For a spitz, which tick treatment is best to use? - briefly
Oral acaricides such as afoxolaner or fluralaner, administered monthly, deliver consistent tick protection and are well‑tolerated by spitz‑type dogs. Topical formulations containing permethrin should be avoided because of the breed’s heightened sensitivity.
For a spitz, which tick treatment is best to use? - in detail
When selecting a tick control method for a spitz, prioritize efficacy, safety for the breed’s size, and ease of administration.
Topical spot‑ons
- Apply directly to the skin at the base of the neck once a month.
- Proven active ingredients: fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin.
- Suitable for dogs weighing 5–15 kg; avoid use on cats.
Oral chewables
- Administered monthly or every 12 weeks, depending on the product.
- Afoxolaner (NexGard), fluralaner (Bravecto), sarolaner (Simparica), and lotilaner (Credelio) provide rapid tick kill and sustained protection.
- Dosage calculated by weight; dogs under 10 kg receive the smallest tablet or a quarter‑tablet split, as recommended by the manufacturer.
Collars
- Release low‑dose permethrin or imidacloprid continuously for up to 8 months.
- Effective for dogs with dense coats; ensure the collar fits snugly without choking.
Shampoos and sprays
- Provide immediate kill but lack long‑term protection.
- Use as a supplemental measure after exposure in heavily infested areas.
Veterinary prescription options
- Injectable eprinomectin or ivermectin can be used in specific cases, especially for dogs with known resistance to oral or topical products.
- Requires veterinary assessment of health status and potential drug interactions.
Key considerations
- Verify the dog’s weight before dosing; overdosing risks neurotoxicity, especially with permethrin‑based products.
- Check for contraindications such as pregnancy, lactation, or underlying illnesses.
- Rotate active ingredients annually to reduce resistance development.
- Perform regular tick checks after walks; remove attached ticks with fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling steadily upward.
The combination of a monthly oral chewable containing a modern isoxazoline (e.g., afoxolaner) and a monthly topical spot‑on offers comprehensive protection for a spitz, covering both rapid kill and residual activity while accommodating the breed’s typical weight range.