How to Get Rid of Fleas on Your Dog or Cat (Without Losing Your Mind)

If you’ve ever experienced a flea infestation, you know the feeling: itchy ankles, a scratching pup, and a level of chaos that makes you consider setting your whole house on fire and starting over. (Just kidding... mostly.)

Let me introduce you to my flea war general: Big Man, a spunky little Chihuahua who once became ground zero for a winter flea invasion. Yes, winter. Because fleas don’t care about seasons. Or your sanity. They care about blood — and Big Man’s delicate skin was their all-you-can-eat buffet.

The Battle Begins: Things That Absolutely Did Not Work

I did what any dog mom would do — I turned to the internet and bought everything with at least 3 stars. Here’s how that went:

What Actually Worked (aka Our Flea-Free Holy Grail)

Before we talk solutions, let’s talk about why fleas are such relentless little monsters. They multiply like crazy, lay dozens of eggs daily, and go through four life stages that are tough to wipe out completely. Understanding their life cycle is key to finally winning the war. That’s why a one-and-done solution rarely works — you need to hit every stage, everywhere they hide.

💡 Did you know?
One adult female flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day. That’s over 2,000 in her lifetime — which is why infestations escalate so quickly.

🛁 Step 1: Kill 'em Fast with Adams Flea & Tick Shampoo

This shampoo is the real MVP. Within minutes, dead fleas were floating like confetti in the tub. It also keeps killing for up to 10 days while the collar kicks in. Smells great. Works better. Buy two bottles. You’ll thank me later.

I was losing it. Big Man was scratching like he owed somebody money. My husband suggested a flea collar. I scoffed. Then I caved. We got the most expensive one I could find: the Seresto Collar for Small Dogs (also available in Large and there's even a Seresto Collar for Cats).

🧷 Step 2: Apply the Seresto Flea Collar

Expensive? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. Fleas started dropping off Big Man within 24 hours. Not only had his scratching decreased noticeably, he was no longer making the whining noise dogs make when in discomfort. I was so happy I could’ve cried. And maybe I did. Don’t judge me.

I have heard some owners complain that the collars are so strong that they give their dog a rash. Big Man did have some minor skin irritation the first time we used it and I just loosened it up and problem solved. He has been on it consistently for years now and no issues at all. This has been on my subscribe and save list for delivery every 8 months since.

🧹 Step 3: Vacuum Like You’re Being Paid for It

Buy yourself a good vacuum — I used the Shark Upright Vacuum — and vacuum your floors, baseboards, furniture, and probably your own soul at least 5 times a day. This isn’t excessive. This is war.

🧼 Step 4: Treat Carpets with Zodiac Spray

After vacuuming, spray all carpeted areas. Open a window. Light a candle. Whisper an apology to your houseplants. This stuff kills flea eggs and stops the next generation from taking over.

Make sure to spray areas where there is an edge well. This includes under beds, sofas, baseboards, and other areas where fleas tend to hide out.

🧽 Step 5: Mop Hard Surfaces with Pine-sol & Bleach Combo

I used an old-school mop and hot water with Pine-sol and a capful of bleach. Every inch of hard flooring got a spa day. Baseboards included. Fleas = gone.

🧺 Step 6: Wash All Bedding (Including Theirs!)

Hot water. Laundry sanitizer. Repeat weekly. Want an easy-to-wash, flea-fighting dog bed? Try a Bowsers Dog Bed from Go Doggie Style. These unzip and wash like a dream. Bonus: orthopedic support so your dog can recover from the trauma of flea life.

These six essentials worked together to completely clear our home of fleas — and we haven’t had a single one since. If you're overwhelmed, just go through this checklist. It made all the difference for us, and Big Man is back to living his best itch-free life.

“The Seresto collar and Adams shampoo combo changed everything. I slept through the night without feeling like a snack.” — Big Man, Probably

Final Thoughts (From a Mom Who’s Been There)

Fleas are tiny. But they cause massive stress. If you’re in the thick of it, know this: you are not alone. Also, don’t let people shame you for having fleas — even the cleanest homes can get them. What matters is how you bounce back.

Treat your dog. Treat your home. And treat yourself to something too, because fighting fleas is exhausting. Laugh when you can, scratch when you must, and remember — you’ve got this.

About the Author
Go Doggie Style is more than just a dog boutique — it’s a passion project by Dr. Patria Smith, a Doctor of Pharmacy, Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Entrepreneur, wife, mother of 4 beautiful children and a proud dog mom. Founded in 2019, our blog blends professional insight, scientific accuracy, and a deep love for dogs to help pet parents give their pups the healthiest, happiest life possible.