Written By Andrea McFeeley
Hi there, are you tired of reading my thoughts on fleas and ticks yet?
Well, sorry, not sorry…. Many of you have sent me messages about what you use on your pups and what you do and don’t like about it. I have also been researching and formulated a list of top-rated products from several veterinarian articles to share with you. These are recommendations based on what the professionals say and what many of our Go Dog Go families have shared. Remember, only you know what is best for your fur babies.
Preventions come in many forms, including pills, chews, ointments, and shampoos, so read on to see each product’s ups and downs to make an informed decision. Please remember the age of your pup and its size and weight are important factors to consider before administering any product. Also, your veterinarian will indeed have thoughts on products and their safety.
Top Picks
Simparica Chewables for (need a prescription)
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- Available in a wide range of doses based on your dog’s weight
- Cutting-edge antiparasitic ingredient
- Minimal side effects
- Proven effective against more tick species than other brands
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- Requires a prescription
- Not available in single-month supplies
- Not suitable for dogs under six months old
Non-Prescription Frontline Plus For Dogs Flea & Tick Spot Treatment
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- No prescription needed
- Waterproof after 24 hours (although some sources recommend waiting 48 hours)
- Kills fleas at all life stages
- Available in three, six, eight, and twelve-count boxes
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- Leaves greasy spots on your dog’s skin
- Not safe for use with cats
Puppies NexGard Soft Chew for Dogs
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- Easy to administer bite-size chews
- Effective against fleas and ticks
- Enticing beef flavor
- Works for puppies as young as eight weeks
- Safe for households with other pets and children
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- Requires a prescription
- Has not been well-researched for use with pregnant dogs
Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo with Preacher
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- Kills adult fleas, eggs, and larvae, as well as ticks and lice, on contact
- Leaves coat soft and shiny
- Known for its clean, fresh scent
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- It may not prevent re-infestations as well as advertised
- It may not be safe for use with cats
Worms Too Simparica Trio Chews for Dogs
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- Convenient combination of several medications in one
- Chewable formula
- Great for long-haired/thick-haired dogs where topicals are more difficult to apply
- Effective against heartworm, roundworm, hookworm, fleas, and five kinds of ticks
- It provides an entire month of protection
- Most dogs love the liver flavor
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- Only available with a prescription
- It may be unnecessary if your dog is being treated for heartworms already.
- Only available in 6 and 12-month supplies
HARRIS FOOD GRADE DIATOMACEOUS EARTH
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- Creates a barrier against fleas, ticks, roaches, and other pests
- Organic and food-grade quality
- This product can be used indoors or outdoors
- Free of harmful chemicals
- It comes with a powder duster
- Available at a wide range of retailers
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- Effectiveness decreases when wet
TropiClean Maximum Strength Natural Flea & Tick Dog Shampoo
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- Effective against fleas, ticks, and mosquitos
- Natural citrus scent
- Works on puppies as young as 12 weeks
- Cruelty-free
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- Must be used frequently
- It can cause eye irritation; must be careful to avoid eyes, nose, and mouth when bathing
Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs
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- Easy to use
- Odor-free
- Effective against fleas, ticks, and lice
- Provides eight months of protection
- Available in large and small sizes
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- It loses effectiveness if your dog swims or bathes a lot
- Not for use on cats
I hope this list helps to narrow things down for you. There are so many options; it can be overwhelming. These recommendations are a good start. Please continue to send me feedback on what is or isn’t working for you. Or, if you are going to switch to one of these products, let me know how it goes! Happy Summer!