How to Get Rid of Fleas on Dogs: The Ultimate Pet Parent’s Guide

Adam Love

Few things are more frustrating for dog owners than a flea infestation. These tiny pests can cause major discomfort for your pup—itching, skin irritation, hair loss, and even potential health problems like anemia or tapeworms. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can eliminate fleas quickly and prevent them from coming back.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to get rid of fleas on dogs, the best natural and chemical options for treatment, and how to protect your home from future infestations.

Signs Your Dog Has Fleas

Before jumping into treatment, it’s important to know what to look for. Common signs of fleas in dogs include:

  • Persistent scratching, biting, or licking

  • Red or irritated skin, especially near the tail and belly

  • Flea dirt (tiny black specks that look like ground pepper)

  • Flea eggs or live fleas visible in their coat

  • Hair loss in patches due to itching

A flea comb is your best friend here—run it through your dog’s fur, particularly behind the ears and near the base of the tail.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Rid of Fleas on Dogs

1. Start with a Thorough Bath

Bathing your dog with a flea-specific shampoo helps kill fleas on contact and soothe irritated skin. Look for gentle, skin-friendly formulas made with natural ingredients like neem, aloe, or oatmeal.

Pro tip: Let the shampoo sit on your dog’s coat for a few minutes before rinsing for maximum effect.

2. Use a Flea Comb Daily

After the bath, use a fine-tooth flea comb to remove any lingering fleas or eggs. Dip the comb into soapy water after each pass to kill anything caught. Focus on high-risk areas like behind the ears, under the legs, and near the tail.

3. Choose a Reliable Flea Treatment

There are a variety of options for ongoing flea control, including:

  • Topical treatments that are applied to your dog’s skin

  • Oral chewable tablets that work systemically

  • Natural flea sprays with essential oils like cedarwood or lemongrass

Whichever method you choose, consistency is key. Treat monthly during flea season—or year-round in warmer areas.

🛒 Looking for safe, effective flea control? Visit Global Pet Foods in-store or online to explore options suited to your dog’s size, age, and lifestyle.

4. Treat Your Home (Not Just Your Pet)

Fleas don’t just live on your dog—they lay eggs throughout your home. To stop the cycle:

  • Vacuum daily, especially carpets, rugs, and furniture

  • Wash all bedding and blankets in hot water

  • Use home-safe flea sprays or foggers on soft surfaces and flooring

You can also use natural options like diatomaceous earth (safe for pets when food-grade) on carpets and pet bedding.

5. Prevent Future Infestations

The best flea control is prevention. Continue with regular flea treatments and keep your environment clean and flea-resistant:

  • Groom your dog regularly

  • Keep your yard mowed and remove leaf litter

  • Limit contact with unfamiliar animals or environments where fleas may be present

Ask one of our Pet Nutrition Experts at Global Pet Foods for supplements that support a healthy coat and repel parasites naturally.

Natural Flea Remedies: Do They Work?

If you're looking for a chemical-free solution, natural flea control can be effective when used consistently. Here are a few options:

  • Apple cider vinegar in your dog’s water bowl (a teaspoon per day) can help repel fleas

  • Essential oil-based flea sprays for coats and bedding

  • Brewer’s yeast supplements, which may make your dog less attractive to fleas

  • Regular use of diatomaceous earth in high-traffic pet areas

Always check with your vet before starting any new regimen, especially for puppies or dogs with sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Fleas may be persistent, but with the right combination of treatment and prevention, you can kick them to the curb. Whether you’re looking for natural remedies or conventional flea control, the goal is the same: a happy, itch-free pup.

🐶 Need help finding the right flea solution for your dog? Our team at Global Pet Foods is here to help with expert advice and a wide range of flea prevention products.

Summer Pet Essentials: Everything Your Pet Needs to Stay Cool, Safe, and Happy

Adam Love

Summer’s finally here, and it’s not just humans who love the sunshine—your pets are ready to enjoy it too. Whether you're hitting the beach, heading up north, or just hanging out in the backyard, having the right summer gear for your pets makes all the difference.

At Global Pet Foods, we’ve got all the summer pet essentials you need to keep your dog or cat safe, cool, and comfortable.

Why Summer Gear Matters for Pets

Hot weather can be rough on pets. Think heatstroke, burned paws, ticks, fleas, and dehydration. Just like you pack sunscreen and water for yourself, your pet needs summer support too. That’s where we come in.

Top Summer Essentials for Pets

1. Cooling Mats and Vests

Help your pet beat the heat with cooling mats and lightweight cooling vests. Whether they’re sunbathing on the deck or joining you on a hike, these products help regulate body temperature.

2. Hydration On the Go

Stay ahead of dehydration with collapsible water bowls, pet-safe electrolytes, and bottles with built-in dispensers. Hydration is key for summer fun.

3. Natural Flea & Tick Prevention

Bugs are out in full force. Protect your pet with natural tick and flea sprays, shampoos, and chews—tough on pests, easy on your pet.

4. Sun Protection for Pets

Pets can get sunburn too, especially light-coated or short-haired breeds. Grab a pet-safe sunscreen or UV-blocking shirt to keep them protected.

5. Frozen Treats and Summer Snacks

Cool your pet down with frozen yogurts, icy treats, and long-lasting chews. Great for hot days, boredom, and rewarding good behaviour.

6. Travel Gear for Road Trips and Cottage Weekends

Planning a getaway? Don’t forget the essentials—car seat belts, travel crates, calming chews, and portable bowls.

Why Shop at Global Pet Foods?

We’re more than just a pet store. We’re passionate pet people with a focus on natural, Canadian-made products and real customer service. Whether you’re looking for a cooling mat or tick spray, our team is here to help you find what’s right for your pet.

Get Summer-Ready

From frozen treats to bug protection and road trip must-haves, Global Pet Foods has you covered. Visit us in-store or shop online to get your pet summer-ready today.

Let’s make this your pet’s best summer yet.

Top 26 Canadian Made or Owned Pet food Brands

Adam Love

CANDIAN MADE PET FOODS

Best Canadian Dog Food Brands: Top Choices for Your Pet's Health & Nutrition

If you're looking for the best Canadian dog food brands, this comprehensive list highlights top-rated, nutritious options for your furry friends. From grain-free to raw food diets, we've covered everything you need to know. Each of these brands provides high-quality ingredients, ethical sourcing, and advanced nutritional formulas to ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.

1. Horizon Pulsar: Grain-Free, Single-Protein Diets

  • Best for: Pets needing grain-friendly, single-protein diets

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, no artificial preservatives, locally sourced ingredients

  • Manufactured in: Saskatchewan, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Turkey, Salmon, Chicken, Pork, Lamb 

  • Why Choose Horizon Pulsar: GMO free, Low glycemic, Low temp Cooked Perfect for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

2. Horizon Legacy: High-Protein, Grain-Free Formulas (COMMING SOON)

  • Best for:High-protein, grain-free diets

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, made with fresh meats, lentils, and peas

  • Manufactured in: Saskatchewan, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken & Turkey, Salmon, Pork & Lamb, and locally grown lentils

  • Why Choose Horizon Legacy: Provides a protein-packed formula for active dogs and those with high energy needs. Added colostrum, multi Protiens, low glycemic  

3. Horizon Taiga: Affordable, All-Life-Stage Nutrition (COMMING SOON)

  • Best for:Budget-friendly, all-life-stage nutrition

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, made with high-quality Canadian-sourced meats and grains

  • Manufactured in: Saskatchewan, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken meal, Pork meal.

  • Why Choose Horizon Taiga: Great for dog owners looking for affordable pet food with high nutritional value. grain free and grain inclusive recipes, gut health, low glycemic  

4. Now Fresh (by Petcurean): Ideal for Picky Eaters & Small Breeds

  • Best for:Picky eaters, small breeds

  • Type:Dry & wet food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, grain-free, made with fresh deboned meats and whole vegetables

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada, and Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Fresh turkey, salmon, duck, coconut oil, and flaxseed and more

  • Why Choose Now Fresh: Perfect for small breed dogs and dogs with finicky appetites. fresh meats and superior gut health

5. Summit (by Petcurean): Budget-Friendly, High-Quality Dog Food

  • Best for:Budget-conscious pet owners

  • Type:Dry food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, made with locally sourced proteins and healthy grains

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada, and Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken meal, salmon meal, pork meal, turkey meal

  • Why Choose Summit: A great option for those looking for affordable, nutritious food for their dogs. Grain inclusive. Multi protein.

6. Nature’s Harvest: Holistic Nutrition for Dogs

  • Best for:Locally sourced, grain-friendly pet food

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, USDA, EU CFIA-approved, antibiotic-free meats, holistic nutrition

  • Manufactured in: Quebec , Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Duck, Chicken, Cod, Lamb

  • Why Choose Nature’s Harvest: Provides holistic nutrition with ethically sourced ingredients. grain free and grain inclusive 

7. Open Farm: Eco-Conscious, Humanely Raised Meat

  • Best for:Eco-conscious pet owners

  • Type:Dry, wet, freeze-dried, and fresh food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, GAP certified, sustainable sourcing

  • Manufactured in: USA & Iceland (company based in Toronto, ingredients sourced from Canada & USA)

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Humanely raised meats, wild-caught fish, Chicken, Venison, Beef, Salmon, turkey, Pork. Whitefish, Cod

  • Why Choose Open Farm: Ideal for those looking for ethically sourced, sustainable dog food. Non GMO. Eco conscious. sustainably sourced

8. Carna4: Nutrient-Dense, Air-Dried Dog Food

  • Best for:Nutrient-dense, air-dried food

  • Type:Air-dried food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, made without synthetic additives

  • Manufactured in: Quebec, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Goat, duck, venison, chicken, lamb,

  • Why Choose Carna4:Air-dried food packed with essential nutrients and probiotics for better digestion. Synthetic free. Novel proteins Superfoods.

9. GO! Solutions (by Petcurean): Specialized Diets for Specific Needs

  • Best for: Dogs and cats with specific dietary needs (sensitive, grain-free, etc.)

  • Type:Dry food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, responsibly sourced proteins, premium grains and fats

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada, and Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Salmon, Turkey, Venison, Lamb, Duck, Wild boar

  • Why Choose GO! Solutions: Provides targeted formulas for pets with unique nutritional needs.

10. FirstMate: High-Quality, Single-Source Proteins

  • Best for:Sensitive pets, single-source proteins

  • Type:Dry food & canned food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, eco-friendly sourcing, hormone and antibiotic-free ingredients

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Wild-caught fish, free-run poultry, Lamb, Beef, Duck

  • Why Choose FirstMate: Ideal for pets with sensitivities or allergies to common ingredients. Limited Ingredient Grain Free & Grain Inclusive Diets 

11. Smack Pet Food: Raw, Whole Food Diet

  • Best for:Raw, whole food diet for dogs and cats

  • Type:Dehydrated raw food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, hormone-free, antibiotic-free meats

  • Manufactured in: Manitoba, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Salmon, Chicken, Pork, Rockfish

  • Why Choose Smack: Provides raw, whole food nutrition with high-quality meats and organic vegetables. Synthetic free, low carb

12. Nutram: Holistic Nutrition for Pet Wellness

  • Best for:Holistic nutrition, pet wellness

  • Type:Dry kibble & wet food

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, ethical sourcing, sustainable practices

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Lamb, Salmon, Trout, Pork

  • Why Choose Nutram: Focuses on holistic health with sustainable sourcing and balanced formulas. solutions based diets

13. Acana: Premium, Protein-Rich Dog Food

  • Best for:High-protein, grain-free diets

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, non-GMO ingredients, sustainably sourced meats and fish

  • Manufactured in: Dry Food made in Alberta, Canada, USA OWNED

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Fresh regional meats, wild-caught fish, Lamb, Pork, Multi Fish species, Chicken, Turkey and more

  • Why Choose Acana: Known for premium protein content and regional ingredients. Grain Free and Grain Inclusive diets

14. Orijen: Biologically Appropriate Dog Food

  • Best for:Active dogs & cats needing a protein-rich diet

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, ethically sourced ingredients, biologically appropriate formulas

  • Manufactured in:  Dry Food made in Alberta, Canada, USA OWNED 

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Fresh regional meats, wild-caught fish, Lamb, Pork, Multi Fish species, Chicken, Turkey  Goat Beef and more

  • Why Choose Orijen: Ideal for active pets with a need for high-quality, protein-rich food. Grain Free and Grain Inclusive diets

15. Grand Cru (by CaniSource): Raw, Nutrient-Rich Food for Dogs

  • Best for:Raw, nutrient-rich food for dogs

  • Type:Dehydrated raw food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, hormone and antibiotic-free meats, no artificial preservatives

  • Manufactured in: Quebec, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Fish, Pork, Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, Eggs and more

  • Why Choose Grand Cru: Ideal for pet owners seeking raw food alternative packed with natural nutrients.

16. Kasiks: Premium Dry Dog Food

  • Best for:Sensitive pets 

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, free from artificial additives

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Lamb, Fish, Duck

  • Why Choose Kasiks: Provides Grain Free diets with high-quality proteins. Calorie Dense 

17. Skoki: Budget-Friendly, High-Quality Dog Food

  • Best for:Budget-friendly, high-quality food for pets

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, hormone-free, no by-products

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Fish, Lamb 

  • Why Choose Skoki: A great option for those seeking affordable, healthy dog food. 44lb bags

18. Valens: Grain-Free, Nutrient-Dense Formulas

  • Best for:Grain-free, nutrient-dense formulas

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, holistic formulas with high protein

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Lamb, Beef, Bison, Boar, Chicken, Turkey, Fish

  • Why Choose Valens: Great for dogs with sensitive stomachs and those in need of a grain-free diet. Vita cube inclusion.

19. Boreal: Dry Food Diets for Dogs with Food Sensitivities

  • Best for:Pets with food sensitivities

  • Type:Dry kibble

  • Certifications/Standards: AAFCO, CFIA-approved, no artificial preservatives

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Venison, herring, and trout, Salmon, Chicken, Lamb, Turkey, Duck

  • Why Choose Boreal: Perfect for dogs with allergies or food sensitivities that need a raw-inspired diet. Grain free, Grain Inclusive and limited ingredient diets.

20. Hurraw: Raw, Whole Food Diets for Pets

  • Best for:Raw, whole food diets for pets

  • Type:Dehydrated raw food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, no artificial additives

  • Manufactured in: Quebec, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Turkey, Eggs, Fish, Pork, Chicken

  • Why Choose Hurraw: Ideal for those looking to feed their pets a raw Alternative, minimally processed diet.

21. Big Country Raw: Raw Food Diet for Active Dogs

  • Best for:Raw food diets

  • Type:Raw frozen food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, hormone and antibiotic-free meats

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Kangaroo, Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Eggs, Lamb, Duck, Pork, Bison and more

  • Why Choose Big Country Raw: Perfect for active dogs that need high-quality, raw frozen food to fuel their energy.

22. Iron Will Raw: Premium Raw Food for Dogs

  • Best for:Raw food diets

  • Type:Raw frozen food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, hormone and antibiotic-free meats

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Kangaroo, Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Eggs, Lamb, Duck, Pork, Bison and more

  • Why Choose Iron Will Raw: Excellent for those seeking a premium, nutrient-dense raw food diet.

23. Healthy Paws Raw: Nutrient-Dense Raw Food

  • Best for:Raw, nutrient-dense food

  • Type:Raw frozen food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, no grains or fillers

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Venison, Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Eggs, Lamb, Duck, Pork, Bison and more

  • Why Choose Healthy Paws Raw: Great for dogs that need high-protein raw food without fillers or grains.

24. Red Dog Blue Kat: Premium Raw Food for Dogs

  • Best for:Raw food diets

  • Type:Raw frozen food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, hormone and antibiotic-free meats

  • Manufactured in: British Columbia, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Kangaroo,  Venison, Turkey, Beef, Salmon, Eggs, Lamb, Duck, Pork, Bison and more

  • Why Choose Red Dog Blue Kat: Offers premium raw food options for dogs seeking balanced, natural nutrition.

25. Bold by Nature Raw: Premium Raw Diets for Dogs

  • Best for:Raw food diets

  • Type:Raw frozen food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, hormone-free meats

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Turkey, Beef, Duck, Pork, and more

  • Why Choose Bold by Nature Raw: Ideal for those wanting high-quality raw food with a focus on natural ingredients.

26. Raw Performance Raw: Balanced Raw Diets for Dogs

  • Best for:Raw food diets

  • Type:Raw frozen food

  • Certifications/Standards: CFIA-approved, no grains or preservatives

  • Manufactured in: Ontario, Canada

  • HACCP Certified: Yes

  • Proteins Used: Chicken, Turkey, Beef, Duck, Pork, and more

  • Why Choose Raw Performance Raw: Perfect for dogs with special dietary needs who require balanced raw food for optimal health.

Conclusion: Top Canadian Pet Food Brands for Dogs

These Canadian pet food brands offer a wide range of products, including raw food, grain-free diets, and premium formulas to meet your pet’s specific nutritional needs. By choosing these brands, you can be sure that you're providing your dog with high-quality ingredients and ethically sourced proteins. Whether you're looking for high-protein, single-source protein, or eco-conscious options, there's a Canadian brand that aligns with your dog's health and well-being.

Elevate Your Pet's Lifestyle

Unraveling the Mystery of Dry, Itchy, Flaky Skin in Dogs and Cats: A Comprehensive Guide to Relief

Adam Love

As pet parents, we all want our furry companions to lead happy and healthy lives. However, one of the most common issues that can affect our dogs and cats is dry, itchy, flaky skin. This discomfort not only bothers our pets but also raises concerns for us. In this blog post, we'll delve into the causes of this common problem and explore effective solutions to provide relief for your beloved pets.

Understanding the Causes:

1. **Environmental Factors:**

   - Harsh weather conditions, such as extreme cold or hot temperatures, can lead to dry skin in pets.

   - Exposure to allergens, pollutants, and irritants in the environment can contribute to skin issues.

2. **Dietary Factors:**

   - Poor nutrition can manifest in skin problems. Ensure your pet is receiving a balanced diet rich in             essential nutrients.

   - Food allergies may also be a culprit. Consult your veterinarian to rule out any dietary triggers.

3. **Parasites:**

   - Fleas, ticks, and mites can cause intense itching and skin irritation. Regular preventive measures are       crucial.

4. **Underlying Health Conditions:**

   - Conditions like dermatitis, allergies, and hormonal imbalances can manifest in skin problems.

   - Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and address underlying health issues.

Effective Solutions:

1. **Skin Sprays:**

   - Choose skin sprays containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and tea tree oil.

   - Our Skouts Honour spray is specially formulated to provide instant relief and promote skin healing. 

2. **Dietary Supplements:**

   - Omega-3 fatty acids are renowned for their skin-nourishing properties. Consider adding a high-quality fish oil supplement to your pet's diet.

   - Check out our recommended Ultra Oil, a premium fish oil supplement that supports healthy skin and coat.

3. **Oils, & Creams for Topical Application:**

   - Coconut oil and olive oil can be applied topically to moisturize and soothe dry skin.

   - For wounds Explore our Absorbine Silver Honey skin cream ,a natural Manuka honey, silver, and neem and oil blend designed to nourish, heal and hydrate your pet's skin. 

Preventive Measures:

1. **Regular Grooming:**

   - Brush your pet regularly to remove dead skin cells and distribute natural oils. Baxter and Bellas has       a variety of suitable options for every pet!

   - Use a gentle, moisturizing pet shampoo to avoid stripping away essential oils. Avoid unnecessary and potentially harmful ingredients  such as Phthalates, Sulfates and parabens. We recommend Tropiclean for their variety of solution based options.

2. **Proper Nutrition:**

   - Feed your pet a balanced, high-quality diet tailored to their specific needs. Options such as Dry               kibble, freeze dried, raw, & dehydrated are available when implementing a high quality diet

   - Consult with our pet care associates to determine if any dietary adjustments are necessary.

3. **Parasite Control:**

   - Keep up with regular flea and tick prevention measures.

   - Consult  with our pet care associates to determine the most effective and suitable parasite control options. holistic, more natual approaches such as diatomaceous earth or Natures Shield by Life Blends work well with continued use, if the problem is heavy or persistant, topical options such as Advantage II or  Zodiac pet spray can help eliminate those pesky parasites with no adverse reactions 

Conclusion:

Dry, itchy, flaky skin in dogs and cats can be a common challenge, but with the right care and products, you can alleviate your pet's discomfort. Consult with our pet care specialists for a personalized approach to address your pet's specific needs. Invest in quality products to promote healthy skin and a happy, itch-free life for your furry friend. --> check out our variety of  premium supplements to help with every aspect of your pets life.

Global Pet Foods Georgian Bay Team!