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Are brown specks on my dog after a bath flea dirt if they don't turn red?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

i haven't gave my dog a bath for four months or so today I did after Playing with him in the yard.i went through with a flea comb and kept seeing a few specks of dirt with each pass.i wet the dirt and it didn't turn red but it did smear brown, but not like red like I've seen in pictures.i also put vet prescribed preventative on him the first day of the month.is it just left over dirt from not bathing for so long even after a bath?I saw the same dirt on him in summer and nothing more came of it

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 18th, 2017

If it didn't turn red, it is not flea dirt. Flea dirt will turn red due to the blood in the feces. It is leftover dirt, you do not need to worry. You have him on a monthly prevention, he is well protected.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 18th, 2017

    No, it isn't flea dirt if the smear if brown and black. If it was flea dirt, you would see red only. If your dog is on a monthly topical treatment from the vet, then he has excellent flea prevention coverage.

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