How to treat a dog for lice and nits? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved lice shampoo or topical insecticide, applying it according to the product instructions and repeating the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits. Clean bedding, grooming tools, and the surrounding environment with an appropriate insecticidal spray to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat a dog for lice and nits? - in detail
Treating a canine infested with lice and nits requires a systematic approach: identification, immediate removal, medication, environmental sanitation, and follow‑up monitoring.
First, confirm the presence of lice (adult insects) and nits (eggs) by examining the coat, especially around the neck, ears, and tail base. Lice are visible as small, tan‑brown bodies moving in the fur; nits appear as tiny, white or yellowish oval shells attached to hair shafts.
Second, perform mechanical removal. Use a fine‑toothed comb or a dedicated lice comb, working from the skin outward. Comb each section for several minutes, discarding debris onto a damp paper towel. This step reduces the egg load and improves the effectiveness of subsequent treatments.
Third, apply an appropriate ectoparasiticide. Options include:
- Topical spot‑on products containing fipronil, selamectin, or imidacloprid; apply per label instructions to the skin at the base of the neck.
- Oral medications such as afoxolaner or fluralaner; dose according to weight and administer on schedule.
- Shampoo formulations with pyrethrins or lufenuron; bathe the dog, ensuring thorough coverage, then rinse after the recommended contact time.
Select a product with proven efficacy against canine lice; avoid formulations intended solely for fleas or ticks unless they explicitly list lice as a target.
Fourth, treat the environment. Wash bedding, blankets, and any fabric the dog contacts in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and the dog’s living area, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately. For severe infestations, apply an environmental spray containing permethrin or a synthetic pyrethroid, following safety guidelines for pets and humans.
Fifth, schedule a re‑examination 7–10 days after initial treatment. Repeat the combing process and, if live lice are still observed, administer a second dose of the chosen medication according to the product’s retreatment interval (often 2–4 weeks). Continue monitoring for at least one month to ensure the life cycle is fully interrupted.
Finally, implement preventive measures: maintain regular grooming, use a monthly preventatives product that includes lice control, and keep the dog’s habitat clean. Consistent preventive application reduces the risk of reinfestation and supports overall skin health.