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Fleas and ticks are a bother. They wreak havoc on your dog’s system. Skin lesions and excessive itching are among the side effects. It breaks your heart to see your dog scratch compulsively. The fleas or ticks may not be visible, making removal difficult.
Fleas and ticks are common in all climates and locations where dogs live, so relocating may not be an option. The most important thing is to seek the proper diagnosis and treatment. Early detection is critical because fleas and ticks can cause anemia in the long run.
Numerous treatment options are available, and selecting the best one can be difficult. This is where our top ten treatment options come in. This simplifies the selection process and saves time. Our guide also explains how to choose the best treatment for your dog so that you can confidently assist it in overcoming this issue. Let’s get started.
How We Reviewed
Before compiling this list, we conducted extensive research. Here are our ground rules for deciding on a treatment or prevention strategy.
- Safety: Tick and flea treatment options are prescription medications, and your dog’s safety comes first. This is especially important in puppies, toy breeds, and dogs with health issues.
- Availability: We chose treatment and prevention options that are available in a range of doses. This makes it simple to tailor it to your dog’s specific requirements.
- Cost and convenience: In areas with fewer parasites, preventive measures may be required less frequently. When compared to daily doses, this is more cost-effective. However, tick or flea-infected areas necessitate frequent administration.
NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs (Best Overall)
This is our best overall thanks to its low-maintenance dosage, easy chewing, and fast-acting main ingredient. It has a pleasant beef flavor, so your dog eagerly awaits its monthly dose. The primary ingredient, afoxolaner, is absorbed into your dog’s bloodstream and prevents fleas from laying eggs. It also keeps ticks away.
The FDA approves Nexgard to prevent Lyme disease-causing infections. This product may cause your dog to become wet immediately after ingestion, but it is not harmful to children or other pets. Puppies as young as eight weeks old and weighing four pounds or more can also be given the chews.
- Parasites prevented: Fleas, American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, Lone Star ticks, and brown dog ticks.
- Duration of effectiveness: One month.
- Safe for: Dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older.
- Not labeled for use: Puppies below 8 weeks and dogs weighing less than 4 pounds.
- Prescription: Yes
Features
- Afoxolaner is the primary ingredient for the fast elimination of parasites.
- Monthly dosage, so no frequent need to administer.
- Pleasant beef flavor to delight your dog’s taste buds.
What we like
- It is safe to use around children.
- Easy to chew.
- Works fast.
What we don’t like
- It’s a prescription drug and hence a bit costly.
Bravecto Chews for Dogs ( Best Chewable)
This is the best selection for Shih Tzus and Collies. These dogs have thick coats, and oral chews come in handy. Topicals can be difficult to apply in such dogs. These chews offer protection for up to 12 weeks and start working after 2 hours of administration. It has the active ingredient fluralaner, which controls ticks and fleas.
They prevent fleas and four tick species. Their meat flavor makes it easy to give your dog. The main downside of these chews is their failure to destroy parasites on contact. On the contrary, your pup needs to be bitten fast. Being prescription chews, the price can be a bit high.
- Parasites prevented: Fleas, American dog ticks, Lone Star ticks, and black-legged ticks.
- Duration of effectiveness: 12 weeks.
- Safe for: All dogs
- Not labeled for use: Dogs with a history of neurological issues or seizures.
- Prescription: Yes.
Features
- The key ingredient is fluralaner which controls parasites fast.
- Meat-flavored making it easy to give your dog.
- Available in both oral and topical form so you can choose the best for your pup.
What we like
- They are chewable.
- Available in different sizes.
- Offer protection for 12 weeks.
What we don’t like
- Do not kill parasites on contact.
- A bit expensive.
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo (Best Shampoo)
This is a multi-function treatment option. It kills ticks and fleas while ensuring your pup is clean and smells nice. The combination of aloe, coconut, oatmeal, and lanolin makes it gentle on the skin and gives your dog a sweet fragrance. It has an insect growth regulator which prevents and kills fleas for up to 28 days.
Using it with other treatment options is great, as this shampoo is only best for current infestations. It will not last long on your pup’s skin. It may not suit homes with cats as it has pyrethrin, a toxic chemical in cats.
- Parasites prevented: Fleas, ticks, and lice.
- Duration of effectiveness: 28 days.
- Safe for: All dogs.
- Not labeled for use: Cats.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- It has aloe, coconut extract, lanolin, and oatmeal, making it gentle and sweet-smelling.
- Has an insect growth regulator to prevent and kill fleas and ticks.
What we like
- Smells nice.
- Keeps dogs clean.
- Perfect for current infestations.
What we don’t like
- Requires frequent reapplication.
- Not suitable for homes with cats.
Wondercide Flea & Tick Spray (Best Natural)
This is the best selection for pet parents that love natural ingredients. This spray features cedarwood oil and lemongrass as the primary ingredients. These ingredients naturally repel parasites. The spray can be used as a room spray or sprayed directly on your pup.
It is available in various scents allowing you to choose one perfect for your dog. However, its peppermint scent may not be the best, as peppermint essential oil is poisonous for canines and felines.
- Parasites prevented: Fleas, mosquitoes, and fleas.
- Duration of effectiveness: 2-10 days.
- Safe for: Pets and people.
- Not labeled for use: Aquatic environments.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- Uses natural ingredients to minimize the chances of negative reactions.
- You can choose according to your dog’s needs in various scents.
What we like
- Comes in a variety of scents.
- Safe for households.
- It has a pleasant smell.
- It utilizes natural ingredients.
What we don’t like
- The peppermint scent may harm your dog or cat.
- It requires frequent reapplication.
Sentry Fiproguard Plus for Small Dogs( Best for small dogs)
This is made specifically for small pups from 5-22 pounds. It kills fleas, ticks, and lice and requires a new application every 30 days. This topical treatment is easy to use since you only apply it to your dog’s back.
Opening the tube requires scissors. Your pup won’t lick it once it dries; it takes a few days for it to stick, and wetness won’t remove it. Additionally, this treatment destroys ticks that cause Lyme disease. However, it is not safe for dogs and dogs with other health complications.
- Parasites prevented: Flea eggs, larvae, adult fleas, and adult ticks.
- Duration of effectiveness: 10 days.
- Safe for: Pups over 8 weeks.
- Not labeled for use: Puppies below 8 weeks, sick dogs, senior dogs, pregnant dogs, cats, and nursing bitches.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- It is waterproof after drying and lasts longer on your dog’s skin.
- Effective for up to 12 weeks, so no need for reapplication during this time.
What we like
- Stops flea life cycle for up to 12 weeks.
- Waterproof after drying.
- Kills ticks that transmit Lyme disease.
- Acts fast and lasts longer.
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for cats.
- Not as fast as other preventive and treatment options.
Frontline Plus Flea & Tick Large Breed Dog Treatment (Best for Large Dogs)
This long-lasting and fast-acting topical treatment is the best selection for large dogs. It features fipronil which destroys fleas and ticks. Moreover, it has methoprene that destroys flea larvae and eggs. It works fast on ticks that cause Lyme disease. Frontline is best for pups weighing 44-88 pounds.
It lasts for up to 30 days and is waterproof after drying. You need not worry about your children as this treatment is child-friendly. It is available without a prescription. You can use it in nursing and pregnant dogs.
- Parasites prevented: Fleas, lice, and ticks.
- Duration of effectiveness: 30 days.
- Safe for: Dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older, breeding, nursing, and pregnant dogs.
- Not labeled for use: Puppies below 8 weeks and cats.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- Has fipronil and methoprene to destroy fleas, ticks, flea larvae, and eggs.
- Waterproof after drying, so it stays longer on the skin.
What we like
- It kills lice, ticks, and fleas of all life stages.
- Lasts longer.
- Acts fast.
- Safe for pregnant and nursing dogs.
- Stored in your dog’s oil glands to prevent flea growth and development.
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for puppies less than 8 weeks.
- Kills fleas, lice, and ticks only.
Bayer K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention (Best for puppies)
Puppies are also prone to flea and tick infestation, and this topical treatment comes in handy. It is suitable for puppies and dogs weighing 4-10 pounds. K9 Advantix has three active ingredients, including a repellant, insect growth regulator, and flea adulticide, that work together to prevent parasites at different stages.
It is effective for 30 days and destroys parasites on contact. So the parasites do not have to bite your dog for the treatment to work. It is easy to apply and starts functioning after 12 hours of application. Homes with cats may not use this treatment as it is not safe for cats. You can bathe your dog 24 hours after application.
- Parasites prevented: Ticks, mosquitoes, fleas, and lice.
- Duration of effectiveness: 30 days.
- Safe for: Puppies and dogs weighing 4-10 pounds.
- Not labeled for use: Cats.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- Includes a repellant, insect growth regulator, and flea adulticide to prevent the growth and development of parasites.
- Suitable for pups weighing 4-10 pounds and hence safe for puppies.
What we like
- Safe for puppies.
- Effective for up to 30 days.
- Includes an insect growth regulator to prevent parasite life stages.
- Easy to apply.
- Waterproof after 24 hours.
- Destroys parasites on contact.
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for cats.
- Some customers complained it did not last long.
Capstar Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs
Fleas harm your dog and should be destroyed fast. This is where Capstar Oral Flea treatment comes in. It is safe for young puppies as old as 4 months and weighs approximately 2 pounds. It is also safe for pregnant and nursing pups. Its active ingredient, nitenpyram, starts working after 30 minutes and destroys all fleas within 4 hours.
It is perfect for young dogs that cannot use oral medication as it lasts for 24 hours only. However, daily application is okay. Once your puppy is old enough, you can switch to longer treatments. It is easy to administer and use with other treatment plans. It has no odors or messes. Safely store unused treatments. This maintains their potency.
- Parasites prevented: Adult fleas.
- Duration of effectiveness: 24 hours.
- Safe for Breeding, pregnant, and nursing dogs, dogs weighing 2 pounds and above and aged 4 months and above.
- Not labeled for use: Pups less than 4 months and weighing less than 2 pounds.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- The active ingredient is nitenpyram which starts functioning after 30 minutes.
- Non-prescription, so you can purchase it at any time.
What we like
- It’s safe for puppies 4 weeks and older.
- It is safe for pregnant, breeding, and nursing dogs.
- It works fast.
- Available with no prescription.
- Easy to use.
- You can use it with other treatment plans.
What we don’t like
- Not long-lasting.
- Effective on fleas only.
- It does not destroy flea eggs or larvae.
PetArmor Plus Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs
This waterproof treatment is perfect for flea eggs, larvae, adult fleas, lice, and ticks. It is effective for 30 days and, like Frontline Plus, features fipronil and methoprene as the main ingredients. These ingredients work together to start destroying fleas within 24 hours.
Killing flea eggs and larvae destroys the flea life cycle, thus preventing re-infestation. It protects your dog against Lone Star ticks, American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and deer ticks which cause Lyme disease. The treatment is easy to use and lasts longer.
- Parasites prevented: American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, deer ticks, Lone Star ticks, flea eggs, larvae, adult fleas, and lice.
- Duration of effectiveness: 30 days.
- Safe for: Puppies 8 weeks and above, dogs weighing 5-22 pounds.
- Not labeled for use: Cats.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- Features fipronil and methoprene as the active ingredients to destroy parasites fast.
- Kills flea eggs and larvae, thus destroying their lifecycle.
What we like
- Works fast.
- Lasts longer.
- Easy to use.
- It is non-prescription.
- Has two active ingredients.
What we don’t like
- It may not be the correct choice for large dogs.
PetHonesty Flea & Tick Defense Supplement
This product is formulated to destroy seasonal pests, including mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. It has no wheat, soy, corn, GMOs, or chemical preservatives, so your dog wouldn’t react negatively. The supplement is rich in vitamins and uses natural ingredients like flaxseed and coconut oil.
It is made to boost your dog’s resistance against parasites while supporting the immune system. The mega-high levels support coat, skin, and joint health. The daily dosage ranges from 1-3 chews, depending on your pup’s poundage.
- Parasites prevented: Ticks, fleas, flea eggs, mosquitoes, and flea larvae.
- Duration of effectiveness: 24 hours.
- Safe for: Adult dogs.
- Not labeled for use: Puppies and cats.
- Prescription: No.
Features
- There are no corn, soy, wheat, artificial preservatives, or GMOs, reducing the risks of allergies and sensitivities.
- Use natural ingredients which are safe for your pup.
- Includes vitamins and omegas that boost immunity and skin wellness.
What we like
- It has no fillers or artificial additives.
- Destroys all topical pests.
- No prescription is required.
- It builds your fido’s resistance against pests over time.
- Great for the immune system.
What we don’t like
- Not suitable for puppies and cats.
Buyers Guide
Understanding how fleas affect your dog and the key features of the best flea and tick treatment options is key. It helps you prevent and treat the parasites before they cause other health problems.
What Are the Effects of Fleas and Ticks on Dogs?
Fleas and ticks have a direct impact on your dog’s overall wellness. The longer it takes to treat them, the more havoc they cause on your dog’s system. Here are the major effects of these parasites on pups.
Contact Dermatitis
This is the main symptom of fleas on your dog’s body. Contact dermatitis results from flea bites that irritate your pup’s skin. Dogs allergic to flea saliva develop flea contact dermatitis.
This condition is characterized by biting, scratching, and chewing the affected area. Continuous scratching and licking lead to the formation of painful wounds and swelling. This exposes your fido to bacterial and other secondary infections.
Frequent vacuuming and maintaining your lawn lower the chances of this problem. Dogs with sensitive skin need a prescription from the vet to minimize the chances of sensitivities. .
Anemia
Fleas and ticks bite your dog and hence draw blood from them. A single bite may only lead to scratching. However, continuous biting means more blood is drawn from your dog. This may eventually cause anemia.
Dogs with reduced red blood cell count, puppies, and those with existing health issues are at a higher risk of developing anemia. Anemia can become fatal if untreated.
Tapeworms
Fleas may carry tapeworm eggs; when your dog ingests them, they start growing until they mature. Tapeworms consume the nutrients meant for your fido, thus exposing it to health issues. They also cause intestinal problems, especially in dogs with low immunity and puppies.
Read more on Puppy Worms (A Review of 4 Major Types)
Are Certain Breeds At a Higher Risk of Fleas and Ticks than Other Dogs?
All pups can get fleas. However, some breeds are more exposed to them than others. This majorly stems from the environment. Fleas love warm and humid environments. This makes your dog’s fur their best dwelling place.
Dogs with long coats can easily hide fleas, making them susceptible to fleas. Long tails and floppy ears are also attractive to fleas. They give them an excellent hiding place. Below are the breeds predisposed to flea infestation:
- Golden Retrievers.
- Labrador Retrievers.
- Beagles.
- Basset Hounds.
- German Shepherds.
You should take preventive measures, especially if you have such a dog. This involves cleaning your lawn, vacuuming, and using the treatments above. Always check your dog for any signs of flea infestation.
What Are the Signs of Flea and Tick Infestation in Dogs?
Understanding the signs to watch out for helps you take swift action before the fleas and ticks cause other problems for your dog. Below are the symptoms of flea and tick infestation in canines:
- Itching, scratching, and chewing on the skin: Scratching is an instant sign. Most dogs are allergic to flea bites, and hence the bites result in excessive scratching and itching.
- Hair loss around the tail and neck: As your pup tries to relieve the itch, it continuously scratches itself, leading to hair loss. The neck and tail are conducive for fleas and ticks to hide, where frequent scratching occurs.
- Small red bumps on the skin: Fleas leave bite marks on your dog’s skin. These can cause dermatitis.
- Small black specks on your pup’s bedding or skin: These are the mixture of flea feces and blood meal which leave behind flea dirt.
- Swollen lymph nodes, lack of appetite, joint pain, and fever are common signs of Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain fever.
What to Look for in a Flea and Tick Prevention Product
The selection process can be difficult, especially if you do not know what to look for in a flea and tick treatment option.
Here are the things to watch out for when purchasing flea and tick prevention and treatment products:
Longevity
The effectiveness of flea and tick prevention and treatment products varies. Some require frequent reapplication, while others last as long as 1-3 months. This determines the frequency of reapplication and your annual expenditure on such products.
Active ingredients
These are the insecticides that destroy fleas and ticks. Active ingredients are critical as they dictate the effectiveness of a product. The active ingredients tell you the type of insects killed by the treatment, its safety with children, and whether it negatively affects your pup. Always ensure the active ingredients have little or no negative effect on the household and your pet.
Delivery method
Flea and tick prevention and treatment products come in various forms. They can be chewable tablets, oral, topicals, collars, or shampoos. Oral is eaten while topicals are applied to your dog’s skin.
Oral treatments come in handy for dogs that frequently get wet. Applying topicals means the treatment is washed away before it becomes effective. Orals are more expensive. On the other hand, shampoos require frequent reapplication, which can be done daily.
Ease of use
This is important as it makes the process smooth. It also saves time. Read the label carefully to understand how a certain product is used. Products requiring gloves or children’s absence during application are less attractive.
How can you tell if your dog has fleas?
There are several indicators that your dog has fleas. If you notice your dog itching excessively, especially at the flank or above the tail, check to see if these tiny bugs are in its coat.
When you part your dog’s fur, you may notice tiny dots that appear as small black specks or bugs moving around the body and hiding fast in your dog’s coat.
How can you prevent your dog from getting fleas?
The main preventive measure is using flea and tick treatment options. However, keeping your grass short and preventing your dog from playing in places that harbor fleas also helps.
Keeping your grass short ensures fleas have no place to hide. You can also prevent fleas by treating your home with chemicals that keep off fleas.
Can most flea treatments be used on puppies?
Most flea treatments are not safe for puppies. The best ones should be used after weaning, from 8 months. Always read the label carefully to understand whether a certain product is safe for your puppy. It is also important to consult the vet before purchasing a flea treatment for your puppy.
Our Verdict
Flea and tick prevention and treatment are essential to keeping your pup healthy and pest-free. We’ve highlighted the 10 best fleas and tick prevention and treatment options for pups so you can pick the best choice for your pet.
Our best overall product is NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs, while our best chewable product is Bravecto Chews for Dogs. They are effective on fleas. Lone Star ticks and American dog risks. Their flavor makes it easy to administer to your dog. Their active ingredients ensure they destroy parasites fast.
Always consult the vet before purchasing flea and tick prevention and treatment products.