Probably every dog owner faces a well-known ailment at some point: dog fleas! The annoying parasites can by no means only be dealt with chemical clubs. Herbal home remedies also work wonders. But what really helps against fleas in dogs?
Fleas in Dogs
- Fleas are particularly active in the warm season.
- Infestation can be identified and contained with a flea comb.
- Full baths in combination with spray cures are very effective.
- Sprays made from essential oils, lemon juice, or vinegar are quickly self-made.
- Neem oil and coconut oil also deter parasites.
How do I recognize fleas in dogs?
The days are getting longer and slowly but surely the temperatures are also rising. These are not only safe harbingers of spring, the tick and flea season has now officially opened. For dog owners, this means increased attention. Increased scratching, reddening of the skin, and small black spots in the fur are sure signs of fleas.
At the first suspicion of a flea infestation, the veterinarian is not necessarily asked immediately. You can use your hands to examine the animal’s fur. To do this, pull the hair apart until the skin is visible. Uninvited guests are usually best tracked down at the roots. A flea comb is also a reliable way to detect and fight against parasite infestation. Basically, the earlier you recognize the flea infestation, the faster you will get rid of the parasites.
With a flea comb and full bath against small black spots
The flea comb promises quick help against fleas in dogs. The small tool is quick to hand, inexpensive and first of all, helps to sift through the situation. How bad is the infestation? How strong is the skin irritation already? The flea comb is very finely toothed. It removes large parts of the parasites, including eggs that have already been laid, from the animal’s fur. Comb in the direction of growth of the fur. Then rinse the comb thoroughly with soapy water.
Essential oil tincture
If a dog is infected with fleas, full baths are on the agenda. This will help relieve the itching and irritation of the skin. After the bath, put a few drops of eucalyptus, tea tree, and/or lavender oil on the fur and massage it in.
Homemade parasite sprays
One of the best remedies for fleas in dogs is DIY anti-parasite sprays. Essential oils, fruit acids, or vinegar are used. After mixing, the sprays are to be poured into a spray bottle. Apply them to the dog’s coat several times a day. Eyes, ears, and muzzle are to be left out.
Lavender and Cedarwood Oil
Gentle but effective remedies for dog fleas include lavender and cedarwood oil. Mix two to three drops of the essential oils with 500 milliliters of water.
Lemon juice, chili seeds, and cooking oil
Sounds like the basic ingredients for particularly exotic dishes – but it is one of the best home remedies for dog fleas. To do this, add the following ingredients to a spray bottle:
- three parts lemon juice
- a part of chili seeds
- a part of cooking oil
The spray works best after bathing on the dog’s wet coat.
Boiled lemon juice
Citric acid is very effective against dog fleas. To make a suitable home remedy, put a finely chopped lemon in half a liter of water. Boil both together and leave the mixture in the refrigerator overnight. The next day it is ready to use. Somewhat gentler and yet effective: orange peel instead of lemon pieces.
Vinegar and oil
From apple cider vinegar to neem oil – there are many home remedies for dog fleas. Vinegar is primarily responsible for warding off parasites. Oils help the skin regenerate after the irritation from the flea bites.
The miracle weapon of all gardeners: neem oil
Neem oil is a real miracle cure in the fight against parasites. It is a purely vegetable, ecological oil made from the seeds of the Indian neem tree. Gardeners use it against all forms of parasitic infestation – whether against caterpillars, snails, fungi, or lice. It also serves its purpose with fleas. For use, the oil must be mixed with the same amount of water. Shake well to mix the ingredients. Then massage the mixture into the dog’s fur and skin. Ideally, use after bathing the animal.
Coconut oil against fleas in dogs
Coconut oil is an effective choice against ticks and fleas in dogs. By the way, coconut oil also helps cats. Why? The ingredients include a medium-chain fatty acid called laurin. Humans and dogs do not perceive this via the sensory organs – but parasites all the more! Fleas and ticks are extremely sensitive to the smell of the acid and quickly move away. Since coconut oil also has an antimicrobial effect, the parasite’s eggs also die.
If the animal is already infected, rub the oil on its fur at least once a day. It also has a preventive effect. For preventive use, it is enough to rub the fur several times a week.
Apple cider vinegar against fleas
Mix apple cider vinegar with equal parts of water and pour it into a spray bottle. The agent does not need any brewing time and can be used immediately. Pay particular attention to avoiding the eye area.
Prevent the worst with DIY flea collars
Like tick collars, flea collars are a well-known and proven means of parasite prevention. They can also be made wonderfully by yourself. To do this, simply grow a little mint in a pot. Chop leaves and twigs and wrap them in a cotton scarf. You tie the scarf around your dog’s neck. Not only does it work, but it also looks cute too.
