What Do Dog Flea Eggs Look Like?

Dog flea eggs are difficult to see, but their presence indicates a parasite infestation that can jeopardize a dog's health.

Identification

Dog flea eggs are small pearly white ovals; they are about .5 mm in length. They are not sticky and can be found on a dog's skin, but they often fall off the dog; flea eggs are typically seen on bedding, furniture and carpet.

Time Frame

Flea eggs hatch in 1 to 10 days after being laid on a dog and dropping off where the dog sleeps or plays.

Prevention/Solution

Vacuuming and cleaning will remove flea eggs from areas where a dog lives. Dog flea prevention must attack fleas at all stages of their lives: the egg, larva, pupa and adult stages.

Warning

Flea eggs are a sign of a serious flea infestation. Fleas can carry tapeworm and diseases, and they often cause allergic reactions. A serious case of fleas can cause a dog to become anemic.

Misconceptions

Small dark spots on a dog's skin and in its bedding are often mistaken for flea eggs. The dark spots are actually flea feces, colored by dried blood. When flea larvae hatch, they feed on the feces; eggs and feces are found together.

References

• Healthypet.com
• University of Florida

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish