Natural Flea Protection for Dogs

Flea season begins each spring and can create a big problem for dogs and their owners. Many commercial flea and tick collars contain pesticides, which may be harmful to dogs. There are several natural remedies available to help dogs avoid flea infestation.

Diet

Feeding dogs a natural, healthy diet helps boost their immune system and overall health. Fleas are more likely to prey on weak dogs and puppies with underdeveloped immune systems.

Grooming

Combing dogs daily with a flea collar helps owners catch fleas early. Dirt that turns red when wet is actual flea droppings. Bathe dogs in soapy water to drown fleas and use an oatmeal or neem oil shampoo to help soothe skin.

Essential Oils

Essential Oils like neem, cedar, tea tree, citronella, eucalyptus and pennyroyal help soothe dogs and make them less appetizing to fleas. While these oils do not kill fleas, they help dogs avoid them.

Environment

Keeping your environment clean helps kill fleas before they spread. Clean floors daily and wash dog bedding regularly. Mow grass to allow sunlight to reach the soil, because this helps kill flea larvae.

Herbs

Sprinkle lavender and sage around dog bedding and kennels. Fleas do not like these herbs and are more likely to avoid areas treated with them.

Warning

Do not use herbal products containing citrus extracts around puppies, because they can be toxic. Eucalyptus and pennyroyal are toxic to cats, so do not use them in households with both dogs and cats.

References

• The Natural Approach to Flea Control
• Natural Flea Control for Pets