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My dog has black specks on her skin. Are they fleas or just dry skin?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 8 months old | 7 lbs

I'm seeing black specks on my dogs lower torso and I'm worried it may be fleas. She was brought to the vet earlier today but there was no notice of fleas. I'm hoping it's just dry skin or irritation from her scratching or biting, but from Google images it seems as if that is not the case.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 11th, 2019

It could be fleas. If Hailey isn't up to date on her flea treatments, I can give you one for her. First, I would give her Capstar. It's a one time pill that starts killing fleas within 30 minutes. Then follow up with a spot on treatment, such as Advantage or Revolution. This is a treatment that has to be used once a month. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash her bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. Best of luck.

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