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Why is my dog itching after flea medicine application? Is it safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Male | neutered | 1 year and 6 months old | 70 lbs

I put my dog flea liquid on his back. Is it normal if he gets itchy after 30 minutes. (Its not continuous itch though). And he itched where the liquid was spread i think he got some on his legs. Sometimes he licks his leg so will will it be ok?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 5th, 2018

Some dogs are sensitive to the active ingredient or the vehicle of a topical medication. I would ensure that you apply to the skin, not the hair, in an area he cannot reach such as the area between his shoulder blades. I am unsure of the type you have used, however most over the counter products are safe if ingested in small amounts, infrequently. To be safe you can certainly call the number on the packaging for more detail. However there are so many types of preventative out there, if Puku seems sensitive to one type there are plenty to choose from!

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