What is the name of a flea treatment for dogs? - briefly
Frontline Plus is a widely recognized flea treatment for dogs, available as a spot‑on solution that eliminates fleas and ticks. Other popular options include NexGard, Bravecto and Advantage.
What is the name of a flea treatment for dogs? - in detail
The most widely recognized flea control product for canines is a medication containing the active ingredient fipronil, marketed under the name Frontline Plus. Frontline Plus is a topical solution applied to the skin between the shoulder blades; it spreads across the coat, killing adult fleas and preventing new infestations for up to 30 days. The formulation also includes (S)-methoprene, an insect growth regulator that disrupts flea development stages.
Another leading oral option is NexGard, whose active compound afoxolaner belongs to the isoxazoline class. A single chewable tablet provides systemic protection for 30 days, eliminating fleas after they bite and enter the bloodstream. NexGard is approved for dogs weighing 4 lb (2 kg) and above, with dosage based on weight bands.
For extended protection, Bravecto offers fluralaner, also an isoxazoline, in both chewable tablet and topical forms. The product delivers up to 12 weeks of flea control after one administration, covering adult fleas and preventing egg production throughout the period.
Simparica, containing sarolaner, functions similarly to NexGard and Bravecto but is administered monthly. It provides rapid kill of adult fleas within 8 hours and maintains efficacy for at least 30 days.
Advantage Spot‑On uses imidacloprid as its sole active ingredient. Applied directly to the skin, it kills adult fleas on contact and prevents re‑infestation for up to 30 days. The product is suitable for dogs as small as 4 lb (2 kg) and is available in several concentration strengths to match different weight categories.
Key considerations when selecting a flea treatment include:
- Mode of delivery: topical spot‑on, oral chewable tablet, or collar.
- Active ingredient class: fipronil/methoprene (topical), isoxazolines (oral/topical), imidacloprid (topical).
- Duration of efficacy: 30 days (most products), 12 weeks (Bravecto), or 8 weeks (some collars).
- Safety profile: approved for puppies ≥8 weeks, weight limits, and any known drug interactions.
Veterinarians typically recommend a product that matches the dog’s weight, age, health status, and owner’s preference for administration frequency.