How to get rid of dog fleas in the house? - briefly
Thoroughly clean the environment—vacuum carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding, then wash all fabrics in hot water—and apply a pet‑safe insecticide spray or fogger, repeating the treatment after seven days to break the flea life cycle.
How to get rid of dog fleas in the house? - in detail
Eliminating canine fleas from the indoor environment requires a systematic approach that addresses the animal, the living space, and ongoing prevention.
First, treat the dog. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea product that kills adult insects and interrupts the life cycle. Use a medicated shampoo during the initial bath to remove existing fleas and eggs from the coat. Comb the fur with a fine‑toothed flea comb, discarding captured insects into soapy water.
Second, decontaminate the home.
- Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; immediately empty the canister or bag into a sealed bag and discard it.
- Wash bedding, blankets, and removable covers in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Steam‑clean hard floors and carpets to reach the egg and larval stages hidden in the substrate.
- Apply an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger according to label directions, focusing on cracks, baseboards, and under furniture where larvae develop.
Third, treat surrounding areas. Remove or relocate pet bedding, toys, and cushions for washing or isolation. Seal cracks and crevices that could harbor flea development. If the dwelling includes a yard, trim grass and shrubs, and consider a perimeter insecticide treatment to reduce reinfestation risk.
Fourth, monitor and repeat. Check the dog daily with a flea comb for at least three weeks. Re‑vacuum high‑traffic zones every 48 hours during this period. Maintain monthly preventive medication on the pet to stop new infestations before they become observable.
Finally, establish long‑term safeguards. Keep the dog’s environment clean, limit outdoor exposure during peak flea season, and schedule regular veterinary check‑ups to confirm the effectiveness of the control program.