
One of the most challenging responsibilities of owning a poodle is keeping your fur baby free of fleas. Fleas are not only irritating, biting vermin, but they can also cause health problems for you and your pet if left untreated. This guide will take you through the necessary steps to rid your poodle of these parasitic insects.
Eliminating fleas on a poodle requires treating them with a product formulated to kill fleas, their larvae, and their eggs. These products can be administered via topical application, flea shampoo, sprays, or orally. Owners will need to utilize a long-term flea preventative—like flea collars—to avoid future infestations.
While many people elect to take their pet to a vet or groomer when they have a flea problem, you can tackle the issue yourself with the right supplies and methods. It’s important to know, however, that to rid your pet and home from fleas permanently, you’ll need to treat not only your pet but any other places your poodle goes inside and outside of your home. Otherwise, you’ll end up in an endless cycle.
These are the five best flee treatments options for poodles:
1. Topical Treatments
Topical preventatives are one of the most highly recommended methods by veterinarians to get rid of fleas. This treatment is applied directly to your poodle’s skin behind the neck between the shoulder blades (a spot where they cannot lick).
It then absorbs into the oil glands just under the skin and works very fast to kill not only adult fleas but also flea larvae and eggs. An effective topical treatment will keep your poodle free from fleas and ticks for a month.
Note: Topical flea treatments work best as a preventative or to resolve a minimal flea issue for your pet.
Choosing a Topical Flea Treatment
There is a dizzying array for flea treatments out there. But even home remedies can be harmful or deadly for your poodle, depending on its age and weight. Consult your groomer or veterinarian to discover if topical treatment is appropriate for your poodle, and to choose the best option for you.
The most highly rated topical flea solution brands include:
- Advantage
- Revolution
- Bravect
Consider asking your vet if one of these is right for your poodle.
Applying Topical Flea Treatment to Your Poodle
Before beginning, double and triple check the package to ensure the product is formulated for dogs and is the correct dosage for your dog’s age and weight. Read and re-read the instructions. It’s advisable to wear gloves for this process.
- Once you’re prepared, open the product. Using your thumb and forefinger, separate the hair on the back of your poodle’s neck.
- Apply the product directly to the skin, being sure not to let it trickle into other areas.
- Wash your hands thoroughly when this is complete. Dispose of product container safely.
Remember to carefully read all information in the product’s packaging and observe your poodle for possible adverse reactions.
Advantages of Topical Flea Treatments
- Effective for both fleas and ticks
- Kills live vermin, larvae, and eggs
- Prevents further infestations for up to 30 days
- Available over the counter or through the veterinarian
- Can be easily applied at home
- Waterproof
- Can be used for poodles over six weeks old
Precautions When Using Topical Flea Treatments
- Remember, you’re directly dealing with a pesticide. Again, it’s imperative to read the packaging and instructions thoroughly to ensure you have a product that is formulated for canines, and that you have the correct dosage for your poodle’s weight. If you have any doubts or questions, contact your vet.
- Do not use topical flea treatments on puppies under six weeks old. Medications like this are not intended for use in young puppies; their growing physiological systems cannot tolerate it. The use of topical treatment on puppies under six weeks of age can cause severe illness or death.
- Like humans, all dogs are different when it comes to medications. Reactions to topical flea treatments can occur even when you follow the directions to the letter. If you observe skin irritation, or if your poodle vomits, becomes agitated, lethargic, or exhibits shaking or seizures, they could be having a reaction. If you think your poodle is having a reaction to any flea treatment, you can call the 24/7 Animal Poison Control Center at (855) 764-7661 and contact your vet immediately.
- Some topical products are sold as “natural” solutions to getting rid of fleas and ticks. However, “all-natural” and “organic” does not mean they are safe for your poodle. Some essential oils and plant-based products can cause severe reactions in dogs, even if all packaging directions are followed.
2. Flea Shampoos
If you see fleas on your poodle or little specks of black material (which is called flea dirt—actually digested blood), your pet is probably suffering from itching and irritation. The best way to get your fur baby immediate relief from the effects of fleas is to give them a flea bath with an effective shampoo formulated for canine flea treatment.
Selecting the Right Flea Shampoo
For advice on choosing the best flea shampoo for dogs, please consult your veterinarian or groomer; they will know your poodle’s medical history and are the best source.
Some of the most widely recommended flea control shampoos for dogs can also be found on Amazon. My favorite is the Lillian Ruff Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs. This product worked great for my dog and smells great too! You can check out the current price on Amazon here.
Shampooing Your Poodle to Eliminate Fleas
There are a few key points to remember when shampooing your poodle to get rid of fleas. For one, you’ll need to prepare yourself and your bathing area before beginning:
- Bathing miniature and toy poodles is actually easiest in the kitchen sink using the faucet’s spray attachment. It saves your back from constantly bending over in the tub and your knees from a long period of kneeling.
- It’s best to bathe standard poodles in the bathtub or shower using a spray attachment.
- Put on a waterproof apron to protect your clothing from the water and flea shampoo.
- Some people prefer using gloves as well for this process, especially if you’re sensitive to detergents.
- Many dog owners make a practice of just bathing their dogs while they take a shower themselves; this is not recommended for this procedure.
- Make sure you have lots of towels within reach for drying. You don’t want to have to get them when your dog is wet and more likely to shake off the water everywhere else while you’re away.
- Since you’re dealing with an insecticide, be sure that infants and small children will not be in the bathing area.
How to Give a Flea Bath to Your Poodle
1. Using the spray nozzle of your sink or shower, wet your poodle’s coat using a water temperature that feels a little warm to you. This will make your poodle feel most comfortable during the bathing process. Dogs have a higher body temperature than humans, so the perfect temperature for you might seem chilly to your poodle and cause them to become agitated. No one enjoys cold water sprayed on them!
2. Apply a stream of shampoo down your poodle’s back. Using circular motions with your hands, work down the legs, up to the head, and toward the rear and abdomen, creating a foamy lather. Add a little more water or shampoo if needed to make sure your poodle is fully coated with lather.
3. Carefully use a washcloth or your fingers to apply some lather (not shampoo) to your poodle’s face and work it into the skin around their eyes and ears. Some dogs don’t like this step and will try to resist, but it’s essential. If you don’t let the shampoo penetrate all areas of your dog’s skin, the fleas will remain and multiply.
4. Once you’ve completely saturated your poodle’s coat with shampoo, turn off the water and allow it to soak in and work for at least ten minutes or longer according to manufacturer’s instructions. You can continue to massage the shampoo in—which most dogs really enjoy—or you can just let it soak.
5. After you’ve given the shampoo time to work, it’s time to rinse. Be sure to adjust the water temperature for your dog’s comfort before beginning to rinse.
- The best way to rinse your poodle is to use one hand under their chin to lift the head slightly, then use a spray nozzle to rinse starting at the back of the head, letting the water roll down.
- Once you’ve rinsed the back, work your way down to the legs, tail, and rear before moving on to the abdomen and under the chin.
- Save the face for last. Most dogs do not enjoy getting their face rinsed, and might become wiggly. Be gentle with the spray of water, or use a cup complete the face rinse.
Fleas and flea dirt should have washed and rinsed away during shampooing and rinsing. If you still see evidence of them, you may have to repeat the process. Be sure to follow the manufacturer or veterinarian’s instructions regarding this.
6. Dry your poodle. Most poodles are accustomed to all of the grooming procedures, including blow-drying. If your poodle doesn’t mind it, blow dry your poodle and use a grooming brush to fluff the hair into the shape you prefer.
Since you’ve just put your poodle through a lot in the flea removal process, don’t worry too much about style. But it’s important to get them mostly dry to avoid the accumulation of moisture that could contribute to itchiness.
7. Rinse and wipe clean the sink, shower, or tub area thoroughly to make sure you’ve cleaned away any fleas, flea dirt, or shampoo. If you’re in the kitchen, you don’t want cooking utensils or food to come in contact with the shampoo. If you’re in the bathroom, you’ll want to ensure that infants or small children aren’t exposed to it.
8. Lastly, throw all of the towels and washcloths in the washing machine and wash on a sterilizing cycle to avoid smelly linens.
Tips to Keep in Mind When Giving Flea Baths
- Be aware that this is not for the faint of heart. You will see fleas trying to escape death. They will migrate to places you haven’t yet covered with shampoo, or even onto you during a bath.
- Don’t panic if you see blood! While it is pretty gross, your dog probably isn’t bleeding. Fleas are parasites that consume your dog’s blood. When digested, it becomes little specks called flea dirt. When water is applied, they dissolve and turn red and will be visible in the lather and water.
- Caution: Be careful not to let lather get directly in your poodle’s eyes. This could cause irritation. Also, try to avoid water and shampoo from entering your poodle’s ears. This can cause a condition sort of like swimmer’s ear.
- Be sure that you have rinsed every bit of shampoo from your poodle’s coat! Soap left behind can cause itching and irritation.
- Do not just leave your dog in the bathtub or sink unattended; they could try to jump out and injure themselves in the process. Grab your device and entertain yourself if you must, but it’s best to remain with your pooch and speak to them in calm, reassuring tones.
Pros and Cons of Flea Shampoos as Flea Treatment

The benefits of flea shampoos include their speed and effectiveness in killing fleas. Most flea shampoos are safe for adult dogs and puppies twelve weeks and older. Good flea shampoo can kill fleas, ticks, their larvae, and their eggs, resulting in residual preventative effects.
One of the most valuable benefits of shampooing as flea treatment is the immediate relief from itch and irritation your poodle will get from a soothing bath. You’ll likely see noticeable relaxation and signs of increased comfort and attitude after a flea treatment bath. In short, a much happier poodle!
There are also some drawbacks to shampoo flea treatments. Specifically, most dog flea shampoos are not formulated for puppies under twelve weeks old. In addition, because it contains an insecticide, you must follow the instructions precisely; you have to keep it away from those it could harm, and it doesn’t always smell delightful.
3. Flea Sprays
Flea sprays are a widely sold option for ridding your pet of fleas. There are a variety of products on the market. Check with your groomer or veterinarian to advise you in selecting the product that is appropriate for your poodle.
Flea sprays contain a pesticide in liquid form, usually diluted with rubbing alcohol or water. They are applied by literally spraying the product onto the coat and skin of your pet.
While flea sprays do kill fleas, usually on contact, they have little residual effect and have to be applied repeatedly to get even meager results.
In addition, most pets, including poodles, do not enjoy having something sprayed onto their bodies; it can be somewhat traumatic for them.
Amazon has a great selection of flea spray options. These are the best three products I’ve used to date. Click on the links below to see pictures and current prices below:
- Adams Flea & Tick Spray (recommended by vets)
- Tropiclean Flea & Tick Spray (a favorite of those who prefer natural remedies)
- Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Gentle-Mist Spray
4. Oral Flea Treatments
If you’d like to avoid topical applications or bathing your poodle to rid them of fleas, oral flea treatments can be a great option. The formula is contained in a pill that you administer monthly to your poodle; it can kill fleas in about thirty minutes. The fleas will also die when they bite your dog and fall off.
Of course, this means that the dead fleas are going to fall off everywhere your dog goes.
While oral flea treatment is an effective method of getting rid of your poodle’s fleas and will have a thirty-day residual effect, it is not safe for puppies under four weeks old, or for any dog under two pounds. This eliminates the product as an option for many miniature or toy poodles.
As with any medication, the manufacturer’s directions must be followed in detail, and your poodle could have adverse reactions to the product.
Bottom line: oral flea treatments should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian and are more useful and practical as preventative treatment than a flea shampoo.
Your veterinarian can prescribe the most appropriate oral flea control regimen for your poodle. Consider inquiring about the following highly rated options:
- NexGard
- Bravecto
- Sentinel
- Simparica
5. Flea Collars
Flea collars are another solution to solving your poodle’s flea problem. They are effective at killing fleas and can provide up to eight months of protection. So there’s no bathing or application of any product, other than fitting your dog for a flea collar, which can be convenient.
With the eight-month preventative effect, flea collars are excellent for preventing future flea infestations for many dogs. However, for indoor pets (which applies to most poodles), this isn’t always an excellent option for a dog with an existing flea problem because you’ll end up with dead fleas around your house.
In addition, flea collars are not safe for puppies under seven weeks of age, or dogs weighing less than eighteen pounds. This makes them an excellent choice for larger standard poodles, but not an option for most miniature or toy poodles.
Amazon carries a good selection of flea collars including several varieties and sizes. Some of the most highly rated are Seresto, Adams, Canes, and Repels.
What About Home Remedies for Fleas?
If you begin to research, you’ll encounter many folks touting home remedies involving household products or essential oils to treat fleas. These remedies are not recommended as effective flea control solutions.
While they may kill live fleas, they may not get rid of the flea eggs or larvae that will be the next generation of vermin in your infestation. More importantly, as mentioned before, just because ingredients are natural does not mean they are safe for your pet. Some essential oils or combinations of substances can be harmful or deadly for dogs.
Do not try to treat flea problems in young puppies or dogs with other health issues using home remedies. Some household products can kill fleas, but also cause harm to pets. Instead, ask your vet about Zodiac Flea & Tick Powder, Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade Powder, or Adams Flea Powder.
Does Vinegar Kill Fleas on Poodles?
Vinegar is known as a popular solution for removing fleas from dogs, but it is not as effective as people think.
Vinegar is not a useful product for treating your pet or home for a flea infestation. It may repel fleas slightly because they do not like the taste, but it is not an effective treatment for flea eggs or larvae.
Treating Puppies and Nursing Dogs for Fleas
Most of the flea treatments mentioned thus far are not safe for young puppies or dogs who are nursing. If your mother poodle and her litter have a flea problem, you should consult a veterinarian and follow their advice.
Because other products could cause severe illness or death, most vets will use flea powder, applied carefully and sparingly to very young puppies and their mothers.
What Happens to Your Poodle if a Flea Problem is Left Untreated?
Failing to treat your poodle’s fleas will not only lead to a major infestation in your home with fleas feasting on you and your family, but it can also lead to a myriad of health problems for your pet. Below are some of the secondary complications of untreated fleas in dogs.
- Some dogs are allergic to flea saliva and can develop severe skin conditions or dermatitis.
- Areas of high flea concentration and itching can get infected and develop into painful “hot spots,” characterized by hair loss, oozing skin, and an acrid smell.
- Fleas can be carriers of other parasites and deliver those parasites into your poodle’s bloodstream when they bite. It’s common for dogs with a flea problem to develop intestinal parasites, or “worms.” Overall, this takes a horrible toll on your pet’s health.
- The longer you wait to treat a flea problem, the harder it will be to eradicate it. If you see one flea, there are probably more.
- Because fleas feast on your poodle’s blood, an untreated flea problem could result in flea bite anemia. Miniature and toy poodles are especially susceptible to this because smaller dogs have smaller volumes of blood. Even a mild flea infestation can be fatal.
Treat Your Home to Eliminate Fleas Completely
Eliminating the fleas on your poodle will provide them with much-needed relief from the itch, irritation, and secondary health issues they cause. However, if you do not treat your home, yard, your poodle’s bed, and the surfaces they contact, the fleas lurking in your home will attack your pet, and you’ll be right back where you started.
One of the best ways of completely eradicating fleas from your home and pet is to treat your home and yard while you are bathing or treating your poodle. This will end the life cycle of the fleas that are living both on your dog as well as the ones who live in your home or yard in insect, larvae, or egg form.
Treating your poodle and your home at the same time might seem daunting, but can be accomplished by taking your dog to a groomer for flea treatment while you treat the house and yard, or by taking them to a nearby dog self-bathing facility while someone treats the home and yard.
Home treatments for flea infestations involve spraying a pretty powerful pesticide outside your home in areas that your dog frequents, so humans would need to vacate the home during this process. Additionally, spay is applied in every room of the home, paying particular attention to carpets, upholstery, and dog bedding.
One of the most efficient products for eradicating fleas from the home is a room fogger, a powerful pesticide automatic sprayer which you set on a timer and then leave the house for the directed amount of time.
Again, as with all issues regarding your pet, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian before purchasing or deploying a flea treatment for your home and yard.
Conclusion

If your poodle has fleas, it doesn’t mean you’re a terrible poodle parent; even the most fastidiously cleanly dog owners experience this challenge once in a while. You have many choices when it comes to getting rid of fleas, but the solutions themselves can also cause complications or residual medical issues.
The best mode of getting rid of fleas on your dog is often a combination of those listed above. Most of all, you must treat not only your poodle, but your home, yard, and any surfaces they come in contact with.
Additionally, for long-term eradication of fleas, it’s essential to use a preventative of some kind once you’ve ridden your poodle and house of them.
Anytime you introduce substances into your pet’s environment or apply them directly to your poodle’s skin, there is a risk of adverse reaction. Many of the flea treatment products on the market listed in this article are potentially harmful to your dog if used in the wrong combination with each other or in combination with home remedies.
Contact your vet for the best advice specifically for you and your poodle before beginning any flea regimen. Also, have your poodle examined for secondary medical issues your poodle may have acquired due to having fleas to ensure their health and happiness.
Must Have Products For Poodles And Doodles
Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission.
But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family.
Lemonade Pet Insurance: Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. Lemonade is a great company, and I can’t recommend them enough!
Brain Training For Dogs: Brain Training for dogs is an amazing online training program I found that actually helped me to understand and ultimately stop my dog’s separation anxiety and destructive behaviors when I left the house. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer!
Pet Plate: I first learned of Pet Plate when the company was featured on the TV show “Shark Tank” back in 2016. Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price.
BarkBox: Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters.
Pawp.com: Pawp is not insurance. It’s a membership program that gives you access to unlimited video calls or texts with a licensed vet 24/7 and includes up to six pets on a single membership! I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Pawp will even pay up to $3,000 if your pets experience an emergency situation! Check out Pawp’s website to see why Pawp can help you save money and increase your pet’s quality of care.
FAQs
How do I get rid of fleas on my poodle? ›
If you see fleas on your dog, treat your pup with a product to kill the fleas quickly. Some flea treatment products kill the fleas on your dog on contact, such as specially formulated flea shampoos. You can also treat your dog with a flea spray or a fast-acting oral flea treatment — dead fleas are easier to wash away.
What is the fastest way to get rid of fleas on a dog? ›One of the first solutions to get rid of fleas is to bathe your pet. Just lukewarm water, or water and a mild soap, can help get fleas off your pet's fur and skin. The dish soap can help to drown adult fleas. If you're thinking about using a flea shampoo or something similar, talk to your veterinarian first.
What kills fleas on dogs instantly naturally? ›Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar's slightly acidic pH level creates an inhospitable environment for fleas. Mix six cups of ACV with four cups of water (use a 6:4 ratio), add a pinch of salt, and spray the mixture on your dog's coat and underbelly, making sure to avoid their eyes and any wounds they may have.
- Pupper Omega.
- NexGard Flea and Tick Chewables. ...
- Capstar Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs. ...
- Bravecto Chewable. ...
- PetArmor Plus Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs. ...
- Advantus (Imidacloprid) 30-Count Chewable Flea Treatment for Large Dogs.
Although Dawn kills fleas, veterinarians say it doesn't repel them or prevent infestations. Think of it as more of a temporary fix than a permanent solution.
Do poodles need flea treatment? ›Most vets advise regularly giving your poodle a flea treatment. This is normally some drops that you put on your poodle's fur regularly that discourage fleas and kill them before they have the chance to bite and infect your poodle and home. You can check out my list of recommended flea treatments for poodles here.
What is the best homemade flea killer? ›Create a flea spray by mixing 4 liters of vinegar, 2 liters of water, 500 ml of lemon juice and 250 ml of witch hazel in a large spray bottle. Before applying the product around your home, you should vacuum properly, emptying the contents into an outside bin, and wash any bedding/cushions that could be infested.
How do you make homemade flea killer for dogs? ›Dilute six cups of apple cider vinegar with four cups of water, add a dash of sea salt, then spray directly onto your dog's coat. Make sure to avoid your dog's eyes.
How do you get rid of fleas in 24 hours? ›Home Pest Control : How to Kill Fleas in 24 Hours - YouTube
What is the fastest way to get rid of fleas cheap and easy? ›- Use baking soda. ...
- Sprinkle salt. ...
- Lemon spray. ...
- Wash all bedding in hot, soapy water. ...
- Use rosemary. ...
- Hire a steam cleaner. ...
- Use a powerful vacuum. ...
- Use a pet-safe flea spray.
Does lemon juice get rid of fleas on dogs? ›
Lemon Juice
Citrus juice will kill fleas and repel new fleas. To make a mix to get rid of fleas, poke small holes in a lemon and then slice it, but do not peel. Set the lemon slices in a bowl, pour a cup of boiling water over the slices, and allow to sit over night.
Thoroughly clean areas where fleas frequently breed. This includes washing bedding, rugs, and pet bedding, and thoroughly vacuuming and sweeping floors and carpeted areas and along the edges of walls. Pet treatment. Every pet in the home must be treated.
What chemical kills fleas and their eggs on dogs? ›The most effective ones contain ingredients such as permethrin, imidacloprid, or dinotefuran that are lethal to the biting adult stage, and an “insect growth regulator” (e.g., methoprene, pyriproxyfen) that halts development of flea eggs and larvae.
What do vets use for fleas? ›His recommendations: Bravecto, NexGard and Simparica. Each of these come in chewable form and can be ordered through your vet or online through Chewy.com, which collects your pet's prescription information upon checkout.
How can I get flea medicine without a vet? ›Over-the-Counter preventatives are available without a prescription. The reason some flea/tick topical preventatives are in this category is that they aren't absorbed into your pet's body the same way a prescription medication is, hence, no prescription is required.
What is the best homemade flea shampoo? ›Ingredients for homemade dog wash: Water, white vinegar, and Dawn Dish Soap. Using Dawn is recommended because it works best for killing fleas where other brands may not, and it's the safest for your pet. If your dog has a strong odor, rinse him with white vinegar to remove the stink.
What does baking soda do to fleas? ›Baking soda does not kill adult fleas and will do nothing to protect your pets. It is excellent at absorbing smells and has been suggested by some online pet sites for use as a flea killer because it “may” dry out flea eggs and larvae. But there is no evidence that using baking soda to kill fleas is effective at all.
What kills fleas instantly in carpet? ›Sprinkle Diatomaceous Earth
Once the diatomaceous earth attaches to the flea's body, it absorbs all moisture causing the flea to dry up and die. Sprinkling diatomaceous earth on your carpet is a highly effective way of killing fleas, and it's safe to use around humans and pets.
- Frontline Plus is an OTC product that uses fipronil and (S)-methoprene to attack fleas and ticks at every life stage. ...
- Trifexis employs spinosad and milbemycin oxime to keep dogs protected from heartworms and intestinal parasites as well as fleas, but it does not work against ticks.
Poodles tend to lick their genitals when they get infected with ticks. To avoid this, bathe it and check the area while doing so. It can be a task to identify ticks in your dog's fur, especially when your dog has dark fur.
How often should you wash your mini poodle? ›
In general, Poodles can (and should) be bathed once every 2-3 weeks. However, you can often bathe your Poodle weekly if they have gotten dirty and if you are using the proper shampoo and conditioner.
Can I spray vinegar on my dog for fleas? ›In short: using vinegar solution or white vinegar on your pet's fur or in their drinking water will not kill fleas. There is a chance ACV could repel fleas because they don't like the taste, but it is only a mild detergent and is not the best flea remedy. ACV should not be your first choice for natural flea treatment.
Does hydrogen peroxide get rid of fleas? ›Outdoor Flea Removal
A 3% hydrogen peroxide solution may just be your answer. Peroxide is a common insecticide used in gardens and other agricultural sites. Not only does it kill fleas due to its toxic nature, but it can also eradicate other pests from your foliage as well.
Once every 2-3 days will be fine. Apple cider vinegar is an effective flea repellent for dogs, and it's very inexpensive. It's also 100% safe for your dog. In fact, I add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to my dog's water bowl every day for an added boost in preventing a flea infestation.
What do fleas hate? ›Strong odors like eucalyptus, lavender, clove, citrus, peppermint and citronella work as effective repellents. Cedar beds for dogs are so popular because of their ability to repel fleas. The scent won't kill fleas but it does effectively repel them.
How does salt get rid of fleas? ›Either finely ground refined household salt or sea salt can be used to kill fleas in your home. Simply sprinkle the salt evenly over carpeted areas or furniture and leave it be for about 12-48 hours. Since flea eggs can fall in between carpet fibers, it's best to brush the salt in for better results.
Do dryer sheets repel fleas? ›So far, the creatures that seem to be repelled by dryer sheets are- certain mites, food-infesting beetles, weevils, German cockroaches, and fungus gnats. However, in our research, we did not find one study or test that claimed these dryer sheets repelled fleas.
How do you stop a flea infestation? ›For some serious infestations, steam cleaning before vacuuming is necessary. The heat will kill almost all of the adult fleas, but may not kill all of the eggs. Continue to vacuum every other day after the steam cleaning to make sure you are killing fleas as they hatch. Some might still make it to the adult stage.
How do you get rid of fleas that won't go away? ›Control the environment – Adopt control strategies including: Vacuum the carpet 2-3 times a week to remove eggs, wash pets blankets weekly (in the washing machine), spray the house, kennels and yards with an adult flea killer, fog the house to prevent larvae developing.
How do you get rid of fleas overnight? ›Lemon juice
Here's a natural flea dip for dogs or cats: Slice up a lemon and add it to a pot of boiling water. After adding the lemons, remove the water from heat and cover the pot. Leave the water overnight, and the next day dip your pet's comb or brush in the water and run it through their coat.
Can I spray lemon water on my dog? ›
Lemon water spray for dogs is a mixture dog owners make at home to repel fleas and ticks from their pets. As mentioned earlier, you should only use this on a dog with a thick coat so that the lemon water won't get directly on their skin. Only spray a little bit on the surface of your dog's coat.
What can I put on my dog to prevent fleas? ›Essential Oils: geranium, lemongrass and other essential oils (neem and catnip oil) may help deter mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and other pests from attacking your dog or cat.
What eats fleas food chain? ›The most common natural predators of fleas are insects such as fire ants and nematodes, as well as spiders, frogs, toads lizards, and snakes.
Does vinegar get rid of fleas? ›While Apple Cider Vinegar does not kill fleas, it may repel them because fleas dislike its smell and taste. One of the most simple ways to use this natural flea repellent is to make a solution out of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.
How do you know when fleas are gone? ›Using the flea comb, brush against the pet's hair so that you can see your pet's skin. Start with the back and work your way down. Make sure you check your pet's toes, around the ears, armpits, tail and head as well. These are often popular places for the fleas to hide and hang out.
How do you tell if fleas are dying? ›If you do see fleas and they are moving slow enough to catch – success – they are busy dying!
How does apple cider vinegar get rid of fleas on dogs? ›Fleas don't like the smell or taste of it, so they're likely to avoid your pet if they have it on their fur. Dilute apple cider vinegar in water and add it to a spray bottle. If your pet doesn't enjoy getting sprayed, dip a brush in the mixture and distribute it into their fur with a grooming session.
What to do if you find a flea on your dog? ›The first thing you should do if you notice fleas on your dog, is give them a bath. Warm water and mild soap can help get the fleas off your pet's skin and fur. Another simple solution to rid your dog of fleas is brushing them with a flea comb. Flea combs help trap fleas while also removing flea dirt and eggs.
How do I make homemade flea treatment for my dog? ›DIY Homemade Flea Spray for Dogs (3 Cheap, Natural Recipes)
What can you put on dogs for fleas? ›- Coconut Oil. Coconut oil contains a fatty acid called lauric acid, a component that kills fleas. ...
- Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple cider vinegar has a high pH level, and it works as a natural flea repellent. ...
- Citrus Bath. ...
- Essential Oils. ...
- Diatomaceous Earth. ...
- Baking Soda and Salt. ...
- Nematodes.
What is the best homemade flea killer? ›
Create a flea spray by mixing 4 liters of vinegar, 2 liters of water, 500 ml of lemon juice and 250 ml of witch hazel in a large spray bottle. Before applying the product around your home, you should vacuum properly, emptying the contents into an outside bin, and wash any bedding/cushions that could be infested.
How often should I spray my dog with apple cider vinegar for fleas? ›Once every 2-3 days will be fine. Apple cider vinegar is an effective flea repellent for dogs, and it's very inexpensive. It's also 100% safe for your dog. In fact, I add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to my dog's water bowl every day for an added boost in preventing a flea infestation.
How often can I spray apple cider vinegar on my dog? ›Once a week, spray your dog's fur with the mixture. Although not scientifically proven to get rid of flea, the acidic taste of the vinegar may repel fleas and other parasites. If your dog dislikes being sprayed, dip a washcloth into the mixture and rub your dog's coat. There is no need to rinse your dog afterward.
Where do fleas hide on dogs? ›To inspect your dog, turn her onto her back and check the areas that allow fleas to hide best. The armpits and groin are two areas that tend to be warm and protected, making them preferred spots for large flea populations. Check the ears carefully for signs of scratching, redness, blood, or dirt.
How do you stop a flea infestation? ›Thoroughly clean areas where fleas frequently breed. This includes washing bedding, rugs, and pet bedding, and thoroughly vacuuming and sweeping floors and carpeted areas and along the edges of walls. Pet treatment. Every pet in the home must be treated.
Where do fleas go after treatment? ›No, fleas don't jump off after treatment. Instead, they rise to the top of your pet, die, and fall off the skin. However, you may feel that the treatment is not working because new fleas will keep appearing on your dog's fur.
What is the fastest way to get rid of fleas cheap and easy? ›- Use a powerful vacuum on any floors, upholstery, and mattresses. ...
- Employ a steam cleaner for carpets and upholstery, including pet beds. ...
- Wash all bedding, including your pet's, in hot water and detergent.
Baking soda does not kill adult fleas and will do nothing to protect your pets. It is excellent at absorbing smells and has been suggested by some online pet sites for use as a flea killer because it “may” dry out flea eggs and larvae. But there is no evidence that using baking soda to kill fleas is effective at all.
Can I spray vinegar on my dog for fleas? ›In short: using vinegar solution or white vinegar on your pet's fur or in their drinking water will not kill fleas. There is a chance ACV could repel fleas because they don't like the taste, but it is only a mild detergent and is not the best flea remedy. ACV should not be your first choice for natural flea treatment.
Does lemon juice get rid of fleas on dogs? ›Lemon Juice
Citrus juice will kill fleas and repel new fleas. To make a mix to get rid of fleas, poke small holes in a lemon and then slice it, but do not peel. Set the lemon slices in a bowl, pour a cup of boiling water over the slices, and allow to sit over night.
How does vinegar get rid of fleas naturally? ›
If fleas have spread throughout your house, you can make a white vinegar solution with equal parts water and vinegar to spray on carpet, baseboards, furniture and under furniture. Salt. When it's sprinkled on to the carpet salt will work as a drying agent to kill flea eggs and larvae.