Is a Dish Soap and Vinegar Bath Enough for Fleas?

We're glad your dog is comfortable and has such a soft coat. A soapy bath does kill or wash off the fleas that are on a dog at the time, so it's a reasonable first step when money is tight. The catch is that it has no lasting effect. The adult fleas you see on a dog are only a small part of the problem. Most of the population is eggs, larvae and cocoons in carpets, bedding and the yard, and new fleas keep hatching and jumping on for weeks. The vinegar rinse doesn't add any flea-killing power, and frequent dish soap baths can dry out a dog's skin.

To keep the fleas from coming back without spending much, put your effort into cleaning. Vacuum every day for a few weeks, especially where your dog sleeps, and empty the vacuum outside. Wash his bedding and any blankets he lies on in hot, soapy water at least once a week. A metal flea comb, dipped into a cup of hot, soapy water as you go, lets you check for fleas and remove them between baths.

If fleas keep reappearing, an over-the-counter flea product labeled for your dog's weight, used exactly as the label says, will work far better than repeated baths. Treat any other dogs and cats in the home too, using only products made for each species. If cost is a worry, ask your vet about a payment plan, or look for a low-cost clinic, humane society clinic or veterinary school near you.

See home remedies for fleas and fleas on dogs.

This is general information, not a diagnosis. Please follow your own vet's advice.