How Can I Tell If My Dog Has Fleas? 9 Signs Every Owner Should Know

Fleas are more than just a nuisance—they’re tiny pests that can cause your dog a lot of discomfort and even health issues if left untreated. In South Africa, where warm weather and outdoor living create the perfect environment for fleas, staying vigilant is key to keeping your furry friend healthy.

Even if you don’t see adult fleas on your dog, there could still be eggs, larvae, and pupae hiding in your home, ready to hatch and start the cycle over again. Knowing the signs of a flea infestation is the first step to protecting your dog and your household.

9 Signs of Fleas on Your Dog

If you know your dog’s usual behaviour, these changes can be red flags:

1. Constant Scratching, Biting, or Licking

Flea bites are extremely itchy. Your dog may scratch frantically, bite their skin, or lick excessively—sometimes keeping you up at night with the noise of constant scratching.

2. Hair Loss or Over-Grooming

Excessive grooming can cause patchy fur or bald spots, especially around the neck, hind legs, and base of the tail. Small wounds called hot spots may appear if your dog chews too much.

3. Restlessness or Irritability

Fleas can make dogs anxious, agitated, or unusually hyperactive as they try to relieve discomfort. Behavioural changes like these often indicate flea irritation.

4. Hot Spots and Skin Irritation

Dogs allergic to flea saliva can develop red, inflamed spots. These hot spots can ooze and become infected if left untreated, usually appearing on the neck, flanks, or tail base.

5. Weight Loss, Pale Gums, or Lethargy

Severe flea infestations can cause anemia due to blood loss. Puppies, older dogs, or sick dogs are particularly vulnerable. Watch for lethargy, pale gums, or unexpected weight loss.

6. Flea Dirt

“Flea dirt” looks like tiny black or brown pepper-like specks on your dog’s fur. Test by placing some on a damp paper towel—if it turns reddish, it’s digested blood, confirming flea activity.

7. Dark Spots in Bedding or Fabric

Flea dirt often falls off your dog onto beds or furniture. These dark specks can also turn red when moistened, indicating active infestation.

8. Seeing Fleas

Adult fleas are small, reddish-brown, and fast-moving. They often hide around the rump, tail, and hind legs. Spotting them is a clear sign your dog needs treatment.

9. “Rice Grain” Segments (Tapeworms)

If you notice tiny white segments in your dog’s bedding or around their anus, your dog may have tapeworms, which are often transmitted by ingesting infected fleas. Treating fleas helps prevent tapeworm infestations.

What to Do if Your Dog Has Fleas

Don’t panic! Fleas are common, but with prompt treatment, you can protect your dog and home.

1. Use a Vet-Recommended Flea Preventive
In South Africa, options include:

• Flea collars (like Seresto) for long-lasting protection

• Topical spot-on treatments

• Oral tablets for rapid flea elimination

Always check with your vet to choose the best solution for your dog’s age, weight, and lifestyle.

2. Flea Combing and Bathing
A fine-toothed flea comb removes adult fleas and flea dirt. A dog-friendly flea shampoo can provide immediate relief, but check compatibility with your preventive treatment.

3. Clean Your Home
Flea eggs and larvae can hide in bedding, carpets, and furniture. Wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water, vacuum frequently, and treat areas where your dog spends time.

4. Prevent Reinfestation
Regularly use flea preventives year-round, especially during the warmer months in South Africa, when fleas are most active.

FAQs About Fleas on Dogs

Q: Can I see fleas on my dog?
Yes! Fleas are tiny but visible—dark brown and about the size of a pinhead, capable of jumping long distances.

Q: How do I tell fleas from ticks?
Fleas move quickly and cause itching, scratching, and hair loss. Ticks attach and stay in place, often near the head, neck, or ears, and have eight legs.

Q: Where on my dog should I check for fleas?
Check the neck, lower back, hind legs, and base of the tail first—these are the spots fleas love.

Keep Your Dog Flea-Free with SnoutBox

Fleas are a reality for dogs that spend time outdoors or interact with other pets, but prevention is easier than dealing with a full-blown infestation. SnoutBox offers vet-approved flea treatments, combs, shampoos, and comfort items to keep your dog healthy and happy. Order online with nationwide delivery in South Africa for peace of mind, no matter where your pup spends their days.

DOG TICK & FLEA TREATMENTS