If your dog is irritable, itchy and scratchy and you’re not sure why, there is the possibility that your pet may have dog lice. These pesky little creatures are smaller than fleas. In a 21 day cycle, thanks to the female lice, your dog could become a canine domicile to thousands of these uncomely parasites and a dog owner’s worst nightmare if there is no dog lice treatment. However, do not become overly alarmed. Although these lice are aggravating to your pet, they are not harmful, just very exasperating.

Dog lice are a lighter color such as beige or tan. If you know what you are looking for, they are relatively easy to spot. They are very slow moving on a dog’s skin, almost no movement at all.

More Information on Dogs Lice and Mites

They are not a major problem in the United States because they are attracted to oil and dirt. Pets are more likely to be cleaned and professionally groomed in the United States. Ironically, human lice are the exact opposite. They are attracted to clean human hair and they move fast.

There are two main types of dog lice, sucking (linognathus piliferus setosus) and biting (trichodectes canis). Sucking lice feed on the dog’s blood. Biting lice feeds on a dog’s dead skin flakes. One or both types can make an unhappy dog. Dog lice treatment is imperative to your dog’s health.

Female lice can deliver up to 100 eggs or nits by attaching the eggs with a kind of glue like substance to the hair on the dog. It is important to know that these pests are defiant to treatment. You must be vigilant and relentless in dog lice treatment. One treatment option includes bathing your dog with a natural dog shampoo. Another option is to rub mayonnaise into the hair of the dog and give it a good massage. Afterward, use a medicated shampoo the dog and rinse the lice away.

canine mice and mites can be cured without chemicals

Dog lice are more attractive to pets that are malnourished and live in an unclean environment. As with any pet, it is important to always keep your dog healthy. Keep bedding washed and disinfected to avoid outbreaks.