What should be used for fleas and ticks on dogs? - briefly
A veterinarian‑prescribed ectoparasiticide—either an oral medication such as fluralaner or afoxolaner, or a topical solution like selamectin or imidacloprid—should be applied according to the product label. Regular dosing maintains protection against both fleas and ticks.
What should be used for fleas and ticks on dogs? - in detail
Effective control of canine ectoparasites requires a combination of systemic, topical, and environmental measures.
Oral medications provide rapid, long‑lasting protection. Products containing afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner, or spinosad are administered as chewable tablets or flavored pills. Doses are weight‑based, typically given every 30 days (afoxolaner, sarolaner) or every 12 weeks (fluralaner, spinosad). These agents act on the nervous system of fleas and ticks, preventing feeding and killing the parasites within hours.
Topical spot‑on preparations deliver active ingredients directly to the skin and coat. Formulations with fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin, or permethrin create a protective layer that spreads across the body after application to the dorsal neck. Renewal intervals range from one to four weeks, depending on the product. Permethrin is toxic to cats and must not be used on mixed‑species households.
Collars impregnated with imidacloprid and flumethrin release low‑dose chemicals continuously. Effective duration spans up to eight months, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. Collars are suitable for dogs that resist topical treatments or chewable pills.
Shampoos and sprays offer immediate reduction of existing infestations but lack residual activity. Ingredients such as pyrethrins or chlorhexidine provide short‑term knock‑down; repeated use is required for sustained control.
Environmental management eliminates sources of reinfestation. Regular vacuuming of carpets, washing of bedding at ≥ 60 °C, and treatment of indoor areas with insect growth regulators (e.g., methoprene, pyriproxyfen) interrupt flea life cycles. Outdoor habitats benefit from targeted application of larvicides or diatomaceous earth in resting zones.
Veterinarians assess health status, age, weight, and concurrent medications before prescribing. Dogs with liver or kidney disease, pregnant or lactating females, and puppies under eight weeks may require specific formulations or reduced dosing.
Summary of recommended options:
- Oral tablets: afoxolaner (30 days), fluralaner (12 weeks), sarolaner (30 days), spinosad (30 days).
- Topical spot‑on: fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin, permethrin (cat‑free environment).
- Collars: imidacloprid + flumethrin (up to 8 months).
- Shampoos/sprays: pyrethrins, chlorhexidine (short‑term).
- Environmental control: vacuuming, hot laundering, indoor insect growth regulators, outdoor larvicides.
Choosing the appropriate regimen depends on the dog’s size, lifestyle, and veterinary guidance. Combining systemic protection with regular environmental sanitation yields the most reliable suppression of fleas and ticks.