What do lice eggs on dogs look? - briefly
Lice eggs on canines are minute, oval‑shaped capsules, usually white, cream, or light brown, measuring about 0.3 mm in length and adhering firmly to individual hairs near the skin. They appear in small clusters, resembling specks of sand or tiny dandruff particles.
What do lice eggs on dogs look? - in detail
Lice nits on canines are tiny, oval‑shaped capsules measuring approximately 0.5 mm in length and 0.2 mm in width. The shell is semi‑transparent, often appearing white, cream, or light brown, depending on the age of the egg. Younger nits are clearer and become more opaque as the embryo develops. The surface is smooth, lacking the ridges or spines seen on flea eggs.
Attachment occurs at the base of hair shafts, primarily near the skin. The nit’s anchoring structure, called a cement sheath, secures the capsule within a few millimeters of the follicle opening. This placement makes the egg difficult to see without close inspection.
Typical locations on the dog’s body include:
- Around the neck and shoulder blades
- Along the tail base
- Under the belly and inner thighs
- Near the ears and facial hair
These areas provide warmth and protection, facilitating embryonic development. The incubation period lasts 5–7 days, after which the nymph emerges, leaving the empty shell attached to the hair. Empty nits remain visible for several days before falling off.
Distinguishing lice nits from other parasite eggs:
- Size: Smaller than flea eggs (flea eggs are 0.5 mm × 0.2 mm but more rounded).
- Color: Lice nits are lighter; flea eggs are typically darker, brownish.
- Placement: Lice nits are firmly glued to hair shafts; flea eggs are deposited on the environment, not attached to the host.
Recognizing these characteristics enables accurate identification and appropriate treatment.