What do dog lice look like? - briefly
Dog lice are small, flat insects typically measuring about 1-3 mm in length. They have six legs and are usually gray or brown in color, although they can darken after feeding on blood.
What do dog lice look like? - in detail
Dog lice, also known as Trichodectes canis, are small parasitic insects that specifically infest dogs and other canids. They are typically visible to the naked eye but require close inspection to identify correctly. Here is a detailed description of what dog lice look like:
Dog lice are oval-shaped and have a flattened body, which allows them to move efficiently through the fur. Their size varies depending on their stage of development—eggs (nits) are tiny, about 0.5 millimeters in length, while adult lice can reach up to 2 millimeters. The color of dog lice ranges from white to grayish-brown, often blending with the host's fur, which makes them harder to detect without a magnifying glass or close inspection.
The head of the dog louse is distinct, with a pair of antennae and strong chewing mouthparts designed for biting into the skin and feeding on blood and skin debris. The body consists of three segments: the head (cephalothorax), the midsection (thorax), and the abdomen. Each segment is covered in small hairs that help the louse grip onto the fur.
One of the key identifying features of dog lice is their legs. They have six legs, with the front two pairs being longer and more robust than the hind pair. The longer legs are used for grasping and moving through the fur, while the shorter legs are used for stability.
Dog lice eggs, or nits, are usually attached to the base of individual hairs close to the skin. They appear as small, white specks and can be mistaken for dandruff. However, unlike dandruff, nits do not fall off easily and are firmly attached to the hair shaft.
In summary, dog lice have a distinct appearance characterized by their oval shape, flattened body, small size, and color that ranges from white to grayish-brown. Their legs, antennae, and mouthparts are visible upon close inspection, making them identifiable despite their small size.