Why Does My Dog Flea Bite Me? 6 Reasons and 5 Tips

Dogs are incredible pets. They are loving, protective, and fiercely loyal companions. But like all animals, they come with their own set of challenges.

One of the most important things to consider before getting a dog is whether or not you have the time and energy to commit to taking care of them properly. Dogs require a lot of exercise, socialization, and training – all of which take time, patience, and consistency.

Another thing to keep in mind when getting a new dog, or any new pet, is that you’ll have to spend some time deciphering their weird behaviors.  Dogs act incredibly odd sometimes.  While they are usually just being goofy dogs or trying to tell you something obvious, other times their odd behavior can indicate something important.

So, what about when your dog is flea biting you?  Why does my dog flea bite me? Be sure to observe everything that is happening so you can get the full context.  Once you have that you can narrow down why a dog is flea biting you from one of these several reasons that explain the behavior:

• To relieve your itching
• Affection
• Grooming
• Asking for attention
• Play biting
• Being curious

To Scratch Your Back

Okay, so your dog probably isn’t flea biting you on your back but, your dog has never seen you scratch yourself with your teeth as he can scratch with his. So, he’s being a buddy and jumping in.

He knows that when he gives himself those little flea bite nibbles his skin feels great relief from whatever might be bothering him. Why wouldn’t he want to help his best friend out and give you the same relief?

Your Dog Wants To Give You Affection

Another possible reason your dog is flea biting you is that he’s just trying to show you some love. Dogs often use their mouths in affectionate ways. They’ll give you kisses, nibble on your hand, or even lick your face.

So, if your dog has been extra cuddly lately and giving you more kisses than normal, take those flea bites as a sign of affection. Your dog likely loves you more than anyone or anything else he knows.

You Need To Be Groomed

In your dog’s mind at least, your cleanliness needs some help.  Dogs often groom each other by licking and nibbling.

So, if your dog starts flea biting you it might be because he thinks you need a good cleaning. It’s a dog’s way of saying, “you missed a spot.”

Give Your Dog Some Attention

Okay, this isn’t a command from me, but rather from your best friend.  If your dog is flea biting you it might be because he’s asking for some attention from you. Dogs are social and crave attention, if they aren’t getting enough, they might try to be sweet as a way to get it.

So, if you’ve been busy and haven’t given your pup the attention he deserves lately, that might be why he’s been extra nibbly. Make sure to give your dog some extra love and attention to let him know he’s still your number one.

It Might Be Playful Nipping

Sometimes, dogs just want to play. If you’ve been playing with your dog a lot lately and he’s suddenly biting at you more, it might just be because he wants to keep the fun going.

This is especially common in puppies who are full of energy and just want to play all the time. If this is the case, make sure you have some toys on hand to keep your pup occupied.

Being Curious

Dogs are notoriously curious creatures. If your dog is flea biting you it might be because he’s just trying to figure out what’s going on with you.  Maybe he thinks you went somewhere fun without him or maybe he wants to see your reaction. Curiosity isn’t just for cats!

Is It Okay If My Dog Flea Bites Me?

Even when being sweet, some dogs are accidentally destructive.  Other dogs are too zealous in some behaviors. Finally, some people just don’t like some things their dogs do.

As long as your dog’s flea biting doesn’t fit in any of these descriptions then it is likely okay. Even if it is a little annoying (but cute) and is starting to become a problem, there are some things you can do to stop it.

How To Stop Dogs From Flea Biting?

Throughout this whole article, I may have made a mistake.  I’ve assumed your dog isn’t flea biting you because you actually have fleas.  If you do have fleas and your dog is flea biting you then I’d suggest treating your fleas as the most effective way to make your dog stop flea biting you.

If you don’t have fleas…which I hope is the case…there are a few good methods to encourage your dog to quit flea biting you.

Positive Reinforcement

Here is one of my standby methods for training dogs. It’s on standby because it works.  A lot.

The basis of positive reinforcement is simple, give your dog a reward when he does something you want him to do, and he’ll be more likely to do it again.

So, if you want your dog to stop flea biting you then, when you’re in the situation that normally makes him flea bite you, give him a treat every time he doesn’t flea bite you.

You can also use verbal praise as a reward or even just calmly petting your dog. Make sure the reward comes when your dog doesn’t flea bite you.

You can use anything as a reward that your dog likes. It could be a treat, a toy, or even just some extra attention.

The key is to be consistent with your rewards. If you only reward your dog sometimes then he won’t know why he’s being rewarded, and it won’t be as effective.

Make Sure Your Dog Doesn’t Have Fleas

As I jokingly mentioned earlier, if your dog is flea biting you it might be because you actually have fleas. There’s the real possibility that your dog does have fleas and is flea biting you because he assumes you have them too.

If this is the case, the easiest way to stop your dog from flea biting you is to treat your dog’s fleas.

Say No

Teaching your dog to understand ‘No’ is one of the most important things you can teach him. Whether he’s in a dangerous situation or doing something annoying like flea biting you, a quickly obeyed ‘No!’ will go a long way to keep both you and your dog happy and safe.

Distract Your Dog

If you’re in a situation where your dog is trying to flea bite you, try to distract him with something else.

A toy, treat, or even just some attention might be enough to get his mind off of flea biting you and on to something else.

This won’t work all the time but it’s worth a shot when you’re in the moment and trying to figure out how to make your dog stop flea biting you.

Be Patient

Patience is a virtue…and it’s also key when trying to get your dog to stop flea biting you.  Remember, your dog doesn’t know he shouldn’t flea biting you until you ‘tell’ him.

If you’re patient and consistent with your training, then your dog will eventually stop flea biting you.

Conclusion: Why Do Dogs Flea Bite You?

If you’re noticing that your dog is constantly flea biting you, it’s important to take a look at what might be causing the issue in the first place.

There are a few different reasons why your dog might be flea biting you. Some dogs are simply curious, while others may be trying to play, and for other dogs the most common reason is to show affection.

Fortunately, no matter what the cause there is at least one way to stop it.  

Whether you’re trying to use positive reinforcement, say no, or distract your dog, just be patient; with a little bit of effort, you can get your dog to stop flea biting you.

Don’t rule out your dog having fleas too. And if he does, get them treated ASAP!

The best method of getting your dog to stop flea biting you will likely vary depending on the reason your dog is doing it but, with a little patience and experimentation, you should be able to figure out what works best for you and your pup.