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Elite Edition

How do I keep flies from biting my dogs ears?

Author

David Edwards

Published Mar 22, 2026

How do I keep flies from biting my dogs ears?

If flies are targeting a specific area on your dog, say his ears, try applying petroleum jelly to the area to keep them from biting.

Why are flies getting on my dogs ears?

Fly strike dermatitis is also known as myiasis. It is caused when your dog’s ear becomes irritated by biting flies and is mainly a warm weather disease. Fly strike dermatitis usually affects dogs that live primarily outdoors. Vet bills can sneak up on you.

What can I put on my dogs to keep flies off?

The following are some good natural fly repellents:

  1. Citronella;
  2. Lemongrass oil – you can put this on your dog or in the area to effectively get rid of flies;
  3. Catnip – this has also been proven to repel flies;
  4. Coconut oil – this is another proven natural fly repellent you can safely put on your dog;

What can you spray on dogs to keep flies away?

Fly repellent for dogs: add equal parts water and Listerine to spray bottle (I used 2oz each to try out). Then add a small amount of baby oil (less than an ounce), shake solution to mix. Once mixed spray on animal, then rub in solution with cloth.

What do black fly bites look like on dogs?

Black flies tend to bite our pet’s underbelly and groin regions or ears of critters whose ears stand up. The large welts that are left behind are quite distinctive. A bright red circle, about the size of a nickel are usually found in places where the fur is thinner.

Why are there so many flies around my dog?

There are several reasons flies might be attracted to your dog. If your dog’s coat is matted or unclean because of a skin condition, illness, or something like diarrhea, it will attract flies. It’s also helpful if you keep an ill dog inside. It’s also true that some flies like to take a bite out of your dog’s ears.

What home remedy can I use to keep flies off my dog?

Mix 1 part vinegar to 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray lightly around the dog’s body to help repel flies and other insects daily. Rub or brush into the fur. Do not spray the mixture on the dog’s face.

How long do fly bites last on dogs?

The bites are usually seen along the underbelly and groin area where there is very little fur. These lesions will typically resolve on their own in a week or so and no treatment or extra worrying is necessary. Phew!

How do you make fly repellent for dogs?

How do you keep black fly bites off dogs?

Steps to prevent insect bites…

  1. Keep your pet’s kennel and nearby areas free from leaves, grass clippings and uneaten food.
  2. Aim to get rid of any matted fur in which insects can get trapped.
  3. Try to keep your dog inside during peak fly season.

What can I spray on my dogs for flies?

10 Best Fly Repellents for Dogs

  1. Miracle Coat No Fly Zone for Dogs.
  2. Absorbine UltraShield Green Fly Spray.
  3. Farnam Bronco e Equine Fly Spray.
  4. Farnam Swat Clear Fly Repellent Ointment.
  5. Farnam Flys Off Fly Repellent Ointment.
  6. Flys-Off Insect Repellent for Dogs & Cats.
  7. K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention.

What can I put on my dog for fly bites?

Below are some important steps for caring for an insect bite on a dog:

  • Check for a Stinger in the Wound.
  • Use a Cold Compress to Help with Swelling.
  • Apply Paste of Baking Soda and Water to the Wound.
  • Give Your Dog an Oatmeal Bath.
  • Apply Aloe Vera Gel to the Bite.
  • If Safe, Give Your Dog Benadryl.

What do you do to flies that bite dogs’ ears?

Regularly clean up your dog’s waste. Flies are attracted to dung, so cleaning up doggie piles daily (or even twice daily) may decrease the odds of biting insects being attracted More indoor time. Fly bites usually during the daytime. Employ fly strips and set fly traps. Fly sprays. Pesticides.

Can flies hurt a dog?

Some flies, such as horse flies, can take a bite out of your dog’s ears, belly or backside which can hurt, bleed and become infected. Though these bites are certainly irritating to our pets, flies don’t present the same health risks to dogs that other insects do, Sinnott.

Why are flies on my dogs ears?

Flies generally zone in on a cat or dog’s ears, stomach, and groin because these areas offer more skin . Ears are a very popular target, too, especially on Labradors and German Shepherds. To help keep your pet from becoming part of a fly’s daily roster of targets, try these simple precautions. Regularly clean up your dog’s waste.

How you can protect your dog from black fly bites?

Use Topical Ointments. The first line of defense against black fly bites is using insect repellent on the dog.

  • Use Insect Repellent Sprays. Besides topical ointments,natural insect repellent sprays also work great in preventing your canine from being bitten.
  • Move The Pet Inside.
  • Clean And Spray The Dog’s Outdoor Kennel.