What do fleas look like on dogs? - briefly
The insects are tiny, dark‑brown, laterally flattened and move rapidly through the coat, often visible as minute specks. Their bites cause small red punctures and may be accompanied by tiny black droppings.
What do fleas look like on dogs? - in detail
Fleas on canines are tiny, wing‑less insects measuring approximately 1–3 mm in length. Their bodies are laterally compressed, allowing easy navigation through the animal’s fur. The exoskeleton displays a dark brown to reddish‑black hue, often appearing glossy when the insect is alive and dull after death.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Size and shape: Small, oval, and flattened from side to side.
- Coloration: Dark brown to black; occasional reddish tones in engorged individuals.
- Movement: Rapid, erratic jumps; fleas can detach and land several inches away within seconds.
- Visibility: Most apparent on the lower back, tail base, and the neck region where fur is thinner.
Typical locations where fleas concentrate on a dog:
- Base of the tail (the “saddle” area) – thin skin and dense fur provide easy access.
- Around the neck and behind the ears – warm, moist environment.
- Abdomen and groin – protected from grooming and scratching.
- Between the toes and pads – less visible but common site for feeding.
Signs accompanying the presence of fleas:
- Small, dark specks that may appear as moving dots in the coat.
- Tiny blood spots (flea dirt) resembling pepper grains on the skin.
- Localized redness or irritation where the insect feeds.
- Excessive scratching or biting behavior.
During the life cycle, only adult fleas are visible to the naked eye. Eggs, larvae, and pupae remain hidden in the environment, often in bedding or carpet fibers, and do not contribute directly to the visual appearance on the animal. Understanding these morphological details aids in accurate identification and effective treatment planning.