loading...

Saturday, October 28, 2017

Best Heartworm Prevention For Dogs

[caption id="attachment_473" align="aligncenter" width="560"]best-heartworm-prevention-for-dogs best-heartworm-prevention-for-dogs[/caption]

 

Choosing the Best Heartworm and Flea Prevention






Combination heartworm and flea prevention medications make it possible to prevent heartworms along with protection from common pests including fleas, and in some products, ticks, mites and intestinal parasites — all in one medication.

The importance of heartworm prevention is undeniable. The American Heartworm Society recommends year-round heartworm prevention for cats and dogs, without missing even one dose.

As a responsible pet parent, parasite prevention including heartworm protection may seem overwhelming. However, recent innovations in the science of heartworm prevention have made it easier than ever to protect your pet from harmful parasites with a single heartworm and flea pill or application.
Combination heartworm preventatives offer comprehensive protection

Administering a once-a-month combination product will protect your pet from heartworms, fleas and several types of intestinal worms in a single dose! That's a lot easier than remembering to use several products at different times, helping reduce the chances of missing a dose. Taking a single medication to prevent multiple parasites is easier on your pet, too. Compare: Trifexis, Revolution, Sentinel, Advantage Multi, and Sentinel Spectrum.

Compare combination heartworm and flea prevention medications

Trifexis, Opens in New WindowRevolution, Opens in New WindowSentinel, Opens in New WindowAdvantage Multi, Opens in New WindowSentinel Spectrum, Opens in New Window
Convenience

Combination heartworm medications are available in several forms, including tablets and topically applied formulas. This variety of administration options makes it easier and more convenient to choose the right one for your pet. Those pets that do not take tablets well will likely be more co-operative if given heartworm prevention topically.
Benefits of all-in-one heartworm and flea prevention

Before the development of combination heartworm medicine, pet parents' only choice was to give their pets separate products for the prevention of heartworms, fleas, ticks and intestinal parasites. This can be inconvenient, confusing and expensive, especially for multiple-pet homes.

These innovative all-in-one protection options now available are:

  • Affordable

  • Convenient

  • Fast-acting

  • Easy to administer

  • Long-lasting

  • Effective in the prevention of multiple pests


Trifexis is one of the leading oral combination heartworm preventatives. It is a once a month chewable tablet that prevents heartworms, kills adult fleas and also prevents hookworms, roundworms and whipworms. Sentinel Spectrum does the same, with the added benefit of preventing tapeworms.
Choosing the best heartworm and flea prevention for your pet

When choosing a combination heartworm preventative, consider your pet's lifestyle and what you want to protect your pet against most.

Choosing a heartworm and flea medicine for dogs will depend on if your dog spends most of the time indoors or outdoors. If it's unlikely that your pet could be exposed to ticks, Trifexis (a very popular flea heartworm pill for dogs) or Sentinel Spectrum may be your two best heartworm and flea prevention options. If you're concerned about ticks, Revolution provides heartworm protection and will kill ticks, along with fleas and their eggs, roundworms and hookworms.

Choosing a heartworm and flea prevention medication for cats will also depend on if your cat is primarily a housecat or spends some time outside. If you're looking for a comprehensive combination heartworm and flea protection that will also protect your cat from roundworms, hookworms and whipworms Advantage Multi is the ideal choice. However, if your cat also requires protection from ticks, Revolution is a combination heartworm preventative that kills fleas and flea eggs, ticks, roundworms and hookworms in a single topical application.

All of these combination heartworm preventatives are available by prescription only, so when seeing your veterinarian for your pet's yearly checkup, be sure to ask about your options. Your vet will be able to help you choose one based on your pet's specific needs, and will perform a heartworm test prior to writing a prescription.
What if my pet has heartworms?

If your pet is diagnosed with heartworms, your veterinarian will prescribe a treatment protocol that must be completed before giving your pet any type of heartworm preventative. Unfortunately, there is no definitive treatment protocol available for cats, but there are several palliative options including surgery in extreme cases. Heartworm treatment can be harsh, expensive and traumatic to your pet's health. This is why comprehensive heartworm prevention is so very important.







Medications used to prevent heartworm infections are called preventives. Preventives kill the heartworm larvae before they have a chance to grow and mature into adult heartworms. A number

of heartworm preventives are available to pet owners today. Some heartworm preventives contain additional ingredients that will control other parasites, such as roundworms or hookworms. A monthly preventive should be given to all pets. Remember that mosquitoes can get indoors, so even though your pet may not go outside, he is still susceptible.



























































































ProductMinimum Age/WeightDose GivenActive Ingredient Against HeartwormAdditional IngredientsAlso Effective Against
Heartgard® Plus for Dogs6 wksMonthly; oralIvermectinPyrantel pamoateRoundworms and hookworms
Heartgard® for Cats6 wksMonthly; oralIvermectinNoneHookworms
Tri-Heart® Plus for Dogs6 wksMonthly; oralIvermectinPyrantel pamoateRoundworms and hookworms
Iverhart Max® for Dogs8 wksMonthly; oralIvermectinPyrantel
pamote,
Praziquantel
Roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
Sentinel® for Dogs4 wks and
2 lbs
Monthly; oralMilbemycin oximeLufenuronRoundworms, whipworms, some hookworms, and flea eggs.
Revolution® for Dogs6 wksMonthly; topicalSelamectinNoneFleas, flea eggs, ear mites, sarcoptes mange, and American Dog Ticks.
Revolution® for Cats8 wksMonthly; topicalSelamectinNoneFleas, flea eggs, ear mites, one type of hookworm and one type of roundworm.
Advantage Multi™ for Dogs7 wks and
3 lbs
Monthly; topicalMoxidectinImidaclopridFleas, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
Advantage Multi™ for Cats9 wks and
2 lbs
Monthly; topicalMoxidectinImidaclopridFleas, roundworms, hookworms, and ear mites.
Trifexis8 wks and
5 lbs
Monthly; chewableMilbemycin oxime and SpinosadN/AFleas, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.


Best Flea Shampoo For Dogs

[caption id="attachment_472" align="aligncenter" width="560"]best-flea-shampoo-for-dogs best-flea-shampoo-for-dogs[/caption]

Fleas can relentlessly bite your pets, leaving them itchy and irritated. Pet flea shampoo can kill these pesky critters to help improve your pet’s quality of life, while also cleansing their coat.

Many pet owners find that a natural homemade recipe made of liquid dish soap, vinegar, and warm water is enough to kill fleas, but it isn’t always effective enough. When you need something stronger, a good flea shampoo can do just the trick.

What Is Pet Flea Shampoo?


Pet flea shampoo is a special medicated shampoo that can safely cleanse your pet’s coat, while killing fleas and preventing them from returning. A quality flea shampoo can kill the adult fleas that are causing your dog's discomfort. However, you will need to continually shampoo your dog throughout the year to ensure it remains effective.

It’s important to treat infested areas as soon as you notice a problem to stop the flea life cycle. Flea shampoo can be used like regular pet shampoo, starting at the head and behind the ears and moving down toward the tail. Simply let the lather remain in the hair coat for five minutes to kill pesky insects. It can usually be used along with a topical spot treatment or flea collar for enhanced results.

Remember, it’s important to always use dog products on dogs and cat products on cats. They cannot be used interchangeably, even if you choose a natural product. However, if the bottle specifically states that it is safe for both cats and dogs, then you can use it on all of your furry pals. Even if a shampoo claims to be completely safe for your animal, each pet is different and yours may not react well. If you notice any problems after using a flea shampoo, contact your vet.

For quick cleanups, consider the Vet's Best 50 Count Flea + Tick Wipes. If you need further protection from fleas and ticks, consider something like the best-selling Vet's Best Flea & Tick Home Spray or the best-selling Vet's Best Flea & Tick Yard & Kennel Spray.

Top 5 Pet Flea Shampoos


Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo With Precor for Dogs and Cats


The Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor for Dogs and Cats is Amazon’s #1 best-seller in dog flea control shampoos, as well as the best seller in cat shampoos. You can count on it to kill fleas, ticks, and lice on contact. It also provides 28 days of control from flea eggs and flea larvae. It is gentle on the coat and skin, and can actually help remove loose dandruff, dirt, and scales to improve the coat’s condition, leaving it soft and shiny. It is enriched with oatmeal, coconut extract, lanolin, and soothing aloe, so it shouldn’t irritate your pet’s coat.

The concentrated lathering shampoo can be used on both dogs and cats 12 weeks of age and older. Most reviewers tend to love how well this lathers. It is one of the “most wished for” items on Amazon and has outstanding online reviews.

Currently $8.67 on Amazon

Hartz UltraGuard Rid Flea & Tick Shampoo for Dogs With Oatmeal


The Hartz UltraGuard Rid Flea & Tick Shampoo for Dogs with Oatmeal provides immediate relief from adult fleas and ticks, including deer ticks, which may carry Lyme disease. It contains Pyrethrins, which kills fleas and ticks that can carry diseases. It also contains oatmeal to cleanse, deodorize, and soothe your pet’s dry, itchy, or irritated skin. It has a light, fresh fragrance that reviewers tend to love.

The cleansing shampoo can be used on dogs six months of age and older. This is an Amazon best-seller, one of the “most wished for” items on Amazon, and has outstanding online reviews.

Currently $10.78 on Amazon

Vet’s Best Flea Itch Relief Shampoo


The Vet’s Best Flea Itch Relief Shampoo is a veterinarian-formulated shampoo that provides fast itch relief from flea bites and infestations. Some reviewers found that it works nearly instantly to kills fleas and ticks. Instead of relying on harsh chemicals, it uses powerful natural ingredients like micronized oatmeal, aloe vera, camomile, solvent-free orange and lemon peel oil, and neem oil to soothe discomfort, irritation, dryness, and itching. It will not affect topical flea and tick control products that you may be using at the same time.

This can be used on both dogs and puppies 12 weeks of age and older. Reviewers tend to like the mild natural scent. If you’re looking for something you can use on both your cats and dogs, consider the Vet’s Best Natural Anti-Flea Easy Spray Shampoo.

Currently $7.72 on Amazon

Natural Chemistry De Flea Pet Shampoo


The Natural Chemistry De Flea Pet Shampoo is pesticide free, chemical free, nontoxic, and safe for people and pets. It is guaranteed to instantly kill fleas, ticks, mites, and lice safely. It kills insects on contact without the use of Pyrethrins or Permethrins, and will not wash off any flea and tick spot treatments you may be using at the same time. The gentle yet powerful formula works on all stages of the insect's' life cycle.

The deep cleaning shampoo can be used on both dogs and cats 12 weeks of age and older. If this one doesn’t work for your pet, consider the best-selling Natural Chemistry Natural Flea and Tick Shampoo with Oatmeal for Dogs.

Currently $9.09 on Amazon

Sentry Flea and Tick Shampoo With Oatmeal


The Sentry Flea and Tick Shampoo With Oatmeal quickly kills fleas, ticks, and flea eggs for up to 10 days, including the ticks that may carry Lyme disease. The effective flea and tick dog shampoo is PH balanced for your pet’s coat and contains oatmeal for deodorizing and cleansing. It also has a Hawaiian ginger scent that reviewers tend to love. After use, your dog’s coat should be shiny, soft, and smelling great.

This is intended for dogs only. It is an Amazon best-seller and has outstanding online reviews.

Currently $6.97 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best pet flea shampoos. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

 


If you have a dog, chances are you will have to deal with fleas at some point. Fleas are nasty little buggers that bite your poor puppy leaving her skin itchy and irritated. A single bite can cause so much discomfort that your dog may scratch the spot relentlessly, creating a hot spot. This happened to my dog once. Luckily, regular cleaning of the area and preventing her from licking it for a week did the trick. It went away without further hassle.

Fleas reproduce and spread quickly. What starts out as a small infestation can grow rapidly. That’s why it is so important to address the issue as soon as you can!

Luckily, you have a lot of options. There are many different ways to fight fleas. You can tackle them in the environment with sprays, foggers, powders, and bombs. You can give your dog oral medication that kills and repels those pesky little fleas. There are also many different topical options from flea collars to flea dips to flea powders to flea shampoos.


Itchy Dog



The best place to start is with a flea bath for your dog using the best flea shampoo out there. A flea bath not only is effective in killing the fleas and their eggs, but using a good flea shampoo will also soothe your dog’s skin, helping prevent her from itching and scratching and making the situation worse.

It’s important to note that while flea shampoos will kill the fleas on your dog and continually work to repel fleas, there are still fleas waiting in the environment! They like to nest outside especially in the tall grasses. You’ll have to do something about those guys too. Check out this article about killing fleas in the environment using other methods.

If you notice your dog scratching and you find fleas, act as soon as possible! Fleas spread quickly so you want to be on the ball. Get the best flea shampoo for dogs and give your dog a flea bath immediately. Repeat every 2 weeks to prevent more fleas from coming.









What is Flea Shampoo?


Flea shampoo is generally a medicated shampoo that is meant to kill fleas and their eggs, as well as preventing them from returning. The best flea shampoos for dogs will also soothe and cleanse your dog’s skin and coat.

You can make a rudimentary flea shampoo at home out of warm water, vinegar, and liquid dish soap. Some people have success with this, but it won’t be as effective as using a real flea shampoo, which has the added benefit of soothing and moisturizing your dog’s skin. The homemade version can cause dry skin, which only intensifies itching.

There are 3 types of flea shampoo for dogs.





  • Chemical Flea Shampoo: includes laboratory-made ingredients like pyrethrins and pyrethroids, which I will discuss more in depth when we talk about ingredients.

  • Natural Flea Shampoo: includes citrus peel extract and/or d-limonene as the active ingredients, which are meant to besiege the pests’ central nervous system.

  • Organic Flea Shampoo: includes oils that attack and repel fleas, like clove, peppermint, and cedar oil, which have the added effect of soothing your dog’s skin.










Common Ingredients in Chemical Flea Shampoo


Flea Shampoos that include chemical ingredients are often the most effective in killing and preventing fleas, but they also carries the greatest risk of adverse effects to your dog. So it’s important to understand the common active ingredients that are used.

Pyrethrins


Pyrethrins are natural extracts that are found in chrysanthemum plants. There are six different types of pyrethrins and they are all used in flea prevention products. They are pyrethrin I and II, cinevin I and II, and jasmolin I and II. Pyrethrins have been used as insecticides for over 100 years.




Pyrethrins work by disrupting the natural flow of sodium out of the nerve cells of the fleas. This causes their nerves to fire off repeatedly, which kills the pests. They work quickly, but are not necessarily very long-lasting.


Flea Sketch



Stomach acids easily break down pyrethrins so they are unlikely to be toxic if ingested. However, toxicity has happened in some cases, so keep an eye out for symptoms.

Pyrethroids


Pyrethroids are synthetic compounds, which means they are manufactured in a laboratory and are not found in nature. Five pyrethroids are used in pest control products. Phenothrin, permethrin, and etofenprox kill fleas. Resmethrin and allethrin kill flying insects.

Like pyrethrins, pyrethroids affect the central nervous system of insects. They inhibit their ability to function as well as causing their nerves to fire off repeatedly. They also continue to repel insects after killing them.

Pyrethroids work slower than pyrethrins, but they last much longer. For this reasons, they are often used in flea sprays and other topical treatments.

Specifically permethrins should never be used on cats!

Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate (aka docusate sodium)


Docusate sodium kills fleas and prevents them from returning, but it also affects other insects like lice, ticks, and mites. It works by altering the physical makeup of the flea, specifically the waxy outside. Eventually it will cause internal organ failure leading to insect death.









What to Use in Conjunction with Flea Shampoo


The best flea shampoo is an important tool in killing and controlling fleas on your dog. To achieve the best results, you should use flea shampoo in conjunction with other products.

Treat the outside environment with sprays, foggers, bombs, or powders. Especially get the tall grasses those pests love to live in.

Clean and vacuum the inside of your house often. If they aren’t disrupted, fleas are happy to nest wherever they can find. Don’t make it easy on them!

To treat your dog specifically, there are oral medications and topical treatments, like flea powders flea collars, and spot treatments (dips, shampoos). Research the different options and choose the best option for your dog.









Safety Tips



Small Dog In Bath 2



  • Read the Product label!

  • Understand the ingredients in the flea shampoo. What is the purpose of each ingredient? What risks do they present? What benefits do they offer?

  • Check with your veterinarian, especially if you use a chemical flea shampoo. Dogs that are pregnant, nursing, old, or on medications may be at a greater risk of harm.

  • If this is your first time using a product, monitor your dog for 24 hours afterward. Symptoms of toxicity include vomiting, excessive salivation, fatigue, tremors, and seizures. If you notice anything, contact your veterinarian immediately.

  • All animals react to things differently. If your dog has a bad reaction to the flea shampoo, call your vet first, then wash off your dog with soap and water to prevent further harm.

  • Follow the instructions! Use a product specific to your pet. Do not use a dog flea shampoo on your cat or the other way around, unless the product specifies that it is safe for both.

  • Use the amount recommended. Too much could cause harm. Too little may be ineffective.

  • Wash your hands before and after application. Wear gloves while bathing.

  • After the flea bath, go for a walk so your dog will dry off completely without licking and ingesting too much of the product.

  • Two ingredients to watch out for and avoid are organophosphate insecticides (OPs) and carbamates as they are classified as carcinogenic to humans.










Top 5 Best Flea Shampoos for Dogs 2017


Now that you are an expert on flea shampoos, let’s talk about the best dog flea shampoos money can buy. I have chosen 5 great flea shampoos and written a description of each to help you choose the best option for your dog. I highly recommend you supplement this article with online reviews and recommendations from your veterinarian.








Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor, 12 Oz








#1 Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor for Dogs and Cats - Best Flea Shampoo for Dogs 2017


The first thing to note is that Adams boasts that this shampoo kills all life stages of fleas, including eggs. That’s important because some flea shampoos only kill adult fleas leaving the eggs intact. Eventually the eggs hatch and your flea problem returns. Not with this shampoo! Used properly, all of those pesky fleas, larvae, and eggs will be dead. In the ingredients, you’ll see pyrethrins, which are great at killing and repelling fleas. It also contains soothing aloe, lanolin, coconut extract, and oatmeal. These ingredients will calm the itch and irritation left by fleas to prevent your dog from scratching and making it worse. After a nice lather with Adams shampoo, your dog will feel comfy and pampered! This formula is safe for cats, kittens, dogs, and puppies so if you have multiple pets, you can feel safe using it on all of them. It also includes RECOR Insect Growth Regulator which provides 28 days of control of pre-adult fleas before they become biting adults. You’ll get great results with this flea shampoo.








TropiClean Neem and Citrus Pet Shampoo, 20oz








#2 Tropiclean Hypo Allergenic Flea & Tick Shampoo


This Tropiclean shampoo is one of the best natural flea shampoos for dogs. It is a great choice if you want to avoid harsh chemicals or if your dog has particularly sensitive skin or allergies. It uses Neem and citrus oil as a way to kill and control the fleas on your dog. Citrus oil is a great flea repellent. Some flea treatments work well, but still an occasional flea bite occurs out in the environment. This shampoo works well to prevent that occasional bite. It is all natural and 70% organic. This shampoo is for dogs only so do not use it on your cats or other animals. Your dog will be deep cleaned while her skin and coat are cleansed and soothed. Tropiclean does include a lasting fragrance. Some dogs may be sensitive to fragrances, but I have not heard of that happening with Tropiclean since they use natural ingredients.








Wahl Dog/Pet Flea and Tick Shampoo Rosemary Mint #820007T








#3 Wahl 100% Natural Flea and Tick Shampoo


Wahl also makes one of the best natural flea shampoos for dogs. Do you see a pattern here? I like natural shampoos. Sometimes they aren’t strong enough to get the job done and you have to go with a chemical flea shampoo, but I like to try the natural option first as there is less risk to your dog. This formula uses the natural ingredients rosemary, mint, and cedar oil for flea control. It also contains aloe vera, coconut oil, and other soothing ingredients to help your dog’s skin stay moisturized and soothe and prevent itching! It has up to 3 ounces and 5% more surfactants than leading brands and it is PEG-80 free. You will love the feel of your dog’s coat after using this shampoo. The more times you use it, the softer her fur will feel. She will love it and so will you! Because it contains natural ingredients, Wahl’s shampoo is a great choice for dogs with sensitive skin and/or allergies.








Oster Flea and Tick Shampoo with oatmeal, for dogs and cats - 18 fl oz








#4 Oster Oatmeal Naturals Flea and Tick Shampoo


Oster’s shampoo is a great choice as it kills fleas in all life stages. Get rid of the fleas, larvae, and even the eggs. The active ingredients are pyrethrins naturally-derived from chrysanthemum flowers, a favorite for the best flea shampoos for dogs. It is also made with 100% Natural Oatmeal that soothes and protects your dog’s skin. You will find no dyes, parabens, alcohol, phosphates, or phthalates in this formula. And it is pH balanced with no artificial colors. As an added bonus, if you are using other topical flea applications, this shampoo will not wash them off. Oster proudly makes their products in the USA, which is always a plus! Products made close to home tend to be of better quality. This shampoo can be used on both cats and dogs as long as they are older than 12 weeks, according to Oster. If your dog it scratching from the itch and irritation caused by fleas, this shampoo will not only kill the fleas, but also relieve her irritated skin.








SynergyLabs Groomer’s Blend Flea & Tick Shampoo; 18.4 fl. oz.








#5 SynergyLabs Groomer’s Blend Shampoo/Conditioner


SynergyLabs makes this heavy duty flea shampoo. It’s a great choice if you are having trouble killing those pesky fleas that are irritating your dog. The active ingredients are permethrins. They take a little longer to kick in, but are long-lasting. This shampoo uses naturally derived cleansers to remove dirt and debris. It also exfoliates your dog’s skin, removing old, dead skin cells. Your dog’s coat will feel soft and lustrous from this moisturizing formula. You won’t find any parabens, which can mess with estrogen levels in your dog. SynergyLabs also boasts that their formula is pH balanced making it a good choice for dog’s with sensitive skin. While this shampoo is soothing, it doesn’t contain oatmeal. While oatmeal is a great ingredient to soothe skin, it’s not a perfect match for some dogs. So if your dog doesn’t do well with oatmeal, but you want a soothing, flea-killing shampoo, this is the right choice for you. This shampoo is safe for dogs and puppies over 12 weeks old.









How to Give Your Dog the Best Flea Bath


Now that you’ve chosen the best flea shampoo for your dog, I’ll take you through the steps of giving your dog the best flea bath she’s ever had!


Dog Getting A Bath



  • Remember to always read and follow the instructions, especially the amount to use.

  • Pay attention to any warnings and follow all safety precautions. They are there to protect you and your dog.

  • Start with nice, soothing, warm water. You don’t want it hot. Your dog won’t appreciate that. But you don’t want it cold either. Warm water will help loosen and soften your dog’s skin, which gives it the best chance of being soothed and moisturized by the flea shampoo.

  • Get your dog nice wet with the warm bath water.

  • First make a ring of flea shampoo around your dog’s neck and work it into a thick lather. As you give your dog the flea bath, the fleas will try to hide in hard-to-reach crevices, like around your dog’s face and ears. This ring will act as a barrier preventing them from reaching your dog’s head.

  • Now slowly work down from the ring around her neck. As you go, make sure you wet each section before you shampoo. This gives you the best chance of creating a thick, penetrating lather of shampoo.

  • Take your time and really work the shampoo into your dog’s coat. You want to give the shampoo the best chance to get to all the fleas, larvae, and eggs.

  • Depending on what the instructions say, let your dog remained lathered in shampoo for 5 to 10 minutes. Massage the shampoo in as much as you want. I cannot emphasize enough giving the shampoo the best chance to get to all those pesky little fleas!

  • Once you are satisfied with the lathering, massaging, and just letting the shampoo sit, rinse your dog thoroughly. Use fresh, clean, warm water. Start at her neck where you made that first ring of lather. Slowly move down until she is completely rinsed.

  • All of the flea shampoos I have recommended include soothing, moisturizing ingredients. However, if you have chosen a product without a soothing agent, I encourage you to follow the flea bath with a nice conditioner.

  • Once you are finished, towel her off as thoroughly as you can. You won’t be able to get her all the way dry with towels.

  • I recommend going for a walk after the flea bath to give your dog the chance to dry without licking and ingesting the remnants of the flea shampoo. Or, if your dog doesn’t mind, you can blow her dry with a hair dryer on low. Don’t burn her skin!


Friday, October 27, 2017

Best Flea Prevention For Dogs

[caption id="attachment_456" align="aligncenter" width="560"]best-flea-prevention-for-dogs best-flea-prevention-for-dogs[/caption]

The Insider Pick:




  • It's easy for your dog to get fleas, so you'll want to protect your pup with the best flea prevention products. Of all the flea treatment pills, sprays, shampoos, and collars out there, Frontline Plus is the best. It's easy to apply and offers a full 30 days of protection to kill both fleas and ticks.




You have probably heard the saying that where there is one flea, there are likely hundreds or thousands more. It doesn’t take long for a few fleas to multiply into a major and fast-spreading infestation. Though fleas may not be quite as dangerous as ticks when it comes to transmitting diseases, your dog could still develop an allergic reaction to flea bites and an infestation could cause significant itching, irritation, and even hair loss. Luckily, there are many flea control and protection products on the market that are specifically designed to protect your dog against these pesky pests.

When it comes to flea control products, the options are nearly limitless, and there are many different types to consider. Fortunately for you, we’ve done the hard work in scouring the reviews to bring you our top picks for the five best flea control products for dogs. Below you will find our choices for the best flea control product overall as well as the best options for flea shampoos, sprays, collars, and tablets.

To give your dog the best of everything, you can also check out our guide of the best dogbeds, the best dog toys, the best dog food, the best dog collars, and the best leashes for walking your pup.

Although Frontline Plus is our top pick for flea control products, for various reasons laid out in the slides below, you should also consider the Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor, the Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray, the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar, and the Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets.



The best flea control product overall



The best flea control product overall

Frontline

Why you'll love it: Frontline Plus is effective at killing both fleas and ticks in all life stages and it's very easy to use.


While there are many different forms of flea control for dogs, topical flea treatments tend to be the most fast-acting and long-lasting products on the market. These treatments typically come in liquid form and need to be applied directly to the dog’s skin once a month for maximum protection. Our top pick for the best flea control product for dogs is Frontline Plus because it kills both fleas and ticks in all life stages and protects against re-infestation for a full 30 days.

Frontline Plus is made with two powerful active ingredients – fipronil and s-methoprene – which work together to kill fleas and ticks in all life stages, including eggs and larvae. This product comes in several formulas for dogs of different sizes and it offers continuous protection for 30 days. Available in an easy-to-use, waterproof formula, Frontline Plus is one of the most comprehensive and effective topical flea control products on the market.

Entirely Pets names Frontline Plus one of the top ten flea treatments overall, noting that the formula’s dual active ingredients provide comprehensive protection against fleas in all life stages. With more than 1,600 reviews on Amazon, Frontline Plus has a consistent 4-star rating. DogFood notes that Frontline Plus is the top-selling and top veterinarian-recommended flea product on the market, plus it is highly effective against all species of ticks.

Though Frontline Plus may be a little more expensive than other topical flea preventives on the market, it is generally considered to be one of the safest options and it is by far one of the most effective. An in-depth review from Top Dog Tips confirms all of these points.

Pros: Dual active ingredients for maximum efficacy, kills both fleas and ticks in all life stages, provides a full 30 days of protection, waterproof, easy-to-use 3-step application process, available in multiple formulas for dogs of different sizes, safe for pregnant and nursing dogs

Cons: More expensive than other topical preventives, not recommended for dogs and puppies under 5 pounds or less than 8 weeks of age, bathing within 24 hours of application may wash away some of the product, may not prevent ticks from attaching (but will still kill them)

Buy a six pack of Frontline Plus on Amazon for $69.68




The best flea shampoo for dogs



The best flea shampoo for dogs

Adams

Why you'll love it: Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor kills fleas in all life stages and offers a full 28 days of protection.


If you have already found fleas on your dog, you may want to give him a nice bath with a flea shampoo. Flea shampoos are a type of medicated shampoo that can help to kill fleas and cleanse your dog’s coat. Keep in mind that some flea shampoos only kill adult fleas while others kill eggs and larvae as well. Our top pick for a dog flea shampoo that kills fleas in all life stages and provides a full 28 days of flea prevention is Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor.

Flea shampoos are made with various active ingredients but the two main types are pyrethroids and pyrethins. Both are powerful insecticides, but pyrethrins are natural while pyrethroids are synthetic. Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor contains natural pyrethrins to kill fleas, ticks, eggs, larvae, and lice upon contact. Meanwhile, Precor, an insect growth regulator, prevents eggs from developing into biting adults. This formula also contains natural ingredients like aloe, oatmeal, and coconut extract to soothe your dog’s dry and irritated skin.

Totally Goldens names this flea shampoo its top pick, noting that while it may have a somewhat unpleasant odor, it lathers easily and works to remove dandruff and scales while also cleansing and softening your dog’s coat. This product receives an A+ rating from Peanut Paws and Ready Set Dogs praises the shampoo for killing fleas in all life stages for long-lasting protection.

Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor has more than 500 reviews on Amazon with a solid 4-star rating. Some users found the product to be ineffective, but multiple reviews state that it is necessary to lather the product well and work it into the dog’s coat for the best results.

Pros: Made with natural pyrethrins as the active ingredient, kills fleas in all life stages, protects against ticks and lice, contains an insect growth regulator for 28 days of flea prevention, contains soothing natural ingredients, removes dandruff and scales while cleansing coat, safe for puppies and adults

Cons: May not be recommended for puppies under 8 weeks of age, has a somewhat strong odor, must be worked into a thick lather for best penetration

Buy Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Precor on Amazon for $10.60 (originally $20.99)




The best flea spray for dogs



The best flea spray for dogs

Vet's Best

Why you'll love it: The Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray provides all-over protection against adult fleas, flea eggs, and ticks in a non-staining, pleasant-smelling formula.


If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution for adult fleas and their eggs, a flea spray might be the best option. Not only can you use a flea spray on your dog, but you can also use it on his bedding and other household surfaces. Many flea sprays offer limited efficacy or they are made with dangerous chemicals. Our top pick for a safe and effective flea spray for dogs is the Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray.

While many flea sprays are made with toxic chemicals, Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spraycontains natural key ingredients like peppermint oil and clove extract. In a non-staining formula, this spray kills both adult fleas and their eggs, plus it protects against ticks and repels mosquitos. Simply spray the formula directly onto your dog’s coat until damp, and then massage it in until it reaches the skin. Repeat as necessary.

Named the number one flea and tick spray for dogs by Heavy, Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray kills fleas and their eggs and kills ticks on contact. It also repels mosquitos to some degree. Top Dog Tips notes that this spray is safer than most flea treatments and that it can also be used to treat carpets, furniture, and bedding. It is also much more affordable than many flea preventives on the market.

With nearly 4,000 reviews on Amazon, Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray has a solid 4-star rating. Customers love the easy spray-on formula, though some users report needing multiple applications to achieve the desired effect. It is entirely possible that they didn’t massage the spray into the dog’s coat, as directed on the bottle.

Pros: Made with natural active ingredients, safe for use around pets and children, non-staining formula, easy to apply, can be used outdoors and on home surfaces, kills adult fleas and eggs and ticks, repels mosquitos, manufactured in the USA, pleasant scent

Cons: Not recommended for puppies under 12 weeks of age, needs to be massaged into the coat for maximum efficacy, may cause irritation or allergic reaction in humans with prolonged contact, may induce sensitivity in some dogs, not recommended for cats

Buy Vet’s Best Natural Flea and Tick Spray on Amazon for $9.49




The best flea collar for dogs



The best flea collar for dogs

The best flea collar for dogsSeresto

Why you'll love it: The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar from Bayer offers eight months of protection against both fleas and ticks without the hassle of monthly application.


If you’re looking for long-lasting protection against fleas that you don’t have to reapply month after month, a flea collar might be the best option for your dog. Though there are many flea collars on the market, the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar from Bayer is far and away the best option. With more than 8,000 reviews on Amazon and a solid 4-star rating, this is our top choice for dog flea collars.

The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar offers a full eight months of protection from both fleas and ticks. Made from a unique polymer matrix with two powerful active ingredients, this odorless flea collar kills fleas and ticks on contact — they don’t have to bite your dog for it to work. This collar is non-greasy and easy to use, plus it has a two-way release safety feature in case your dog gets it caught on something. It is also water resistant so it can be worn through monthly bathing and occasional swimming.

Whereas most flea collars deposit low-dose insecticides into your dog’s skin to poison fleas as they bite, the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar utilizes a unique delivery system that distributes the active ingredients in low concentrations over your dog’s hair and skin. As the active ingredients wear off, the collar continuously replenishes them for hassle-free, long-lasting protection. No other flea collar works in quite the same way or offers the same degree of protection.

A review from HerePup names the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar the best flea and tick collar for small dogs and Top Dog Tips gives it the highest A+ rating. Heavy names this collar among its top five picks for flea prevention in general, commenting that it is very similar in price to a six-month course of topical flea preventive but offers an extra two months of protection. No other flea collar receives such consistently high ratings or as many positive user reviews.

Pros: Offers a full eight months of protection from both fleas and ticks, insects do not have to bite for the collar to work, odorless and non-greasy, two-way release safety feature, comfortable and easy to wear, water-resistant for monthly bathing and occasional swimming

Cons: Not recommended for puppies under seven weeks of age, not recommended for dogs under 18 pounds, should not be combined with other forms of flea prevention, effective duration may lower to five months if worn frequently during swimming

Buy the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar on Amazon for $49.42 and up (price varies — originally $72.95)




The best flea pills for dogs



The best flea pills for dogs

Capstar

Why you'll love them: To stop an existing flea infestation in its tracks, Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets are our top choice for oral flea medications.


If you don’t like the idea of using a topical flea preventive and you aren’t sure your dog will tolerate a flea collar, there is still another option – oral medications or flea pills. Flea pills can kill adult fleas in as little as 30 minutes, making them a great solution for dogs with flea allergies. Our top pick for oral flea medications is Novartis Capstar Tablets. Available in two formulas for dogs under and over 25 pounds, these flea pills are fast-acting and highly effective.

Safe for use as a daily treatment, Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets start killing adult fleas within 30 minutes and will kill more than 90 percent of adult fleas within 4 hours. These tablets contain the active ingredient nitenpyram, an insecticide that interferes with nerve transmission in fleas but has no adverse effect on dogs or cats. This treatment is available without a prescription and is approved for dogs over 2 pounds in body weight and over 4 weeks of age.

Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets are frequently compared to Comfortis Flea Tablets, a prescription flea medication. Both medications begin killing adult fleas in as little as 30 minutes but Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets do not require a prescription for purchase. A review from Consumer Search also notes that Comfortis Flea Tablets are much more likely to cause negative side effects.

Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets do not offer month-long protection like their competition, but they can be given in repeated daily doses to manage severe infestations.

With more than 4,500 customer reviews on Amazon, Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets have a solid 4-star rating. Top Dog Tips names these tablets its top pick for oral flea medications, noting that they are safe for use on a daily basis and that they are the most effective when combined with thorough household cleaning to remove eggs and larvae.

Pros: Kills existing adult fleas in as little as 30 minutes, does not require a prescription to purchase, available in two formulas for dogs of different sizes, can be given as a daily dose as needed, safe for pregnant and lactating dogs, can also be used for cats

Cons: Dogs over 25 pounds may need a higher dose, may not kill flea eggs or larvae, not recommended for puppies under 4 weeks of age or under 2 pounds, may require repeated treatment for optimal results, may cause negative reactions or side effects in some dogs

Buy Novartis Capstar Flea Tablets on Amazon for $21.89 and up (price varies — originally $32.99)


Best Flea Control For Dogs

[caption id="attachment_455" align="aligncenter" width="560"]best-flea-control-for-dogs best-flea-control-for-dogs[/caption]

Topical and oral flea control treatments are most effective


Fleas are more than an annoyance -- they can affect the health of their host dog or cat. A flea's saliva could trigger allergies, and the itching and scratching that ensues can lead to a more serious skin infection. Infected fleas can also transmit tapeworms and bacteria -- including bacteria that are harmful to humans. A large enough number of fleas can even cause life-threatening blood loss.


Unfortunately, fleas are not a problem that will go away on its own. In fact, ignoring a few fleas can quickly lead to an infestation. Female fleas can lay up to 50 eggs a day, many of which fall off and land in carpets, bedding and furniture. Once the larvae hatch, they remain inactive in cocoons for weeks or even months. Unsuspecting pet owners might think the problem is resolved after killing the adult fleas, but the life cycle will repeat weeks later unless eggs and larvae are prevented from maturing into adult fleas. Experts say the most effective way to keep fleas off a dog or cat is with a topical or oral medication.



Types of Flea Control





Topical Treatments

Flea Collars

Oral Medications


Topical Treatments

Also known as spot-on products, topical treatments are squeezed out of a tube and applied to the pet's neck or back. One advantage of these products is that they generally contain insect growth regulators (IGRs), which prevent eggs from hatching and larvae from maturing into adult fleas. This means that a single application can completely eliminate fleas for up to a month. However, these products have drawbacks as well. Although they're generally safe for pets if applied correctly, they can irritate the skin or eyes of humans; should you come in contact with the product, it must be rinsed off promptly. Once applied, the product may take several hours to dry. During this time, it may rinse off in water, and the residue may transfer to other pets, furniture or humans. Moreover, some pet owners find the smell or feel of the spot-on treatments unpleasant.



Flea Collars

Until recently, experts have said that flea collars are generally ineffective; some are toxic to pets and people as well. There is one exception, however, Seresto, which uses the same active ingredient as a well-rated topical treatment, Advantage, but in a slow-release formulation. Seresto also has a tick killing ingredient. Seresto is pricey, so other options are more cost effective if you pet is indoors most or all of the time, but for pets that spend lots of time out of doors, it can make sense. No other flea collar receives much, if any, positive feedback from pet experts.



Oral Medications

Flea control medications pose no risk to humans, and they don't leave any messy residue. Oral flea treatments tend to kill adult fleas very quickly, but most of them don't contain an IGR to deal with the eggs and larvae. This means that pet owners must either combine the tablet with a second treatment that contains an IGR, such as a spot-on product, or keep repeating the dose until no new fleas are hatching. Another problem is getting a pet to take the pill. While some users say their pets will gobble them happily if they're tucked inside a treat, others -- especially cat owners -- find it very difficult to get them down their pets' throats. Also, some oral medications are available only with a prescription from a vet.






Do other remedies work?


Flea shampoos can provide immediate relief by killing adult fleas on the pet, but they don't leave enough residue behind to kill new fleas as they hatch. As for flea dips, bombs, powders and sprays, many of them contain chemicals called pyrethroids, such as permethrin. Experts warn that these chemicals are highly toxic, especially to cats. Some vets say that products containing permethrin can be safe if you only have dogs in your household, but all warn to not use such products on cats or even on dogs if one is likely to come in contact with a cat. Permethrin comes in for the sternest cautions, but some experts also warn against the use of other pyrethroids as well.


Natural remedies are more controversial. We see lots of recommendations for them around the Internet, and receive plenty of questions about them from our readers. However, there's little scientific evidence that they are effective in most cases. In a recent blog post, Nancy Kearns of The Whole Dog Journal says that she's "never had much luck with the plethora of natural remedies out there." And some natural remedies are rated to be just as toxic according the GreenPaws Flea and Tick Products Directory published by the Natural Resources Defense Council, and in some cases more so, than many of the topical and oral treatments recommended in this report



Finding The Best Flea Control


OUR SOURCES
1. Mercy Animal Hospital


"On Fleas and Ticks - The 2016 Update"

2. All Feline Hospital


"Flea Eradication"

3. Marvistavet.com


"Flea Product Comparison"




Because comparative, unbiased testing is hard to find when it comes to flea control products, we looked first at feedback from veterinarians and other recognized pet experts who have extensive experience with the options, their relative effectiveness, and their safety. One scientific journal, Parasites & Vectors, provides testing based information and is also helpful, but is written for a professional audience, rather than pet owners, and some of the research is paid for by flea control makers, so though peer-reviewed, bias can't be ruled out. The Natural Resources Defense Council provides feedback on relative safety of many products, but doesn't weigh in at all on effectiveness.

The rest of the feedback is supplied by pet owners. We scoured thousands of user reviews at sites like Amazon.com, Petco.com, and 1800PetMeds.com to find flea control treatments that pet owners say are effective and safe. We looked at both positive and negative feedback -- assessing the latter to weed out instances where supplier issues or incorrect usage might be factors -- to find those options that work successfully to rid pets of fleas and, in some instances, other parasites. The result of that research is our recommendation for the best topical and oral flea control products.





Advantage II stands out for safety and effectiveness


The top two topical flea treatments for both dogs and cats are Advantage II and Frontline Plus. They use different active ingredients, imidacloprid and fipronil, respectively, to eradicate infestations. The two insecticides work differently, but experts say that when used correctly, they are both safe and effective.


Both products receive mostly positive reviews from veterinarians and pet owners, but we found somewhat stronger recommendations for Advantage II. Cat owners, in particular, tend to give Advantage II for Cats




 (Est. $45 and up for a four-month supply) high marks for its effectiveness, safety and ease of use. While it does not work for every cat, it's more consistently effective than any other topical treatment. Most owners also find it easy to apply and are not bothered by the odor.


Advantage II is a reformulated version of an older product called Advantage, first released in 1996, which killed only adult fleas. The current version includes an insect growth regulator (IGR) to kill flea eggs and larvae as well. Both the original Advantage and Advantage II get positive reviews from veterinarians, including those who specialize in cat care. Vets at the All Feline Hospital in Lincoln, Neb., describe Advantage II as "very safe and effective on cats." However, reviews from cat owners indicate that in very rare cases, cats may have dangerous reactions to this treatment, so it's probably wise to consult a vet before use.


Advantage II for Dogs




 (Est. $40 and up for a four-month supply) is sold in several different dosages, for small, medium, large and extra-large dogs; as you might expect, versions for larger dogs cost a little more than those for smaller ones. Dog owners are not quite as enthusiastic about Advantage II as cat owners. Although most owners find it effective, dog owners were more likely than cat owners to complain that Advantage II either didn't work or stopped working before the one-month treatment period was up. Veterinarian dermatologist Jon Plant, writing at the Itchy Dog Blog, notes a study, albeit in cats, that shows some drop in effectiveness toward the end of a month. He adds that "the Advantage line of products are generally very effective for flea control in most situations, when used as directed (monthly)."


Bayer (the maker of Advantage II) also offers Advantage Multi (Est. $85 for a 6 month supply). Advantage Multi, offered by prescription only and in formulations for dogs and cats, adds additional protections against hookworms, round worms and other parasites (depending on the species). However, it is not an all life cycle flea killer and is only effective on adult fleas, not flea eggs and larvae. The cat version is the only product that's also FDA approved for use on ferrets (minimum weight of 2 pounds). One disadvantage to products in the Advantage line is that they don't protect against ticks. If that's a concern, a different product could be a better choice.


Frontline Plus, like Advantage II, is a reformulated version of an older product. The original Frontline killed adult fleas, as well as lice and ticks. The new version, Frontline Plus, also contains an IGR to kill fleas at every stage of their life cycle. It continues to protect against ticks and chewing lice as well, something that Advantage II can't do. Frontline Plus for Cats




 (Est. $40 for a three month supply) comes in a single formulation. Frontline Plus for Dogs




 (Est. $35 and up for a three month supply), like Advantage II for Dogs, comes in four dosage versions for dogs of different sizes.


Frontline Plus gets high marks for safety from both vets and pet owners. Frontline works by over-stimulating a flea's nervous system, making them hyperactive before they die. That can make it look like your pet's flea infestation is actually getting worse as fleas that were previously unseen rise to the top of its coat, and that results in some negative feedback in user reviews, but vets have few reservations. Dr. Plant notes that Frontline Plus is "100% effective at 12 and 24 hours from 1 day to 28 days post treatment."


There have been some reports, such as this article in The New York Times, indicating that, while fleas in a few parts of the country have become more resistant to fipronil (the active ingredient in Frontline), it and other treatments are still largely still effective in most regions. That's echoed in comments by Dr. Thomas B. McMillen at the Mercy Animal Hospital in Cranston, R.I., who says "There have apparently been some resistance problems in Florida, but there is no evidence of that around here." In a study published in Parasites & Vectors, a scientific journal, researchers Tad Coles and Michael Dryden find that reports of resistance to flea treatments is more likely to be caused by improper or insufficient application rather than resistance to the product by the fleas or other pests themselves.


ConsumerReports.org notes that, because the patent for fipronil has expired, generic versions of Frontline Plus are now available. Examples include Pet Armor Plus for Dogs




 (Est. $16 and up for a three month supply) and Sentry Fiproguard Plus for Dogs




 (Est. $15 and up for a three month supply). Formulations for cats are also available, as are generic versions of the original Frontline, designed to kill adult fleas but not eggs or larvae.


Experts do sound some cautions, however. While the active ingredients are the same, inactive ingredients can differ. ConsumerReports.org says that the least expensive generic substitutes can have lower dosages, requiring you to treat more often. The Whole Dog Journal specifically recommends against using low-budget spot on treatments as they can be more toxic and less effective than those "made by the most reputable and responsible manufacturers." Still, some vets and other experts consider generic versions of Frontline to be a reasonable alternative where budgets are a concern. If you are considering a generic version of Frontline or Frontline Plus, the best guidance would be to ask your vet. Finally, choose your vendor wisely as counterfeit versions of Frontline Plus have also been reported.


For dog owners who want to control both fleas and ticks, another option is K9 Advantix II




 (Est. $45 and up for a 4-month supply). Made by the same company that makes Advantage II, K9 Advantix II contains the same ingredients, plus an additional ingredient called permethrin that kills ticks and mosquitoes. Permethrin is highly toxic to cats, so K9 Advantix II is for use on dogs only. While permethrin is not generally considered harmful to dogs, reviews from dog owners suggest that K9 Advantix II is more likely to cause side effects than either Advantage II or Frontline Plus. Skin irritation is the most common problem, but a few owners describe more serious reactions. Still, K9 Advantix II appears to be an effective product for treating both fleas and ticks in dogs.



A flea collar to consider


In general, flea collars get a thumbs down from experts as being both ineffective and often toxic. One that breaks from the pack, however, is the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar




 (Est. $55). This is another product that uses the same active ingredient as Advantage, and is made by the same company, but in a gradual release format that keeps pets pest free for eight months. There's no IGR, but one's not needed as the active ingredient is constantly killing fleas as they emerge. Seresto collars also have a tick-killing component, flumethrin, so they are a great choice for animals that spend a lot of time outdoors.


Vet feedback thus far has been largely positive, and the Seresto flea collar receives lots of user feedback at sites like Amazon.com, most of which has been very good. In a blog post, Nancy Kearns of The Whole Dog Journal reports using Seresto to keep her dogs flea free after an outbreak had been eradicated. "So far, so good; I haven't spotted any fleas, and you can believe I've been looking," she writes. Dr. Plant notes that it kills 100 percent of existing fleas on dogs within 24 hours, and re-infesting fleas in two hours. It's also 98 percent effective on cats within 6 hours. One caution that he shares is that while the collar is rated to be effective for eight months, frequent swimming or bathing can reduce that duration.


Adverse reactions seem to be relatively rare. However, since this flea collar uses the same active ingredient as Advantage, if your pet has not done well with Advantage, Seresto also won't be a good choice. Some complaints are seen about the cost, a concern that Kearns echoes as well, especially for those with multiple pets, but keep in mind that a single collar is the equivalent of eight monthly does of Advantage. Versions are available for both dogs and cats.




What Flea Treatment Is the Best for My Dog?





Fleas may be small in size, but they can cause your dog to experience excessive itching, hot spots, and skin infections. In general, these conditions can be prevented by using a flea control preventative. Don't let your dog suffer from an uncomfortable flea infestation. Help remove fleas on your dog and prevent future infestations by using the variety of available flea control products such as those listed below.



Oral tablets & chews for flea control

Oral flea treatments such as Comfortis are quick and effective. The medication travels through your dog's bloodstream and to the skin's surface, helping to kill biting fleas. Newer combination pill treatments such as Sentinel and Trifexis also prevent heartworm disease and other intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms and whipworms. See product label for details.




Find Bravecto on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Comfortis on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Trifexis on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Sentinel on 1-800-PetMeds


Find NexGard Chewables on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Sentinel Spectrum on 1-800-PetMeds



Topical flea solutions

Topical flea control for dogs is most popular in liquid drop form. These products can treat existing infestations and help prevent future outbreaks. Apply the product directly onto your dog's skin, between the shoulder blades, unless otherwise noted on the product packaging. For small breeds, Flea5X Plus for Dogs is recommended and for large dogs, we recommend Frontline Plus or K9 Advantix II. All are waterproof.




Find Frontline Plus on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Advantage II  on 1-800-PetMeds


Find K9 Advantix II  on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Revolution on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Flea5X Plus - Generic to Frontline Plus on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Advantage Multi on 1-800-PetMeds



Collars

Collars are thin, flexible, and adjustable. The plastic band is coated in a chemical meant to repel fleas and ticks. Most flea collars like Seresto last for several months and are considered an economical choice.




Find Seresto on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Bio Spot Active Care Flea & Tick Collar For Dogs on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Preventic Amitraz Tick Collar for Dogs on 1-800-PetMeds



Flea sprays

Flea sprays are best in between baths, since the product will wash off when your dog gets wet. However, the sprays are inexpensive and relatively effective. Simply spritz your dog's coat all over, from the neck down and along the tail. For the head and eye area, spray on a gloved hand or washcloth and rub gently into your dog's hair, being careful not to get any of the product in your dog's eyes or mouth.




Find Frontline Spray on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Advantage Treatment Spray on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Natural Chemistry Natural Flea & Tick Spray for Dogs on 1-800-PetMeds



Flea shampoos

Flea shampoos are used like any other bath product, yet most require allowing the product to sit on the skin for several minutes before rinsing.




Find Natural Chemistry Natural Flea & Tick Shampoo with Oatmeal on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Be Flea Free Shampoo on 1-800-PetMeds


Find Perfect Coat Flea & Tick Dog Shampoo  on 1-800-PetMeds