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Best Flea Medicine for Dogs 2021 – Buyer’s Guide and Reviews

Last updated by Joyce Jessy [ January 1, 2021 ]

Flea medicines for dogs are very effective in killing or repelling fleas. Managing and preventing fleas on dogs require some approaches. Fleas apart from being a pesky infestation for your dogs can also cause severe health challenges, like anemia, dermatitis, and tapeworm.

It is therefore necessary to give your dog an effective flea treatment even if your dog is indoor always. Buying flea medications for your dog is not be done haphazardly, there are several factors to consider before deciding on the product to buy, these include usage, the safety of use, size of the dog, ingredients, among others.

Flea medications work in several ways. Different flea medications which include drops, pills, drops, sprays, flea shampoos, flea collars, and topical treatment are all effective in preventing and killing fleas on your dogs.

However, some are more effective than others, while others are not suitable for some breed of dogs. To help you decide better, we have researched and consulted many pet experts to create a list of 10 best flea medicines for dogs with a detailed buying guide.

Best Flea Medicine for Dogs

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  • 1 Top 10 Flea Medicine for Dogs in 2021 – Comparisons
  • 2 Best Flea Medicine for Dogs in 2021 – Reviews
    • 2.1 1. Our Top Pick – Frontline Dog Flea Treatment Review
    • 2.2 2. Runner Up – Seresto Dog Flea and Tick Collar Review
    • 2.3 3. Best Budget – Flea Treatment for Dogs Review
    • 2.4 4. Best Flea Medicine for Small Dogs – Bayer Advantage II Flea Medicine Review
    • 2.5 5. Best Oral Flea Medicine for Dogs – Capstar Review
    • 2.6 6. Best Topical Flea Medicine for Dogs – PetArmor Review
    • 2.7 7. Best Natural Flea Spray for Dogs – Mdxconcepts Review
    • 2.8 8. Best Flea Medicine for Large Dogs – Bayer K9 Advantix II Review
    • 2.9 9. Best Flea Treatment Medication – Sentry Pet Care Review
    • 2.10 10. Best Flea and Tick Control for Dogs – Advecta II Flea Medicine Review
  • 3 What is a Dog Flea?
  • 4 Symptoms of Flea Infestation
  • 5 How to Check Fleas on Dog’s Body
  • 6 Some Common Flea Diseases
    • 6.1 Flea Bite Dermatitis
    • 6.2 Typhus
    • 6.3 Plaque
    • 6.4 Tapeworm
    • 6.5 Haemobartonellosis
  • 7 Importance of Flea Treatment for Dogs
  • 8 Different Types of Flea Medicines for Dogs
    • 8.1 Oral Tablet
    • 8.2 Topical One Spot Treatment
    • 8.3 Flea Collars
    • 8.4 Flea Sprays
    • 8.5 Flea Shampoo
    • 8.6 Natural Flea Treatment
  • 9 Oral Vs Topical Flea Medicines
    • 9.1 Oral Medications
    • 9.2 Topical Medications
  • 10 Things to Consider Before Choosing Flea Medicines for Dogs
    • 10.1 Usage
    • 10.2 The Ingredients
    • 10.3 Level of Infestation
    • 10.4 Dog Type
    • 10.5 Protection period
    • 10.6 Waterproof
    • 10.7 Protection from Other Parasites
    • 10.8 Safety and Effectiveness
  • 11 What Precautions Should be Taken When Using Flea Medicines for Dogs
  • 12 Some Important Safety Tips
  • 13 Conclusion
  • 14 Frequently Asked Questions

Top 10 Flea Medicine for Dogs in 2021 – Comparisons

ImageProduct NameKey Features
Our Top Pick

Our Top Pick
Frontline Dog Flea Treatment Review
  • Designed for large dogs
  • 30-day protection
  • Fipronil and Methoprene
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Runner Up

Runner Up
Seresto Dog Flea and Tick Collar Review
  • Imidacloprid and flumethrin
  • Odorless & non-greasy
  • Vet approved for all stages
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Best Budget

Best Budget
Flea Treatment for Dogs Review
  • Clove and peppermint plant
  • Blended natural essential oils
  • Eco-friendly dog flea sprays
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Best for Small Dogs

Best for Small Dogs
Bayer Advantage II Flea Medicine Review
  • Imidacloprid, permethrin and pyriproxyfen
  • Package weight is 0.11 kilograms
  • Single application effective for 30days
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Best Oral Flea Medicine

Best Oral Flea Medicine
Capstar Review
  • Single-dose oral treatment
  • Ease of administration
  • Nitenpyram present
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Best Topical Flea Medicine

Best Topical Flea Medicine
Petarmor Review
  • Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene
  • Effective on sarcoptic mange
  • Weight is 0.06 kilograms
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Best Natural Spray

Best Natural Spray
mdxconcepts Review
  • Organically sourced essential oils
  • Soothing scent
  • Fragrance of peppermint
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Best for Large Dogs

Best for Large Dogs
Bayer K9 Advantix II Review
  • Imidacloprid, permethrin and pyriproxyfen
  • Weighs 0.07 kilograms
  • Topical formula
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Best for Medication

Best for Medication
Sentry Pet Care Review
  • Contains pyriproxyfen and imidacloprid
  • Veterinarian approved
  • Weight is 0.02 kilogram
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Best Flea and Tick

Best Flea and Tick
Advecta II Flea Medicine Review
  • Waterproof & fragrance-free formula
  • Package weight is 0.02 kilogram
  • Prevents re-infestation
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Best Flea Medicine for Dogs in 2021 – Reviews

1. Our Top Pick – Frontline Dog Flea Treatment Review

Top Pick

Frontline Dog Flea Treatment Review
Frontline Dog Flea Treatment

Frontline is waterproof, long lasting product, stops pest infestation at all life stages.

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Frontline Plus Dog flea medicine has been identified as the best flea treatment for your furry family member. It is not uncommon for fleas to be on pets and even lay eggs, but this vet-approved treatment is recommended for prolonging your pet’s life and giving him premium comfort and health. Additionally, the lasting effect of this treatment is worthy of note it is appropriate for killing all species of parasites at all stages. Thus, putting an end to re-infestation of pest.

Furthermore, this treatment gives your pet 30 days proper protection against pests and other harmful diseases, the fast action and relief that it provides cheers up your pet from all forms of bites and discomfort. Also, the life cycle of the flea and other parasites are broken with this treatment, as it kills adult fleas, lice and ticks, their eggs, larvae, and terminates re-infestations.

Frontline Plus Dog Flea medicine is a veterinarian-approved and contains two string active ingredients. The first ingredient is fipronil, which effectively combats fully grown flea and tick. The second ingredient is (s)- Methoprene that prevents flea eggs and larvae from developing on your pooch’s skin. These two ingredients put a stop to the continual cycle and production of flea and tend to keep your pooch safe from Lyme disease.

Furthermore, this medication is waterproof. Thus, your furry friend can freely bath and get wet without affecting the effectiveness of the medicine. Also, this formula as it serves as a perfect treatment for flea and tick, it has no adverse effect on their fur. This formula is safe for pets that are 45-88 lbs and pooches that are 8 weeks older.

This liquid medicine is easy to apply. All you need is to administer directly on your pet skin. The treatment penetrates your pooch’s oil gland, thus giving a long-lasting and positive result.

Key Features:

  • East to administer
  • Long lasting and fast action
  • Tackles all kinds of parasite species and flea
  • Fipronil and (s) Methoprene as active ingredients
  • Waterproof formula and 30 days activeness

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2. Runner Up – Seresto Dog Flea and Tick Collar Review

Runner Up

Seresto Dog Flea and Tick Collar Review
Seresto Dog Flea and Tick Collar

The formula is clean, healthy, odor-free, and active for up to 8 months.

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Don’t you think your furry family member deserves the best treatment against pest and flea? Then, the Seresto dog flea and tick collar coming behind our top pick is a medicine with more advanced way of application.

This medicine has the ability to continuously fight against parasite on your pet by simply placing it on your pooch’s collar. The formula is clean, odorless, non-greasy, resistant to water, and it is active on your pet for up to 8 months with effective prevention from pest.

Seresto dog flea treatment contains Imidacloprid, which is present to control infestations, and the other active ingredient is the Flumethrin, which is present to resist and destroy ticks. These active ingredients are gently released on the dog’s fur from time to time in low concentrations, and it spread all over the pet’s body.

This feature ensures the proper circulation all-around your pet’s skin and kills fleas, tick, and other parasitic species. This medication is never irritating on your puppy, rather it saves you the worry of monthly treatment, which could be quite stressful on you.

This product is recommended by pet veterinarians, and the pet does not need to be attacked or bitten by pests. This could lead to the death of your pet. Most pests carry diseases such as the Rocky Mountain spotted fever or Lyme once they bite the pet.

This formula has a noticeable effect within 24 hours of putting it on your pet, and the long-lasting feature of this medication makes it economical. This product is not only waterproof, but it cannot be damaged by sunlight also.

Key Features:

  • Imidacloprid as an active ingredient
  • Kill fleas and ticks within 24 hours
  • Treats and control sarcoptic mange and kills all parasite
  • Easy to apply and waterproof
  • 8-months of continuous flea treatment and prevention

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3. Best Budget – Flea Treatment for Dogs Review

Best Budget

Flea Treatment for Dogs Review
Flea Treatment for Dogs”

Within budget, contains a blend of natural ingredients and appropriate for all flea stages.

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Being on a budget should not be a worry to pet parents who want to treat their pets of pests. The Vets best is the best option for pet owners on budget and quality has not been sacrificed though the product is affordable.

The product helps repel and fight against flea, tick, and mosquitoes, and the chemicals are not harmful. Additionally, a unique advantage of this product is that pet parents can easily apply it in and around homes for fighting pests and ticks.

Vets Best is veterinarian approved. The treatment contains essential oil and natural ingredients such as peppermint, cinnamon, eugenol extract, and sodium sulfate that helps combat flea and ticks. The peppermint and clove plants contain effective pest-fighting features.

Also, this natural ingredient soothes and cheers your pet giving him relief from discomfort. The formula is an easy treatment that kills flea and stops the reproduction of flea eggs through contact. This formula is essentially made with plant-based ingredients; therefore, it is safe for your pet.

Furthermore, this formula is mild and safe for direct application on your home and a furry friend that has attained 12 weeks. Also, there are no strong chemicals such as Pyrethrins or Permethrin neither does it contain added fragrance.

Thus, pet parents have no worry over their fur getting irritated or messy. Vets Best is easy to administer and can stop the infestation of pests. Also, the formula is a non-staining type. Thus, your pet will always maintain its natural coat color.

Key Features:

  • Safe for home surface and dog
  • Contains natural oil essentials
  • Eliminate adult fleas and eggs
  • Tested and effective
  • Fast action and no harsh chemical

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4. Best Flea Medicine for Small Dogs – Bayer Advantage II Flea Medicine Review

Flea bites can be very uncomfortable for your little furry friend. It’s necessary to take a great measure to protect your fur against pests. Bayer Advantage ll is the best flea medicine for your small pet.

Bayer Advantage II Flea Medicine Review

This pet medicine goes a long way to protect your pet for 30 days when applied. Your pet necessarily needs to be bitten by pests before this medicine is effective. Instead, it prevents tick and mosquito bites.

Bayer Advantage II flea medicine is vet recommended. The flea medicine has imidacloprid, permethrin and pyriproxyfen as the active ingredients.

These ingredients effectively eliminate fleas and biting flies that are capable of transmitting disease to your pet. This formula also kills and repels mosquitoes as they are capable of spreading diseases.

Additionally, this flea medicine is easy to apply on your pet, all it requires is a contact on your pet skin, and within 12 hours it kills all harmful parasites. Also, the medicine destroys pest eggs and puts a stop to the continuous cycle of insect growth.

There is a popular misconception that fleas and ticks cannot infest your pet in colder months. However, you don’t need to worry, as the formula is designed for all year round.

Key Features:

  • It starts effectiveness within 12hours and works for 30days
  • Kills lice and repels biting flies
  • Works through contact
  • Easy to apply
  • Veterinarian recommended

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5. Best Oral Flea Medicine for Dogs – Capstar Review

Are you in search of the best oral flea medication for your fur? Then, the Capstar flea tablet is a great choice with fast results, within 30 minutes of usage. The administration of the dosage is either placing it directly in your pet’s mouth or mixing it with her meal.

Capstar Review

Again, it accomplishes about 90% elimination of adult flea on your pet within 4 hours of usage. Pet parents can also safely apply for this oral flea medicine on both pregnant and breeding dogs.

The Capstar flea tablet is vet-approved and contains an active ingredient called Nitenpyram. This ingredient acts as an insecticide that eliminates fleas fast without a negative side effect on your pet.

Administering a single dose of this medicine into your pet’s food or mouth gives your fur a quick relief from all forms of bite. Also, the treatment stops all infestation and cycle of pest on your pooch and eliminates prolonged flea.

Additionally, no matter how pest has dominated your pet, this tablet takes effect from within and tackles them all. Also, the tablet is harmless and suitable for both senior and junior pooch’s, cats and kitten of about 4 weeks old.

Key Features:

  • Effectively kills adult flea
  • Fast elimination of flea with 30 minutes of application
  • Easy to administer
  • Nitenpyram as active ingredient
  • Suitable for senior and junior pet

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6. Best Topical Flea Medicine for Dogs – PetArmor Review

The adverse effect of flea and other pests on your furry family member is better avoided or treated immediately. So, the PetArmor plus flea and tick squeeze-on have been formulated to be the best topical flea medicine for your pet.

Petarmor Review

This topical dog flea drop starts a rapid action once it is squeezed on your pet. It has a 30 days nonstop effect on destroying the formation cycle of the flea and the irritating effect the bites of fleas can have on the pet’s skin.

PetArmore flea medicine is vet-approved and contains Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene as active ingredients. Hence, these active ingredients give your pet fast relief from all forms of irritation they have on the skin.

This formula is designed to prevent the spread of diseases by flea and tick such as Lyme disease. Additionally, it would not only kill the adult fleas but it would destroy the flea eggs and larva.

Furthermore, this formula is waterproof, hence the treatment continues even if your furry friend comes in contact with water through bathing or otherwise. Also, this formula prevents your pet from contacting sarcoptic mange caused by mites. Also, this medicine works effectively to stops flea from resurfacing on your pet.

Key Features:

  • Safe for extra-large dogs
  • The formula is waterproof
  • Veterinarian approved
  • Long-lasting and fast action
  • Can be used on sarcoptic mange and other species of ticks

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7. Best Natural Flea Spray for Dogs – Mdxconcepts Review

Are you in search of effective spray treatment for your pet? Mdxconcept serves as the Best Natural Flea spray you can lay hands on. This flea spray is a product of 100% natural and organic ingredients, this has no adverse effect on your pooch nor the environment.

mdxconcepts Review

This tick spray for dogs provides a risk-free and painless treatment. Additionally, the spray has a peppermint oil scent that naturally makes your pet’s skin inconducive for fleas and tick to dominate. You don’t need to worry about the safety of your home and kids if they possibly come in contact with it, as it is made of natural ingredients.

Mdxconcept spray contains some special ingredients such as Cedarwood oil, Rosemary oil, and Lemongrass oil, which are aimed at killing the fleas and ticks. Also, Peppermint oil present in this formula has a fragrance and provides maximum comfort for your friend.

Peppermint oil is the perfect replacement for the chemicals in synthetic pesticides. Again, unlike another spray this flea medication does not need to penetrate the bloodstream of your pet, all you need is to apply externally by spraying and rubbing it into your pooch’s skin.

Additionally, the spray is vet-approved and has a quick action. Thus, it effectively destroys all flea and prevents them from re-infestation. The spray does not give your pet any pain or discomfort but rather, gives him a refreshing feeling. Also, the ease of application is another essential feature as it involves rubbing the hair of your pet and then applying the spray.

Key Features:

  • Kills and repeat fleas
  • Made with 100% natural ingredient
  • Easy to apply
  • Has a painless effect on your fur
  • Safe for large and small pets

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8. Best Flea Medicine for Large Dogs – Bayer K9 Advantix II Review

Flea bites are very discomforting on your pet. The best flea medicine for a large pet is Bayer k9 Adventix ll. This medicine is vet-approved and recognized as flea, tick and heartworm prevention for dogs. It also capable to eliminate tickets and other parasitic pests on your senior pooch.

Bayer K9 Advantix II Review

Compared to other flea medicine, Advantixll acts within 12 hours and tends to relieve flea pain within 5 minutes of use, and keeps been effective for 30 days. K9 Adventix ll contains Imidacloprid, permethrin, and pyriproxyfen as the active ingredient.

These ingredients circulate your pooch’s skin to eliminate flea, biting flies, and other parasites that are capable of transmitting the disease to your pet. Also, the formula is easy to apply, all it requires is contact with your pet’s skin for effectiveness.

Furthermore, the formula works to stop the continuous cycle of insect growth and also prevents flea eggs from hatching into adulthood, which would be dangerous to your furry friend. Also, this medication becomes waterproof after 24 hours of application and last for 30days with continuous treating effect. Thus, your pet can come in contact, and pet parent can also bathe their pooch.

Key Features:

  • Control flea and tick for dogs
  • Easy to apply topical formula
  • Kill fleas of all life stages within 12 hours
  • Veterinarian recommended
  • Keeps working for 30 days

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9. Best Flea Treatment Medication – Sentry Pet Care Review

Fleas are so irritating and bring discomfort to your pet. The best flea treatment for your pet is Sentry Pet care medicine. This tablet is safe to administer daily for puppies, cats, and kitten. The medicine has a fast effect within 30 minutes after application. Additionally, there is no fragrance so your furry family member would not be disturbed because of smell.

Sentry Pet Care Review

Sentry pest care is a veterinarian-approved and contains Nitenpyram as the active ingredient. Nitenpyram act as an insecticide and fights against any form of further re-infestation of flea, and also the dose works vastly with no negative effect on your pooch.

Also, Imidacloprid and Pyriproxyfen in the formula kill fleas and lice under 12 hours of application. Administering the medicine is easy, as all you do is insert it into your pet’s food or mouth.

Furthermore, this medication serves as a fast relief from an insect bite. It is harmless and suitable for both senior and junior pooches that are about 4 weeks old, it also goes well with pets that weight 2lb or over.

Additionally, this tablet takes effect from within and eliminates adult flea on the outside, thus giving you a visible result. Additionally, the medicine is waterproof, which is under rainy or swimming experience the effect of the medicine is not altered.

Key Features:

  • Nitenpyram as active ingredient
  • Effectively kills adult flea
  • Fast elimination of flea with 30 minutes of application
  • Easy to administer
  • Suitable for senior and junior pet

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10. Best Flea and Tick Control for Dogs – Advecta II Flea Medicine Review

Do you know that Advecta II flea medicine is the best flea and tick control for your furry family member? There is a high probability that you have not used it before, else you would recommend it to others.

Advecta II Flea Medicine Review

This formula begins its action once upon contact, and it would terminate the life cycle of fleas and destroy the flea eggs. You need to know that this medicine is designed for different dog sizes, and you need to choose the appropriate one for your pet.

The active ingredients in this formula are Imidacloprid and Pyriproxyfen. These components kill the pest in less than 12 hours after application and would remain effective preventing re-infestation for the next 160 days.

Another advantage is the ease of application, the topical solution can be applied on your pet easily by squeezing the tube and rubbing the content into her fur, also avoid the content running off the pet’s body.

Furthermore, the formula is fragrance-free. Therefore, it would not send any offensive smell nor stir allergies, and it is waterproof. This feature ensures that the pet could swim in a pool or have her bath without neutralizing the effect of the solution.

Key Features:

  • Begins work within 12 hours
  • Two active ingredients, Imidacloprid and pyriproxyfen
  • Terminates flea life cycle
  • Waterproof, therefore it is suitable for all climatic conditions
  • This formula does not contain fragrance

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What is a Dog Flea?

A Dog flea is a parasitic wingless insect that lives as an ectoparasite on dogs. It resembles a cat flea. Fleas can result in disorders in dogs, tapeworms, secondary skin infections, allergy dermatitis, and anemia.

When your dog was infected with parasites, it will be hard to remove them all. Effective dog fleas will prevent re-infection on dogs and kill parasites. A female flea can produce 50 eggs a day that hatch within two to five days.

Symptoms of Flea Infestation

Like other diseases, flea infestation has symptoms and signs to indicate that your dog has a flea. They include:

  • Scratching: Your dog will scratch or itch when a flea bites his skin because he is allergic to the protein in the flea saliva. Your dog can become nervous and scratch frequently with a single flea bite.If you ever notice your dog scratching frequently, that could be an indication that there is a flea on his skin. But scratching could also be a sign of a rash, dry skin, dandruff, therefore it is important to check properly to know the real cause.
  • Flea Eggs: Fleas usually lay white, small eggs on their surroundings or host (your dog). Their egg drops from the host and spread to your floor, carpet, bedding, or furniture and then hatch within one to ten days.  
  • Flea Dirt: This is the biggest sign of flea on your dog. Fleas leave feces on the host. This can be identified by searching for tiny black specks on the dog’s coat. If the specks are placed on a paper towel, it might turn to a rust color due to the presence of blood in the feces.The more the flea dirt on your dog, the more fleas there are on your dog. Flea dust can also be found on your carpet, clothes, and bedding.
  • Flea Bites: This is another sign that your dog has fleas. As the fleas spread, they go beyond your dog, that means you and your family can be bitten by fleas.

How to Check Fleas on Dog’s Body

Fleas on your dog’s skin are not hard to find. Below are the ways to check fleas on your dog’s body:

  • Inspect your dog’s skin: You can check for fleas on your dog’s body by simply inspecting your dog’s skin. Be on the lookout for tiny, black insects. Groin areas and the dog’s armpit are abodes for fleas due to the fact that these parts are protected and warm.
  • Look for flea dirt: When searching for fleas on your dog’s skin, look for a tiny black speck on the fur or body of your dog. They are flea dirt or feces that are left behind by fleas. The flea dirt and normal dirt can be differentiated by putting the black specks on a white paper towel, splash water on the specks, if the specks turn to reddish-brown color, then note that it is a flea.
  • Use a flea comb: Use a flea comb all over your dog’s fur. The teeth of the comb will collect some fleas if your dog has any. They can be disposed in soap water to kill them.
  • Try a light trap: Light trap is another way to check for fleas on your dog’s skin. During the night, put a small bowl of soap water near a light, if there are fleas around, they will be attracted to the light and eventually fall on the soapy water. 

Some Common Flea Diseases

There are different flea diseases. The common ones are listed below:

Flea Bite Dermatitis

This flea disease is the most common for dogs. It comes as a result of inflammatory changes that develop from a flea bite. The skin turns reddish and swollen which makes the dog uncomfortable.

This leads to severe itching by your dog which can result in loss of skin integrity when scratched frequently by your dog. Cuts that occur on the dog’s skin could be an entrance for some microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and some parasites that might result in other health challenges.

Typhus

Bacteria Rickettsia which causes typhus are carried by fleas. The primary targets of this disease are dogs, rats, and humans. It can result in vomiting, joint pain, muscle pain, and fever.

Plaque

Yersinia pestis which are the causative agent of plaque are transmitted by fleas to rats. Though plaque cases have reduced significantly, more cases are reported yearly. Other symptoms of plaque include swollen lymph nodes and fever. Effective isolation/quarantine should be observed to prevent its spread.

Tapeworm

Fleas are also the causative agent of tapeworm Hymenolepis. Dogs might swallow some fleas when they lick their body or fur that have tapeworm fleas on them.

Haemobartonellosis

This can lead to red blood cell disruption. It affects the cell’s ability to take oxygen to the tissue. It can lead to anemia which might make to your pet lack energy, lose weight, and lose appetite.

Importance of Flea Treatment for Dogs

The following are the importance of flea treatment for dogs:

  • Proper flea control help eliminates or repels fleas found on dogs whose life cycle occur within their host surrounding, most especially on the floor or beddings.
  • There are flea treatments that also kill other parasites such as lice, ticks, and mosquitoes. This can be a perfect choice for dog owners to look for a complete controlling solution for pets.
  • Flea medication does not only benefit the dog, but it also helps break the chain of transmission that can be transmitted to humans.
  • Flea medication can help to ensure your dog stays parasite and disease-free throughout fall and summer.
  • Flea medications are effective for repelling fleas on your dog in a short time. Some dog shampoo is also effective in soothing your dog’s skin when bitten by fleas.
  • Proper dosage of oral pills is effective in killing fleas before they could even lay their eggs which prevent infestations.
  • Flea medications come in different forms, including sprays, granules, drops, tablets, and concentrates, etc. some of these products exterminate pets, others repel them, some kill adult fleas only.

Different Types of Flea Medicines for Dogs

The different types of dog’s flea medication are listed below:

Oral Tablet

Dogs flea and tick tablets are very effective for killing fleas on your dog. Though some might require your veterinarian prescription, others are available over-the-counter. While it is easier to administer than some topical medicines, it has proven to be effective in countering an infestation.

Topical One Spot Treatment

This is another popular option for flea treatment. It is usually in a small liquid form that can be applied to your dog’s skin. It is then absorbed by oil glands under the skin and redistributed through your dog’s body.

When absorbed, it will instantly kill any flea that tries to snack on your dog. The only problem here is the application. It requires some caution while applying as it can eventually mess up your hand.

Flea Collars

This option seems to be one of the easiest options when treating or preventing flea infection. There is various collar solution on the market. One of the pros of collars is that it can last for months. The cons of collars are that it might break sometimes, and some dogs might swallow them if not fixed properly.

Flea Sprays

This comes in various forms, and are made from different ingredients. As a result, the efficacy and safety differ by type and brand. Sprays are designed or made to be used in various ways, some are designed to be sprayed on your dog’s bedding, or in his kennel, while some are designed to be on your dog directly.

Flea Shampoo

They are effective for repelling fleas on your dog in a short time. Flea shampoo is also effective in soothing your dog’s skin when bitten by fleas.

Natural Flea Treatment

Using natural oils helps you avoid insecticides. Though they are not very effective as conventional treatment for fleas.

Oral Vs Topical Flea Medicines

Dog fleas pose a dangerous health threat to dogs apart from being a source of irritation and frustration. These small parasites carry different diseases such as plague which might lead to severe blood loss.

Preventive measures are therefore necessary to keep these parasites away from dogs. Among these measures include the use of oral or topical medications.

Oral Medications

Oral medications are also prescribed to dogs with flea infection. Proper dosage of oral pills is effective in killing fleas before they could even lay their eggs which prevent infestations. Oral options create a lesser mess than the topical medication and also have less risk of skin irritation or reaction due to harsh ingredients.

Though oral flea medication cost more than topical medications. The oral medication works through the dog’s outer skin and bloodstream, helping to kill fleas on dogs. It is necessary to note that the prescription for this medicine is based on weight.

Topical Medications

This kind of medication is readily accessible by dog owners. They are very effective in preventing or repelling flea infestations. However, veterinary bodies suggested that owners should carefully abide by the instructions given on the label to prevent adverse reactions or possible toxic chemicals.

Things to Consider Before Choosing Flea Medicines for Dogs

There are some features to consider before buying flea medication for dogs. Factors like safety, usage, covering, size etc. should be taken into consideration. Let’s look at them in details:

Usage

Flea medications come in different forms, including sprays, granules, drops, tablets, and concentrates, etc. some of these products exterminate pets, others repel them, some kill adult fleas only.

Other products can take care of all these problems simultaneously. It is, therefore, necessary to carefully check the label to decide on the product for your needs. It is also to consider the ease of using these flea treatments.

The Ingredients

It is necessary to check whether the product includes natural or chemical components. Treatments with natural substances are less toxic for dogs, though sometimes they are less effective.

Those with chemical substances are most effective but are sometimes not safe for dogs due to the existence of harsh chemicals on them. It is however important to carefully follow the instructions on the label.

Level of Infestation

The level or the intensity of the infestation will also decide the strength of the product you get. It will be more appropriate to go for a chemical pesticide instead of an organic one if the infestation is serious. However, if the infestation is light or medium, it is ideal to go for natural components.

Dog Type

Here, there are lots of things to consider. It is necessary to find out whether the treatment is safe for your dog. Check the instructions, warning, and ingredients labels carefully. While some of these treatments are made of chemical ingredients, others are made of natural ingredients.

Some are safe for use on dogs, others are not safe. The size of the dog is another thing to consider, it determines the type of treatment to use on your dog. Some products are suitable for a large dog, while others are only ideal for dogs weighing below 20 pounds.

It is better to read the instructions to determine the product that fits your dog depending on the size. Another consideration for a dog is the skin type. A collar treatment will work for a thick coat, while a topical option will be effective for a thin coat.

Protection period

Make sure you go through the product information to find out the protection period of the product and how to administer it. As stated earlier, topical medication protects your dog longer than oral treatment.

Waterproof

If you are going for topical medication, it is better to choose products that are waterproof, it makes the flea medication to work effectively for a longer time.

Protection from Other Parasites

There are flea treatments that also kill other parasites such as lice, ticks, and mosquitoes. This can be a perfect choice for dog owners to look for a complete controlling solution for pets.

Safety and Effectiveness

Make sure you do some research to find out which flea medication is more effective and safer for killing fleas and other parasites. This can be done by simply checking the product information to see the product ingredients.

What Precautions Should be Taken When Using Flea Medicines for Dogs

When buying flea medicines for your dog, make sure you read the product information carefully. It is important to buy the appropriate dosage for your dog and try to use only approved products for your dog’s weight, health, age, and skin.

Use special care if the dog is very old, very young, nursing, pregnant, or sick. Below are additional precautions to take while using flea medicines:

  • Be sure to use only the required amount of medication prescribed for your dog. Do not use more than the amount indicated or prescribed for your dog, also do not use more than one product at a time.
  • Wear disposable gloves to protect your skin when using topical products. Wash your hands very well with water and soap after applying flea medication products.
  • Don’t allow children to touch or play with the dog after applying the medication to give the medication time to absorb and dry. Also, read the instructions carefully on how to safely dispose of the containers after use.

Some Important Safety Tips

Some safety tips for dog flea medications are listed below:

  1. Wash your dog’s bedding thoroughly. This includes blankets the dog may have touched or used. You may. If your dog sleeps in your bed, you may need to wash your bedding.
  2. If there is any sign of flea on your dog, treat it immediately. You can also start flea treatment at the beginning of a tick or flea season to prevent their likely occurrence.
  3. Contact your vet if your dog is taking other drugs, sick, a puppy, pregnant, old, or nursing. He might recommend a special comb to use.
  4. Don’t use other pet’s product on a dog, as it would affect your dog’s health, and only apply the required amount for your dog. Use a single product at a time.
  5. Wear hand gloves, and also wash your hands with water and soap after applying the medication. Likewise, follow the instruction given on how to dispose of the container.
  6. If it is the first time of using the flea medication, watch out for any sign of reaction. You can contact your vet when your dog is having these symptoms; depression, drooling, seizure, poor appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Conclusion

Like other pets, dogs can be affected by fleas. Preventing and managing fleas requires some efforts from god owners. It is necessary to find the best flea medication for your dog to ensure an effective result. One flea can lay up to 50 eggs daily, so it is better to treat it immediately to avoid spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the best flea medicine for dogs?
Answer: The Frontline Large Pounds Treatment is the best flea medicine for dogs. It provides fast-acting, waterproof, and long-lasting treatment for your dog.

Question: Where do fleas hide on dogs?
Answer: Fleas usually hide in areas where they feel protected from scratching of your dog. They are also found in warm areas. They are mostly found around neck, chest, belly, and armpit.

Question: Do I need to consult with veterinarian to get flea medicine for dogs?
Answer: For effective result, you need to ask a vet. Product approved by vet are very good. Your vet can examine your dog and recommend proper dog medication.

Question: What is the best flea medicine for small dogs?
Answer: The Bayer Advantix Mosquito Prevention is the best flea medicine for small dogs. It works through contact to prevent ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes from biting the dog.

Question: What is the best flea medicine for large dogs?
Answer: Bayer Advantix Control Treatment 6 Doses is the best flea medicine for large dogs. It works through contact to prevent ticks, fleas, and mosquitoes from biting the dog.

Question: Can I use flea treatments when my dog is on other medication?
Answer: It is not advisable to combine flea medications while your dog is on other medication. However, you can contact your vet to check the drug to see if it is safe to use suck drug together.

Question: What is the best oral flea medicine for dogs?
Answer: Capstar Flea Tablets Dogs Count is the best oral flea medicine for dogs. It is very effective in killing fleas.

Question: How long after flea treatment can I bathe my dog?
Answer: It is better to wait after two days after applying flea medication or taking oral pills for dogs. This will allow the medication to work well.

Question: What is the best topical flea medicine for dogs?
Answer: PETARMOR-Count-Plus-Dogs-Squeeze is the best topical flea medicine for dogs. It is waterproof, flea and tick topical prevention for dogs that kills ticks, lice, fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae for 30 days.

Question: How often can you put flea medicine on a dog?
Answer: Depending on the product. Sometimes the number of times to give your dog flea medication ranges from one day to thirty days.

Question: What happens if you put cat flea medicine on a dog and vice versa?
Answer: Try not to use products meant for cats on your dog. They are made with different ingredients. Therefore, what may work for cat might be dangerous for dogs. But if happens that you gave your dog the medication made for cat, then consult your vet for proper direction.

About Joyce Jessy

Founder, Dog Guide Reviews

I started this blog to provide advanced material, guiding you towards a better and more comfortable dog care experience. I always deliver a better product insight before you make that all-important purchase. Want to know a little bit more? Make sure to check out the full bio.

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