Fleas can lead to numerous health issues in dogs, such as dermatitis, tapeworm infections, and anemia. Therefore, selecting an effective flea treatment is crucial for eliminating current infestations and preventing future ones.
There are generally three primary forms of flea treatments for dogs: oral medications, topical solutions, and flea collars. A fourth method involves flea combs and baths, usually suitable for mild infestations. This method demands consistent and meticulous effort to thoroughly eradicate fleas from your pet.
Spot-On Or Topical
Topical treatments have long been a standard approach for eliminating fleas and ticks on dogs. Many pet owners favor this method, especially if they dislike chewable options.
Bravecto, Revolution, and Frontline Plus are among the leading topical products for flea prevention. Bravecto's topical solution offers 12 weeks of protection and is suitable for dogs older than six months and weighing more than 4.4 pounds.
Revolution is effective for puppies starting at six weeks old and weighing at least 5.5 pounds, while Frontline Plus can be used on puppies eight weeks and older, with a minimum weight requirement of 4.4 pounds. Both treatments eradicate fleas, their eggs, and larvae and protect for 30 days.
Additionally, both Revolution and Bravecto can eliminate ticks. Frontline Plus kills and repels mosquitoes.
Oral Chewables
Oral chewables, sometimes called flea pills or tablets, are available in flavored and unflavored varieties. They are commonly used for dogs as it can be challenging to administer pills to cats.
Many dog owners prefer oral chewables for their ease of use; they can be fed directly or mixed into the dog's food.
Two popular oral flea treatment options on the market are Bravecto and Nexgard. These products eliminate fleas, including their eggs and larvae, and prevent new fleas from reproducing. They also kill ticks.
The choice between Bravecto and Nexgard often depends on your preference for treatment frequency and your dog's age. NexGard, suitable for dogs as young as eight weeks old and weighing more than four pounds, requires monthly administration.
Bravecto is an option for dogs older than six months and weighing over 4.4 pounds. It offers up to 12 weeks of flea protection, helping to prevent new infestations.
Collar
In addition to oral or topical treatments, the Seresto flea collar is another option, particularly during the peak flea activity in the summer months. Seresto provides up to eight months of protection against ticks and fleas and is safe for puppies as young as seven weeks.
Choosing The Best Flea Treatment For Your Dog
There is only a universally best flea treatment product for some dogs. Your choice between options like the oral chewable Nexgard or the topical treatment Frontline Plus will largely depend on your preferred application method and how often you want to administer the treatment.
It would help if you also considered your dog's weight and age when selecting a flea treatment.
To ensure its effectiveness, it is crucial to maintain consistent use of the chosen product. Even as the weather cools, continue the treatment since fleas can still infest pets during the winter months.
To effectively combat a flea problem, you must address fleas in your home and yard, as these are potential breeding grounds that could lead to re-infestation.
