We use a high-quality flea shampoo that soothes your dog’s skin while getting rid of those pesky parasites. Plus, we bathe your pup twice using lukewarm, triple-filtered water, so they’re squeaky clean and feeling better in no time.
This is a great way to get fast relief for your dog—especially if they’re really uncomfortable or have sensitive skin.
4. Your House? Clean Like You Mean
Once your pup is taken care of, it’s time to focus on the house. Fleas lay eggs everywhere.
- Vacuum floors, carpets, rugs, and furniture (especially where your dog naps).
- Empty the vacuum outside after every use.
- Wash bedding and blankets in hot water and dry on high heat.
- Use flea sprays or home treatments if needed.
Cleaning consistently for a few days is key to wiping out fleas completely.
How to Prevent Fleas (So You Don’t Have to Go Through This Again)
Prevention is everything. Keeping your dog on a monthly flea and tick treatment year-round is the best way to stop fleas before they become a problem.
Even when it’s cold out, fleas can still be lurking. Stick to your pup’s preventive routine to keep them protected.
Ask your vet which product works best for your dog’s lifestyle and needs.
FAQs: All About Fleas
What kills fleas on dogs instantly?
Flea shampoos (like the one we use at Barks in the Bay!) kill fleas on contact. But for long-term protection, pair it with a prescription flea med.
How fast can fleas infest a dog?
Really fast. Within 24 to 48 hours, fleas can bite, mate, and start laying eggs.
Why are fleas hard to get rid of?
Flea eggs are tiny and hard to spot. You need the right meds and lots of cleaning to fully break the cycle.
What do flea bites look like?
Small red bumps, usually in clusters. They’re super itchy and often show up around the back legs and tail.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering how to get rid of fleas, just know—you’re not alone, and it is totally doable.
With the right combo of treatment, daily care, and some help from the pros (like our flea bath at Barks in the Bay!), you can kick those fleas to the curb and get your pup back to their happy, itch-free self.
Got questions or want to book a flea bath? Reach out—we’re here to help!