If you’re wondering whether dogs can get fleas in winter, the short answer is yes. While it’s true that fleas don’t like cold temperatures, these pesky little critters are resilient. They can survive freezing temperatures long enough to find a willing host to bring them inside. And with our central heating on, our warm, cosy homes are a breeding ground for fleas.
Read on to find out how dogs get fleas and how to protect them and your home from an infestation this winter.
How Do Dogs Get Fleas in Winter?
Fleas are attracted to warmth all year round, so they’re most likely to transfer from other animals. Your dog’s inquisitive, sociable nature puts them at risk from catching fleas from their new pals at the local park, your other pets and even wildlife.
Once your dog has brought fleas into your home, they’re in the perfect environment to breed. Fleas will move between your dog, their bedding and other warm spots in your home. One adult flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day, meaning it doesn’t take long for fleas to cause havoc.
How Can You Tell If Your Dog Has Fleas?
Some dogs have long, thick fur which makes fleas and their eggs challenging to spot, so regular checks are essential. During your dog’s regular grooming, comb through their fur in sections with a fine flea comb to remove any fleas, eggs or droppings.
Aside from regular checks, the following changes could be a sign of fleas:
- Black and white flecks – watch out for eggs and droppings falling off your dog’s coat, resembling salt and pepper
- Persistent scratching, biting or licking – unusual or excessive itching could be caused by flea bites which can cause skin allergies and even hair loss
- Agitated behaviour – fleas can cause extreme discomfort, causing restlessness and a change in behaviour - We all know what is and isn’t normal behaviour for our dogs
- Pale gums – a sign of anaemia, which if left untreated, can cause your dog to feel more tired or dizzy
Top Tips to Prevent Fleas the Natural Way
Here at Cooper and Gracie, we use 100% natural ingredients to prevent fleas and other biting pests. The chemicals used in some over-the-counter flea treatments can be toxic to dogs. The harsh ingredients can irritate the skin and eyes, even causing seizures and neurological issues. While life-threatening injuries are rare, we don’t believe in taking risks with the welfare of pets. Our flea prevention products are safe for all dogs and puppies. Why use chemicals when you can prevent fleas naturally?
Follow our simple and effective approach to preventing fleas the natural way:
Flea Shampoo
Regularly using a natural flea shampoo helps to keep fleas at bay. It’s ideal for both preventing and removing fleas.
Wash away fleas and other insects from your dog’s coat while calming itchy skin and bites. The deep, nourishing clean instantly soothes discomfort to reduce scratching, biting and licking.
Anti-Flea and Tick Spray
Safe to use up to twice a day, a quick spritz of flea and tick spray before walks protects against pesky fleas, ticks and biting pests.
The unique blend of essential oils will coat your dog’s fur and skin to deter fleas and prevent them from clinging to their skin. It also acts as a coat conditioner, for a shiny, healthy coat.
Household Pest Cleanse
A natural household flea spray will remove fleas and protect your home without the need for harsh chemicals.
Many other household sprays contain chemicals which can be harmful to pets and children. Our household pest cleanse can be used anywhere in the home, from hard floors to carpet and bedding.
To protect your dog and your home from all fleas, ticks and other biting pests, explore our dedicated collection of flea shampoo, sprays and cleaning products, which are safe for puppies from 12 weeks.