How can I tell if a Yorkie has fleas? - briefly
Inspect the coat for tiny dark specks and watch for persistent scratching, biting, or licking, especially around the neck, tail base, and belly. Look for moving insects, bite marks, or a reddish rash as additional confirmation.
How can I tell if a Yorkie has fleas? - in detail
Detecting a flea problem in a small breed such as a Yorkie requires careful visual inspection and observation of behavior. Fleas are tiny, dark insects that move quickly through the coat, often causing irritation that triggers specific signs.
Visible evidence includes:
- Small, reddish‑brown specks moving on the skin or fur; they may appear as tiny dots that jump when disturbed.
- Darkened spots, known as flea dirt, which are the insect’s excrement; these resemble pepper grains and turn reddish‑brown when moistened with water.
- Tiny, raised bumps or red patches on the skin, especially around the neck, tail base, and inner thighs, indicating allergic reactions to flea saliva.
Behavioral clues:
- Persistent scratching, biting, or licking of the body, particularly around the ears and hindquarters.
- Restlessness during rest periods, often accompanied by sudden bouts of shaking or “flea‑bites” that produce brief, localized pain.
- Sudden hair loss or thinning in localized areas, a common response to prolonged irritation.
A systematic examination can be performed as follows:
- Part the coat carefully with a fine‑toothed comb, moving from the skin outward to expose any hidden insects.
- Place a white sheet or towel beneath the dog and gently brush the fur; any fleas that fall will be more visible against the light background.
- Moisten a small area of the skin with water; if flea dirt is present, it will dissolve and reveal a reddish hue.
If any of these indicators are present, immediate treatment with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product is recommended to prevent infestation from spreading and to alleviate discomfort. Regular grooming and routine use of preventive medication reduce the likelihood of recurrence.