The 10 Best Flea And Tick Medicine For Dogs In 2023

This is our review of the Best Flea And Tick Medicine For Dogs.

Nature tends to have a lot of mysteries and one of such is where so much harm can be caused by things that are very small. A typical example is the case of dogs and fleas.

As small as fleas can be, that you have to arduously search to find them, they are a serious health concern, particularly for dogs.

More than the itching and irritation that comes with it; they pose a lot of danger to not only dogs but dog owners as well.

I have had a fair share of these insects and their obscenities, and have tried some medications on my dog.

Indeed there are many treatments out there, but the one I found to be the most effective for me is the K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention for Large Dogs.

Having done a lot of research and tested some of the most popular flea treatments on the market, I have created a list of the top flea medicines for dogs.

I understand that just like no two humans are the same, so also it is with dogs.

So, with the list of the best flea and tick medicine for dogs below you should be able to choose one or so that inclines with your personal preference like the ingredients, value, budget, and more.

This post is aimed at helping you make an informed decision about the right treatment option for you and your dog.

Top 10 Best Flea And Tick Medicine For Dogs

1. K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention for Large Dogs (Best Overall)
2. FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs (Best Topical Meds)
3. NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs (Best Oral Med)
4. Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs (Best Collar Meds)
5. PETARMOR Plus for Dogs Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (Best for Small Dogs)
6. Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs (Best for Large Dogs)
7. Bravecto Chews for Dogs (Best Fast-action)
8. Advantage II Flea Treatment for Small Dogs (Best Budget-friendly)
9. Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs (Best Shampoo Meds)
10. Vet’s Best Indoor Flea & Tick Spray for Dogs & Cats (Best Spray Meds)

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10 Best Flea Medicines For Dogs Reviews

 

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K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention for Large Dogs

If you’re looking for an effective solution to annoying and dangerous parasites such as fleas, one important product to consider is the K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention.

This is a vet-recommended topical flea treatment product and is especially directed toward extra-large dogs of 55 pounds and above.

It provides one of the benefits you can hardly find in another product – killing and repelling mosquitoes.

This product has over the years gained so much popularity due to its effectiveness and minimal side effects on dogs.

As gentle as it is on your dog’s body, it is very effective. One application can last as long as 1 month; in fact, within 12 hours you can already see significant results.

It is so easy to use and waterproof, thus withstands water and sunlight as well.

The active ingredients featured in its formulation include imidacloprid, pyriproxyfen, and permethrin.

K9 Advantix II from Bayer promises to eliminate flea-related pests regardless of what stage. Before contact with your dog’s coat, they are already repelling pests.

A common downside with K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention is that younger dogs are likely to suffer from burns on their skin.

The ‘K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention are perfect for large dogs that weigh between 21-55 pounds.

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FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Large Dogs

One name that has been trusted over the years when it comes to flea prevention and treatment is FRONTLINE.

Owing to this brand reputation, it is only natural to expect the same from the FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs.

This is another once-in-a-month fast-acting and long-lasting topical flea medicine proven to keep dog fleas at bay. They are designed for dogs that are from eight weeks of age and above.

More than just killing fleas is that it is effective at stopping their eggs from hatching and any form of infestation in your home.

For a dog that turns up its nose for medication, applying this medicine is a breeze.

It is safe for any dog breed type; even if they are pregnant or lactating.

One application of this topical treatment continues to work for as long as 30 days.

The FRONTLINE Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs is waterproof, which means their effectiveness is not affected even if your dogs go for a swim or have a bath.

Frontline Plus contains S-methoprene (an insect growth regulator), which is effective at disturbing the life cycle of fleas, inhibiting their growth and development into adulthood.

Another active ingredient is fipronil, which specializes in attacking adult fleas. There’s no way any flea can survive such actions.

Some dogs are likely to experience temporary irritation at the spot of application that may need medical attention.

The ‘Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs’ are perfect for dogs that are above eight weeks and weigh 45-88 Pounds.

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NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs

Guarding your dogs against harmful fleas has never been so easy, thanks to this soft and delicious chew loved by dogs.

The NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs is one of a kind when it comes to the best dog flea treatments for dogs.

In my opinion and experience, very few products work as fast and effective as this flea treatment.

It is formulated with the ingredient, afoxolaner, which is very effective at protecting your dog from nuisance and dangers of pests such as fleas.

This oral administered product works best and safe for puppies from 8 weeks of age and above and that weigh 4 pounds and above.

When consumed by your dog, it is safely and rapidly absorbed into its bloodstream and the result is an uncontrolled activity of the flea’s central nervous system, thus leading to their death.

With the NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs, there’s little to nothing to worry about unlike the messy tropical counterpart or mistakenly washing off the medicine.

Also, you don’t have to worry about any interaction or interruption if your furry pal is already on heartworm medication.

While a lot of pets have been observed to tolerate the product very well, there have been cases (although rare) of digestive upset caused.

The ‘NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs’ is perfect for puppies as young as 8 weeks and weighs 24.1-60 lbs.

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Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs

The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs is another quick action flea medicine that makes my top best flea treatment for dogs.

It comes in an easy-to-use and odorless collar and is effective in both killing and repelling fleas in and from your dogs.

This dual-action collar is water-resistant and thus no matter your dog’s exposure to water (whether by swimming, bathing, or under rain), it remains effective.

After an application, it gets to last for 8 months before another application is required. With a few hours of application – say 12-24 hours, the dog fleas are already being killed.

But, it is recommended that you do not bathe your dogs more than once a month.

One thing I like with products like this is that the fleas don’t have to bite your furry friend before they get into action. It begins its killings just by contact with the fleas.

It offers a great deal of convenience and can be used together with other restraining or identification collars without interference or damage.

Its active ingredients are imidacloprid and flumethrin which are popular for their pet repelling action.

With the help of innovative and exciting technology, these ingredients are gradually and continuously released in minute concentrations and spread all over the skin and coat of your dog.

With all these going on, no flea stands a chance of survival around your canine buddy. This happens over an extended period of about 30 days.

Apart from temporary irritation experienced by some at the site the product is applied, an obvious downside is that it may not be effective for thick-coated dogs.

The ‘Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs’ come in two formulations that are perfect for small dogs that are up to 18 lbs, and large dogs that are more than 18 lbs.

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PETARMOR Plus for Dogs Flea and Tick Prevention

Here comes another topical medication you should consider for your dog fleas treatment – PetArmor Plus Flea & Tick Prevention.

This is another easy to use medicine that offers your dogs a consistent relief from the nuisance and harm of flea-related pets.

They are effective in killing fleas at all life stages – from their eggs to larvae and adults.

The Pet Armor Plus for Dogs is designed for more than just treatment; it also comes in very handy in preventive measures against flea infestations. You may not have to wait for your dog to be affected by these parasites before applying.

Its active ingredients are the same as the FRONTLINE Plus medication mentioned above – S-methoprene and fipronil. This is an effective formulation that guarantees your pup a happier and healthier life of a flea-free existence.

It is easy to use and can last for an average of one month from when it is applied. It begins its action in as little as 24 hours.

It comes in a waterproof formula which makes it great for pet owners with dogs that love water.

The ‘PetArmor Plus Flea & Tick Prevention is perfect for water-loving dogs and must be over 8 weeks of age and 4 pounds.

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Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs

If you’re looking for a holistic strategy rather than a preventive measure in battling dog fleas, you may want to check this product out – Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs.

This dog flea medicine in my opinion is the most popular in the market. The ease and convenience of administration are also amazing.

The Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs is a non-prescription (OTC) medicine and comes in pill form, and can be directly ingested or incorporated into your dog food.

Each tablet contains a formulation of Nitenpyram, a very effective chemical substance when it comes to addressing flea infestation.

When this tablet is ingested by them, the chemical is released into the bloodstream and toxifies the blood for fleas, and within 30 minutes starts to work from the inside out.

You can expect its full result (as much as 90%) in about 4-5 hours. This is a typical example of a fast-acting remedy.

Don’t worry, it won’t interfere with or harm your dog’s system in any way. This flea treatment is safe and can be used by pregnant or nursing dogs.

It can even be administered alongside other preventive treatments. The required dose is one pill for a day.

This dog flea medicine is only limited to killing adult fleas and addressing a current infestation on your dog. You may want to incorporate a preventative solution to handle future re-infestation.

The ‘Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs is perfect for large dogs weighing over 25 pounds and less than 125 pounds.

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Bravecto Chews for Dogs

Flea infestation on dogs can be a thing of the past with the Bravecto Chews for Dogs.

More than just the effectiveness is the convenience and ease its chew brings to the table.

This best dog flea medicine is a record-breaking flea control product. It is in fact the first oral chew that has provided as much as 12 weeks of protection against fleas.

With just one chew, it provides a long-lasting and broad-spectrum protection that begins its killing action within 2 hours of being ingested.

More than just being an even effective flea killer, it is also a preventive solution to a flea infestation.

It is effective in the control of the four species of fleas (black-legged tick, brown dog tick, lone star tick, and American dog tick).

The active ingredient in Bravecto chews is Fluralaner, a very powerful substance that helps in the knocking down of fleas and ticks as well as preventing subsequent infestations.

Plus, the chews taste great, and as such can be used as treats for dogs.

As soon as this substance gets into the dog’s system, it quickly finds its way into the tissue fluids underneath your dog’s skin. As fleas attempt to feed on your dog, they ingest this poisonous and die.

This is an effective topical treatment suitable for use on all dog breeds, as well as those pregnant or lactating.

The Bravecto Chews for Dogs is perfect for all dog breeds, as well as for breeding, pregnant, and lactating ones, as long as they are above 8 weeks of age and weigh above 2kg.

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Advantage II Flea Treatment for Small Dogs

One of the most comprehensive flea protection you can ever get is with the Advantage II Flea Treatment for Small Dogs.

This is a monthly topical treatment designed for dogs that are 7 weeks of age and above, and weighing between 3 and 10 pounds.

It goes ahead to kill fleas on contact, so the fleas don’t even have the chance to bite your dog. Within 12 hours of application on your dogs, the fleas are seen to begin to die.

This is a veterinarian-recommended treatment that provides three-way protection against flea infestation. It is specialized in effectively preventing flea infestation and also breaking their life cycle (from eggs to larvae and adult fleas).

The medicine features two active ingredients, namely: imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen.

The former acts on the flea’s nervous system and causes paralysis and thereafter death.

The latter on the other hand is a growth regulator and thus putting an end to the flea life cycle by preventing the hatching of any flea eggs.

It is waterproof and will still keep its effectiveness even if your dog pet gets wet from bathing or swimming.

The ‘Advantage II Flea Treatment for Small Dogs’ is perfect for dogs 7 weeks or older and weighing between 3 and 10 pounds.

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Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo for Dogs

If you are looking for a natural way of fighting the misery of biting fleas, this may just be what you need – Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo.

Like most of the products I’ve included on this list, this product is veterinarian-recommended and highly effective.

From its name, it is obvious that it is an all-natural treatment that poses no threat or side effects to your dogs, and does not expose them or your home to harsh chemicals. You can safely use them on your 12 weeks and above year old furry pal.

Richard’s Organics Flea & Tick Shampoo is specially formulated to protect your canine pal from the nuisance and harms caused by fleas.

It comes in a formulation of 5 all-natural essential oils known for repelling pests like fleas. It also comes in handy in repelling mosquitoes.

It is also equipped with Vitamin E to moisturize and soothe irritated skin. It also does not contain any artificial fragrance or color. You don’t have to worry, as it is free from sulfate and paraben which can be harsh for your dogs. This is what I call an innovative shampoo solution.

The ‘Richard’s Organics Flea and Tick Shampoo’ is perfect for dogs from 12 weeks and older

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Vet’s Best Indoor Flea & Tick Spray for Dogs & Cats

Another option for a swift and natural way to fight the nasty creatures known as fleas is the Vet’s Best Indoor Flea & Tick Spray.

It is specially formulated with clove extract – peppermint oil and eugenol, which have insecticidal properties. These properties are very certified and very effective at killing fleas in all their four life stages.

It is smoothening the skin, leaving it with a sweet fragrance.

It is also free from harsh chemicals like permethrins or pyrethrins or cedar oil. So you don’t have to worry about any reaction from your pets.

The Vet’s Best Indoor Flea & Tick Spray is to be sprayed directly on your dog’s entire coat right from its head down to its tail and massaged until the coat feels damp – as long as it doesn’t drip.

Just be careful not to spray on the face or genitals.

You can also use this product to treat your yard or patios and decks so the insects are kept at bay, and you can enjoy the outdoors with your pets.

Although it is easy to use, it needs to be reapplied as often as say every 24 hours to be effective; which can be somewhat tedious.

The ‘Vet’s Best Indoor Flea & Tick Spray’ is perfect for puppies or dogs from eight weeks of age.

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How To Tell If Your Dog Has Fleas

Fleas can cause serious harm to dogs, and depending on the stage of their growth can be very small and somewhat invisible to the careless eye.

When not given adequate treatment, they can make your dog’s life so miserable and even lead to flea-related conditions.

Here are signs to be aware of so you address the situation before it becomes serious.

Sign 1: Itch/Scratch

Fleas are known for their release of saliva when they bite, which can be very irritating to your dogs. One of the ways it manifests is itching.

I used to think this was an old wive’s tale until I saw restlessness in my dog characterized by severe itching.

Sign 2: Hair Loss

One of the ways you can tell that fleas have been up to something with your dog is by noticing hair loss on them. This hair loss is not a direct effect of the flea bite but a result of the irritation, it comes from while attempting to get them off.

This is commonly observed in the hindquarters of the dog such as on the neck, legs back, or tail’s base.

Sign 3: Pale Gums

Fleas are known to be heavy drinkers of blood. Imagine having this parasite in large numbers and on your dog? The result is seriously drained blood.

As this happens the supply of hemoglobin is affected, thereby leading to anemia which is signaled by the paleness of the gum. That could also lead to dizziness, weakness, and breathing problems.

Sign 4: Tapeworm-infested Feces

Fleas are sometimes carriers of the larvae of tapeworms.

A dog tends to ingest them (together with the fleas) when they resolve to biting and licking the parts of their body that itch, in an attempt to find relief.

The tapeworm tends to shed off its parts into the waste in your dog’s intestine.

Sign 5: Flea Droppings and Eggs

A dog flea in its matured life stage can lay eggs, as much as 20 to 50 in one day.

Also, like any living organism, they produce waste that appears like tiny black dots. These eggs are usually white-colored and oval in shape, looking like granules of pepper and salt.

There’s always a tendency that these dropping and eggs will be found on the ground. (1)

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Types Of Flea Treatments

Like I said earlier, there are many anti-flea treatments on the market. But, they are commonly placed under the following categories:

Oral/Pills

Oral medicines are probably the best dog treatment for fleas option, in my own opinion. They come in the form of tablets and pills containing insecticides having nitenpyram or imidacloprid as a major ingredient.

As they are ingested, the ingredients make their way to the bloodstream and settle there waiting for the next flea bite. When that happens, the fleas get to ingest the poison contained in the insecticide and die.

Pills generally last for an average of 24 hours and as such, they need to be administered to your dogs every day until the infestation is completely handled.

Topical

Topical flea treatment generally refers to flea drops or spot treatments featuring insecticides such as pyriproxyfen or permethrin (or (s)-methoprene and fipronil), applied behind the neck of your dog, which then spreads to other areas of their skin’s surface.

As this happens, every flea bite is in danger of ingesting chemicals and dying. They don’t make it to the dog’s bloodstream, but rather directly on the fleas.

Generally, topical medications will last for about 30 days after which they will need to be reapplied. They are also an effective means of dealing with fleas.

Collar

This is another type of flea medicine that is effective and used to be popular in keeping fleas at bay.

They are particularly effective at repelling fleas rather than when the infestation is existing.

Like the topical option, flea collars are designed to release chemicals on your dog’s neck which then spreads to the surface of your dog’s skin.

This option is considered a problem as pets are likely to chew on other pet’s collar or their own when it slips out. When such happens, your pets stand a chance of poisoning.

Shampoos

A flea shampoo, like other types of flea medicines, contains poisonous ingredients such as pyrethrum but is to be used as shampoos.

When used to shampoo your dog’s skin, the poisonous ingredients stay on their coat. They in turn either kill any existing fleas or make your dog’s coat undesirable for them that they leave.

This type of medication might not be suitable for puppies or kittens of a certain age. That way, it is important to carefully read through the label.

Spray

Sprays are another effective type of flea medicine in protecting your furry pal against recurring flea infestations.

They are also designed for use in your yard or home. All you have to do is spray your dog’s entire fur.

They also contain insecticides whose purpose is to kill fleas of all life stages they come in contact with.

Applying flea sprays requires some care such as the mouth and eyes. Apply with care so that you don’t end up adding to the hurt your dog already feels.

Powders

This is a unique type of flea medicine for dogs. Rather than using them on your furry pal, you apply them in your home.

But, just like the other types, they contain a variety of natural and chemical insecticides. You have to sprinkle on your upholstery and carpets, brush in and allow for some hours before you vacuum.

This way, it kills every flea and any laid eggs it comes in contact with.

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What To Consider When Choosing Best Flea Medicines For Dogs

Purpose of Product

We have already established that there are countless numbers of flea medicines in the market, and certainly, they all come with different purposes.

For instance, some are for preventive purposes and act as flea repellants. There are others that are specialized in eradicating fleas in their developing stage like larvae.

You also have medicines that are primarily designed to terminate adult fleas.

Active Ingredients

Flea medicines for dogs are generally a combination of substances and ingredients. Different medicines come with different ingredients, and even among these ingredients, there are those that are the major.

Also, certain dogs can react to certain ingredients differently. You want to be aware of your dog’s allergy and avoid treatments with those ingredients.

At the end of the day, the effectiveness of an ingredient is subject to personal opinions, but, popular ones include Afoxolaner, Fipronil, Fluralaner, Nitenpyram, and Spinosad.

Potential Side Effects

It is true that most flea medicines have been considered safe by the FDA and may only have mild side effects, but as I have already mentioned, some flea medicines can cause significant and consequential side effects such as seizures.

This is especially true of certain forms of topical treatments. This may not be rampant and common, but should very well be considered to avoid harm/regrets.

Flea medicines are meant to protect your pets and not cause them harm.

Specifics of your Dog

You must have known by now that the best flea medicines for dogs are not a one size fits all solution. Different dogs for certain reasons may react differently.

1. Your dog’s age: Generally speaking, most flea treatment products are not considered safe for dogs below say 7 weeks of age.

For this reason, it is important to either consult a specialist or check the product’s label to be sure it says to administer to puppies lower than a certain age.

This also applies to very old dogs, as some preventives may likely have adverse reactions to them.

2. Your dog’s weight: Another specific of your dog that impacts your choice of flea medicine is their weight. This information may likely be seen on the product label.

Administering a product meant for a small-sized animal to a big-sized animal, and vice versa is bound to be either ineffective or destructive.

For the former, it may not be enough to produce the needed result. For the latter, it may be toxic to them.

3. Your dog’s medical condition: It is important to take care of dogs that have a medical condition. This goes beyond allergies but other forms of health conditions.

For instance, there are some treatments not suitable for pregnant or nursing dogs.

Also, should they be on another ongoing medication, you want to be certain the flea medicine will not interfere, disturb, or disrupt.

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Final Words On Best Flea Meds For Dogs

Getting rid of fleas has been a battle of the age. Outlined above are some of the best options you will ever find, and they all do a great job at getting rid of those blood-sucking pests.

But, the best overall is the Presto K9 Advantix II Flea and Tick Prevention.

It is vet-recommended and thus safe for your dogs. All it needs is just to make contact with the fleas and they’ll be all dead.

It is easy to use and generally goes gentle on your dog’s coat. It contains active ingredients popular for their anti-flea properties and action.

It might not be an all-natural treatment, but there are little to no side effects. What more could you want from a dog flea treatment.

I hope that the information provided in this post helps get you started on finding the best flea medicine for your dogs.

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