Dark specs on my dog despite flea meds? Is it flea dirt or just dirt?

Question

Also,I haven't given my dog a bath In four months so even after a bath I was combing with a flea comb and a lot of dirt was coming out.im not sure if it's flea dirt Bc it would crumble when wet or it would smear a brown,black,or reddy-brown color, but not bright red like in every picture I've seen.theres a lot of dander on him,but i don't think flea eggs because it's chalky and crumbles.i also put topical drops on him every month and he was playing in the yard earlier so idk if it's left over

Dr. Elizabeth · Accepted Answer

The best way to determine if the dark specs are 'dirt' versus 'flea dirt' is to collect the specs on a clean white paper towel and apply hydrogen peroxide. If it turns rusty colored, it likely flea dirt. Flea eggs are very small and you are not likely to see those with the naked eye. Also, the best place to look for fleas is on the lower back and between the hind legs on your dog. If you determine that you are seeing fleas or evidence of fleas, I would recommend talking to your veterinarian about switching flea products. Hope this helps.

Dark specs on my dog despite flea meds? Is it flea dirt or just dirt?

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