How to comb fleas off a dog? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a lightly damp coat, starting at the head and working toward the tail, brushing each area repeatedly while dipping the comb in soapy water to kill captured insects. Continue until no fleas or eggs are visible.
How to comb fleas off a dog? - in detail
Removing fleas from a dog with a comb requires preparation, proper technique, and follow‑up care. Begin by selecting a fine‑toothed flea comb—metal or sturdy plastic, with teeth spaced about 0.5 mm apart. Ensure the dog’s coat is clean; a quick bath with a mild, flea‑free shampoo helps the comb glide more easily. Dry the animal thoroughly, as moisture reduces the comb’s effectiveness.
- Secure the dog – place the animal on a stable surface, use a leash or a helper if needed, and keep the dog calm with gentle restraint.
- Start at the tail – hold a small section of fur and run the comb from the skin outward, moving slowly to capture fleas, eggs, and larvae.
- Work through each region – repeat the motion on the neck, back, hips, and especially the belly and inner thighs, where fleas congregate.
- Inspect the comb after each pass – tap the teeth over a white surface (paper towel or tray) to reveal captured insects. Dispose of fleas by flushing or dropping them into soapy water.
- Repeat the process – continue combing until no more fleas appear after several passes in each area. Typical sessions last 5–10 minutes per grooming.
After combing, clean the tool with hot, soapy water and store it in a sealed container to prevent re‑infestation. Apply a veterinarian‑approved preventive product (topical, oral, or collar) to break the flea life cycle. Wash the dog’s bedding, vacuum carpets, and treat the home environment with an appropriate insecticide if the infestation is severe. Regular combing, once or twice weekly, assists in early detection and keeps the parasite burden low.