Fleas are similar to ticks in that they are usually seen in the summer and they suck the blood of their host. They can spread diseases and cause skin irritations in your dog. Fleas are not just found on dogs, but also in your house, yard and your dog's bedding. In fact, they spend more time off your dog laying eggs than on him. Because of this, flea treatment and prevention will not work unless you treat both your dog and his environment.

 
The key to successful flea control is to keep both your dog and your house clean. The whole house should be vacuumed regularly and any bedding your dog uses should be washed. Depending on the extent of the flea infestation, your house and yard may need spraying and sometimes an exterminator is necessary.