The best way to treat fleas is to prevent them. Some dogs are allergic to flea saliva and can develop really serious skin problems so try to keep the flea population to a minimum. If you do get a bad flea infestation you may need to "bomb" your house or kennel, spray the yard and/or dog runs. Frequent brushing is the first defense. Frequently changed bedding is very important. Flea collars are not very effective and many Bulldogs cannot wear them. If you do use one, do not put one on a wet or damp dog and do not allow the dog to wear a wet collar (this includes letting the dog out in the rain with its flea collar on).

You may need to give the dog a bath with a good flea shampoo or use an anti-flea rinse when you bathe. The chemicals used in these shampoos are harsh so use them only when necessary and follow instructions carefully. Mycodex is probably the most used flea control shampoo. There are various types of dips, such as Adams i4 Day Flea Dip, and sprays, such as Escort Flea & Tick Spray and Mycodex Aqua-Spray. Since these really are medications, it's a good idea to at least begin with ones from your veterinarian or that have been specifically recommended by an experienced Bulldogger in your area. Avon Skin so Soft mixed in the rinse water is an effective, non-irritating flea deterrent used by several Bulldoggers. You can also use the Skin so Soft mixed with an equal part of water in a spray bottle, or, if you feel that's a bit too strong, try two capfuls in a pint spray bottle. This is also reported to repel mosquitoes and ticks. Above all else, a clean environment, especially his bed, is the best flea prevention.

Fleas, in addition to being a nuisance, can cause the following medical problems:

• Tapeworms. Fleas carry tapeworms. These long, flat parasites cause weight loss and diarrhea-and can be contagious to you and your family.  To check for tapeworm, look for what appears to be “white rice” underneath the tail.  They may also be found on your pets bedding. At first sign of tapeworms, visit your vet.
• Allergy. Fleas are the a major cause of allergies in dogs.
• Infection.  Bulldogs suffering from flea bites can develop dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin. Antibiotics and shampoo therapy can rid your bulldog of this problem, but left untreated, the infection will spread and your bulldog will become more uncomfortable.
• Anemia. Fleas get their nutrition by ingesting blood, and they can consume so much that a puppy can die as a result of blood loss.
   

Your Bully has Fleas…what can you do?

• Pet treatments. There are various shampoos which can be purchased to rid your bully of its fleas.  Additionally there are easy-to-use products available from your vet that will eliminate 98-100% of fleas on the first application.
• Yard treatments.  Use professional, concentrated yard sprays, many of which attach easily to the end of a garden hose for application.