Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs: Tips and Their Side Effects

Dogs may be at risk for health problems in addition to being irritated by fleas. In addition to veterinarian appointments when needed, home therapies are a crucial component of managing fleas. For best results, all treatments must be used with thorough cleaning.

6 Top Home Remedies

One of the most effective ways is by top home remedies

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Fleas cannot thrive in the acidic environment that is created by ACV. It can aid in flea repellent properties either consumed or applied to a dog’s coat.

Methods of Use:

• • ACV Cleanse: Mix one part water to one part ACV. This can be mixed into a bath or sprayed directly onto your dog’s coat with a spray bottle. Avoid getting the ACV rinse in your eyes or on any open wounds. Apply it evenly. After a few minutes, leave it on and give it a thorough rinse.
  • Adding to Drinking Water: ACV can be added in tiny amounts to your dog’s water dish to act as an internal repellent. If your dog is tolerant of the ACV, start with about a teaspoon and work your way up. Make sure your dog always has access to clean water.

Dish Soap

Dish soap can be useful in combating fleas on dogs because dish soap can capture fleas and dissolve their exoskeletons.

Methods of Use: 

• • Dish Soap Bath: Put a few drops of dish soap into a bathtub of warm water. Use the soapy water to thoroughly massage your dog’s coat, being especially careful in the neck, underbelly, and tail—areas where fleas are frequently discovered. Make sure the soap is worked into a thick lather. Any soap residue should be completely rinsed out of your dog’s coat because it can irritate their skin. To avoid any pain, it’s critical to properly rinse your dog’s coat.

Citrus Solutions

Because of its aroma and acidity, which fleas find repulsive, citrus can serve as a natural flea repellent.

Methods of Use: 

• • Homemade Citrus Spray: Cut open a lemon, orange, or grapefruit, then immerse it for the entire night in boiling water. Pour the liquid into a spray bottle and mist your dog’s coat sparingly. Take care not to spray in the vicinity of exposed wounds or the eyes. This procedure can be repeated as necessary.
  • Citrus Peels: Put some strategically placed citrus peels next to your dog’s bed and in other areas that they visit often. Citrus scents repel fleas, and the peels will help keep them away from these places.

Rosemary Dip

Rosemary is a useful natural medicine that keeps fleas away from its natural characteristics.

Methods of Use: For around half an hour, steep several rosemary leaves in boiling water. After letting the mixture cool, sift the leaves out. After giving your dog a standard wash, dilute the rosemary-infused water with an equal amount of water and use it as a last rinse. Make sure your dog’s coat has an even distribution of the solution. Steer clear of open wounds and contact with the eyes.

Essential Oils (with EXTREME caution)

Certain essential oils, like cedarwood and lavender, have the ability to repel fleas. On the other hand, it’s crucial to use utmost caution while applying essential oils to dogs.

Methods of Use:

• • Highly Diluted Spray: Before giving your dog essential oils, speak with your veterinarian. They can offer advice on safe oils and the appropriate ratios for dilution. After receiving the appropriate instruction, you can dilute a few drops of essential oil with water or a carrier oil. Avoid spraying your dog’s face or any open wounds, and only lightly mist their coat. Recall that improper use of essential oils can make them hazardous to dogs, so it’s important to heed guidance from professionals.

Safety Emphasis: When handled incorrectly, essential oils can be harmful to dogs. It is critical to be aware of the potential hazards associated with essential oil toxicity and to use them only under the close supervision of a veterinarian. Never put undiluted essential oils straight on your dog’s skin.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a harmless and natural chemical that kills fleas by drying out their exoskeletons.

Methods of Use

• • Application to Dog: Be careful not to get food-grade DE in your dog’s eyes or on their face while applying it to their coat. On the parts of your dog’s coat where fleas are frequently seen, apply a thin layer of DE. Make sure the DE reaches the skin by gently rubbing it into the fur. Take care not to breathe in too much DE dust when applying.
  • Environmental Treatment: DE is also effective in keeping fleas under control in the surroundings. Spot food-grade DE on mattresses, carpets, and any crevices or gaps where fleas might hide. After a few days, vacuum the DE thoroughly to get rid of any remaining fleas or DE residue.

Additional Tips

1. 1. Regular Grooming: Use a flea comb to manually remove fleas and their eggs from your dog’s fur on a regular basis. Fleas on your dog’s coat can be removed by using the comb’s fine teeth.

      

   2. Complete Cleaning: Make sure to vacuum your house on a regular basis, especially the places where your dog hangs out. To get rid of fleas and their eggs, wash your dog’s bedding in hot water, along with any rugs or furniture they come into contact with.

      

   3. Baking Soda and Salt (Native Pet Addition): Baking soda and salt mixed together is another method for controlling fleas indoors. Mix equal parts baking soda and salt and sprinkle it over furniture, carpets, and other possible flea-infested places. The mixture should be left on for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum it thoroughly to remove dead fleas and eggs.

      

Home Remedies for Fleas on Dogs are completely good? 

Although using natural therapies at home can help control fleas, it’s vital to remember that these methods can also have drawbacks and adverse effects. Certain substances may induce allergies or sensitivity in certain dogs, and overuse of some therapies may result in severe reactions or skin irritation.

It is always advisable to speak with a veterinarian before using any DIY flea treatments on your dog, particularly if they are taking medication, have underlying medical issues, or are pregnant or nursing. A veterinarian can offer advice customized to your dog’s unique requirements and guarantee that the treatments selected are suitable and safe.

In certain situations, including significant flea infestations or if your dog is severely allergic to the treatments, you may need to seek professional veterinary care. To protect your dog’s health and wellbeing and to treat any underlying concerns that might be causing the flea problem, it is imperative that you seek veterinary help.

Keep in mind that although DIY solutions can help manage fleas, they should never take the place of appropriate veterinary care and ongoing preventative measures like flea preventatives that are prescribed by a veterinarian.

FAQs 

What Kills Fleas Immediately on Dogs?

Oral medications: Products like Capstar (nitenpyram) are fast-acting tablets that kill adult fleas within 30 minutes of being given to your dog. These are great for immediate relief but lack long-term protection.

Topical spot-on treatments: Many popular spot-on treatments (e.g., Frontline Plus, Advantage) kill fleas quickly, usually within a few hours. They provide longer-lasting protection compared to oral medications.

What Can I Wash My Dog with to Kill Fleas?

Flea shampoos: Special shampoos containing insecticides kill fleas on contact. Follow the instructions carefully, paying attention to how long you need to leave the product on your dog before rinsing.

Dish soap: While not specifically designed for fleas, Dawn dish soap can effectively kill fleas on dogs. Make sure to dilute it and use it sparingly, as it can dry out your dog’s skin.

Does Vinegar Kill Fleas off Dogs?

Vinegar doesn’t kill fleas directly, but it can act as a repellent. A diluted solution of apple cider vinegar and water can be sprayed on your dog’s coat to help deter fleas. Keep in mind, this is not a standalone solution and is best used in combination with other flea treatments.

Does Baking Soda Kill Fleas on Dogs?

Baking soda can help dehydrate flea larvae and eggs, potentially disrupting their development. However, it is not a guaranteed or immediate solution. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and pet bedding, then vacuum thoroughly.  It can also be mixed into a flea bath, but always make sure to rinse your dog well.

In conclusion, these six practical home remedies offer all-natural therapies for dog fleas. But it’s crucial to keep in mind that even natural treatments may have drawbacks and adverse consequences, which emphasizes the necessity of consulting a veterinarian. You may provide your cherished pet with a comfortable and flea-free environment by combining these medicines with thorough cleaning!