Fall is here, and that means three things: the sun will be setting earlier, temperatures will be dropping, and flea cases will be increasing? That's right, flea season isn't over just yet!

Before you and your pup head outside to enjoy a long walk or hike through the woods, make sure you're keeping them protected.

Here's everything you need to know about fall flea season and how to protect your pup.

Why Fleas Are Worse in the Fall

When most people think about flea season, summer comes to mind. And while fleas are definitely present all summer, that's also when most people are at their most vigilant, keeping up with flea prevention, using flea collars, and regularly checking their pup.

The problem starts when the weather cools down. Many pet parents assume fleas begin dying off in the fall and ease up on prevention, but fleas actually thrive in temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees with moderate humidity, which describes most of fall across the country. Flea populations can double in autumn compared to spring, partly due to increased rainfall and mild temperatures that fleas love.

Fleas don't die off until temperatures consistently drop 37 degrees below. Until then, your pup needs protection.

Where Fleas Hide in the Fall

Fleas prefer cool, shaded, and humid spots, and fall creates plenty of them.

A few hiding places to watch out for:

Leaf piles: Fallen leaves hold moisture and stay warm longer than open ground, making them a prime flea hangout.
Tall grass and shrubs: Fleas climb grass blades and brush to latch onto passing animals and people during outdoor walks and hikes.
Outdoor resting or eating areas: If your dog spends time outside or you leave food and water bowls out, fleas and the wildlife that carry them will find those spots quickly.

Fleas can also hitch a ride indoors through your clothing or on visiting pets, so even dogs that mostly stay inside aren't completely in the clear.

Signs Your Dog Has Fleas

Fleas are small and fast, so you may not spot them directly. If your dog starts experiencing any of the following, check them for fleas right away and schedule a visit with your vet:

Excessive scratching, itching, and licking
Hair loss, especially around the tail or lower back
Red dots or flea bites on the skin
Scabs or irritated skin
Skin or ear infections
Flea dirt, which looks like small black specks in your dog's fur. Place some on a wet paper towel, and if it turns reddish-brown, it's digested blood, a clear sign of fleas.

Left untreated, fleas can cause anemia, transmit tapeworms, and lead to secondary skin infections, so it's important to act quickly.

How to Protect Your Dog From Fleas This Fall

The good news is that staying ahead of fleas is much easier than dealing with an infestation.

A few simple habits make a big difference:

Keep up with flea prevention year-round: Talk to your vet about the best option for your dog, whether that's a monthly topical treatment, an oral medication, or a flea collar. Fall is not the time to stop.
Check your dog after time outdoors: After walks through wooded areas, leaf piles, or tall grass, do a quick check before they come back inside.
Rake and bag fallen leaves regularly: Leaving leaf piles in your yard creates an ideal flea habitat right outside your door.
Keep your lawn mowed short: Short grass gets more sun exposure, which fleas actively avoid.

For a full breakdown of prevention options, check out our guide on how to prevent your dog from getting fleas and ticks.

How to Keep Fleas Out of Your Home

Fleas don't just live on your dog. They lay eggs in carpets, furniture, and bedding, which is why a flea problem on your pet can quickly become a whole-house problem.

If your dog picks up fleas, treating your home at the same time is just as important as treating your pup.

Vacuum frequently, including carpets, rugs, furniture cushions, and anywhere your dog likes to rest. Empty the vacuum outside right away.
Wash your dog's bedding in hot water at least once a week during flea season.
Treat all pets in the household at the same time to prevent fleas from jumping between animals.
Keep wildlife away from your yard by securing trash cans and removing outdoor food and water bowls at night. Raccoons, possums, and other wild animals carry fleas and can drop them right in your yard.

Keep Your Pup Safe This Fall at Camp Bow Wow®

Fall is a great time of year to get outside with your pup, and we want to make sure every adventure ends with a happy, healthy dog. If you need a safe, fun place for your furry friend while you're out enjoying the season, our Certified Camp Counselors are here to give them plenty of love, play, and attention.

We make sure every dog visiting Camp is flea- and tick-free, so you can have peace of mind knowing your pup is playing in a safe, protected environment.

Find your local Camp Bow Wow and book your dog daycare and boarding stay today.

Fall Flea Season: What Dog Owners Need to Know

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