Top 10 Essential Medications Every Dog Owner Should Have

As a responsible dog owner, having essential medications on hand can be a lifesaver in case of emergencies or minor health issues. While regular veterinary care is crucial, keeping a well-stocked pet first aid kit prepares you for common ailments. Here are the top 10 essential medications every dog owner should have.

Flea and Tick Preventatives

Parasites like ticks and fleas can cause severe discomfort and even transmit diseases. Monthly flea and tick preventatives, such as Simparica Trio, NexGard, or Frontline Plus, help keep your dog protected year-round.

Deworming Medications

Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms are common in dogs. A broad-spectrum dewormer such as Drontal and Heartgard Plus can effectively eliminate worms and should be administered as per your vet's recommendation.

Antihistamines (For Allergic Reactions)

Dogs can suffer from allergies due to insect bites, food, or environmental factors. Benadryl (diphenhydramine) is commonly used to manage mild allergic reactions, but always consult your vet for the correct dosage.

Pain Relievers (Vet-Prescribed NSAIDs)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Carprofen (Rimadyl), Meloxicam, or Deracoxib help relieve pain from arthritis, injuries, or surgery. Never give human pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as they can be toxic to dogs.

Antibiotic Ointment

To prevent infections, minor cuts, scrapes, or skin infections should be treated with a pet-safe antibiotic ointment like Neosporin or Vetericyn.

Ear Cleaners & Medications

Ear infections are common in dogs, mostly with floppy ears. Having an ear cleaning solution (e.g., Epi-Otic) and vet-prescribed ear drops can help manage ear infections and wax buildup.

Hydrogen Peroxide (For Inducing Vomiting in Emergencies)

If your dog absorb something toxic (like chocolate or certain plants), hydrogen peroxide (3%) can induce vomiting in emergencies—but only under vet guidance. Incorrect use can be dangerous.

Probiotics & Digestive Aids

Digestive upsets, diarrhea, or antibiotic-related gut issues can be managed with probiotics like FortiFlora or Proviable. These supplements aid in preserving a well-balanced gut microbiome and promoting digestive wellness.

Activated Charcoal (For Poisoning Cases)

Activated charcoal can help absorb toxins if your dog ingests something harmful. However, it should only be given under a vet's supervision.

Antidiarrheal Medications

Dogs often suffer from diarrhea due to dietary changes, stress, or infections. Kaopectate or a vet-approved dose of Pepcid (famotidine) can help soothe an upset stomach.

Final Thoughts

While these medications are essential, always consult your vet before administering any drug to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your dog. Having these items in your pet's first aid kit can help manage minor issues and provide immediate relief until you reach a veterinarian.

Are you looking for pet medications at the best prices? Check out 79Pets.com for vet-approved products and reliable pet care essentials!

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Best Selling Combo

Best Selling Combo

Heartgard Nexgard Combo for Dogs Flea, Ticks & Heartworm Treatment

Customer Reviews

Overall rating: 4.8 / 5 from 1134 reviews.

Customer photo review of Custom Duty

Fast shipping great quality and price

Custom Duty

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Two sweet girlies decided to make our deck their home. Mosquitoes are a big problem where we live and we had to get them protected. This was the best bang for the buck. I’ve ordered from 79Pets several times and while delivery is not fast it is very consistent.

Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Teresa!

Customer photo review of Nexgard Combo For Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

As a retired veterinary technician I was extremely happy to finally see a flea and heartworm medication that actually does tapeworms too!!!!!!! This is a 1st to my knowledge....I live in a tropical climate where fleas never die so this is heaven sent.

Nexgard Combo For Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Kimberly.

Customer photo review of Stronghold Teal For Dogs 44-88lbs (20-40kg)

Very happy with the price of Stronghold heart worm med for my dog. Seems to be working well.

Stronghold Teal For Dogs 44-88lbs (20-40kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Dory!

Customer photo review of Simparica Trio For Dogs 22.1-44 lbs (10-20 kg)

My dog loves this product, never got any issue. Good price , deliver on time. We will definitely keep purchasing with 79 pets.com. Thanks!

Simparica Trio For Dogs 22.1-44 lbs (10-20 kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Elle!

Customer photo review of NexGard Chew For Small Dogs 10-24lbs (4-10kg)

I have 3 of these little rascals so Michigan flea/tick season can be financially brutal! Thank you for keeping NexGard so affordable.

NexGard Chew For Small Dogs 10-24lbs (4-10kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Elaine

Customer photo review of Nexgard Combo for Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

After Seresto collars failed to get rid of fleas, I didn't know where to turn. I saw a post on a page I follow (Kentucky Kitty Cats) saying that they use Nexgard Combo for the cats they shelter. I decided to try it and IT WORKS!

Nexgard Combo for Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Cari.. We are glad that you found treatment which works for your Cats..

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Large Cats 11.1-22lbs (5-10kg)

This is Lexi Marie! She was wondering why mom was so excited for buying flea medicine. I explained to her that we saved $100 and that she would understand some day when she grows up.

Revolution Plus For Large Cats 11.1-22lbs (5-10kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Tammy!!

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Last year, I made a visit to the vet. I told them that Kattie/cat had ear mites. They gave me an ointment costing $80canadian. I used it up and purchased another bottle. $160. total not including the cost of the vet visit. No results. The ear mites have been there for a long time. Canadian vets have control of what is sold in Pet stores and you cannot purchase off the shelf products not recognized by them. I jumped at the chance to purchase your produce with a recommended 100% effectivity. I was willing to try, but was suspicions. After a month there was still a little scratching but after 6 weeks, the mites are gone and the scratching is gone. Thank you very much for this mite solution. I recommend it heartily. Harry P.S. Do not tell the Canadian vets as they will outlaw your product.

Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Harry for review!!