How to remove fleas from a small breed dog at home? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo and a fine‑toothed comb, then apply a monthly topical treatment to prevent reinfestation. Wash the dog’s bedding in hot water and vacuum all surfaces daily to eliminate remaining eggs and larvae.
How to remove fleas from a small breed dog at home? - in detail
Fleas on a miniature canine present health risks and discomfort; immediate action is required.
The treatment plan consists of four phases: environment preparation, grooming, medication application, and follow‑up.
Environment preparation
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Apply an insecticidal spray formulated for indoor use, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions, to cracks, baseboards, and pet‑free zones.
Grooming
- Bathe the dog with a flea‑killing shampoo designed for small breeds; lather the coat, leave the product on for the recommended contact time, then rinse completely.
- While the coat is still damp, use a fine‑toothed flea comb, moving from the skin outward, to capture adult insects and eggs; dispose of collected material in soapy water.
Medication application
- Administer a topical spot‑on treatment approved for small dogs, applying the dose directly to the skin at the base of the neck, avoiding contact with the eyes and mouth.
- If oral medication is preferred, give the dose prescribed by a veterinarian, ensuring accurate weight‑based calculation.
Follow‑up
- Repeat bathing and combing every 3–5 days for two weeks to break the flea life cycle.
- Re‑vacuum the home and wash bedding weekly during the infestation period.
- After eradication, maintain a monthly preventative regimen—either a spot‑on product or an oral tablet—to inhibit re‑infestation.
Monitoring the dog’s skin for redness, hair loss, or excessive scratching provides early detection of residual activity; any persistent signs warrant veterinary consultation.