What medication should be given to a Spitz dog for ticks? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑approved tick control product, such as a topical fipronil solution (e.g., Frontline) or an oral afoxolaner chewable (e.g., NexGard), formulated for small breeds. Ensure dosage follows the dog’s weight and the product’s label instructions.
What medication should be given to a Spitz dog for ticks? - in detail
A Spitz dog infested with ticks requires a product that kills the parasites quickly and prevents re‑infestation. The most reliable choices are oral or topical acaricides approved for small‑to‑medium breeds.
Oral options
- Afoxolaner (NexGard) – chewable tablet, 2.5 mg/kg body weight, given every 30 days. Effective against all life stages of ticks.
- Fluralaner (Bravecto) – chewable tablet, 25 mg/kg, administered once every 12 weeks. Provides long‑lasting protection and rapid kill rate.
- Sarolaner (Simparica) – chewable tablet, 2 mg/kg, monthly dosing. Works on common tick species and also controls fleas.
Topical options
- Fipronil‑based spot‑on (Frontline Plus) – apply 0.1 ml per kilogram to the skin on the back of the neck, repeat every month. Kills existing ticks within 24 hours and prevents new attachments.
- Imidacloprid + flumethrin (Advantix) – apply 0.2 ml per kilogram to the dorsal midline, repeat monthly. Effective against ticks, fleas, and some biting insects.
- Selamectin (Revolution) – apply 1 ml per kilogram to the base of the skull, repeat monthly. Controls ticks and several internal parasites.
Dosage calculation
- Weigh the dog accurately.
- Multiply the weight in kilograms by the specific dosage per kilogram indicated for the chosen product.
- Use a calibrated syringe or the manufacturer’s dosing device to ensure exact measurement.
Safety considerations
- Verify the product label permits use in the Spitz breed; most are suitable for dogs weighing at least 2 kg.
- Avoid products containing permethrin on cats; cross‑species contamination can be fatal.
- Do not combine multiple acaricides unless a veterinarian explicitly recommends it.
- Monitor for adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, or skin irritation; discontinue and seek veterinary care if they occur.
Administration tips
- Oral tablets should be given with food to improve absorption.
- Topical spot‑ons must be applied to a shaved or trimmed area to ensure direct contact with the skin.
- Keep the dog from swimming or bathing for at least 24 hours after topical application to allow the product to spread across the coat.
Follow‑up
- Inspect the dog weekly for attached ticks, especially after walks in wooded or grassy areas.
- Maintain a regular treatment schedule; missing a dose reduces efficacy and allows tick populations to rebound.
- Consult a veterinarian annually for a health check and to confirm that the chosen medication remains appropriate given the dog’s age, health status, and any new tick species in the region.