Lice on dogs causes some similar symptoms to fleas, so it can be difficult to tell whether your dog has lice, fleas, or both. A bad lice infestation can cause skin wounds, matted fur and dry and rough looking coat.
A close look at your dogs skin by parting the fur can reveal the lice as tiny yellow-ish to light brown insects similar to head lice in humans. A good flea control product can also kill and prevent dog lice.