Fleas and Ticks in Dogs: A Treatment and Prevention Guide
Updated 16 October 2026
In short: for a tick, remove it as soon as possible with a tick hook, twisting rather than pulling, without applying ether or alcohol first, then disinfect. For fleas, treat the dog with a suitable product (recommended by your vet) and treat the home at the same time, where most of the population lives (eggs, larvae). Treat every pet in the household too. See a vet if your dog has a fever, seems dull or scratches until it hurts itself.
How do you remove a tick?
- Use a tick hookSlide the hook either side of the tick, as close to the skin as possible.
- Twist, don't pullTurn gently in one direction until the tick comes away whole.
- DisinfectApply antiseptic to the area and wash your hands.
- MonitorNote the date. Fever, lethargy, lameness or dark urine in the following days or weeks: see your vet.
Don't: put ether, alcohol or oil on the tick before removing it, squash it or yank it out. The tick may regurgitate or leave its head in the skin.
My dog has fleas: what should I do?
Use a product that kills adult fleas (tablet, spot-on, collar), chosen with your vet according to weight and age. Stick to the dose and frequency. A flea shampoo can help in the moment but doesn't protect over time.
- Vacuum rugs, sofas, skirting boards and the car, then bin the bag or empty the canister outside.
- Wash bedding and throws at 60 °C.
- For heavy infestations: a household spray containing an insect growth regulator (stops eggs and larvae), following the instructions.
Treat every dog and cat in the household at the same time, with a product suited to each species. Warning: dog products containing permethrin are toxic to cats.
New fleas can keep appearing for several weeks while cocoons in the home hatch. Keep up the treatment without gaps.
What about "natural" remedies?
Essential oils are safe for dogs.
FALSESome, like tea tree, are toxic to dogs and even more so to cats. Don't use them without veterinary advice.
Cider vinegar gets rid of fleas.
FALSEThere's no evidence it works. It doesn't replace a parasite treatment.
Diatomaceous earth replaces treatment.
FALSEIt can dry out insects on floors, but its effect is limited and the dust irritates airways.
When should you see the vet?
My dog has:
To stop it happening again: preventing fleas and ticks.
Frequently asked questions
Should I put ether on a tick?
No. It can make the tick regurgitate and raise the risk of transmission. Remove it straight away with a tick hook.
What if the tick's head stays in the skin?
Disinfect and monitor: it's often expelled naturally. If the area swells or gets infected, see your vet.
How long does it take to get rid of fleas?
Often several weeks, while eggs and cocoons in the home hatch. That's why you need to treat both the dog and the home without gaps.
Is a flea shampoo enough?
No. It kills fleas there and then but doesn't protect afterwards. You need a long-acting product and to treat the home.