Can lice be transmitted from a dog to a person?

Understanding Lice

What are Lice?

Types of Lice

Lice are obligate ectoparasites that survive only on specific hosts. Human‑infesting species differ fundamentally from those that live on dogs, and each group exhibits distinct morphology and life‑cycle adaptations.

Head louse (Pediculus humanus capitis): inhabits scalp hair, feeds on blood, spreads by direct head‑to‑head contact.
Body louse (Pediculus humanus humanus): resides in clothing seams, moves to the skin to feed, associated with poor hygiene.
Pubic louse (Pthirus pubis): prefers coarse body hair, transmitted primarily through sexual contact.

Dogs host two primary lice species:

Chewing louse (Trichodectes canis): a chewing parasite that feeds on skin debris, lives on the coat.
Biting louse (Linognathus setosus): a blood‑sucking parasite that attaches to the skin surface.

Host specificity limits the ability of lice to move between species. Human lice lack the physiological mechanisms to attach to canine fur, while canine lice cannot survive on human skin due to differences in hair structure, temperature, and immune response. Consequently, direct transmission of dog lice to a person does not occur under normal conditions.

Preventive measures focus on treating the infested host. Human infestations require topical pediculicides and hygiene measures; canine infestations are managed with veterinary‑approved insecticidal shampoos or spot‑on treatments. Eliminating lice on the original host removes the sole reservoir, eliminating any theoretical risk of cross‑species contact.

Life Cycle of Lice

The life cycle of lice that infest dogs proceeds through three distinct phases, each confined to the host’s skin and fur.

Egg (nit): Female lice embed each egg within a single hair shaft, securing it with a cement-like substance. Incubation lasts 4–7 days, depending on ambient temperature and humidity.
Nymph: Upon hatching, the immature louse undergoes three successive molts. Each molt spans 3–5 days, during which the nymph feeds on blood and grows rapidly.
Adult: Fully developed lice reach sexual maturity within 7–10 days after the final molt. Adults live 20–30 days on the canine host, reproducing continuously throughout this period.

Transmission to humans is limited by the strict host specificity of canine lice species such as Trichodectes canis. These parasites have evolved mouthparts and behavioral cues tailored to canine hair density and skin temperature. Consequently, they cannot complete their developmental stages on human skin, and any accidental contact results only in temporary, non‑reproductive attachment. The life cycle described above therefore reinforces the conclusion that lice originating from dogs do not pose a viable risk of establishing an infestation in people.

Different Species of Lice

Human Lice («Pediculus humanus»)

Human lice, Pediculus humanus, are obligate ectoparasites that feed exclusively on human blood. Their life cycle—egg (nit), nymph, adult—requires a human host for each stage. The species cannot survive on non‑human mammals because their mouthparts, temperature preferences, and grooming behaviors are adapted to human skin.

Dog lice belong to different genera (e.g., Trichodectes canis) and are similarly host‑specific. They lack the physiological adaptations needed to attach to human hair or to digest human blood. Consequently, a dog infested with canine lice does not pose a direct risk of transmitting Pediculus humanus to a person.

Key points:

Pediculus humanus requires human blood; it does not feed on canine blood.
Canine lice cannot complete their life cycle on human hosts.
Human lice spread through direct head‑to‑head contact or shared personal items (combs, hats).
Prevention focuses on personal hygiene, regular inspection, and prompt treatment of affected individuals.

Therefore, a dog cannot act as a vector for human lice, and transmission from dog to person does not occur.

Dog Lice («Linognathus setosus», «Trichodectes canis»)

Dog lice, represented primarily by Linognathus setosus and Trichodectes canis, are obligate ectoparasites that complete their entire life cycle on canine hosts. Adult females lay eggs (nits) on hair shafts; larvae hatch and mature within a week, feeding exclusively on the skin and debris of the dog. Both species demonstrate strict host specificity, having evolved physiological adaptations that allow them to digest canine skin secretions and tolerate the canine immune response.

Transmission requires direct contact with an infested animal or contaminated grooming tools. Lice lack the ability to survive off‑host for more than a few hours, and they cannot crawl significant distances across non‑host surfaces. Consequently, accidental transfer to humans is exceedingly rare. When brief contact occurs, lice typically detach rather than attempt to colonize a non‑compatible host.

Human exposure may produce transient irritation if a louse lands on the skin, but permanent infestation does not develop. No documented cases exist of L. setosus or T. canis establishing a breeding population on people. The risk of secondary bacterial infection stems from scratching induced by the bite, not from the lice themselves.

Preventive measures focus on canine treatment:

Apply veterinarian‑approved topical or oral ectoparasiticides.
Regularly wash bedding, brushes, and clothing that have contacted the dog.
Isolate infested animals until treatment is complete.

In summary, dog lice are highly specialized to canines, and cross‑species transmission to humans does not result in sustained infestation. Human health concerns are limited to temporary discomfort, which resolves once the lice are removed or the dog is treated.

Cross-Species Transmission of Lice

Specificity of Lice

Host-Specific Nature

Lice that infest dogs belong to the species Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus. These ectoparasites have evolved to feed exclusively on canine skin and fur, relying on specific physiological cues such as temperature, hair structure, and host‑derived chemicals. Human skin lacks the necessary environment, preventing attachment, feeding, and reproduction.

Because of this strict host specificity, direct transfer from a dog to a person does not result in a viable infestation. Even if a dog louse contacts human skin, it cannot complete its life cycle; eggs will not hatch, and adults will die within hours. Consequently, humans do not develop the characteristic itching or secondary infections associated with canine lice.

Key points illustrating host‑specific nature:

Species restriction – each louse species parasitizes a single host type (e.g., Trichodectes canis → dogs, Pediculus humanus → humans).
Physiological adaptation – mouthparts, digestive enzymes, and sensory receptors match the host’s skin and hair.
Reproductive failure on non‑hosts – eggs require the host’s temperature and humidity range; unsuitable conditions on humans abort development.

The only realistic risk to people involves secondary issues such as allergic reactions to dog hair or fleas that are less host‑specific. Direct transmission of canine lice to humans remains biologically implausible.

Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions strongly influence the likelihood that canine lice reach a human host. High humidity accelerates lice development, shortening egg hatching time and increasing adult activity. Warm temperatures, especially between 20 °C and 30 °C, boost metabolic rates, leading to more frequent movement and greater chances of accidental contact with people.

Indoor environments with limited ventilation retain moisture, creating a habitat where lice survive longer on a dog’s coat. Conversely, dry, well‑ventilated spaces reduce survival time, decreasing transmission risk. Seasonal patterns reflect these dynamics: summer and early autumn often see higher infestation rates due to favorable heat and humidity.

Human‑dog interaction patterns also depend on the surroundings. In homes where dogs share beds, sofas, or clothing, direct transfer becomes more probable. Outdoor settings with loose soil or vegetation may harbor stray lice carriers, but the brief nature of contact typically limits transmission.

Key environmental factors can be summarized:

Humidity: >60 % promotes egg viability and nymph survival.
Temperature: Optimal range 20‑30 °C enhances lice activity.
Ventilation: Poor airflow extends lice lifespan on the host.
Season: Warm, moist periods correspond with increased infestation.
Contact surfaces: Shared bedding or clothing provide direct pathways.

Mitigating these factors—maintaining low indoor humidity, ensuring regular grooming, and limiting shared sleeping areas—reduces the probability that lice move from a dog to a person.

Risk Factors for Transmission

Close Contact with Infested Animals

Close physical interaction with a dog that carries lice creates a direct pathway for the parasites to move from the animal’s coat to a person’s clothing, skin, or hair. The risk depends on the type of lice involved and the duration of contact.

Dog lice, primarily Trichodectes canis, are obligate ectoparasites adapted to canine skin and fur. Their mouthparts, life‑cycle timing, and environmental tolerances are optimized for the temperature and humidity found on dogs. Human lice (Pediculus humanus or Pthirus pubis) require different conditions and cannot complete their development on canine hosts. Consequently, T. canis cannot establish a breeding population on a person, and the opposite transfer—human lice to a dog—is similarly unfeasible.

Temporary transfer may occur when lice or their eggs cling to clothing, bedding, or grooming tools after close handling of an infested animal. In such cases the parasites remain viable only for a few hours before desiccation, and they do not infest the human host permanently.

Practical measures to limit incidental transfer:

Treat the dog with an appropriate veterinary ectoparasiticide as soon as infestation is confirmed.
Wash all bedding, blankets, and clothing that have been in contact with the animal in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
Disinfect grooming brushes, combs, and other accessories with an alcohol‑based solution or replace them after treatment.
Limit direct skin‑to‑skin contact until the infestation is resolved; use gloves or protective clothing when necessary.

These steps reduce the likelihood of mechanical carriage and ensure that any accidental exposure does not result in a persistent human infestation.

Hygiene and Grooming Practices

Effective hygiene and grooming are essential for reducing the risk of ectoparasite transfer from dogs to humans. Regular removal of hair and debris eliminates habitats where lice can thrive. Bathing the animal with a veterinarian‑approved shampoo at intervals recommended for the specific breed and environment removes adult insects and eggs. Brushing with a fine‑toothed comb after each bath dislodges remaining parasites and facilitates early detection of infestations.

Key practices include:

Daily inspection of the dog's coat, especially around ears, neck, and tail base, for signs of lice or irritation.
Weekly use of a preventive topical treatment that targets chewing lice, applied according to product instructions.
Maintaining clean bedding, blankets, and grooming tools by washing them in hot water (≥60 °C) and drying on high heat.
Isolating the dog from other pets and limiting contact with stray animals that may carry lice.
Practicing hand hygiene after handling the dog, using soap and water or an alcohol‑based sanitizer.

Personal hygiene complements animal care. Washing hands immediately after petting, especially before eating, reduces the chance of accidental transfer of lice or their eggs to the skin. Clothing worn during grooming should be laundered separately from regular garments to avoid cross‑contamination. If a person develops itching or a rash after contact with a dog, seeking medical evaluation promptly can confirm whether lice have been transmitted and guide appropriate treatment.

Scientific Consensus on Dog-to-Human Transmission

Lice that infest dogs belong to the species Trichodectes canis and are adapted to canine skin, hair, and temperature. Human lice, Pediculus humanus capitis and Pediculus humanus corporis, are specialized for human hosts. Molecular and morphological studies confirm strict host specificity for each species.

The scientific community agrees that canine lice have never been recorded establishing a viable infestation on humans. Controlled experiments and field surveys show no cross‑species transmission, even under conditions of close contact. Veterinary parasitology textbooks and epidemiological reviews list dog lice as a non‑zoonotic ectoparasite.

Key points:

Dog lice feed exclusively on canine blood; they cannot survive on human skin.
Human lice require human body temperature and hair characteristics absent in dogs.
No peer‑reviewed case reports document a human infestation caused by a dog’s lice.
Other arthropods (fleas, ticks) can bite humans, but lice do not exhibit this behavior.

When a person presents with lice, treatment should target human lice species. If a dog shows signs of infestation, appropriate canine lice medication is required. Maintaining separate hygiene protocols for humans and pets prevents confusion between different ectoparasites.

Identifying Lice Infestation

Symptoms in Dogs

Itching and Scratching

Itching that follows contact with an infested dog often prompts concerns about lice transmission to humans. Dog‑specific lice (e.g., Trichodectes canis) live on canine hair and feed exclusively on dog skin debris; they lack the physiological adaptations required to survive on human skin. Consequently, direct transfer of these ectoparasites to people is exceedingly rare.

When a person experiences a pruritic reaction after handling a dog, the most common causes include:

Mechanical irritation from dead lice or nits that remain on the fur and contact human skin.
Allergic sensitization to lice saliva or excrement, producing localized erythema and a transient urge to scratch.
Co‑infestation with other parasites such as fleas or mites, which readily bite humans and generate intense itching.

Scratching can exacerbate skin damage, leading to secondary bacterial infection. To minimize discomfort and prevent complications, adopt the following measures:

Wash hands and exposed skin with soap and water immediately after pet contact.
Apply a topical antiseptic or anti‑itch cream containing hydrocortisone or calamine to reduce inflammation.
Treat the dog with an appropriate ectoparasiticide to eliminate the lice source.
Launder bedding, blankets, and clothing at high temperature to destroy any residual nits.

If itching persists beyond a few days, or if lesions develop, seek medical evaluation to rule out alternative dermatoses and receive targeted therapy.

Visible Lice or Nits

Visible lice and their eggs (nits) are small, wingless insects that attach to hair shafts and lay oval, white or tan shells. On dogs, the most common species are chewing lice such as Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus. These parasites feed on skin debris and are adapted to canine hair density and skin temperature.

Human head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) differ genetically and physiologically from canine chewing lice. They require a specific environment—human scalp temperature, sebum composition, and hair structure—to complete their life cycle. Direct contact between a dog and a person does not provide these conditions, preventing the lice from establishing on human skin.

Key points regarding transmission risk:

Lice survive only on the species for which they are adapted; cross‑species infestation is not supported by scientific evidence.
Nits cemented to dog hair will not adhere to human hair because the adhesive is species‑specific.
Physical contact alone cannot transfer viable lice or nits from a dog to a person.
Fleas, not lice, are the primary ectoparasites that can move between dogs and humans and cause bite reactions.

When nits are observed on a dog, the appropriate response is veterinary treatment with approved ectoparasitic products. Human hygiene measures—regular washing of hands and clothing—are sufficient, as no additional prophylaxis is required for lice.

Symptoms in Humans

Itching and Irritation

Itching and irritation are the most immediate signs when a person contacts canine ectoparasites. Dog lice (Trichodectes canis) attach to hair shafts and feed on skin debris, producing localized inflammation. The mechanical irritation from the insect’s mouthparts triggers a histamine response, leading to erythema, papules, and a persistent pruritic sensation.

When a human inadvertently handles an infested dog, the lice may crawl onto the skin. Although the species prefers canine hosts, temporary colonization can occur. In such cases, the following symptoms typically develop within hours to a few days:

Red, raised bumps where the lice have moved.
Intense scratching due to a burning or tingling feeling.
Secondary bacterial infection if the skin barrier is broken by excessive scratching.

The irritation differs from that caused by fleas or mites. Lice do not inject anticoagulant saliva, so the rash is usually confined to the area of contact rather than a widespread allergic reaction. Moreover, the absence of a bite mark helps distinguish lice‑induced itching from flea bites, which often present as small punctate lesions with a central point.

Management focuses on alleviating the pruritus and preventing secondary infection. Recommended measures include:

Gentle cleansing of the affected skin with mild soap.
Application of topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Use of antihistamine tablets or creams to control itching.
Monitoring for signs of infection, such as increased warmth, swelling, or pus, and seeking medical attention if they appear.

Preventive actions are essential. Regular grooming of the dog, routine veterinary ectoparasite control, and immediate hand washing after handling an animal reduce the risk of temporary lice exposure and the resulting discomfort.

Visible Lice or Nits on Scalp

Visible lice or nits observed on a human scalp indicate an infestation by Pediculus humanus capitis, the species that exclusively parasitizes people. Canine lice belong to different genera, primarily Trichodectes and Linognathus, which feed only on dogs and other mammals. These parasites lack the physiological adaptations required to survive on human skin, hair, or scalp temperature. Consequently, a dog cannot directly transmit its lice to a person.

Key points distinguishing human and canine lice:

Species specificity: human head lice vs. dog chewing lice.
Habitat preference: humans – scalp hair; dogs – coarse fur.
Life cycle compatibility: human lice require human blood; dog lice require canine blood.
Transmission routes: human lice spread through head-to-head contact or shared items; dog lice spread through close contact between dogs.

If nits (egg shells) are visible on a scalp, the source is almost certainly a human carrier. Diagnosis involves microscopic examination of lice or nits removed from hair. Treatment protocols include topical pediculicides, combing, and environmental decontamination of personal items, not veterinary interventions.

In summary, the presence of visible lice or nits on a person’s scalp reflects a human-to-human infestation. Dogs do not serve as vectors for these parasites, and any concern about canine involvement should focus on other ectoparasites such as fleas or mites, not lice.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventing Lice Infestation in Dogs

Regular Grooming and Checks

Regular grooming removes lice and eggs before they can establish on a dog’s coat, reducing the likelihood of cross‑species contact. Brushing with a fine‑toothed comb dislodges adult insects and nymphs, while a thorough inspection of ears, neck, and tail base reveals early infestations. Bathing with a veterinary‑approved shampoo eliminates surface parasites and creates a hostile environment for any remaining stages.

Effective grooming routine includes:

Daily brushing to detect movement or debris indicative of lice.
Weekly baths using products containing insecticidal agents approved for canine use.
Monthly inspection by a veterinarian or trained professional to confirm the absence of infestation.
Prompt treatment of identified lice with topical or oral medications as prescribed.

Consistent checks enable early intervention, preventing the spread of lice from the animal to household members. Early detection limits exposure time, thereby minimizing the risk of human infection. Maintaining a schedule of grooming and professional examinations is essential for controlling ectoparasite populations on dogs.

Use of Approved Parasiticides

Dog lice (primarily Trichodectes canis) can be found on pets that have close physical contact with people, but the species rarely colonize human skin. Preventing infestation and eliminating existing parasites rely on the proper use of veterinary‑approved parasiticides.

Approved parasiticides act by disrupting the nervous system of the insect, causing rapid paralysis and death. They are formulated for topical, oral, or collar application, ensuring systemic or localized coverage. Safety standards require that each product be tested for toxicity in dogs and for minimal risk to humans when used according to label directions.

Commonly recommended products include:

Topical spot‑on treatments (e.g., fipronil‑based formulations) applied directly to the dog’s skin between the shoulder blades.
Oral chewables containing afoxolaner or fluralaner, providing systemic protection for up to 12 weeks.
Insecticidal collars with imidacloprid or selamectin, delivering continuous low‑dose exposure over several months.

Effective control demands strict adherence to dosing intervals, complete coverage of the animal’s coat, and routine inspection after treatment. Proper use of these approved agents eliminates lice on the pet, thereby removing the primary source of potential human exposure.

Preventing Lice Infestation in Humans

Avoiding Contact with Infested Animals

Lice that infest dogs can occasionally move to humans, especially when direct skin contact occurs. Preventing such transmission relies on eliminating exposure to animals that are known to carry these parasites.

First, recognize signs of infestation: excessive scratching, visible insects on the coat, or crusty skin lesions. Confirm the diagnosis with a veterinarian before handling the animal.

Second, limit physical interaction with any dog showing these symptoms. Use protective gloves and long sleeves if examination or temporary care is unavoidable. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after any contact, even when gloves are worn.

Third, maintain a clean environment. Vacuum carpets and upholstery daily, wash bedding, blankets, and any fabric the animal has contacted in hot water (≥60 °C). Apply an approved insecticide spray to the pet’s living area, following product instructions precisely.

Fourth, treat the animal promptly. Follow the veterinarian’s prescription for topical or oral lice medication, and repeat the treatment according to the recommended schedule to break the life cycle.

Finally, educate all household members about the risks of direct contact with infested pets and the importance of personal hygiene after any necessary interaction. Consistent application of these measures greatly reduces the likelihood of lice moving from a dog to a person.

Personal Hygiene

Human head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and dog lice (Trichodectes canis) belong to different species. Direct infestation of people by canine lice has not been documented; the insects are adapted to the canine coat and cannot survive on human skin or hair. Consequently, the primary health concern when a dog carries lice is the potential for secondary skin irritation, not a zoonotic transmission.

Personal hygiene practices mitigate indirect risks associated with a louse‑infested pet. Regular cleaning of the environment removes detached lice and eggs, decreasing the chance of accidental contact. Maintaining clean personal grooming habits limits the transfer of any ectoparasites that might temporarily adhere to clothing or hands.

Effective personal hygiene measures include:

Daily hand washing with soap for at least 20 seconds after handling the pet or its bedding.
Showering and changing clothing after close contact with a dog that shows signs of lice.
Washing pet bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) weekly.
Vacuuming carpets and upholstery frequently to capture fallen lice or nits.
Using a fine‑toothed comb on the pet’s fur to detect and remove lice before they spread.

Adhering to these routines protects both the individual and the animal, ensuring that canine lice remain confined to the host and do not become a source of human discomfort.

Treating Lice in Dogs

Veterinary-Approved Shampoos and Treatments

Veterinary‑approved shampoos and treatments are the primary tools for eliminating canine lice and reducing the chance of human exposure. These products contain ingredients proven safe for dogs and effective against chewing lice (Trichodectes canis) and sucking lice (Linognathus setosus).

Pyrethrin‑based shampoos – rapidly immobilize lice; typically combined with a mild surfactant to prevent skin irritation.
Selamectin spot‑on – systemic ectoparasiticide applied to the skin; kills lice within 24 hours and provides residual protection for several weeks.
Lindane‑free dip formulations – contain chlorhexidine or benzoyl peroxide; remove adult insects and prevent reinfestation.

Treatment protocols recommend a full shampooing session followed by a single spot‑on application. A repeat shampoo after 7 days eliminates newly hatched lice before they mature. Owners should wash hands and clothing after handling the animal to avoid accidental transfer of insects.

Preventive measures include regular grooming with a lice‑specific shampoo every 4–6 weeks during peak seasons and routine veterinary examinations. These practices maintain a lice‑free coat and minimize the risk of cross‑species transmission.

Environmental Decontamination

Lice that infest dogs can survive briefly on household surfaces, creating a risk of accidental human contact. Effective environmental decontamination reduces this risk by eliminating eggs and adult insects from the living area.

Cleaning protocols should target areas where the animal rests or roams. Recommended actions include:

Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately after use.
Wash bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
Apply an EPA‑registered insecticide spray or powder to cracks, crevices, and floor edges; follow label instructions regarding concentration and ventilation.
Disinfect hard surfaces (tiles, floors, countertops) with a solution containing at least 0.5 % sodium hypochlorite or a comparable disinfectant; allow contact time of 10 minutes before wiping.
Remove and replace heavily infested items (e.g., old mattresses, heavily soiled rugs) if treatment proves ineffective.

Personal hygiene complements environmental measures. Shower promptly after handling the dog, and wash hands with soap and water. Clothing worn during cleaning should be laundered with hot water and dried on high heat.

Consistent application of these steps interrupts the lice life cycle, preventing the parasite from moving from the canine host to a human host.

Treating Lice in Humans

Over-the-Counter and Prescription Treatments

Dog‑originating lice rarely infest humans, but when exposure occurs, prompt treatment reduces discomfort and prevents secondary skin irritation. Over‑the‑counter (OTC) products provide the first line of defense, while prescription medications address resistant infestations or severe reactions.

OTC options include:

Permethrin 1 % cream rinse – applied to affected skin for ten minutes, then rinsed; effective against most chewing lice.
Pyrethrin‑based shampoos – contain natural extracts; suitable for short‑term relief but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Antihistamine creams – alleviate itching and inflammation while the lice are eliminated.
Soap and water washes – thorough cleansing of the affected area removes adult insects and eggs; recommended as an adjunct to medicated products.

Prescription treatments are reserved for cases where OTC measures fail or when the infestation is extensive:

Prescription‑strength permethrin 5 % lotion – higher concentration penetrates the louse exoskeleton more effectively.
Ivermectin tablets (oral) – systemic therapy that kills lice throughout the body; dosage determined by a physician.
Spinosad topical solution – a newer agent with a distinct mode of action, useful against permethrin‑resistant populations.
Corticosteroid creams – prescribed to control severe inflammatory responses, not to eradicate the parasites directly.

Selection of therapy should consider the patient’s age, skin sensitivity, and any known drug allergies. Combining mechanical removal (fine‑tooth combing) with chemical treatment maximizes eradication and minimizes recurrence.

Combing and Cleaning

Lice that infest dogs belong mainly to the species Trichodectes canis and Linognathus setosus. These parasites have evolved to live on canine skin and hair, making human infestation highly unlikely. Direct transfer to people does not occur under normal circumstances; occasional mechanical contact may move a few insects, but they cannot establish a colony on human hosts.

Effective management relies on thorough grooming and sanitation. Regular combing removes adult lice and eggs, reduces skin irritation, and allows early detection of infestations. Cleaning the environment eliminates stray insects that could re‑infest the animal.

Practical steps for combing and cleaning:

Use a fine‑toothed flea‑comb on the dog’s coat at least once daily during an outbreak.
Inspect the comb after each pass; discard any visible lice or nits.
Bathe the dog with a veterinary‑approved shampoo that contains an insecticidal agent.
Wash bedding, blankets, and grooming tools in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks where detached insects may hide; discard vacuum bags promptly.
Repeat the entire routine for a minimum of two weeks to break the life cycle.

Adhering to this regimen prevents accidental carriage of canine lice by humans and maintains overall animal health.