Why Does My Dog Keep Having Flies All Over Him?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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If your dog’s coat is matted or unclean because of a skin condition, illness, or something like diarrhea, it will attract flies

. This is common in the area of the perineum near your dog’s anus. Fecal matter that is caked on in that area can attract flies because they want to lay their eggs there.

How do I get rid of flies on my dog?

  1. Keep Your Dog Clean.
  2. Clean Your Dog’s Waste.
  3. Keep Your Home Clean.
  4. Place Petroleum Jelly Around Target Spots.
  5. Create an At-Home Fly Repellent.
  6. Use Fly Catchers in Your Home.

How do you get rid of flies on dogs naturally?

Mix 1 part vinegar to 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray lightly around the dog’s body to help repel flies and other insects daily. Rub or brush into the fur. Do not spray the mixture on the dog’s face.

Are flies bad for dogs?

Yes. Flies can provide a nice game of catch for some dogs, and they’re plenty safe to eat. Stinging insects, on the other hand, can “bite back” if bitten, causing irritation and swelling—or worse if a dog is allergic. But

flies pose no threat to your pet

.

How do I keep black flies from biting my dog?

The ingredients include cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemongrass and sunflower oils. Last but not least, you can

treat dog clothing — such as a bandana, dog vest or harness — with permethrin spray or DEET

, two chemicals most commonly used to repel flies. Be sure to give these chemicals plenty of time to dry.

What do black fly bites look like on dogs?

What Do Black Fly Bites Look Like? Black fly bites have a very distinct look, which makes it easier to identify on your dog. Black fly bites have

a red circle or ring around the bite, which resembles a red dot or bullseye

. The red bites are sometimes flat and sometimes raised in the center.

Why do flies bite dogs ears?

Fly bites are often called “fly strikes.” Flies are biting the dog

to obtain a blood meal

and the bite is often painful. Because of the thin skin and hair on the ears and the inability of the dog to defend his ears, flies will seek out this location. Some dogs will endure hundreds of bites a day for weeks at a time.

How do I keep flies and gnats off my dog?


Change your dog’s water bowl and any bird bath water twice a week. Apply a gnat granular repellent to your grass that is natural and safe for your outside dog

. Natural repellents, such as the one from Nixalite, consist of essential oils that will not harm the environment and will keep away flying pests.

Why does my dog like to catch flies?

Why Do Pets Eat Flies? Along with their drive to catch prey, many cats and dogs simply enjoy the challenge of catching flies.

It is a mild form of amusement or enrichment for them

. If your pet gets bored easily or has a lot of energy, this pastime can help them feel like they are doing something.

Do dogs like flies?

Dogs Eat Flies, So What? It is normal and natural for dogs to eat bugs (and, really, all sorts of other weird stuff).

They like to munch on flies

, grasshoppers, crickets, and even an occasional spider.

What happens when my dog eats flies?

If your dog eats almost any type of household fly, like fruit flies, drain flies or gnats,

it’s very unlikely that she will get sick

. Lightning bugs, also known as fireflies, are also relatively harmless, though a big haul can give your dog temporary gastric upset.

Does Vaseline keep flies off dogs?

If your dog’s ears are often bitten by flies,

apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly to the area

. Squirt a small amount of petroleum jelly into your hand and rub it into both sides of your dog’s ears. This will prevent flies from landing there again and give your dog’s wounds time to heal.

How do I get rid of flies around my dogs food?


Hang up a ziplock bag with water

.

Tie or zip the bag closed so that most, if not all, the air is removed. Hang the bag near your dog’s food and water bowls. The water in the plastic bag refracts light and, based on the way a fly’s eyes work, this refracted light causes confusion and the fly tends to leave the area.

How do I get rid of flies outside for pets?

Step 1: Clean up your patio or porch area: Tidy outdoor living spaces, remove pet waste, and seal up garbage cans. If there is any rotten wood, take it to the dump. Step 2: Spray fly bait: Every 30 days, scatter fly bait on and around your patio and porch, as well as other areas where you see flies.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.