Bed bugs are parasitic insects that love to snack on human blood. But they’re also opportunistic, so if humans aren’t readily available, they’ll happily feed on animals.
So, can dogs be bitten by bed bugs? The short answer is yes. While humans are their preferred meal, dogs are definitely susceptible.
Here’s what to look for, how to help your dog, and what dangers to be aware of when it comes to bed bugs on your canine companion.
Bed Bugs and Dogs: An Overview
While bed bugs prefer human hosts, they are opportunistic feeders. If you have a bed bug infestation and no humans are readily available, they may bite your dog.
Dogs aren’t the preferred host, though, due to their fur, which makes it more difficult for the bugs to get to their skin.
Where do bed bugs bite dogs?
Bed bugs tend to go for areas with less fur or exposed skin, such as the belly, ears, and limbs.
Bed bug bites usually look like small, red, swollen bumps, often in clusters.
Identifying bed bug bites on dogs
So, how do you know if those itchy spots on your dog are from bed bugs or something else?
Appearance of bites
Bed bug bites on dogs usually look like small, raised, red bumps or welts. Often, the bites appear in a line or a cluster.
Behavioral changes in dogs
If your dog is suddenly scratching, biting, or licking a certain spot more than usual, it could be a sign of bed bug bites. You might also notice that your dog is restless, irritable, or just generally uncomfortable. In some cases, a dog with bed bug bites might even lose their appetite.
Differentiating bed bug bites from other parasites
It’s important to figure out what’s biting your dog, because flea bites, tick bites, and mosquito bites can all look similar.
Flea bites tend to concentrate around the neck and tail, while bed bug bites can show up anywhere on the body where there’s exposed skin.
Signs of bed bugs in your home, related to your dog
Dogs can’t get bed bug infestations. But they can inadvertently carry bed bugs inside on their fur. So, if you suspect bed bugs, check your dog’s bedding and the surrounding areas for these signs:
- Dark spots that look like ink (bed bug feces)
- Shed exoskeletons (the clear, cast-off skins of bed bugs as they grow)
- Live bed bugs
Bed bugs are small, flat, and reddish-brown. They’re about the size of an apple seed.
Are bed bug bites dangerous for dogs?
Bed bug bites aren’t usually dangerous, but they can cause discomfort and skin irritation for your dog. If your dog scratches too much, they could get a secondary skin infection.
Also, some dogs may have an allergic reaction to bed bug bites.
If your dog is showing signs of skin irritation, it’s always a good idea to take them to the vet.
Treating Bed Bug Bites on Dogs
If you suspect your dog has been bitten by bed bugs, here’s how to treat the bites:
Cleaning the Affected Area
First, wash the area with lukewarm water and a mild soap, then gently pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Soothing the Irritation
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and quell the itching. A vet-approved anti-itch cream or soothing balm may also help.
Preventing Further Scratching
To keep your dog from making the bites worse through scratching and licking, consider using an Elizabethan collar. Also, keep your dog’s nails trimmed to minimize skin damage if they do manage to scratch.
Eliminating bed bugs from your home safely
If you’ve determined that you do have bed bugs, it’s time to get rid of them. You can protect your pets while you’re getting rid of the pests by:
Using pet-safe bed bug treatments
Be very careful if you choose to use chemical insecticides because these can be dangerous to pets. Keep them away from any area you’re treating. Safer, more natural solutions include diatomaceous earth, anti-bug mattress and pillow covers, and high-temperature dry steam.
Cleaning and disinfecting pet areas
Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (at least 140°F/60°C) and dry them using high heat. Vacuum all pet areas thoroughly, and then dispose of the vacuum bags right away.
Can dogs detect bed bugs?
Yes! Some pest control companies have trained dogs to sniff out bed bugs. A trained dog can detect bed bugs with amazing accuracy, even if they are hidden in walls or furniture. Catching an infestation early means you can treat the problem before it gets out of hand.
In Conclusion
Although bed bugs prefer human hosts, they can and will bite dogs if they get the chance. To protect your canine companions, it’s important to be vigilant, detect infestations early, and use safe treatment methods.
If you suspect bed bugs, talk with your veterinarian or a qualified pest control expert for personalized advice and treatment options.