Fleas are some of the most persistent and truly irritating ectoparasites known to bring disease to man’s best friend. And while there are numerous medications that have been formulated over the years, these pesky creatures have somehow learned to adapt. Additionally, the ever-increasing number of side effects brought about by the prolonged use of these products underscores the growing need for an effective yet safe treatment to administer. That is why we’re sharing with you the 10 best flea treatments for dogs in the hope that you’ll be more empowered to care for your pooches and protect them against these critters.

Key Takeaways

  • 1. It is important to control fleas and ticks in a dog for their health and welfare
  • 2. Flea treatment is available for your dog and home, some products treat both
  • 3. Dog flea treatment is available as chews, sprays, wipes, collars, and topical treatments
  • 4. Natural products use ingredients such as clove and citronella but may not be as effective
  • 5. Some products require a vet's prescription for you to purchase them

A Quick Overview of Our Favorites

Pros
Cons
Bottom line
Rating
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Bayer K9 Advantix II Flea Treatment For Dogs
It's useful to have one product that works for most parasites and the fast drying and odorless formulation makes it pleasant to use
It's topical application can cause localized irritation in some smaller dogs and it costs a bit more than many other products
An effective topical flea and tick-killing treatment for dogs that is waterproof, dries quickly and is not affected by sunlight
4.4
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Vet's Best Flea + Tick Home Spray
It's useful to have one product that works for most parasites and the fast drying and odorless formulation makes it pleasant to use
It's topical application can cause localized irritation in some smaller dogs and it costs a bit more than many other products
An effective topical flea and tick-killing treatment for dogs that is waterproof, dries quickly and is not affected by sunlight
4.3
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Trifexis Chewable Tablet For Dogs
Non-messy and long lasting, collars kill and repel fleas before they bite your dog
Not as fast acting as some other treatments and if it causes irritation it will affect your dog's comfort
Flea and tick collar that is suitable for adult large breed dogs and that lasts for 8 months
4.3
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Seresto Flea & Tick Collar For Dogs
Controls fleas and ticks but also treats sensitive skin irritated by an infestation
Time consuming and messy to bathe your dog and leave the lather for 10 minutes and it is not suitable for young puppies
One of the most effective flea and tick shampoos that also soothes irritated skin and leaves the coat smelling clean and fresh
4.1
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Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Flea & Tick Shampoo
Provided by a well-known brand and acts on both fleas and all life stages of eggs and larvae as well as being suitable for tick control
You need your dog to stay still to apply topical flea treatments like this and it can cause a local skin reaction in some dogs
A very fast acting topical flea treatment that is highly effective at killing fleas and ticks and is also useful for flea prevention
4.1
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Frontline Plus For Dogs
Provided by a well-known brand and acts on both fleas and all life stages of eggs and larvae as well as being suitable for tick control
You need your dog to stay still to apply topical flea treatments like this and it can cause a local skin reaction in some dogs
A very fast acting topical flea treatment that is highly effective at killing fleas and ticks and is also useful for flea prevention
4.2
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Vet's Best Flea And Tick Wipes
Natural topical flea treatments that are useful for killing fleas and can be used on your dog as well as on surfaces in your home
Not really effective enough to be used alone and needs to be rubbed into all parts of your dog's coat which can be time-consuming
Handy wipes which are a useful way to apply topical treatment for fleas and are designed to be used alongside another flea treatment for dogs
3.5
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Adams Plus Flea And Tick Spray
Easy to apply and vary dose according to dog size and coat length with no wastage and can be used for multiple dogs
Damping your dog's coat before application is an extra step in flea treatment that you may not have time for and you may not like the odor of these flea sprays
Best flea treatment choice for households with multiple dogs as there will be no wastage and it's easy to apply
4.3
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NexGard Chewable Tablets For Dogs
Very suitable treatment for dogs who live in areas where ticks are prevalent, easy to give the chews to a dog because they love the flavor
You will need a prescription for this flea and tick treatment and it contains powerful insecticides
The best flea treatment for dogs that like to eat chews and who live in areas where there are a lot of ticks
4.7
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Advantage II Flea Treatment For Medium Dogs
Gentle and fragrance-free, it reaches all parts of a dogs body quickly and can also help to soothe dermatitis
You can
A gentle flea treatment shampoo that is suitable for pups over 12 weeks and contains pyrethrins to kill fleas and ticks
4.2
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Capstar Flea Oral Treatment for Dogs
No mess or liquids - just a simple effective tablet that can be given as often as you need it
Only effective against some stages of the flea life cycle and does not help to repel ticks
An effective and convenient flea treatment for dogs that can be used repeatedly and starts acting quickly
4.0
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Natural Care Flea & Tick Spray
An effective flea treatment for dogs and homes that does not contain harsh chemicals and does not stain
The flea sprays have a strong peppermint odor which some users find over-powering and you need to take care when using on hard floors as they may get slippery
A completely natural spray that kills fleas on dogs and flea infestations in yhe home without using harsh chemicals
3.7
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Virbac Knockout E.S. Area Treatment
A fast acting and powerful flea prevention and flea treatment spray that has impressive coverage and does not have a bad odor
The whole process of using the spray (including vacuuming) is time-consuming and you will need another flea control product to apply to your dog
.
4.4
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Advantage Flea & Tick Treatment Shampoo For Dogs & Puppies
Fast acting and highly effective flea control that does not get washed off by water and carries on working for 30 days
You will have to keep your dog dry for 24 hours after you have applied to your dog's skin and you may not be able to use it on pregnant or nursing dogs
A topical flea treatment that acts quickly and lasts for a whole month - once it is dry, it will not be affected by your dog getting wet
3.6
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Bravecto Chew For Dogs
Starts working very fast and carries on working for three months without any mess or odor
You will need to see your vet to get this product and it is only suitable for dogs over 6 months of age
A fast acting and powerful flea prevention and flea treatment spray that has impressive coverage and does not have a bad odor
4.5
*Ratings are from Amazon and Chewy at the time of publication and can change

The 15 Best Flea Prevention Products for Dogs

1 Best topical flea & tick medications: Bayer K9 Advantix II Flea Treatment for Dogs

Best topical flea & tick medications: Bayer K9 Advantix II Flea Treatment for Dogs
Key features:
  • Contains imidacloprid, permethrin, and pyriproxyfen
  • Parasitostatic mechanism of action within the first 5 minutes
  • Starts killing fleas, ticks, and lice within the first 12 hours
  • Convenient once-a-month topical application
  • Fully waterproof formulation

Bayer Animal Health has been producing a lot of high-quality veterinary products for a long time and its K9 Advantix II simply carries on this tradition of excellence. The Advantix II’s main advantage is in its fast parasitostatic action, helping stop fleas from biting within 5 minutes of application. While it takes 12 hours for Advantix II to start exerting its killing effect, this is still relatively faster than the average 24 hours of other brands, making it a favorite flea and tick treatment for dogs among serious dog owners.

Unfortunately, K9 Advantix II has not shown any improvements in the duration of its action, mimicking the industry standard of 30 days. It would really be amazing to see advance this further to 60 or even 90 days. Regardless, with easy application and excellent waterproofing, it sure can help protect your dog whether it is a 7-week old pup or a lumbering senior.

What others say about it:
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Two English Springer Spaniels who are very active outside and not one worry using this product. Been using this for years and they’ve been sleeping in our bed for years. Needless to say, we don’t have any problems with fleas, ticks, mosquitos, or any critters that aren’t supposed to be in our bed! Very happy with this purchase and will purchase it again.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Effective against many types of parasites and pests
  • Odor free so dog’s don’t mind it
  • Dries quickly
  • Action is not affected by rain or sunlight
Cons
  • Can irritate sensitive skin of some dogs
  • Costs more than similar products
Show More

2 Best Flea and Tick Spray: Vet’s Best Flea + Tick Home Spray

Best Flea and Tick Spray: Vet's Best Flea + Tick Home Spray
Key features:
  • Suitable for home surfaces and dogs
  • Only for adults and pups aged over 12 weeks
  • Contains only natural ingredients
  • Kills adult fleas and eggs

A very useful product that treats your dog and your home at the same time. If you are concerned about residual fleas lurking in your carpet or on your sofa and leaping back onto your dog, this would be the product for you. It contains a blend of natural ingredients which are kind on your dog and your home but harsh on fleas! The formula comprises peppermint oil, Eugenol (clove extract) and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate which are all natural and plant-based ingredients.

It will help to control adult fleas as well as flea eggs and, as an added bonus, it is highly effective at repelling both ticks and mosquitoes. There are no chemical pyrethrins or permethrins which cause some dog owners concern. It is safe to use as a fine mist on all surfaces in your home including furniture, bedding and carpets. It is non-staining but it may be wise to patch test a small area first. You can also apply it directly on dogs and pups aged over 12 weeks of age but avoid the eyes and face because it will cause irritation. It cannot be used on pregnant or nursing dogs.

What others say about it:
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Highly recommended if you read the label you understand how it works which all you need to do us spray the fleas and you will kill them instantly but it has to be sprayed on them for it to work. Every time I sprayed where the fleas were they died. I combed my dog and sprayed her before we went to sleep and she was able to sleep with me with those fleas on her and after they were gone as precaution I sprayed her before bed until I was able to take her to the vet who checked her for fleas and found none.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • You only need one flea treatment product to treat your dog and home
  • Can be used to kill ticks and all stages of the flea life cycle
  • Does not stain
  • Safe to use around children
Cons
  • Not as effective as chemical products
  • A strong odor of clove oil
Show More

3 Best Tablet: Trifexis Chewable Tablet for Dogs

Best Tablet: Trifexis Chewable Tablet for Dogs
Key features:
  • A combined treatment for fleas and worms
  • Beef-flavored tablet
  • Starts working in hours
  • Effective for a month

This is a multi-ingredient treatment that combines compounds that will treat flea infestations as well as dealing with worm infestations. It will prevent heartworm disease in dogs as well as treating and controlling adult hookworm. The formulation is also effective against roundworm and whipworm which are common in dogs. As their owner, you get total peace of mind that your four-legged pal is fully protected from pesky parasites. It comes in a tasty, beef-flavored tablet that your pooch takes once a month. It’s a hassle-free way of providing protection.

It can be given to dogs and pups over 8 weeks old and who weigh more than five pounds. The tablets are available in different strengths to suit dogs with different body weights so you must choose the right dose for your pooch. The active ingredients are Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime which are able to kill fleas on dogs in 30 minutes and have killed all the fleas on a dog’s body within 4 hours. It continues to be effective for a month.

What others say about it:
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In the last year, Tootie was diagnosed with Cushings…..Had her Trifexis delivered and the next day at dr’s appointment her new weight was less. She was in need of the orange box (not the green box) I was very impressed that chewy said they would swap the meds I just received and I could order the new size. GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE THANKS

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Controls both fleas any many species of worm
  • Easy to give to your dog with no mess
Cons
  • Cannot be used on pups under 8 weeks old
  • Usually only available from a vet
Show More

4 Best Collar: Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs

Best Collar: Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs
Key features:
  • Active ingredients flea treatment are Flumethrin 4.5%, Imidacloprid 10.0%.
  • Kills fleas within 24 hours
  • Tick collar that starts working in 48 hours
  • Kills adult fleas, existing fleas, chewing lice and sarcotopic mange

For owners of large dogs weighing over 18 pounds and who prefer a long lasting flea treatment with no fuss, we recommend the Seresto Flea and tick collar. It is easier to apply than both oral medications and topical flea treatments and shampoos. All you have to do is pop on the collar on your dog’s neck and it does the rest!

The Seresto Flea collar is odorless, non-greasy and resists water and sun exposure. Flea control will start within two hours of the collar being being put on and the dog does not have to receive flea bites for it to work. One collar lasts for up to eight months.

What others say about it:
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I have 3 indoor/outdoor cats and where we live we have a LOT of fleas due to a lot of wildlife. Yet, our home is flea free. I buy these Large dog collars, then cut them in 3 pieces. One piece goes on my bed under the sheet, one piece on the couch and another piece by the cat beds in the sun, or on their cat tree … depending. Yes, the cats also get Advantix drops every few months, but these collars keep All our seating and sleeping areas flea free all year. Every spring I replace a new collar.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Seresto flea collars are less messy than other types of treatment
  • Fits securely around dog’s neck
  • Lasts for 8 months
  • Also effective against ticks and mange
Cons
  • Takes quite a while to start working
  • Only suitable for adult large dogs
  • Can cause irritation to some dogs
Show More

5 Best Shampoo: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Flea & Tick Shampoo

Best Shampoo: Veterinary Formula Clinical Care Flea & Tick Shampoo
Key features:
  • Flea and tick shampoo for dogs over 12 weeks of age
  • Active ingredient is natural pyrethrins
  • Cleanses and exfoliates irritated skin
  • Contains lanolin to sooth irritated skin

If you would prefer to use flea and tick shampoos to kill parasites on your dog, the best flea treatment choice for you is the Veterinary Formula Clinical Care shampoo. It contains pyrethrins which are a powerful but natural chemical that is highly effective at tick and flea control.

This is particularly recommended if your dog has developed a skin issue because of a flea infestation and is scratching a lot. It will gently cleanse and exfoliate the skin and leave your dog’s coat looking and feeling great. It even has a fresh, clean scent.

What others say about it:
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I have been using this on my dog for the past 10 months along with the veterinary formula clinical care anti parasitic antiseborrheic shampoo and the results have been amazing. My dogs skin has healed up and his coat is very shiny. More than that, just by bathing him once a week with both products my dog has not had any fleas or ticks over the course of these ten months even though I have been taking him on walks and runs with other dogs in my area. But best of all its inexpensive.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Useful for treating flea allergy dermatitis
  • Leaves your dog’s coating looking and smelling great
  • Contains lanolin and aloe to soothe the skin
  • Can kill existing fleas and help to prevent future infestations
Cons
  • Not suitable for pups under 12 weeks
  • Lather needs to be in contact for skin for 10 minutes
Show More

6 Best Fast-Acting: Frontline Plus for Dogs

Best Fast-Acting: Frontline Plus for Dogs
Key features:
  • Suitable for pups aged over eight weeks old
  • Destroys fleas, larvae, and eggs
  • Contains two active ingredients
  • Carries on working for 30 days

A highly effective treatment against fleas, ticks, and chewing lice, this product gets to work right away on adult dogs and pups aged over eight weeks old who weigh between 45 and 88 pounds. This is a liquid that needs to be applied topically (to the skin) between the shoulder blades of large breed dogs. It keeps working for 30 days and does this by destroying eggs and hatching larvae. Therefore, your pooch is protected from re-infestation from eggs on their coat.

There are two powerful ingredients in the solution. The fipronil content is highly effective against adult fleas and ticks. Some studies have shown that within 12 hours it had killed all live adult fleas making it one of the fastest acting products on the market.

There are two powerful ingredients in the solution. The fipronil content is highly effective against the adult fleas and ticks. Some studies have shown that within 12 hours it had killed all live adult fleas. The second active ingredient is (S)-methoprene which gets to work on the flea eggs and larvae and keeps going for a whole month. The active ingredients work together to break the flea life cycle and keep your pooch protected as well as helping to prevent the transmission of Lyme Disease.

What others say about it:
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My dog is an Australian shepherd mix and we have struggled for years to find a flea medicine for him that is both effective and doesn’t cause seizures. We live in the woods with a lot of fleas and ticks and before we put him on the medicine, he was absolutely miserable iching all the time. He even pulled a chunk of his hair out from itching and their was a large open sore. Now a little over a month of having him on this stuff and he is so much better!

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Very fast acting at killing adult fleas
  • Respected brand popular with dog owners and vets
  • Active on all stages of flea development
  • Stops fleas from being able to lay eggs
Cons
  • Some owners find topical flea treatment products difficult to apply
  • Can cause local irritation in some dogs
Show More

7 Best Flea and Tick Wipes: Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Wipes

Best Flea and Tick Wipes: Vet's Best Flea and Tick Wipes
Key features:
  • Suitable for dogs and your home
  • A pack of wipes containing natural pesticides
  • Active ingredients are peppermint oil and clove extract
  • Good at repelling mosquitoes

Made in the USA from natural and gentle plant-based ingredients, this flea treatment is provided in the form of disposable wipes. You use them by wiping them over your dog’s coat including their paws and tail but avoiding the eyes and genitals as they can cause irritation. Then you massage the product into the coat so it penetrates the skin. You can repeat this as often as you need to. You can also use them on surfaces within your home including countertops and pet bedding. Wipes are a very easy and clean way of applying flea control to your pet and your home.

The wipes contain no plastic resins and use only the natural action of peppermint oil and clove extract to kill fleas as well as flea eggs, and ticks. It has a clean, fresh odor with no artificial fragrances added and is great for repelling mosquitoes as well as killing several other parasitic pests. It’s safe for the pets and humans in the home.

What others say about it:
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This product seems to really calm the scratching, chewing that the cats have been doing. I have 5 indoor only cats, have never in 12 years had fleas till now. For some reason one has more than the others and these wipes really help her to calm down. I use these on 4 of them as the 5th does not like the wipes, but he doesn’t like anything being put on him. So…they are very helpful in my house. You still need to vacuum like crazy and apply a spray to carpeting and a preventive flea treatment…but these wipes are a good tool to have against fleas.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Reduces fleas and ticks on your dogs
  • No plastic resins used in the manufacture
  • Resist tearing during use
  • Pleasant natural scent
Cons
  • Designed to be used with other flea prevention medication
  • Has to be rubbed in and makes dog’s coat wet
Show More

8 Best for Multiple Pets: Adams Plus Flea and Tick Spray

Best for Multiple Pets: Adams Plus Flea and Tick Spray
Key features:
  • Contains etofenprox, (s)-methoprene and piperonyl butoxide
  • Supplied in a handy spray bottle
  • Breaks the flea life-cycle
  • Applied twice a month

Based on the powerful active ingredients etofenprox, (s)-methoprene and piperonyl butoxide, this is an effective flea control solution. It is supplied in a handy spray bottle and can be applied twice a month. You ruffle your dog’s coat before spraying and use four sprays per pound of your dog’s body weight. Dogs with short coats will need less of the product. The coat needs to be dampened with the spray for it to work but does not need to be soaked.

It gets to work right away and provides instant relief for your pooch. The life cycle of the fleas will be broken as the product will kill adult fleas as well as flea eggs. You may also need to treat the house as it often gets infested with eggs. It will carry on working for two months during which it provides continuous protection. Even mosquitoes will be repelled by this product. The handy spray bottle and the versatility of this flea treatment makes it the best flea treatment for households with more than one dog.

What others say about it:
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I have one dog and two cats that live inside but frequent the outdoors during the day. After trying Adam’s Plus instead of the other flea and tick sprays costing over a dollar an ounce, I can say the other’s don’t have anything on Adam’s. We keep a flea trap in an area of our house where our pets spend a lot of time in order to catch the fleas that ride into the house on our pets and jump off before ingesting any of the treatment. Having occasionally found flea’s in it in previous years, we know it works. However, since using Adams flea and tick spray for the last 18 months, we have not found any flea’s in the trap and I am getting ready to order my second bottle of it.

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Liquid topical treatments in a spray bottle makes it suitable for multiple dogs
  • Gets to work fast – within about five minutes
  • Kills adult fleas and all stages of growth
  • Repels mosquitoes
Cons
  • Contains artificial chemical insecticides
  • Has quite a strong chemical odor
  • Dogs coat needs to be damp
Show More

9 Best Chews: NexGard Chewable Tablets for Dogs

Best Chews: NexGard Chewable Tablets for Dogs
Key features:
  • Suitable for pups aged over 8 weeks old
  • Each tablet contains 136 mg of afoxolaner
  • Needs to be used monthly
  • Effective against ticks

The pesticide in this product is delivered to your dog in a delicious and chewable beef-flavored tablet that you will have no problem administering to your dog. You can also hide it in their food. It is safe for dogs and pups aged over 8 weeks old and who weigh more than four pounds. The tablets need to be given once a month and will last for the whole period in between.

Each tablet contains 136 mg of afoxolaner which kills adult fleas before they have time to lay any eggs. This interrupts the life cycle and prevents infestation from starting all over again. It is also highly effective at killing several species of ticks that can bite dogs including the black-legged tick, the American dog tick, and the Lone Star tick.

What others say about it:
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My golden retriever had a seizure from Simparica. Because we have cats in the house, we did not want a topical for the dog. That left us few options. The vet suggested NexGard because although it is the same family of medicine in Simparica, it is not as fast acting, takes a day or two longer, and based on his analysis of the products, he said NexGard would likely be easier and safer for the dog. So we tried it, and luckily, the vet was right. No seizures with this one.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Highly effective at controlling fleas
  • Works on several species of ticks
  • Dogs love the taste of the chews
  • Suitable for pups from 8 weeks of age
Cons
  • You need a vet prescription to buy the product
  • Contains chemical insecticides
Show More

10 Best for Puppies: Advantage II Flea Treatment for Medium Dogs

Best for Puppies: Advantage II Flea Treatment for Medium Dogs
Key features:
  • Suitable for medium-sized breeds
  • Only for pups over 7 weeks old
  • Active ingredients are imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen
  • Waterproof formulation

Topical treatment to use once a month on adult dogs and pups aged over 7 weeks old and who weigh 11 to 20 pounds, is ideal for medium-sized breeds. Once it comes into contact with the fleas it starts to have an effect within 12 hours. It kills all the life stages including eggs, larvae, lice, and adult fleas. This helps to break the life cycle and stops your dog from getting infested over and over again. The formula is waterproof so it will continue to be effective even if you have to bathe your dog or if they go swimming.

The active ingredients in the product are imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen and it is not suitable for cats. If your dog is pregnant or nursing pups, speak to your vet before using it.

What others say about it:
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No more fleas and my dog is very happy. I don’t usually like flea meds because of all the negative publicity but this product is great and did not harm my little dog who is now talking to me again. She hates itching!!!

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Starts to act quickly
  • Can be used on young puppies as long as they are over 7 weeks
  • Will not get washed off by water
  • Lasts for a whole 30 days
Cons
  • Dogs have to stay dry for 24 hours after use
  • May not be suitable for pregnant or nursing dogs
Show More

11 Capstar Flea Oral Treatment for Dogs

Capstar Flea Oral Treatment for Dogs
Key features:
  • Suitable for pups aged over four weeks
  • Destroys adult fleas only
  • Delivered in tablet form
  • Starts working in 30 minutes

This flea treatment is delivered in tablet form which your dog swallows. It is approved for use in pups and adult dogs who weigh more than two pounds and are aged over four weeks. It is also safe for pregnant and breeding dogs. You only need a single dose of the tablet which contains the active ingredient Nitenpyram. It is highly effective at killing adult dog and cat fleas but is not effective against eggs. For that, you will need another product.

It starts to act very rapidly, some effects can be seen within 30 minutes of ingestion and it has been shown to kill 90% of adult fleas within hours. Soon your dog will be feeling a lot less itchy and uncomfortable. You avoid the mess and odor associated with topical treatments and it is very easy to administer. You can keep giving a daily dose until all the fleas have been eliminated.

What others say about it:
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After the topical we’d been using for years failed and caused a seizure, we tried organic and natural treatments which were making headway, but just not fast enough. My vet’s office recommended these and new oral flea medication. In just a few hours, there were no live fleas anywhere. I think I combed one live one out of her fur the next day, but the fleas are gone and no recurrence! Gladly recommend this product!

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • No messy liquids to worry about
  • Starts acting very quickly
  • Can be used daily if needed
  • You get six doses in a pack
Cons
  • Does not kill flea eggs
  • Not effective against ticks
Show More

12 Natural Care Flea & Tick Spray

Natural Care Flea & Tick Spray
Key features:
  • Contains peppermint oil and clove extract
  • Supplied in a handy spray bottle
  • Can be used on animals and in the home
  • Fresh, clean odor

Complete protection for your pooch, this is a natural product made in the USA and a great way to keep pesky parasites at bay. It is made from a carefully blended formulation of plant-derived ingredients such as peppermint oil and clove extract. It has a fresh, pleasant scent but is a powerful pesticide. It will kill all stages of the flea life cycle including adult fleas and eggs. It will also repel mosquitoes very effectively if you live in an area where this is an issue.

The product is supplied in a spray container so it is easy to apply to your dog although it is also safe for use on cats. You can even use it on surfaces in your home that you think may have been infested. It can be used on adult dogs and pups who are over 12 weeks old.

What others say about it:
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We use this on all of our furry families. We presently have 4 adult dogs. 3 puppies. 6 cats 2 raccoons and 2 squirrels. We use it on our kids every week. Have used this on the pups since they were 2 weeks old. They are 7 weeks now. No fleas or ticks on any of us. I also spray our bedding and their bedding. It’s completely safe and I highly recommend it.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Comes in an easy-to-use spray can
  • Effective against fleas and eggs
  • Does not stain
  • No harsh chemicals
Cons
  • Very strong odor of peppermint
  • Can make hard floors slippery when used indoors
Show More

13 Virbac Knockout E.S. Area Treatment

Virbac Knockout E.S. Area Treatment
Key features:
  • Aerosol spray for the home
  • Covers and treat 2,100 square feet
  • Contains pyrethrins and permethrin
  • Contains pyriproxyfen – insect growth regulator

A highly effective flea treatment is provided in an aerosol spray that will cover and treat 2,100 square feet of carpet, rug, etc. in your home. The treatment is for your home and needs to be used at the same time as another treatment that you apply to your dog. This will break the continual cycle of re-infestation that can be so bothersome to dogs and owners. It contains pyrethrins, permethrin as the active ingredients and also contains pyriproxyfen which is a powerful insect growth regulator. It stops fleas from developing for up to 7 months giving your dog exceptionally long-lasting protection from annoying pests.

These ingredients also get to work rapidly to reduce the infestation of adult fleas. Then it prevents any newly hatched fleas from developing into the adult stage when they start breeding and jumping back on your dog to bite them. It reaches the fleas around your home so it controls infestations in rugs, drapes, and floor cracks which makes your treatment even more effective. There is no unpleasant odor and the product is not sticky.

What others say about it:
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We tried literally every natural approach to flea treatment, and we only had a mild infestation. I could not believe the amount of time I spent vacuuming (3hours+ a day- I was adamant about NOT using chemicals!), but it was all for nothing. One treatment of this fixed everything. One treatment. I didn’t have to evacuate my pets from my house (like with a bomb). I just shut off the a/c for a couple of hours so the spray wasn’t sucked through the return vents of the bedrooms I sprayed (the only carpeted rooms in my house), and shut the doors to keep our pets out. I did open the windows for circulation. Also, I just covered our bearded dragon’s tank with a thick towel. This was 3 months ago. I have since seen fleas on the dog (from outside) but not a single one in the carpet or vacuum. When it says 7 months protection, I believe it!

Read more buyer reviews at Amazon.com

Pros
  • Covers a large area of your home
  • Contain powerful insecticides
  • Acts quickly to kill fleas
  • Does not have an unpleasant odor
Cons
  • Not a treatment for dogs – you will need to buy a flea treatment for your dog as well
  • Spraying your whole home is time consuming
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14 Advantage Flea & Tick Treatment Shampoo for Dogs & Puppies

Advantage Flea & Tick Treatment Shampoo for Dogs & Puppies
Key features:
  • Suitable for pups over 12 weeks of age
  • Contains pyrethrins
  • Designed to be used as a wider treatment regime
  • Unscented to avoid irritating young skin

If you are lucky enough to share your home with a little pup, or several pups, the Advantage Flea and tick treatment shampoo is the best flea treatment for you to choose. It is designed to be used as part of a wider treatment regime where you will also treat your home and yard for these unwanted pests.

You use it just like a regular dog shampoo, just make sure that you lather all of your little pup, avoiding the eyes and ears and let the soap stay in contact with the skin for five minutes before you rinse. The active ingredient that kills fleas is Pyrethrins. This flea shampoo also helps to prevent flea allergy dermatitis.

What others say about it:
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I gave my pup a warm bath this morning, he constantly gets fleas from outside and when I gave him the bath this flea shampoo got a lot fo the fleas off of him!!! I didnt expect it to work so well and its cheaper than spending 50+ dollars for flea medicine

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

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15 Bravecto Chew for Dogs

Bravecto Chew for Dogs
Key features:
  • Active ingredient is Fluralaner
  • Kills adult fleas and prevents re-infestations
  • Active against several species of ticks
  • Doses are needed every 12 weeks

For owners looking for a powerful product that will both kill fleas and prevent future infestations, the Bravecto Chews would be a wise choice. They contain Fluralaner which is a powerful acting chemical – so you can only use this product on dogs aged over six months.

It kills many species of ticks and all life stages of the flea. Because it is chewable, there is no mess and no unpleasant smell. Most important of all, it lasts for 12 weeks so it requires less effort from dog owners.

What others say about it:
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I left town for a few weeks last year and my apartment had some drilling outside and I forgot to shut my windows. Came home a few weeks later and had a horrible flea infestation. I was struggling to get rid of the fleas with furniture spray and dog spray so my vet recommended Bravecto and within two hours fleas were literally falling off him. After that I used a fogger for my house and haven’t seen a flea since!! I highly recommend! One last note, I did have my dog on a topical flea treatment prior and it didn’t stop the fleas once they got into my apartment.

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Pros
  • Easy to administer as a chew
  • No mess or odor
  • Lasts for 3 months saving you time and money
  • Starts acting fast – kills most fleas within 24 hours
Cons
  • Can only be obtained with a vet’s prescription
  • Not suitable for dogs under 6 months of age
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Best Flea Treatment for Dogs: Buying Guide & FAQs

If you go to your favorite pet supplies store you can easily understand why a lot of dog owners, especially first-timers, are at a loss as to which product they should use for their pets. We understand how you feel. That’s why we’ve prepared this buyer’s guide to help you make better-informed decisions related to the control and management of flea infestation, not only in your dog but also in your home.

Why Does My Dog Need Flea Treatment?

One of the questions that most dog owners ask themselves is whether or not their pooches really need flea treatment. The answer is a very straightforward ‘yes’. The best way to help you understand why is to look at the life cycle of fleas.

Fleas are very resilient – they live outdoors and can survive for up to 5 days in temperatures as low as 33 degrees F. Within this period, it can easily catch a ride on your dog’s fur. They don’t fly, but they are mighty jumpers, able to propel their bodies up to distances that are 50 times the length of their bodies.

The adult flea can then lay eggs on your dog’s skin. Throughout the life of a female adult flea, it can lay up to 5,000 eggs, possibly even more. These can fall on your carpet, your floor, or any other surface near your dog.

Within 2 weeks, these eggs hatch and become larvae. These juvenile fleas are particularly averse to sunlight so they are mostly found in dark and humid places such as cracks and crevices on your floor. They also love to hide under your pet’s bedding as well as under your carpets and rugs. And if they get in touch with your pet’s food, they naturally grow into pupae.

The pupa actually just waits for the right trigger for it to come out from its cocoon. These can include vibrations, heat, and increased carbon dioxide levels. All of these actually indicate the presence of a suitable host nearby. When this is triggered, it transforms into an adult flea. All of these can occur within just 4 days although it may take some time for it to transform into its adult version if adverse conditions are present.

So, Why Does Your Dog Need Flea Treatment?

An adorable labrador dog scratching itself on a field

Because every time your dog foes outside, there’s no way of telling how many fleas may have latched onto them. It would be safe to assume that your pooch has at least one.

Once fleas bite, they can introduce microorganisms into the bloodstream and cause a variety of health conditions and diseases. The following are some of the more common diseases caused by fleas.

  • Flea bite dermatitis: This is one of the most common issues associated with fleas in dogs. It develops because of the inflammatory changes that occur secondary to tissue injury caused by the flea bite. The skin becomes reddish and sometimes swollen and very uncomfortable for dogs. And because inflammatory chemicals are released, primarily histamine, these produce severe itching which, when vigorously scratched by your pet, can lead to loss of skin integrity. Cuts occur on the skin and these can become entry points for other microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and other parasites which can then lead to other health problems.
  • Typhus: Fleas are known carriers of several species of the bacteria Rickettsia which is the principal causative agent of typhus. While the primary target is rats, dogs and humans alike are not immune to its infectious nature. This can lead to fever, joint pain, vomiting, and even muscle pain. All of these can make your pooch sick, will not want to eat, or become depressed.  
  • Plague: The causative agent of plague, Yersinia pestis, is basically transmitted by fleas to rats and other mammals. While the incidence of plague has been significantly reduced, there are still thousands of cases reported every year. Some of the symptoms of plague include fever and severely swollen lymph nodes. The problem is that death often ensues without warning. It is for this reason that pets that are suspected of having plague should be brought immediately to the vet for management. Also, strict isolation must be observed to prevent the spread of the disease.  
  • Tapeworm: The tapeworm Hymenolepis nana has been shown to be carried by fleas, although direct human-to-human transmission also occurs. Dogs can ingest adult fleas when they lick their fur or surfaces that contain tapeworm-infected fleas. Children are especially vulnerable as they can accidentally swallow an infected critter. The good thing is that this infection can be easily treated.  
  • Hemobartonellosis: Bartonella henselae is most commonly found in ticks although it can also be found in fleas. The danger in hemobartonellosis is that the bacteria invade the red blood cells. This disrupts the cells’ ability to carry oxygen and deliver it to the tissues. This leads to anemia which can make your pet lose its appetite, lack energy, and lose weight.

These are just some of the more common health issues associated with fleas. There are plenty more. It is exactly for these reasons that many pet owners give only the best flea medicine to dogs. And you should, too.

Where Do Fleas Hide On Dogs?

Blown dog rod tail itself

Fleas are incredibly and can thrive on any part of your pet’s body. However, they do have the tendency to hide in areas where there is some degree of protection, especially from scratching.

As such, you may want to start looking at the base of your pet’s tail as most dogs cannot scratch this part of their bodies. Additionally, the natural curvature of the tail bone gives these pests some degree of protection. Other areas where these pests can hide in your dog include the neck, the belly, and the chest. The space in between toes on your pooch’s paws can also be excellent habitat for these ectoparasites.

Can I Use Flea Treatments When My Dog is on Other Medication?

Dog bites fleas Pet scratches itself

It is understandable that you may have reservations about using flea treatments while your dog is on other medication. Generally speaking, you should never combine medications as there is no way of telling what effects will come out of the drug interactions. You should always consult with your veterinarian about what flea treatments are safe for your dog if they are already on medication.

Some more safety tips you can consider when considering any treatment:

  • Read the labels of each product and focus your attention on the drug interaction section.
  • If you wish to combine pesticides for your pet, it is a lot better to combine a flea-only medication with a tick-only treatment.
  • Never give your dog more than what is recommended.
  • Do not double up on your treatments. For example, giving a flea medication on top of another flea medication.

How Often Do I Need to Give My Dog a Flea Tablet?

One of the most innovative solutions in the fight against flea infestation in pets is the development of a tablet form of these flea medications. There are many benefits of flea tablets, pills, and chewable that other forms of treatments simply cannot provide. For instance, these are considered to be more effective than traditional spray-on or topical preparations since there is no guarantee that all of the active ingredients will be absorbed by the dog’s skin. Since tablets go directly to the digestive tract where they are digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, there is a greater concentration of the active ingredient present in the blood. These medications are a lot more convenient to administer, too. Some actually come complete with all-in-one protection that helps protect pets against heartworms and intestinal parasites, not just ticks, and fleas.

But the question most pet owners ask is related to the duration of action of these formulations. Most spot-on treatments require re-application within 30 days, some as short as 15 days while others promise 90-day protection.

Similarly, the duration of effectiveness of flea tablets depends on the brand. For instance, Capstar is known to be a very potent anti-flea medication that can kill these pests within 30 minutes. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last that long. If your pet gets reinfested within the day, you can give another tablet of Capstar. Without additional effort on your part to control the environmental factors affecting flea growth, you’d end up with a more expensive treatment as you will need to give your mutt.

On the other hand, Bravecto’s 90-day protection is spectacular for a flea tablet. While it doesn’t work as fast as Capstar, it is still a lot faster than traditional spot-on medications. If you do use Bravecto, then you will have to give your pet at most 4 times a year.

This is dependent on where you live. If you live in areas where fleas thrive all year round, then you will have to treat your pet for the whole year. However, if you live in an area where these pests display seasonal patterns, then you will only give your mutt these tablets at most twice a year.

Again, depending on the product that you give to your mutt and the prevalence of flea infestation in your locality, the number of times you will give a flea tablet can range from as short as daily to about 3 months.

Tips on Preventing Fleas at Home

Regardless of how aggressive you are in your application or administration of the best flea medicine for dogs or how meticulous you are in removing these critters off of your pet if you are not going to do something about their natural habitat, then you will still face the same problem year in and year out. As we have already explained, there’s no way we can track the movement of these pests from the outside environment to our homes. We often only realize that they have invaded our homes when our pet begins to scratch. By then, many of these fleas would have already laid eggs. Some would already be in their larval and pupal stages. In a few more days, they will turn into adult fleas.

That is why it is imperative that you should also know how to prevent fleas at home. Here are some tips.

  • Start cleaning your backyard. Since they love hiding in crevices and cracks where there is plenty of moisture, you may want to start spraying your backyard with an appropriate pesticide so that these pests are killed even before you or your pet has a chance to bring these inside your house. Covering crevices and cracks on the ground and keeping everything neat and tidy should also help minimize infestation. This also means you have to mow your lawn and keep the shrubs well-trimmed.
  • Safeguard your property by putting appropriate electric fences for dogs that will help prevent the entry of feral animals into your backyard. Remember that fleas don’t just rely on dogs as their hosts. Other mammals are excellent hosts, too. So, don’t give this curious wildlife a reason to be nosy on your property. Don’t leave food scraps or even your pet’s food outside as these are natural magnets for feral cats, raccoons, and other creatures. Also, seal off possible entry points such as crawl spaces, sheds, garages, and even under decks as these can be used by other animals as nests.
  • Call a professional to fog your home properly. Many of the chemicals used in fogging can kill fleas in all stages of development, including the very hardy pupae. These substances can also last as long as 7 months, so it may be wise to plan the fogging so that when it does wear off most of the fleas will be less active. If you have a large property, getting 2 to 3 foggers should do the trick.

For more options head over to our guide on the Best Flea Killer For Yard.

Keep your shrubs well-spaced. The more sunlight that gets through to each leaf or any other structure in your plant should help kill the larvae of these pests. Improving ventilation also helps.

Use a pet hair vacuum, sweep, and mop your floors and other surfaces to help remove eggs, larvae, pupae, and even adult fleas. Make sure to reach in baseboards as these critters love the dark. With each vacuum, dispose of the bag immediately. Remember that vibrations can ‘awaken’ pupae and turn them into adult fleas.

Wash the beddings and other items of your pet. Leave these to dry under the hot sun. This should kill these ectoparasites. Include your mutt’s toys.

What to Look out for When Buying a Flea Treatment

Tips on Preventing Fleas at Home

The market for flea and tick treatment for dogs is crowded which gives you plenty of choices. However, in order to choose the best product for you are your dog you need to know what to look for. Here are our top tips:

  • Age suitability. Is the product suitable for your age of dog? Some cannot be used on dogs under 3 months or even 6 months. Others should not be used on seniors without speaking to your vet. Always check the label.
  • Coat suitability. Some types of treatment are more suited to a thick coat. For example, you may want to avoid shampoos if washing and drying your dog’s very thick coat is a big job!
  • Household. Perhaps you have young children in the household and would prefer to avoid harsh chemicals. A more natural product may be more appealing to you.
  • Dog lifestyle. If your dog regularly goes on hikes in the forest, they need a good tick treatment.
  • Where you live. Some areas of the country have a bigger problem with ticks and fleas than others.
  • Time. Wipes, shampoos, and sprays are more time-consuming than tablets and chews.
  • Dog co-operation. Will your dog sit still while you apply a topical treatment? Will they happily take a tablet or chew?

All dogs are different, that is why there are so many products to choose from!

Different Types of Flea Prevention Products

On the whole, you will find the following types of flea treatment for dogs:

Type of TreatmentProsCons
Tablets- Highly effective
- Quick and clean
- Usually last for at least a month
- Humans don’t come into contact with the chemicals
- May require a prescription
- Some dogs can react to the medication
- Your dog may spit it out
- You must give the correct dose
- It may not be suitable for young pups
Chews- Highly effective
- Can be combined with worm medication in the one product
- Quick to administer
- Most dogs like the taste
- Can last for up to 3 months saving you time and money
- May require a prescription
- Some dogs can react to the medication
- You must give the correct dose
- It may not be suitable for young pups
Sprays/wipes- Totally natural versions with no harsh chemicals are available
- Little chance of a reaction
- Often suitable for younger dogs
- May be suitable for home surfaces as well saving you money
- Some are toxic to other animals (especially cats) and young children
- The dog may not be able to get wet for 24 hours
- Messy to apply
- Can have a strong odor
- Natural products are not as effective
Topical liquids (often placed between the shoulder blades)- Highly effective
- Often last for a month
- Start acing very quickly
- Highly effective
- Good for dogs that will not swallow tablets or chews
- No possibility of stomach upset
- Can cause a local skin reaction
- You may need a prescription
- Can be messy to apply
- Dog will have to stay dry for 24 hours
- Could be harmful to other pets and children while still wet
Shampoo- Smell pleasant
- Also helps with skin irritation
- Leaves the coat looking great
- Often suitable for younger pups
- Not as long lasting as some other products
- You need to leave the lather on for 5/10 minutes
- More work for the owner
Collar- Simple and easy to use
- Provides constant protection
- Long-lasting – up to 8 months
- Some also have a reflective strip
- Available for different sizes of dogs
- Young children should not come into contact with the collar
- Not all owners are happy about being constantly exposed to the chemicals
- Can cause a local skin reaction

Warning: When buying online, always ensure that you are purchasing a legitimate product, as there are many companies that will sell imitation products that can be easily mistaken for the real thing.

Sources:

  1. How Do I Stop My Pet From Getting Fleas?, RSPCA Australia
  2. Using Flea Medications Safely: Top 5 Tips for Pet Parents, ASPCA
  3. Flea Control: Safe Solutions, PETA

Frequently Asked Questions

Unfortunately, there is no way to permanently ged rid of fleas once and for all. It is a constant battle between you and the fleas and you have to stay one step ahead of them. If you want the minimum of input, one of the longer-lasting solutions may be best for you. Consider a flea collar (than can last for up to 8 months) or one of the longer lasting chews that can last up to 3 months.

If you dog is constantly getting re-infested consider some of the hygiene measures we have highlighted above for your home and yard. These include vacuuming inside and clearing debris from your yard.

Modern flea collars are now considered effective for controlling fleas. In the past, flea collars did not work. Now, collars such as the Seresto collar featured here start working very quickly and last for up to eight months.

Dogs get fleas from another animal or from the environment. If it seems like they keep coming back, it may mean that you need more than one treatment to interrupt their lifecycle. New fleas can emerge for up to 6 weeks after the first treatment.
Also, all the dogs, cats and rabbits in your home may need to be treated. Don’t forget about environmental hygiene measures and treatment. If none of this works, consult a professional pest controller and your vet.

No they can’t but this is not because they drown. They are killed by the combination of heat and the chemicals in laundry detergent. To eradicate fleas from bedding and other clothes, was on a hot cycle – fleas cannot survive beyond 95°F and are sensitive to laundry powder containing boric acid. Popping your clothes on a hot cycle in the drier is also likely to kill fleas and their eggs.

Sharon Parry

Sharon is a Ph.D. scientist and experienced pet content writer. As a life-long animal lover, she now shares her family home with three rabbits, a Syrian hamster, and a Cockapoo puppy. She has a passion for researching accurate and credible information about pets and turning it into easy-to-understand articles that offer practical tips. When it comes to our furry friends, she knows that there is always something new to learn!

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