Flea Shampoo for Dogs

Flea infestation in dogs is one problem that concerns many pet owners all across the globe. The most common signs are itchiness and scratching of the ears, tail and near the collar. But, these symptoms may also be caused due to other dog skin disorders. So, confirm dog fleas, prior to starting any form of flea control program. Inspect the scratchy areas, especially behind the ears, neck and above the tail for flea dirt. These dirt like grains will turn red after rubbing with a water drop. Once ascertained, you can proceed for dog flea treatment, of which an effective way is using flea shampoo.

Safe Flea Shampoo for Dogs: How to Select it

A dog flea shampoo contains insecticides for killing fleas, in addition to the common ingredients. With so many promising brands in the market, selecting a safe shampoo for dogs is easier said than done. If you face this same problem in choosing the best flea shampoo for dogs, conduct a brief market research and find out the brands that get satisfactory customer reviews. Select a good quality shampoo that is effectual for repelling and killing fleas of all stages, especially eggs and adults.

Most flea shampoos for dogs contain the chemical, pyrethrins. Adult dogs can tolerate this insecticide, but it is strong and not suitable for use in puppies. Hence, if you are dealing with fleas on puppies, opt for herbal shampoos that contain tea tree oil, neem oil, citronella oil, peppermint oil, oatmeal, cornmeal and so on. Last but not the least, avoid buying heavy scented shampoos, as they may irritate the flea bites and cause exacerbation of the itchy symptoms.

Homemade Flea Shampoo for Dogs

A natural flea shampoo for dogs is always a better alternative to commercially sold, chemical based products. So, instead of using the store bought ones, you can try making an all natural dog flea shampoo at home. Over here, the base ingredients are curative herbs (e.g. mint, soapwort), essential oils (e.g. lavender oil, neem oil) and vinegar. The oil suffocates the fleas, while vinegar is effectual to kill fleas. Not only is this homemade concoction better for your pet, but it is lighter on your pocket. Some easy shampoo recipes for dog flea control are given below.

Dishwashing Soap Base Shampoo

Ingredients

• 1 cup lemon flavored dishwashing soap
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 quart water

Method

As listed above, the required supplies of this flea shampoo for dogs are already available in your kitchen counter. Select a mild version of perfume free, dye free, liquid dish washing soap for using in dog shampoo recipe. In a large mixing bowl, add soap, white vinegar and water. Stir well, and transfer in a bottle for easy usage. With this, your natural shampoo for controlling fleas on dogs is ready.

Organic Flea Shampoo for Dogs

Ingredients

• 1 ½ teaspoons soapwort root
• 2 teaspoons rosemary or lavender essential oil
• 2 cups distilled water

Method

Soapwort root is sold in health food centers, and is appreciated for treating skin disorders in both humans and pets. It also forms lather after mixing with water. To make a homemade flea shampoo for dogs, boil soapwort root with water. Simmer the liquid for 15 minutes and remove from heat. Allow the soapy base to cool down for one hour, and stir in essential oil. Fill this in a bottle and store in the refrigerator, when you are not using.

Antibacterial Soap Base Shampoo

Ingredients

• 1 cup liquid anti-bacterial soap
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• ⅓ cup glycerin
• 1 quart filtered water

Method

Take a large bowl that can hold 4 cups water, and add soap, cider vinegar and glycerin. Stir well with a spatula, and pour water gently in the mixture. Stop adding water, when you get the desired consistency. Mix this well and store in an old shampoo bottle. You can apply this homemade shampoo in the regular way, but make sure it is left for 5 minutes before rinsing.

The resulting homemade dog shampoo may not form lather like the commercial ones. But, it is safer and less harsh for your dog. Also, bathing your pet with natural flea shampoo is not the end of story for flea control. To get best results, you need to eradicate these pesky creatures from bedding, kennel, carpets and areas, where dogs spend their time.