Fleas - those tiny, jumping troublemakers can wreak havoc on your dog’s comfort and wellbeing. In the UK, flea activity peaks between May and September, when warmth and humidity are at their highest. That’s why it’s so important to stay vigilant during these months.
Here’s everything you need to know to check for, treat, and help prevent flea, plus how your dog’s diet may play a role in supporting skin health and recovery.
What Do Fleas Look Like?
Fleas are tiny, wingless insects, dark brown or reddish-brown in colour. They're about 1–2.5mm long and have flat, seed-like bodies with small spiky hairs. Their ability to jump and move quickly through fur makes them tough to catch.
How to Check for Fleas
Visual Inspection
Part your dog’s fur and check for small, fast-moving insects or black specks (also known as flea dirt).
Flea Comb
Use a fine-toothed comb, focusing on these common hiding spots:
-
Behind and around the ears
-
Base of the tail
-
Under the legs and groin
-
Between the toes
To confirm a flea infestation, place any black specks on a damp piece of kitchen roll. If they leave a reddish-brown stain, it’s likely flea dirt - digested blood.
How to Treat Fleas
Consult Your Vet
They may recommend spot-on treatments, oral medications, or flea shampoos.
Treat Your Home
-
Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly and dispose of the vacuum bag outdoors.
-
Wash your dog’s bedding (and yours, if needed) in hot water.
-
Use flea sprays or powders designed for home use - follow instructions carefully to treat all hiding spots.
How to Prevent Fleas
1. Regular Grooming
Grooming keeps your dog’s coat healthy and lets you spot fleas early. A well-maintained coat is less likely to become inflamed, irritated, or a breeding ground for pests.
2. Use Vet-Recommended Flea Prevention
This includes:
-
Spot-on treatments
-
Oral flea medications
-
Flea collars
Each option helps disrupt the flea life cycle and prevent re-infestation.
Summary: 5 Steps to Take Now
-
Check for fleas with a comb and visual inspection
-
Treat both your dog and your home
-
Prevent future outbreaks with trusted flea products
-
Support healthy skin with a nutritious, balanced diet
-
Reach out for help - we’re here if you need guidance
Still Scratching?
If your dog is itchy but you’re not finding fleas, it may be something else - like a food sensitivity, dry skin, or environmental allergy.
➡️ Read our blog on other causes of itching
📩 Need help? Email us any time at support@wolfworthy.co.uk and we’ll happily assist.
How Nutrition Can Support Skin & Coat Health
While diet won’t repel or kill fleas directly, it does play a role in how well your dog copes with flea-related issues.
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and high-quality proteins helps keep skin resilient and less prone to irritation.
At Wolfworthy, our recipes are packed with:
-
Human-grade meat and fish
-
Natural sources of omega-3 from ingredients like salmon and trout
-
Nutrient-dense organ meats and eggs
👉 Explore our recipes and their benefits
👉 Try a 60g sample of Wolfworthy to see the difference it can make
