Can Dogs Get Mosquito Bites?

As you take your dog for a walk in the park, you can’t help but notice the thick, impenetrable fur coat. This fur protects your dog from the sun and keeps them warm during the winter months. It also helps to prevent injury from other dogs when they fight and play. But have you ever wondered: Can dogs get mosquito bites?

Unfortunately, the answer is yes, dogs do get mosquito bites. And just like humans, these bites cause aggravating symptoms and sometimes serious illnesses. Checking for mosquito bites on your furry friend is crucial for their health, well-being, and comfort.

Mosquito Bites on Dogs

Can mosquitoes bite through dog fur? Yes, these buzzing biters can get through your dog’s fur. If you thought your dog’s coat provided enough protection against mosquitoes, you were partially correct. Mosquitoes look for easy targets, and navigating the thick fur of a Chow Chow isn’t worth the effort. So, where do mosquitoes bite dogs? They prefer to target exposed skin (that’s why humans are their preferred menu item) or areas with shorter, less dense fur. The most common locations of mosquito bites on dogs are their ears, belly, and nose. And dogs with shorter coats are at a higher risk of a mosquito burrowing through the fur to bite. Unfortunately, your hairless chihuahua is a prime target.

Can Dogs Get Mosquito Bite Bumps?

So, what does a mosquito bite look like on a dog? Do dogs get mosquito bite bumps like we do?

Actually, mosquito bites on dogs and cats look and feel very similar to the ones we get. They form raised, red welts and are often itchy. You may observe your pet frantically scratching one particular spot. Some bites cause skin irritation or even temporary hair loss. In most cases, however, your dog will recover quickly. The itching usually subsides after a few days, and the welt typically resolves on its own.

Dangers of Mosquito Bites on Dogs

When your dog is bitten by a mosquito, you can expect itching to follow. You can try a cold compress for relief or consult with your vet about using an antihistamine ointment. Most of the time, a mosquito bite will simply annoy your dog for a few days. However, mosquito bites on dogs can be dangerous in many ways.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Mosquito Bites?

Yes, just like people, dogs can be allergic to mosquito bites. Dogs that are allergic may experience the following symptoms:

• Severe swelling and redness at the bite site
• Hives breaking out all over the body
• Swelling of the face or muzzle
• Labored breathing
• Vomiting

Mosquito Disease and Heartworms in Dogs

As bad as the symptoms sound, an allergic reaction isn’t the worst thing that can happen. Mosquito bites on dogs can lead to heartworm disease. It only takes a single bite by a mosquito infected with heartworm larvae for your dog to get sick. If left untreated, heartworms are very dangerous and can even be deadly for your pet. The adult worms may travel to your pet’s heart or lungs, causing blood clots, respiratory distress, or organ failure. Using medication prescribed by your vet is the best treatment and prevention of heartworm disease.

When dogs get mosquito bites, they can also contract other dangerous — sometimes deadly — diseases, such as Eastern equine encephalitis, West Nile virus, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Fortunately, these diseases are rare, but if you notice symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or fever, report them to your vet immediately.

How to Prevent Mosquitoes from Biting Your Dog

Mosquito bites are no fun for anyone, and your dog is no exception. Since dogs can get mosquito bites that may prove dangerous, follow these tips to protect your pets:

• Get your dog on a preventative heartworm treatment with your vet. Start treatment when your dog is eight weeks old.
• Spray freshly squeezed lemon juice on your dog’s fur before heading outdoors. Be careful—citronella and certain essential oils are harmful to pets.
• Install window screens and storm doors to keep mosquitoes out of your home.
• Schedule a barrier spray treatment from Mosquito Joe® to rid your property of mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks.
• Dress your pet in a doggie shirt or jacket to deter hungry mosquitoes.
• Remove sources of standing, stagnant water from your yard.

Protect Your Dog from Mosquito Bites with Mosquito Joe

Keeping your pets and family guarded against mosquitoes starts at home. At Mosquito Joe, we stop biters from pestering your family — the two-footed and four-footed members alike! Our comprehensive pest control services protect you, your family, and your furry friends from mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks.

When you call on the experts at Mosquito Joe, your satisfaction is guaranteed because the Neighborly Done Right Promise™ and the Mosquito Joe Satisfaction Guarantee back all our work. Preventing mosquito bites on dogs is a crucial step in protecting their health. So, request a quote online or call us to learn more about our barrier sprays and natural treatments. Let’s make your outdoor spaces fun again for everyone!