Can dogs get bitten by bed bugs? While bed bugs primarily feed on human blood, they can bite dogs if no other hosts are available.

These tiny pests hide in bedding, furniture, and carpets, making it possible for dogs to come into contact with them. Though dogs are not a bed bug’s preferred target, they may still experience itchy, red welts from bites.

Unlike fleas or ticks, bed bugs do not live on pets but may still cause discomfort. Understanding how bed bugs affect dogs, recognizing symptoms, and taking preventive measures can help keep your furry friend safe from these pests.

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Can dogs get bitten by bed bugs?

Yes, dogs can get bitten by bed bugs, but it is not common. Bed bugs prefer human hosts, but when their primary food source is unavailable, they may bite pets, including dogs.

Unlike fleas or ticks, bed bugs do not live on animals; instead, they hide in bedding, furniture, and carpets, emerging only to feed. If a dog is bitten, it may experience red, itchy welts, restlessness, and excessive scratching.

However, bed bugs do not transmit diseases to pets.

Since bed bugs do not infest dog fur, treatment focuses on eliminating the pests from the home rather than treating the dog directly. Regularly washing pet bedding, vacuuming, and using pest control methods can help prevent infestations. If you suspect your dog has been bitten, check for signs of bed bugs in their sleeping areas. Consulting a veterinarian can also help rule out other skin irritations or parasite infestations.

How do I know if bed bugs are biting my dog?

If bed bugs are biting your dog, you may notice signs such as red, itchy welts on areas with less fur, like the belly, ears, and legs.

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Your dog might scratch, lick, or bite at the affected areas more than usual, leading to skin irritation or hair loss. Unlike flea or tick bites, bed bug bites often appear in clusters or a line.

To confirm bed bugs as the cause, check your dog’s bedding, crate, or favorite resting spots for tiny reddish-brown bugs, small black fecal spots, or shed exoskeletons. Since bed bugs do not live on pets, they are usually found hiding in furniture, carpets, or walls.

If you suspect bed bugs, thoroughly clean your home, wash pet bedding in hot water, and vacuum frequently. Consulting a veterinarian can help rule out other causes of skin irritation, such as fleas, mites, or allergies, ensuring proper treatment for your dog.

Are bed bugs harmful to dogs?

15 Reasons why dogs get bed buds

Here’s a detailed explanation of 15 reasons why dogs get bed bugs, each with an H3 heading and a 150-word explanation.

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1. Sleeping in Infested Areas

Dogs that sleep in areas already infested with bed bugs are at risk of getting bitten. Bed bugs hide in mattresses, carpets, and furniture, waiting for a warm host to feed on. If a dog rests in an infested spot, bed bugs may bite exposed skin, causing irritation.

2. Traveling with Owners

When dogs accompany owners on trips, they may encounter bed bugs in hotels, public transportation, or other accommodations. These pests can hitch a ride on dog bedding or carriers, leading to an infestation at home.

3. Shared Living Spaces

Dogs living in multi-pet households, shelters, or boarding facilities may be exposed to bed bugs if another pet or person unknowingly carries them in. The pests can spread through bedding, carpets, and furniture.

4. Secondhand Furniture and Bedding

Bringing in used mattresses, sofas, or pet bedding can introduce bed bugs into the home. These pests hide in fabric seams and cracks, later emerging to bite pets and humans.

5. Cracks and Crevices in the Home

Bed bugs hide in cracks, baseboards, and furniture joints. If a dog frequently rests near these hiding spots, it becomes an easy target for bites, especially in quiet, undisturbed areas.

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6. Staying in Infested Kennels or Boarding Facilities

Kennels, daycare centers, or dog boarding facilities with bed bug problems can expose pets to bites. If not regularly inspected and cleaned, these environments can become breeding grounds for infestations.

7. Visitors Bringing Bed Bugs

Guests, pet sitters, or other animals can unknowingly carry bed bugs into the home on clothing, bags, or bedding. Once inside, the pests can find their way to a dog’s sleeping area.

8. Living in Apartments or Shared Buildings

Bed bugs easily move between units in apartments or multi-family buildings. If a neighbor has an infestation, the pests can spread through walls, floors, or vents, eventually reaching a dog’s resting area.

9. Exposure to Infested Clothing or Bags

Dogs may come into contact with bed bugs if they lie on or near infested clothing, backpacks, or suitcases. These pests cling to fabric and may crawl onto pets searching for a meal.

10. Unknowingly Carrying Bed Bugs from Outside

While bed bugs do not live outdoors, they can be picked up from infested places like public transport, vet clinics, or dog parks. If they latch onto a leash, carrier, or blanket, they may be brought home.

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11. Dog Owners Bringing Bed Bugs Home

Owners who work in infested environments, such as hotels or hospitals, may bring bed bugs home on their clothing or bags. These pests can then migrate to a dog’s sleeping space.

12. Poor Cleaning and Hygiene Practices

Regular cleaning helps prevent bed bug infestations. If a home is cluttered or pet bedding is not washed frequently, bed bugs can find hiding spots and continue biting dogs and humans.

13. Soft Furnishings and Rugs

Dogs that sleep on upholstered furniture, rugs, or carpets in an infested home are at risk of getting bitten. Bed bugs prefer soft materials where they can hide during the day.

14. Dog Crates and Beds Placed Near Infested Areas

If a dog’s crate or bed is near an infested mattress, couch, or carpet, bed bugs may crawl over and bite the pet. Keeping dog bedding clean and away from infested zones reduces the risk.

15. Lack of Regular Pest Inspections

Failing to inspect for bed bugs regularly allows infestations to spread unnoticed. Checking dog beds, seams, and corners for signs of pests can help detect and eliminate them before they become a bigger problem.

9 Tips how to get away with bed bugs

Here are 9 tips on how to get rid of bed bugs.

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1. Identify the Signs of Bed Bugs

The first step in getting rid of bed bugs is identifying an infestation. Look for small, reddish-brown bugs, tiny white eggs, shed skins, and black fecal spots in bedding, mattresses, and furniture.

Bed bug bites appear as red, itchy welts, often in a line or cluster. If you suspect an infestation, inspect cracks, baseboards, and upholstered furniture for hiding pests. Early detection helps prevent the spread and makes extermination easier.

2. Wash and Dry Bedding on High Heat

Bed bugs cannot survive extreme heat. Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (at least 120°F) and dry them on the highest heat setting. This kills bed bugs, larvae, and eggs.

If an item cannot be washed, placing it in a dryer on high heat for 30 minutes can be an effective alternative. Regular washing of pet bedding helps prevent re-infestation.

3. Vacuum Regularly and Dispose of Bags Properly

Vacuuming helps remove bed bugs, eggs, and shed skins from carpets, pet bedding, and furniture. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and focus on cracks, crevices, and corners where bed bugs hide.

After vacuuming, immediately dispose of the vacuum bag in a sealed plastic bag outside to prevent bugs from escaping back into your home. Repeat the process daily for best results.

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4. Use Bed Bug-Proof Covers on Mattresses and Dog Beds

Encasing mattresses, pillows, and pet beds with bed bug-proof covers helps trap and starve bed bugs. These covers are made of tightly woven fabric with a zipper that prevents pests from escaping or entering.

Keep encasements on for at least a year to ensure all bed bugs die off. This method is effective for preventing re-infestation and protecting sleeping areas.

5. Declutter and Reduce Hiding Spots

Bed bugs hide in cracks, furniture, and cluttered areas. Reducing clutter in your home limits their hiding spots and makes extermination easier. Remove unnecessary items, vacuum storage areas, and organize belongings in sealed plastic bins. Keeping a clean and clutter-free environment makes it harder for bed bugs to thrive.

6. Use Steam Treatment for Hard-to-Reach Areas

Steam treatment is an effective way to kill bed bugs without chemicals. High-temperature steam (at least 180°F) penetrates deep into mattresses, furniture, and carpets, eliminating bed bugs and their eggs on contact. Use a steam cleaner with a nozzle attachment to target infested areas. This method is safe for pets and effective for treating delicate fabrics.

7. Apply Bed Bug Sprays and Natural Remedies

There are various bed bug sprays available, including chemical and natural options. Look for pet-safe insecticides or use natural remedies like diatomaceous earth, which dehydrates bed bugs.

Essential oils such as tea tree, lavender, and peppermint can also help repel bed bugs. Always follow safety guidelines when using sprays around pets.

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8. Call a Professional Exterminator if Needed

If the infestation persists, hiring a professional exterminator is the best solution.

Pest control experts use heat treatments, fumigation, or specialized insecticides to eliminate bed bugs completely. Professional treatment is often necessary for severe infestations, ensuring that all hiding bugs are destroyed.

9. Monitor and Prevent Reinfestation

After treatment, continue monitoring for signs of bed bugs. Regularly check dog bedding, furniture, and sleeping areas for any signs of pests.

Prevent reinfestation by sealing cracks, using mattress encasements, and maintaining cleanliness. Traveling precautions, such as inspecting hotel rooms and washing clothes after trips, can also help prevent bringing bed bugs home.

How to get rid of bed bugs on dogs?

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Getting rid of bed bugs on dogs requires a careful and pet-safe approach. Unlike fleas or ticks, bed bugs do not live on dogs permanently, but they may bite and cause irritation.

The first step is to bathe your dog with a mild, pet-safe shampoo to remove any bugs on their fur. While bed bugs do not typically stay on pets, a thorough bath helps eliminate any lingering pests.

Next, wash your dog’s bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (at least 120°F) and dry them on high heat to kill any bed bugs or eggs. Vacuum your home thoroughly, especially around pet sleeping areas, carpets, and furniture, and dispose of the vacuum bag outside immediately.

Since bed bugs hide in cracks and furniture, focus on treating the home rather than the dog.

Use pet-safe bed bug treatments, and if the infestation is severe, consult a pest control professional for effective removal.

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What scent do bed bugs hate?

Bed bugs are known to dislike certain strong scents that can help repel them. Some of the most effective scents include peppermint, lavender, tea tree oil, cinnamon, and citronella. These scents interfere with bed bugs’ ability to detect carbon dioxide and body heat, which they rely on to find hosts.

Peppermint oil has a strong, minty aroma that bed bugs find overwhelming, making it an excellent natural repellent. Lavender oil is another effective option, as it contains compounds that are toxic to bed bugs and disrupt their nervous system. Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties and can help deter bed bugs when sprayed on bedding or furniture.

To use these scents, mix a few drops of essential oil with water and spray it around sleeping areas, pet beds, and furniture. While these scents do not eliminate bed bugs, they can help repel them and reduce their presence in your home.

Will bed bugs bite dogs?

Yes, bed bugs can bite dogs, but they do not live on them like fleas or ticks. Bed bugs are blood-feeding insects that typically target humans, but when humans are unavailable, they may bite pets, including dogs.

These pests are nocturnal and usually hide in cracks, furniture, bedding, and carpets, coming out at night to feed.

When bed bugs bite dogs, they usually target hairless areas like the belly, ears, or legs.

The bites can cause red, itchy welts, leading to discomfort and excessive scratching. Unlike fleas, bed bugs do not stay on the dog’s body after feeding; instead, they return to their hiding spots.

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If you suspect bed bug bites on your dog, check for signs of an infestation in your home. Washing pet bedding, vacuuming regularly, and using heat treatments can help eliminate bed bugs. If the bites cause irritation, consult a veterinarian for relief options.

Related faq’s

Pictures of bed bug bites on dogs

Pictures of bed bug bites on dogs can help identify an infestation and differentiate them from flea or mosquito bites. Bed bug bites on dogs often appear as small, red welts in clusters or a line, typically on hairless areas like the belly, ears, or legs.

These bites may cause itchiness, inflammation, and excessive scratching, leading to skin irritation or secondary infections. Unlike fleas, bed bugs do not live on dogs but hide in bedding, carpets, and furniture. If you suspect bed bug bites, inspect your dog’s sleeping area and wash bedding in hot water. Consult a vet for treatment if needed.

Can dogs get bitten by bed bugs in the house

Yes, dogs can get bitten by bed bugs in the house. While bed bugs primarily feed on humans, they will bite pets, including dogs, if humans are not available.

These pests are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, so if your dog sleeps in an infested area, bed bugs may bite exposed areas like the belly, ears, or legs. Although bed bugs do not live on dogs, their bites can cause itching, redness, and discomfort. Regular cleaning, washing pet bedding, and checking for bed bugs can help prevent bites and keep your dog safe.

Can dogs get bitten by bed bugs and fleas

Yes, dogs can get bitten by both bed bugs and fleas, but the pests behave differently. Fleas are external parasites that live on the dog’s body, feeding on their blood and causing itching, hair loss, and irritation. Bed bugs, on the other hand, do not live on dogs but may bite them if the dog is in an infested area.

Bed bug bites usually appear as small, red welts and cause discomfort but do not result in long-term infestations. While fleas require treatment to eliminate, bed bugs are often tackled by addressing the infestation in the home.

Can dogs get bitten by bed bugs in their

Yes, dogs can get bitten by bed bugs in their sleeping areas. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, which is why they might bite dogs while they rest.

These bites typically occur on exposed areas, such as the belly, ears, and legs. While bed bugs don’t live on dogs like fleas, they can cause itching, redness, and discomfort. If your dog has frequent scratching or irritation, it could be a sign of bed bug bites. To prevent this, regularly clean your dog’s bedding and inspect your home for signs of bed bug infestations.

Pictures of bed bug bites on dogs legs

Pictures of bed bug bites on a dog’s legs typically show small, red, raised welts that may appear in clusters or a line, similar to how bed bug bites appear on humans.

These bites are often found on areas where the dog has less fur or hair, such as the belly, ears, or legs. The bites can cause itching, inflammation, and discomfort, leading to excessive scratching. Bed bug bites on dogs are usually not dangerous but can cause irritation. If you notice bites on your dog’s legs, inspect your home for bed bugs and seek advice from a veterinarian if needed.

Pictures of bed bug bites on cats

Pictures of bed bug bites on cats typically show small, red, raised welts that may appear in clusters or lines, often on areas with less fur, such as the belly, legs, and ears. Unlike fleas, bed bugs do not stay on cats but bite to feed and then return to hiding in cracks, furniture, or bedding.

These bites can cause itching, irritation, and inflammation. While bed bugs don’t usually cause serious health issues in cats, their bites can lead to discomfort or secondary infections if scratched. If you see these signs, it’s essential to check for a bed bug infestation and consult a vet for proper care.

How to get rid of bed bugs on cats

To get rid of bed bugs on cats, start by giving your cat a thorough bath with a mild, pet-safe shampoo to remove any bed bugs on its fur. Wash bedding and soft toys in hot water (at least 120°F) and dry them on high heat to kill bed bugs and their eggs.

Vacuum your home, especially around the cat’s sleeping areas, and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately. Focus on treating your home, as bed bugs typically hide in cracks, furniture, and bedding. If the infestation persists, consider consulting a veterinarian or pest control professional for further advice.

What to do with pets during bed bug treatment

During bed bug treatment, it’s important to keep pets away from treated areas.

Remove pets from your home or place them in a safe, untreated area, such as a separate room, to avoid exposure to chemicals or heat treatments. Wash and clean pet bedding and toys, and consider placing them in a sealed plastic bag during the treatment process.

If using chemical treatments, ensure the room is well-ventilated before letting pets return. After heat treatments, allow the home to cool down before reintroducing your pets to prevent any health risks. Always consult with your pest control provider for pet safety guidelines.

This is a bed bug right? Is it concerning that I’ve found her around my dog ? She seems huge I’m afraid this thing has been snacking on my dog

If you’ve found an insect that appears to be a bed bug, it’s important to identify it carefully. Bed bugs are small, flat, oval insects, usually about 1/4 inch long, but they can appear larger after feeding.

They typically hide in cracks and seams during the day and emerge to feed at night. If you find one near your dog, it’s not likely that it’s been feeding on your pet, as bed bugs do not stay on animals like fleas. However, they may bite your dog if they are in an infested area. If you’re concerned, inspect your home for signs of infestation and consider pest control.

I’m dyingg. I believe this is a bedbug and I wanna cry. I noticed my dog going after something, I looked and it was on top of my blanket! My husband and I took everything off the bed and examined our mattress, box springs (even cut the bottom on them to see inside). There were no others. 

I understand how stressful this must be! It’s definitely alarming to find a bed bug, but it’s important to remember that finding just one doesn’t mean your entire home is infested. Bed bugs are tricky to spot, and sometimes you’ll only find one or two before the infestation gets worse.

Since you’ve already examined the mattress and box springs, I’d suggest deep cleaning your bedding, vacuuming your home thoroughly, and washing your dog’s bedding in hot water.

Keep monitoring for more signs, and if you don’t find any others, it’s possible it came in from somewhere else. If the anxiety continues, you could reach out to a professional pest control service for peace of mind.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, while bed bugs primarily feed on humans, they can bite dogs if they are in an infested environment. These pests are attracted to warmth and carbon dioxide, so if your dog is sleeping in or near an area with bed bugs, it may be vulnerable to bites.

Bed bug bites on dogs typically cause itching and discomfort, but the bugs do not stay on dogs like fleas.

To prevent bed bug bites, regularly clean your dog’s bedding, inspect for signs of infestation in your home, and take action to eliminate the pests.