Question: Can Dogs Get Human Head Lice?
"My kids have head lice, and we share our home (and beds, and furniture) with two long-haired dogs. Do the dogs need to be treated too?" ~ A Reader
Answer: Thankfully, head lice (Pediculus humanus) are species-specific, meaning they only like, and are transported by, human heads. Human head lice can only live a very short time off a head, and will not cling to the coarser hairs on a dog's pelt. However, do vacuum the dog's bedding well, and your upholstered furniture, and definitely any carpets in your home. Wash all bedding in hot water and use the hottest setting on your dryer to dry them after.
Everything You Ever Needed To Know About Head Lice