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Step 1
Look at your dog's skin. Is it red and irritated? Are there sores or scabs on it? Fleas can leave a dog's skin looking sore, raw and painful. There may also be tiny black specks on the skin, and scabbed-over sores as well. In addition, there might be areas of the skin where the fur has fallen out.
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Step 2
Observe your dog's behavior. Does he constantly scratch or nibble at his skin? This could be a sign of a flea infestation. If he struggles to get up, is limping or seems to be moving painfully, this could be a sign of a disease caused by a tick.
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Step 3
Note how much food your dog eats. Dogs with tick diseases usually develop fevers and do not want to eat. Dogs with fleas will probably still eat, but they may not eat as much.
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Step 4
Check your dog's fur. If you see little black specks, you are probably looking at flea "dirt," which is actually flea feces. Use a flea comb to part the fur if the fur is thick. To check for ticks, run your fingers through your dog's fur, feeling for small bumps. If you feel a bump, part the fur to look at it. Ticks can range in size from a grape to a pin head. It is best to have a vet remove a tick, as removing it yourself can leave part of the tick in the dog's body.
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Step 5
Think about your dog's environment. Does he spend a lot of time outdoors, in tall grasses or weeds? If so, there is a chance he has picked up a tick or some fleas during his playtime. If your dog has any of the symptoms above, coupled with an environment that hosts fleas or ticks, then you need to start treatment as soon as possible.
