[Rach_73]

Hey, quick question, can dogs get lice? My Dachshund regularly goes to doggy daycare, and I’ve noticed her scratching a bit more than usual lately. I know fleas and ticks are common, but I wasn’t sure if lice is a thing for dogs too, especially when they’re always around other pups. Should I be worried or looking out for certain signs? Are there any recommended lice treatments? And, can I get lice from my pup? Help an itchy gal out!

[Sally Jones]

Hey there Rach! Great question, and you’re totally right to be keeping an eye on your pup’s scratching, especially with all the doggy daycare playtime. Yes, dogs can get lice, but it’s not as common as fleas or ticks. Canine lice are species-specific, meaning they only affect dogs and can’t be passed to humans (phew!). There are two types of dog lice, chewing lice and sucking lice. That said, if your Dachshund is suddenly scratching more, it’s a good idea to rule out lice just to be safe.

Here are a few things to look out for:

• Tiny white or yellowish nits (lice eggs) in the fur
• Excessive scratching or biting at the skin
• Dry, rough coat or hair loss in patches
• Scabs or skin irritation from itching
• Hair thinning or loss

If you suspect lice, your vet can confirm with a quick skin check and recommend treatment. Most commonly, they’ll suggest:

• Topical treatments or medicated shampoos
• Spot-on products like fipronil or selamectin (often used for fleas too!)
• Thorough cleaning of bedding, brushes, and toys

See our guide on dog lice to learn more and see some our recommendations for specific treatment products. Since lice aren’t transferable to humans or other pets like cats, there’s no need to panic — but it’s definitely smart to act quickly to keep your pup comfy and itch-free. Hope your little one feels better soon!

• This reply was modified 1 month ago by Sally Jones.

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