Fleas and ticks are common parasites that can lead to several health issues for dogs, such as skin irritation and infections, anemia, particularly in puppies, tapeworms, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and more. The good news is you can easily protect your pet from these parasites with the best flea and tick treatments for dogs. Many of these medications also treat lice, mites, intestinal worms, and life-threatening heartworm infections.
Safe and effective flea and tick treatments include topical spot-ons, chewable tablets, shampoos, and collars. While many flea medicines require a prescription from your veterinarian, there are also options available over-the-counter (OTC) without a vet prescription.
To recommend top flea and tick medicines, we asked veterinarians how pet owners can manage parasites in puppies and adult dogs. We also researched products using the Companion Animal Parasite Council's quick product reference guide. Our best overall pick for flea and tick prevention is K9 Advantix II, an over-the-counter (OTC) topical medicine applied monthly. It also repels and kills mosquitoes, which transmit heartworms.
It's important to consult your veterinarian to determine what type of flea and tick prevention is best for your dog. The right product depends on your dog's temperament, lifestyle, and the most prevalent parasites in your area.
Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.
Our top picks for the best flea and tick treatments for dogs
Best topical flea and tick prevention: K9 Advantix II - See at Chewy
Best pill: Simparica TRIO - See at Chewy
Best topical flea and heartworm prevention: Advantage Multi for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best collar: Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best shampoo: Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo with Precor - See at Chewy
Best for young puppies: Capstar for Dogs - See at Chewy
Best topical flea and tick prevention
Available without a prescription, K9 Advantix II kills and repels adult fleas, four species of ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice on contact.
- Kills five types of parasites
- Effective for 30 days
- Fleas don't have to bite for it to work
- Available over the counter
- Only kills adult fleas; does not kill flea eggs or larvae
- Not recommended for pregnant or nursing dogs
K9 Advantix II is our top pick among the best flea and tick treatments for dogs. It kills fleas and ticks, while also repelling and killing mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice with a single, easy application. Each dose provides 30 days of protection. To apply it, simply squeeze all the liquid in the tube onto two or three spots of your dog's skin on the top of the back from the shoulders to the base of the tail. The liquid spreads across the skin, killing fleas and other parasites on contact.
K9 Advantix II replaces Frontline Plus, our former top pick for best topical flea and tick prevention. Many veterinarians say that, based on their experience, Frontline Plus seems less effective than it used to be. K9 Advantix II also kills and repels mosquitoes that might transmit heartworm disease, which makes it a good addition to a dog's heartworm prevention plan.
Dr. Kelley Lay, a veterinarian in Nashville, Tennessee, prefers K9 Advantix II over Frontline because of K9 Advantix II's broader spectrum of action against mosquitoes, biting flies, and some additional tick species. "I'm in Tennessee, so these things matter big time, especially for those pets who aren't also on heartworm prevention," says Lay, who has worked in a variety of clinic settings over the last decade. "I've had numerous clients come into the clinic with flea-infested pets that have been using Frontline, so it's lost my confidence over the years."
It's important to note that K9 Advantix II is for use on dogs only. The product is extremely toxic to cats, as noted on the product label and insert. It's recommended to keep cats away from treated dogs for 24 hours.
Best pill
Simparica TRIO treats, controls, and prevents more parasites than any other oral product, offering a full month of protection with one easy-to-give flavored pill.
- Protects against more parasites than any other oral product
- Once-monthly dog flea treatment
- Easy to administer alone or in food
- Not labeled for use in puppies younger than 8 weeks or breeding, pregnant, or nursing dogs
Simparica TRIO is our top pick for the best flea and tick treatment for dogs in pill form. The fast-acting chewable tablet kills more parasites than any other oral product. It begins working within four hours and eliminates 100% of adult fleas on dogs within eight hours.
Choosing between an oral or topical flea control product can be difficult because each type of product has its advantages and drawbacks. In certain cases, an oral preventive may be the better option. For example, some dogs with sensitive skin cannot tolerate spot-on treatments. "Oral products have the benefit of broad coverage to reach every spot of skin without the chance of the product being washed off," says Dr. Kate Crumley, a veterinarian with Blue Heron Consulting.
Additionally, Simparica TRIO kills and prevents more types of parasites than our recommendation for best topical flea and heartworm treatment, Advantage Multi. Along with adult fleas, heartworm, and intestinal parasites, Simparica TRIO kills five species of ticks and flea larvae — coverage that Advantage Multi does not provide.
The liver-flavored tablets can be given with or without food once a month. The treatment contains three active ingredients (sarolaner, moxidectin, pyrantel) and provides a full month of protection against more parasites than any other oral product. Simparica TRIO is also safe for some of the youngest puppies and smallest dogs. It requires a prescription from your veterinarian and a negative heartworm test. You should use it with caution if your dog has a history of neurologic disorders, such as seizures.
Best topical flea and heartworm prevention
With just one easy monthly application, Advantage Multi for Dogs treats, controls, and prevents more parasites than any other topical product.
- Kills and prevents six types of parasites
- Once-monthly treatment
- Easy to administer
- Does not kill ticks
- Not labeled for use in puppies younger than 7 weeks or breeding, pregnant, or nursing dogs
Not even the best flea medicines control every harmful parasite, but Advantage Multi for Dogs comes close. It is a topical spot-on product that contains the active ingredients imidacloprid and moxidectin, which prevent flea infestations by killing adult fleas before they can lay eggs. Although it does not control ticks, it prevents heartworm, mange mites, and three intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms). But if your dog already has worms, your vet may recommend treating them with one of the best dog dewormers. As with all medications that prevent heartworm, your dog needs a heartworm test before starting Advantage Multi and annually after that.
Advantage Multi is easy to use: Every 30 days, apply it to your dog's skin in three or four spots from the base of the neck to the upper back for dogs weighing 20 pounds or more. For smaller dogs, apply the entire contents of the tube to a single spot of skin between the shoulder blades. The liquid medication is absorbed and dries within hours. You don't need gloves to apply Advantage Multi. If you get the product on your hands, just wash them with soap and water. For a half-hour after application, keep dogs from licking the application site, either on themselves or other treated dogs. Children should not touch the application site for two hours.
"For clients who are using Advantage Multi, I let them know I applaud the flea, heartworm, and intestinal parasite control, but I do have a conversation about adding tick protection, especially if the pet's lifestyle and exposure put them at higher risk," Lay says.
Some oral products cover fleas, ticks, heartworm, and other parasites, including Simparica TRIO, our pick for the best pill, and NexGard Plus, which would negate adding another product to pair with Advantage Multi. This may also be a more economical option for people. "We, of course, adjust depending on the client's needs and preferences, so I do have some that prefer to use a Seresto collar or give Bravecto or another oral flea/tick prevention," Lay says.
Best collar
The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs offers eight months of protection against fleas and ticks in all life stages.
- 8 months of continuous protection
- Lightweight and easy to wear
- Adjustable for dogs of all sizes
- Parasites don't have to bite for it to work
- Not recommended for puppies younger than 7 weeks of age
- Children should not play with the collar
- Adjusting size can be tricky
Flea collars were once the go-to method for flea control, but most collars don't offer the same level of protection as topical and oral treatments. One noteworthy collar is the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs, which uses sustained-release technology to provide eight months of continuous protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, four species of ticks, chewing lice, and mange mites.
In general, the best flea and tick treatments for dogs are topical spot-on and oral preventatives, but the Seresto collar might be a good option in certain situations. Lay says that traditional flea and tick collars are generally not very effective, and she has even seen allergic reactions and other issues with some of them. However, she says the Seresto collar is safe and effective and recommends it to clients with pets who don't tolerate topical or oral flea and tick preventives.
The collar is nongreasy, odor-free, lightweight, and adjustable for dogs of all sizes. Your dog can wear it alongside their regular collar, and it has a safety system to keep them safe if the collar gets caught on something. The collar's active ingredients, imidacloprid and flumethrin, are released in low concentrations over your dog's skin and coat to kill fleas and ticks on contact within 24 hours. You don't need to remove this water-resistant collar during swimming or bathing with one of the best dog shampoos.
Best shampoo
Adams Plus kills fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice for up to 28 days while soothing dry, irritated skin.
- Kills all life stages of fleas plus adult ticks and lice on contact
- Long duration of effectiveness
- Soothes dry, irritated skin
- Pleasant fragrance
- Not labeled for use in puppies under 12 weeks of age
- Very thick lather may be hard to rinse
Adams Plus Flea and Tick Shampoo is our top pick for the best flea shampoos for dogs. In addition to killing fleas, flea eggs and larvae, ticks, and lice for up to 28 days, the shampoo soothes dry and irritated skin from flea bites and constant scratching.
The shampoo contains synthetic pesticides commonly included in flea and tick shampoos: pyrethrins and S-methoprene (Precor). It also contains piperonyl butoxide to enhance the effectiveness of those pesticides. Oatmeal helps heal irritated and itchy skin, and the shampoo has a pleasant coconut scent.
Lay says flea shampoos are fine to use alongside prescription flea control medications. However, shampoos shouldn't be considered the first or best line of defense against fleas. Veterinarian-prescribed, year-round prevention remains the gold standard. Despite marketing claims, these shampoos don't provide substantial flea protection after the bath, so your dog may be susceptible to repeated infestations. Some ingredients in shampoos can also irritate the skin.
Best for young puppies
Capstar for Dogs is safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks old and starts killing fleas within 30 minutes.
- Fast-acting treatment starts killing adult fleas within 30 minutes
- Easy to administer alone or in food
- Can be used with other flea control products
- Available without a prescription
- Does not offer long-term protection
- Does not kill flea larvae or flea eggs
- Does not prevent any parasites other than fleas
If your dog has a heavy flea infestation, especially if they're a young puppy, you want to eliminate fleas as quickly as possible. Available without a prescription, Capstar for Dogs is the only flea control product safe for puppies as young as 4 weeks and weighing at least 2 pounds. With other topical and oral flea control medicines, puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and sometimes older.
The active ingredient in Capstar, nitenpyram, works within 30 minutes and kills more than 90% of adult fleas in as little as four hours. It only protects for 24 hours, but it is safe to give daily if necessary. Daily dosing is helpful for young puppies who might not be old enough for an oral or spot-on treatment that provides long-term protection. Once your puppy is old enough, you should follow up with the best flea and tick protection for puppies that provides a month or more of protection.
What to look for in flea and tick treatments for dogs
While you should always consult your veterinarian before choosing a flea and tick medicine for your dog, there are several things every dog owner should consider.
Safety and efficacy: The best flea and tick treatments for dogs are approved and regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You can check the Animal Drugs @ FDA database to see if a medication is FDA-approved. If you don't see a drug listed in the FDA database, check the EPA's Pesticide Product and Label System to see if it's been approved by the EPA, which regulates some flea and tick treatments containing pesticides.
Number of parasites treated: It is convenient to use a product that protects against more than just fleas and ticks. While your veterinarian can advise you on which product is best for your dog, we generally favor products that cover more parasites.
There are some exceptions. For instance, Capstar treats only fleas but is the only medicine available for puppies younger than 6 weeks. OTC products, like K9 Advantix II, protect against additional parasites such as lice but not heartworms. Products that treat heartworm always require a veterinary prescription.
Ease of use: The easier a product is to use, the better. For example, chewable tablets are quick and easy to give your dog, provided they like the flavor. Products that require a person to wear gloves when they apply them or require the treated animal to stay away from children or other pets for a while may be a hassle.
Minimum age and weight: Flea treatments are intended for dogs above a minimum age and weight. Your options for a very young puppy will be more limited until they are older and weigh more.
Prescription vs. over-the-counter: Some flea control products are available over the counter. Others require a prescription from your veterinarian. You can buy prescription medicines from your veterinarian or online pet pharmacies and stores like Chewy, Petco, and PetSmart.
Prescription flea control products typically cost more than OTC options because they protect against more parasites, most importantly, deadly heartworms. Dogs must test negative for heartworms before starting a heartworm preventive.
Types of flea and tick medications: There are several types of treatments, including topical, oral, collars, shampoos, and sprays. Cost, convenience, ease of use, and effectiveness vary among these products. Your vet can help you determine the best type for your dog. We advise against flea sprays because topical spot-ons and oral products are more effective. Remember that some dogs with sensitive skin may not tolerate topical products. Crumley says that frequent bathing or swimming may also reduce the effectiveness of a topical product that remains on the skin's surface.
Natural vs. synthetic: Our experts do not recommend using natural products instead of veterinarian-recommended topical and oral flea control. While natural treatments can deter fleas and ticks, they won't eliminate an infestation. "If you use them, be prepared to apply them at least daily before your pet goes outside for the best chance of keeping the hitchhikers from latching on," Crumley says. If you also have kitties at home, avoid natural flea control products containing essential oils because some can be toxic to cats.
Other pets in your home: Any product labeled for use in only dogs should never be given to a cat. Some ingredients can be toxic to cats. While dog-only flea products can harm felines, cats are especially sensitive to pyrethrins. If you're looking for a safe product for your cat, check out our guide to the best flea treatments for cats.
How we selected the best flea and tick treatments for dogs
We consulted two veterinarians for advice regarding treating and preventing fleas and other parasites in dogs. This information guided our selection of the best flea and tick treatments for dogs, but our experts did not endorse any of the products included in this guide unless explicitly quoted.
We also conducted research using the quick product reference guide published by the independent, nonprofit Companion Animal Parasite Council. This helpful reference lists all FDA- and EPA-approved parasite control products for small animals, each product's active ingredients, directions for using them, and which parasites they control.
Dog flea and tick treatments FAQs
Which flea treatment do vets recommend for dogs?
It can take several days to weeks to get rid of fleas. Veterinarians recommend a multipronged approach: eliminate the existing fleas, prevent new infestations, and treat the environment, both indoors and outside. If you have multiple pets, it's important to treat them all at the same time. To treat your home, vacuum areas where flea eggs and larvae tend to hide, like cracks and crevices, and wash bedding in hot water. For outdoor treatment, remove any areas where fleas can hide, such as piles of leaves and tall grass. If this process feels overwhelming, consider hiring a licensed pest control service.
Which flea treatment is the most effective for dogs?
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for dogs. The best flea and tick treatments for dogs vary in several ways. These include how many parasites they target, their active ingredients, safety restrictions, and their duration of effectiveness. The most desirable treatments offer long-lasting protection, target not just adult fleas but also eggs and larvae, and are effective against other parasites like heartworms and intestinal worms. Your veterinarian can help you choose the most suitable product for your dog.
Do dogs really need flea and tick medicine?
Yes, fleas and ticks are not just a big nuisance — they also carry diseases that can make dogs seriously ill. While you may be tempted to use parasite preventives only in the spring and summer, fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and intestinal parasites are resilient. Veterinarians recommend that dogs stay on broad-spectrum parasite preventives year-round.
What are the types of flea and tick medicine for dogs?
Flea and tick medicines come in various forms, including oral medications, topical products, collars, and shampoos. Oral products are chewable tablets, while topical products are ointments that go directly on the skin. Flea collars have become less popular due to their lower effectiveness compared to oral and topical treatments. Shampoos are also less effective and don't provide long-lasting protection. These medicines are available over the counter or by prescription and contain different active ingredients to kill and repel fleas and ticks.
What kills fleas permanently?
To permanently eliminate fleas, you'll need to do more than just kill the adult fleas. The other developmental stages, egg and larvae, must also be eliminated. Products that target the early stages of fleas are the most effective. Year-round flea and tick prevention is also essential to avoid future infestations. It may take several weeks for all the fleas to be completely gone.
What is the safest flea and tick medicine for dogs?
Flea and tick medicines are FDA-approved for safety and effectiveness. However, they have safety restrictions based on factors such as age, weight, and whether a dog is pregnant or nursing. Some treatments also have safety warnings for dogs with a history of seizures or other neurologic disorders. When selecting flea and tick medicines, be sure to check the label to confirm that it's safe for your dog.
What is the difference between prescription and OTC flea medicine?
Some flea control products are sold over the counter, while others require a prescription. Prescription treatments generally cost more because they offer protection against a broader range of parasites, including heartworms. However, OTC options can still provide effective, long-lasting protection against fleas and other parasites.
Can I get flea and tick medicine without a vet prescription?
Yes, OTC treatments are available without a prescription. However, these medicines typically do not protect against as many parasites as prescription flea and tick products.
Do flea collars work?
Yes, but flea collars are generally less effective than topical or oral treatments. Our top pick, the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Dogs, stands out among other collars because it provides eight months of protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, ticks, and mange mites. Lay recommends flea collars for dogs that cannot tolerate topical or oral flea products.
How can I tell if my dog has fleas?
Fleas can be difficult to spot with the naked eye, so look for signs of a flea infestation on your dog, including constant biting, scratching, or licking, along with red, irritated skin. Flea dirt, which appears as a rust-colored mixture of blood meal and dried feces, is a telltale sign of fleas and can be found in places your dog spends time, like their bed. You can pick up the dirt by running a flea comb against the direction of your dog's fur growth. You can often see it in hard-to-reach places like the base of the tail, middle of the back, and groin. Other signs of fleas include pale gums, which are a sign of anemia, and patches of hair loss.
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