How long does Bravecto protect dogs against ticks?

Understanding Bravecto's Tick Protection

What is Bravecto?

Active Ingredient and Mechanism of Action

Fluralaner is the sole active ingredient in Bravecto tablets for dogs. It belongs to the isoxazoline class and is formulated as a chewable tablet that delivers a systemic dose after oral administration.

The compound exerts its effect by targeting the nervous system of arthropods. Specifically, fluralaner:

Binds to ligand‑gated chloride channels that are normally activated by γ‑aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate;
Blocks the flow of chloride ions, causing uncontrolled neuronal excitation;
Leads to paralysis and death of attached or feeding ticks.

Because the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed to skin and tissues, ticks encounter the active molecule when they attach and begin to feed. The sustained plasma concentration maintains efficacy for up to twelve weeks, providing continuous tick control throughout that period.

Forms of Bravecto Available

Bravecto is distributed in several formulations that suit different administration preferences and canine weight categories. The primary options include:

« Chewable tablets » – solid oral doses designed for easy ingestion. Available in two duration variants, one providing twelve weeks of protection and another offering eight weeks. Each tablet is calibrated for specific weight ranges, ensuring appropriate dosing for dogs from small breeds up to large specimens.

« Topical spot‑on solution » – liquid preparation applied directly to the skin at the base of the neck. Formulated for a twelve‑week protection period, the spot‑on is presented in containers sized for various weight brackets, allowing precise application without oral administration.

Both forms contain the active ingredient fluralaner, delivering sustained efficacy against ticks and fleas. Selection between oral and topical formats depends on owner convenience, dog temperament, and veterinary recommendation.

Duration of Tick Protection

Bravecto Chewables

Bravecto Chewables are an oral acaricide formulated for canine use. After a single dose, the active ingredient, fluralaner, reaches systemic circulation and remains effective against a broad spectrum of tick species for approximately twelve weeks. This period covers the typical seasonal risk window for most regions, eliminating the need for monthly administrations.

Key characteristics of the product include:

Duration of efficacy: 84 days of continuous tick protection.
Spectrum: effectiveness against Ixodes ricinus, Dermacentor variabilis, Amblyomma americanum and other common ectoparasites.
Administration: one chewable tablet per dog, weight‑based dosing, given on an empty stomach for optimal absorption.
Safety profile: high margin of safety, minimal adverse reactions reported in clinical trials involving over 2 000 dogs.

Pharmacokinetic data show peak plasma concentrations within 24 hours, followed by a gradual decline that sustains lethal levels for ticks throughout the twelve‑week interval. Regular re‑dosing at the end of this period restores protective concentrations, maintaining uninterrupted control of tick infestations.

Bravecto Topical Solution

Bravecto Topical Solution is a spot‑on formulation containing the systemic acaricide fluralaner. Application to the skin delivers the active ingredient into the bloodstream, where it targets attached and newly encountered ticks.

Protection against ticks lasts for up to twelve weeks after a single dose. Efficacy begins within a few hours of treatment and remains consistent throughout the interval, eliminating both adult and immature stages of common canine tick species.

Key characteristics include:

Broad spectrum activity against Ixodes, Rhipicephalus, Dermacentor and Amblyomma species.
Single application per twelve‑week period, reducing the need for frequent dosing.
Compatibility with most dog breeds; dosage adjusted according to body weight.

Safety profile reflects extensive clinical testing. Adverse reactions are rare and typically mild, such as transient skin irritation at the application site. Proper administration—following label instructions regarding dosage and timing—maximises therapeutic benefit and minimizes risk.

Factors Affecting Protection Efficacy

Bravecto’s tick‑preventive performance depends on several variables that influence the duration and consistency of protection in canine patients.

Key factors include:

Body mass and dosage accuracy – The formulation is calibrated for specific weight ranges; under‑dosing in larger dogs or overdosing in small dogs can shorten the effective period.
Age and physiological condition – Puppies under eight weeks or dogs with compromised liver or kidney function may metabolize the active ingredient differently, affecting persistence.
Tick species and resistance patterns – Certain species, such as Dermacentor variabilis, may exhibit reduced susceptibility, while emerging resistance in Ixodes populations can diminish efficacy.
Environmental exposure – High‑intensity tick habitats (dense vegetation, humid climates) increase challenge pressure, potentially requiring more frequent administration to maintain optimal protection.
Administration timing – Administering the product precisely at the recommended interval (every 12 weeks) prevents gaps; delayed dosing can create a window of vulnerability.
Storage conditions – Exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture can degrade the active compound, shortening its protective lifespan.

Understanding these elements enables veterinarians and pet owners to tailor Bravecto use, ensuring the longest reliable shield against tick infestations.

Dog's Lifestyle and Environment

Bravecto delivers a single oral dose that maintains effective tick control for up to twelve weeks. Dogs that spend most of their time indoors experience lower tick pressure, allowing the full protection period to be realized with minimal risk of early reinfestation. Conversely, animals that frequent wooded areas, parks, or farms encounter higher tick densities; in such environments, the twelve‑week window may be challenged by continuous exposure, making timely re‑administration essential to prevent gaps in coverage.

Key lifestyle and environmental factors influencing the practical duration of protection:

Activity level – High‑energy dogs that roam large territories encounter more ticks than sedentary companions.
Seasonal variation – Tick activity peaks in spring and autumn; during these periods, the risk of early re‑infestation rises.
Geographic region – Areas with warm, humid climates sustain tick populations longer, extending the period of exposure.
Habitat type – Access to tall grasses, leaf litter, or wildlife habitats increases tick contact frequency.

Owners of dogs with extensive outdoor exposure should schedule Bravecto administrations at eight‑week intervals to maintain continuous protection, especially in peak tick seasons. Dogs with limited outdoor time may adhere to the standard twelve‑week dosing schedule without compromising efficacy. Monitoring local tick activity reports and adjusting treatment intervals accordingly ensures optimal protection across diverse lifestyles and environments.

Product Application and Compliance

Bravecto is administered orally as a chewable tablet, formulated for a single dose that delivers systemic protection against ticks for up to twelve weeks. The product label specifies a minimum body weight of eight pounds; dogs below this threshold are not eligible for treatment. Dosage is calculated based on weight categories, with tablets available in 14‑, 28‑, and 50‑mg strengths to ensure accurate dosing without the need for tablet splitting.

Compliance with veterinary regulations requires that the medication be prescribed or recommended by a licensed professional. The packaging includes a batch number, expiration date, and a clear statement that the product must be stored at temperatures between 2 °C and 30 °C. Adverse‑event reporting forms are provided to facilitate monitoring of safety data in accordance with national pharmacovigilance guidelines.

Key compliance points:

Verify dog’s weight before administration; record the exact dose given.
Observe the twelve‑week protection interval; repeat treatment only after this period has elapsed.
Maintain a log of administration dates to avoid overlapping doses.
Ensure the product is sourced from an authorized distributor to guarantee authenticity and regulatory approval.

Following these application and compliance protocols maximizes the efficacy of Bravecto’s tick‑preventive action while adhering to legal and safety standards.

Maximizing Bravecto's Effectiveness

Proper Administration Guidelines

Dosage According to Weight

Bravecto is administered as a chewable tablet whose dosage is determined by the dog’s body weight. The amount of active ingredient in each tablet is calibrated to provide continuous protection against ticks for up to twelve weeks.

Weight ≤ 4 kg → tablet 1 × 0.5 g (2 mg kg⁻¹)
Weight > 4 kg and ≤ 10 kg → tablet 1 × 1 g (2 mg kg⁻¹)
Weight > 10 kg and ≤ 20 kg → tablet 1 × 2 g (2 mg kg⁻¹)
Weight > 20 kg and ≤ 30 kg → tablet 1 × 4 g (2 mg kg⁻¹)
Weight > 30 kg and ≤ 45 kg → tablet 1 × 8 g (2 mg kg⁻¹)

Each tablet delivers a precise dose that maintains therapeutic blood levels throughout the protection period. Administer the tablet orally with food for optimal absorption. Re‑treatment should occur at the end of the twelve‑week interval to sustain continuous tick control.

Application Techniques

Bravecto is administered orally as a flavored chewable tablet designed for dogs. Correct application ensures the product’s efficacy for up to twelve weeks against tick infestations.

The tablet must be given whole; crushing, splitting, or mixing with other foods compromises absorption. Administer the chew directly into the dog’s mouth or place it on the tongue, allowing the animal to swallow voluntarily. Offering a small amount of food before or after dosing can facilitate acceptance, but the tablet should not be hidden within large meals that might delay gastric emptying.

Dosage selection relies on the dog’s weight. The product is available in two strength ranges: one for dogs weighing 4.5–10 kg and another for those weighing 10.1–23 kg. Selecting the appropriate strength prevents under‑dosing, which could shorten the protection period, and over‑dosing, which offers no additional benefit.

Consistent scheduling is critical. Administer the next dose exactly twelve weeks after the previous treatment, regardless of the tick season’s intensity. Deviating from this interval reduces the guaranteed protection window.

Storage recommendations support product stability. Keep the tablets in the original packaging, at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not refrigerate or freeze, as temperature extremes may degrade the active ingredient.

Key points for optimal results:

Give the chew whole, without alteration.
Match tablet strength to the dog’s current weight.
Maintain a strict twelve‑week dosing interval.
Store in a cool, dry place, sealed from light.

Adhering to these application techniques maximizes the duration of tick protection provided by Bravecto.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Common Side Effects

Bravecto is a systemic flea‑and‑tick medication administered orally to dogs. Its efficacy lasts several weeks, providing continuous protection against tick infestations. While the product is generally well tolerated, certain adverse reactions occur with measurable frequency.

Common side effects include:

Gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea
Decreased appetite
Lethargy or reduced activity
Mild skin irritation at the site of tick attachment
Transient elevation of liver enzymes detected in laboratory tests

Veterinarians recommend observing the animal for these signs during the first few days after dosing. Persistent or severe reactions warrant immediate professional assessment. Adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary if adverse effects compromise the animal’s health.

When to Consult a Veterinarian

Bravecto delivers up to twelve weeks of protection against ticks. After administration, owners should observe the dog for any deviation from normal health.

Situations that warrant a veterinary consultation include:

Visible signs of an adverse reaction, such as swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive licking at the application site.
Presence of live ticks within the protection window, indicating possible breakthrough.
Unexplained lethargy, fever, or loss of appetite occurring after the dose.
Administration of a dose beyond the recommended interval or use of an expired product.
Concurrent use of other medications that may interact with the active ingredient.
Pregnancy, lactation, or underlying chronic illnesses that could affect drug metabolism.

Prompt veterinary assessment ensures appropriate management, prevents complications, and maintains the efficacy of tick control.

Complementary Tick Prevention Strategies

Environmental Controls

Environmental control measures reduce the risk of tick infestation and complement the efficacy period of Bravecto in dogs. Regular grooming removes unattached ticks, preventing them from attaching before the medication reaches systemic levels. Maintaining a short, well‑trimmed grass height in yards limits the habitat where ticks quest for hosts. Applying acaricidal products to perimeters—such as granular formulations or treated barriers—creates a chemical buffer that lowers tick density around canine activity zones. Removing leaf litter, brush, and tall shrubs eliminates humid microclimates favored by tick development. Wildlife management, including discouraging deer and rodents from entering residential areas, further diminishes the reservoir of tick‑borne pathogens.

Key environmental actions:

Mow lawns weekly during peak tick season.
Clear debris and maintain open, sunny ground surfaces.
Install physical fences to restrict wildlife access.
Use EPA‑registered tick control treatments on property borders.
Conduct periodic inspections of pet bedding and indoor environments.

Implementing these practices extends the protective window offered by Bravecto, ensuring consistent tick prevention throughout the product’s active period.

Regular Health Checks

Bravecto delivers up to twelve weeks of tick protection for dogs. After administration, veterinarians recommend scheduling regular health examinations to confirm that the medication remains effective throughout this period.

A comprehensive check includes:

Physical assessment of weight, temperature, and overall condition
Inspection of skin and coat for residual ticks or lesions
Evaluation of any adverse reactions to the oral product
Review of the dosing schedule to ensure timely re‑treatment

Consistent monitoring enables early detection of breakthrough infestations and supports adjustments to preventative protocols. Maintaining a strict examination timetable safeguards canine health and maximizes the longevity of Bravecto’s protective action.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bravecto

Can Bravecto be Used on All Dogs?

Bravecto is a systemic medication administered as a chewable tablet. Its active ingredient, fluralaner, circulates in the bloodstream and eliminates ticks that attach to the dog. The protection period lasts approximately twelve weeks, regardless of the dog’s size, provided the dosage matches the animal’s weight.

Eligibility for treatment includes:

Dogs weighing at least 2 kg (4.4 lb) and no more than 40 kg (88 lb); formulations exist for both small and large dogs.
Animals aged eight weeks or older; puppies younger than this threshold have not been evaluated for safety.
Dogs in good overall health; severe liver or kidney disease may contraindicate use.
Animals not receiving concurrent medications that interact with fluralaner, such as certain anti‑seizure drugs.

Breeds with known sensitivities to other ectoparasitic products do not automatically require exclusion. Veterinary assessment determines whether a specific breed’s genetic predispositions affect Bravecto safety. Pregnant or lactating females should only receive the product after veterinary approval.

In summary, Bravecto can be applied to the majority of canine patients that meet weight, age, and health criteria. The twelve‑week tick‑protective effect remains consistent across eligible dogs, while individual health considerations dictate suitability.

What if a Tick is Still Found on a Dog After Bravecto?

Bravecto provides a single oral dose that remains effective against most tick species for up to 12 weeks. When a tick is discovered on a dog within this period, several factors must be considered.

First, verify that the medication was administered correctly and at the appropriate weight range. An under‑dose or missed dose can reduce efficacy. Second, identify the tick species; some regional species exhibit partial resistance, which may result in occasional survival despite treatment. Third, assess the timing of the bite. Ticks attached for less than 24 hours are less likely to transmit disease, but longer attachment increases risk.

If a tick is found, follow these steps:

Remove the tick promptly using fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling straight upward.
Clean the bite site with antiseptic solution.
Record the date of removal and the tick’s appearance for veterinary reference.
Contact a veterinarian to discuss possible testing for tick‑borne pathogens, especially if the bite duration exceeded 24 hours or the dog shows clinical signs.
Confirm that the next Bravecto dose is scheduled according to the 12‑week interval; adjust timing only under veterinary guidance.

Veterinary evaluation may include blood work, PCR testing, or serology to detect early infection. In most cases, a single surviving tick does not compromise overall protection, but prompt action and professional assessment are essential to prevent disease transmission.

How Does Bravecto Compare to Other Tick Preventatives?

Bravecto provides up to 12 weeks of tick protection after a single oral dose. This interval exceeds that of most monthly chewables, which require administration every four weeks. The extended coverage reduces the number of treatments needed throughout the year, thereby decreasing the risk of missed doses.

Comparative points:

Duration – Bravecto: 12 weeks; NexGard, Simparica, and Credelio: 4 weeks; Frontline Plus (topical): 4 weeks.
Administration route – Bravecto: oral tablet; NexGard and Simparica: oral chewable; Credelio: oral; Frontline Plus: spot‑on liquid.
Spectrum – Bravecto and Credelio address both ticks and fleas; NexGard and Simparica focus primarily on fleas with secondary tick activity; Frontline Plus covers a broader range of ectoparasites but requires monthly reapplication.
Onset of action – Bravecto begins killing ticks within 2 hours; NexGard and Simparica achieve similar onset; Frontline Plus requires 24–48 hours for full efficacy.
Safety profile – All products demonstrate high safety margins in clinical studies; Bravecto’s long‑acting formulation has been evaluated for dogs weighing 4.5 kg and above, matching the weight range of competing oral options.

In summary, Bravecto’s principal advantage lies in its 12‑week protection window, which surpasses the monthly schedule of most alternatives while delivering comparable speed of kill and safety.