Sometimes, the little things cause the biggest problems. Case in point? Fleas and ticks. Small but mighty, these notorious pests can wreak havoc on our four-legged friends, causing everything from itchy skin to serious medical conditions such as Lyme disease, anemia, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and more. But with the right flea and tick prevention for dogs, you can ensure your canine companion remains comfortable, healthy and parasite-free.
Ready to protect your pet? Read on for expert advice about how to choose the correct flea and tick prevention for dogs, as well as bestselling products recommended by doting pet parents (like you!).
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Best Overall Flea and Tick Control for DogsSimparica Trio™ Chewable Tablet for Dogs, 6 Chewable Tablets (6-mos. supply) $195 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$195 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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$60 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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Best Topical Flea Treatment for DogsFrontline® Plus Flea & Tick Spot Treatment for Dogs $63 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$63 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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Best Flea and Tick Chewable for DogsNexGard® PLUS Chew for Dogs, 6 Chews (6-mos. supply) $214 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$214 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
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$190 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping
How To Find the Best Flea and Tick Treatment for Dogs
There’s no shortage of flea and tick treatments on the market today. So, how can you narrow things down and find the best option for your particular pup?
First thing’s first: Start with a conversation with your veterinarian. “I advise pet parents to look for flea and tick products that are approved and recommended by their veterinarian,” says Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a veterinarian at Animal Hospital of West Monroe in Louisiana. “Products that vets trust have been thoroughly tested for safety.”
When selecting a product, you and your veterinarian will consider the following:
Your dog’s age: With the exception of very young puppies (under 8 weeks), as a general rule, almost all dogs should be on some type of flea and tick prevention. Elderly dogs with certain medical conditions may need to have their regimen adjusted, depending on their health; your veterinarian can advise if a new approach is needed.
Your dog’s overall health: Certain health conditions can affect which types of products are safest and most effective for your pet. Dogs with sensitive skin may need to avoid topical treatments, while dogs with food allergies may not tolerate oral treatments that include flavorings. For dogs with a history of seizures, your veterinarian may advise avoiding certain oral treatments that contain drugs in the isoxazoline class, which have been linked to neurological symptoms in some pets.
Your dog’s weight: Flea and tick treatments are dosed according to weight, with the weight range specified on the package. “Giving the wrong dose can lead to under- or over-dosing,” cautions Dr. Kong. “It’s essential to follow the product instructions carefully, and consult with a vet if there are any doubts.”
Your dog’s lifestyle: Your dog’s day-to-day activities may influence which type of product you select. For example, frequent swimmers may need to skip topical treatments, which require the dog to avoid getting wet for 24-48 hours. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors in tick-heavy areas, your vet may recommend a combination of products for extra protection, such as a chewable and a collar.
Your lifestyle: Your household’s lifestyle may also influence the type of product you select. Families with young children may want to avoid topical medications, which can rub off on little hands. Similarly, flea collars may be tempting to curious toddlers.
Flea and tick treatment type: Treatments come in many different forms, from pills to topicals to collars. Some treat additional parasites. Some last months. All of these factors may play a role in your decision. (Read more about the different types below.)
14 Best Flea and Tick Treatments for Dogs
Below are the best flea and tick treatments for dogs as tested and approved by Chewy customers. These top-selling, top-rated products get two paws up from dog parents like you.
Best Overall Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
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They just work
My golden retriever loves being outside. It’s comforting knowing that she’s projected. She thinks these are “treats” every month. I won’t tell her otherwise.
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Good, effective product
My vet recommended this brand of medicine and it’s helped significantly with keeping my pup healthy. I have a lot of wildlife on my property so parasites are always a potential risk, but this product has helped to keep my dog healthy.
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Simparica Trio Review
Great product and price. Chewy’s Auto Ship makes it so easy when the next shipment is due - they send out the reminder early so there’s time to make any necessary changes.
Best Flea Collar for Dogs
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Changes
I lost two of my kitties in one week and my remaking cat is deciding what she likes to eat, and my dog still likes his food but not his dental chews. That all being said, I really appreciate how you replace damaged packages and quickly resolve any issues with delivery. Our order is going to be smaller for a while, not because of any dissatisfaction , we are just finding our way..
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Recommend by vet
Easy to put on and our pup has not had any reactions and kept it on without problems! Comes with reflectors as well!
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Flea/tick collar
Called my vet up to get these collars for both my dogs, and my vet was closed for the holidays, and would not be open for 4 more days. I went online to Chewy, ordered the collars - one for small dog, and one for my large dog. They came within 2 days!!!!!!
Best Topical Flea Treatment for Dogs
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Best Protection
I have hounds that run almost every day and Frontline Plus is the best protection I have found for them against fleas and ticks.
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Works great for us!
I trust this product as it’s been tested and true, and has 100% worked for my dog any time I have used it now and in the past 9 years. I think some people may not how to use this properly, forget to reapply, wash it off accidentally, etc. so that’s where some complaints come from. I have never had issues, and will continue to use this for my pups.
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NO ticks or fleas
We live in the woods with deer roaming everywhere and have not had one tick or flea on our Beagle Boy. It's nice not to have to worry about it.
Best Flea and Tick Chewable for Dogs
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Very effective preventive flea and tick medication
My dog is not a big fan of the taste but we manage to give it to him and it's very good that it's only one pill instead of two that we used before. It works great.
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NexgardPlus
Great flea and tick and Heartworm meds in one pill! Easy to chew and flavored. My 2 dogs love them! I also saved money by making it an auto shipment always get your prescription from your Vet before renewal runs out! Enjoy!
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Got it quick, got it right!
Got the order right & product came swiftly. Chewy makes taking care of my pets is effortless. And, the pricing is competitive and the selection is enormous. They have always had everything that I have looked for. They are a pet guardian's best resource/friend. Bravo
Best Dog Flea Pill
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Simparica
My dog won't eat them by themselves, l have to chop them up in his food, but they work really well!
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Is well tolerated no issues.
She does very good on this product. Never have any issues with stomach upset or any other side effects. But she wont eat it so have cut into smaller pieces (8-10) and mix in canned dog food.
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Fast delivery
The dog food we ordered was delivered quickly and the product is as expected. Thank you for providing my puppy with the appropriate dog food.!
Best Over-the-Counter Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
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Works great
Our 6 month old puppy is an indoors/outdoors girl. She gets I to brush and tall grasses and there are no fleas on her.
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continuation
I have been using Advantix for years. It seems to be the only thing that holds back our aggressive ticks and fleas in my area. And yes our dogs still get ticks (have not found a flea on them yet) but all of the ticks found are dried up bodies or found staggering across their fur unable to do anything.
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#1 product
I have used Advantage when it first came from my vet's. I am a loyal customer of Advantage and Advantix ii still. My fur babies are completely flea and tick free.
Best Flea and Tick Control for Puppies
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Friendly and Effective
Chewy works with my vet who gives Chewy the Rx and I get a better price from Chewy then the Vet's office. In this economy, I need to save money where I can. The product itself is very effective and the dogs have not had any issues with Fleas or Ticks.
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The best
I’ve been giving this to my 3 dogs for probably almost a year now and since then I’ve only found 2 ticks. This stuff works really well. I used to give them frontline and they always had ticks. I just wish this product wasn’t so expensive.
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NexGuard flea and tick
These babies have been with us 14 years partly because of the wonderful products that Chewy carries. Nexguard is one of those products. No fleas or ticks for years.
Best Flea Shampoo for Dogs
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Flea shampoo
This really is a great product! I actually did see dead flees in the water as rinsing off my doggos. I recommend applying when your fur baby is dry then work up until lather and rinse good. Smells really good! I let my doggies smell it first. Cleaned their coats. I also use the itching spray. I will definitely use this product again.
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Great product
I like the ingredients seems to reduce itching wish it came in larger sizes but all in all I would recommend especially for the sencative pups
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YES!
Love this stuff!! Not only for the flea and tick control, but my little guy smells soooo good! He’s also VERY soft and VERY shiny. We will continue to use this shampoo over and over.
Best Flea Spray
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Adams Flea and Tick Spray doesn't smell
Unlike the more "natural" sprays that smell and that the dogs did not like, this one doesn't smell the dogs would tolerate it.
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Used this for years, very effective
I've used this for years and prefer it to some of the newer options that have bad side effect profiles. To me this is one of the safer options to get rid of fleas and ticks immediately and prevent them from laying eggs.
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Safe flee spray for dogs and cats
I have used Adam’s Flee spray for many years. It’s safe for cats and dogs. Also great to spray baseboards and carpet at least once a month during hot months. Spray ever 8 days to kill flees and fell eggs from hatching.
Best With Heartworm Protection
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Very effective preventive flea and tick medication
My dog is not a big fan of the taste but we manage to give it to him and it's very good that it's only one pill instead of two that we used before. It works great.
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NexgardPlus
Great flea and tick and Heartworm meds in one pill! Easy to chew and flavored. My 2 dogs love them! I also saved money by making it an auto shipment always get your prescription from your Vet before renewal runs out! Enjoy!
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Got it quick, got it right!
Got the order right & product came swiftly. Chewy makes taking care of my pets is effortless. And, the pricing is competitive and the selection is enormous. They have always had everything that I have looked for. They are a pet guardian's best resource/friend. Bravo
Best Natural Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
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Love it
This spray smells so amazing on my dogs. I feel as if I did not find a flea or tick while using this product.
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Trying this for the first time, it's not too bad, would definitely recommend it. It's really a strong odor though.
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It works for us
I have been using this product since the beginning of spring of this year 2023. This is our first spring and summer going all natural for flea control. Both my dogs are doing great with this spray, along with a monthly shower using a natural flea and tick repellant shampoo. It is now the end of summer, and I have not found a single flea or tick on my dog all summer, and we have even gone to the dog park several times! I do apply this spray every single day, at least once a day and sometimes twice. The dogs smell amazing. They smell clean and fresh. I will continue to use this product! So glad I don’t have to use chemicals on my dog!
Best for the Yard
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Works as stated.
I've been using this product for 4 years, and I love it! I would recently it to anyone who needs to rid their yard of fleas, ticks, and lots of other pests.
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Die, fleas, die!
We must've had our RV parked at Flea Central, and we saw a noticeable drop in the flea populations on our 2 cats and 1 dog after we sprayed this. Easy to use and effective.
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Works as it says
Worked so far. While in yard, I didn't see any flying bugs nor did I get bit with no bug spray on. My dog isn't bringing in flea friends anymore. Im buying more of this
Best for the Home
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Finally kicked the fleas
My dog somehow got infected with fleas. Tried switching her topical meds, washed all the sofa covers and her bedding, and treated rugs with baking soda then thorough vacuuming but the infestation persisted. Used one can of Virbac to treat everywhere in the house and have seen no further fleas since!
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Good to stop flea infestation
It is good to help with a flea issue. Just make sure you can keep your widows and doors open and remain outside the sprayed area for at least an hour
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virbac Knockout
This spray was recommended by my vet. It is the only product that I have used that works to get rid of fleas.
Best Flea Comb
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Great Product for A Great Price
Amazing comb for a good price. Love the fact it works for all fur types for dogs and cats. It doesn't miss a single flea. It floats in the tub and well making it easy to find during bath time. I will definitely be ordering more
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Best bang for my buck!!
When I ordered this flea comb I wasn't sure what to expect for such a low cost. My opinion has always been that cheaper wasn't always better. Not true in this case! This is a wonderful comb, built very sturdy and effective. The handle is made of a very thick molded rubber that fits my hand securely and grips well. The metal teeth of the comb are very strong, close together and gets those demon fleas. Most get caught in between the teeth of the comb and are held securely until I get them into the killer solution jar. A few have ridden on the teeth of the comb, some jump off, but most still ride on until they get plunged into their...
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Removes grass stickers from fine-haired cat
Originally bought this type of brush to remove fleas from a new cat (worked great). Now I find it to be the best brush when it comes to removing grass stickers from her fur. Keep in mind that not every brush works the same on every type of fur coat. For example, even though my 2 cats are from the same litter, Nikita’s fur is medium length like her brother, Oliver, but she doesn’t have an undercoat. Her hair is more sleek - what some people might call, “baby fine hair”, and so she doesn’t shed very much. When she does shed you’ll find single strands solo. On the other hand, Oliver has been referred to as “wooly”. Medium length...
Types of Flea and Tick Medications
Generally speaking, all dogs should be on a year-round flea and tick regimen.
“In my professional opinion, all dogs should be on some form of flea and tick prevention,” Dr. Ochoa says. “Any dog can pick up these pests, regardless of breed, age or lifestyle, so having a preventative in place is crucial for every pup.”
Fortunately, there’s no shortage of options to protect your pet.
Topical Flea Treatments
Available both OTC and by prescription, topical solutions (also known as spot-on treatments) typically kill ticks, adult fleas, flea eggs and flea larvae, while also repelling them. Some medications also protect against other parasites, including hookworms, roundworms, ear mites and parasites that cause mange. Most topical treatments provide a month of protection and should be applied between your pup’s shoulder blades, where they’ll be unable to lick it off.
“I recommend continuing year-round prevention to keep your dog protected during flea and tick season,” says Dr. Ochoa. “But even with preventatives, the occasional pest can still sneak through, so check your dog regularly.”
Best for: Dogs who don’t like taking oral medications; dogs with food allergies; killing all life cycles and life stages of fleas; providing protection against other parasites
Oral Flea Treatments
A popular alternative to topical treatments, oral medications are formulated to treat flea infestations quickly, making them ideal for dogs with active infestations. For example, Capstar Tablets begin killing fleas within 30 minutes and provide 24 hours of protection; other chewables, such as NexGard, take a little longer to kick in but provide up to 30 days of coverage. Some chewables, such as Simparica Trio, also protect against heartworms. These treatments are available OTC and by prescription, and are particularly effective for water-loving dogs.
“Chewables can be a good option for dogs who frequently swim or bathe, as water exposure does not diminish their effectiveness,” says Dr. Sabrina Kong, DVM, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner at Jules Veterinary Center in Tracy, California.
Best for: Dogs with sensitive skin; dogs with an active flea infestation; households with young children or other pets who may interfere with topical medications or collars; dogs who swim or bathe frequently
Flea Collars
Although not as popular as oral or topical treatments, flea collars can be a great solution for some pets. Sold OTC, these collars quickly kill fleas and ticks on contact, as well as repel the pests from landing on your dog. Collars tend to last longer than other preventives, making them an attractive option to pet parents who have trouble remembering to administer monthly medications.
“Collars can offer longer-term protection, up to several months, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the product,” says Dr. Kong.
Before selecting a collar, check with your veterinarian to ensure that it’s a quality brand that will adequately protect your pet.
Best for: Dogs who don’t like taking medications orally; pet parents who prefer a longer-lasting option; budget-conscious pet parents
Flea Shampoos
Medicated flea shampoos kill fleas on contact; some formulas also repel fleas in the following weeks, as well as prevent eggs and larvae from maturing into adult fleas. Flea shampoos usually include therapeutic ingredients such as oatmeal and aloe to soothe irritated skin. Because flea shampoos typically provide protection for only two weeks, they’re not usually recommended as a primary source of flea control. However, they can be a helpful short-term solution for pets experiencing an active infestation.
Best for: Dogs who actively have fleas; dogs (and dog parents!) who enjoy bath time; killing active fleas quickly
Flea Sprays
Flea sprays are a budget-friendly way to kill active fleas and ticks, as well as to prevent new pests from taking up residence on your pet. Conveniently, many formulas can also be used around the house and yard to target areas that harbor pests. However, there are some drawbacks: Sprays need to be applied frequently (as often as every two days) and some may irritate your dog’s eyes and nose. If you want to incorporate flea sprays into your treatment plan, consult your veterinarian about how to best use them.
Best for: Dogs who have an active infestation; pet parents who want to treat parts of the house and yard
How To Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks on Your Dog
If your dog actively has fleas or ticks, you’ll want to get rid of the current infestation, as well as prevent another one from recurring. This requires a multi-step approach:
- Comb your dog with a flea comb, starting at the head and working your way to the tail. Place the removed fleas in a bowl of isopropyl alcohol to kill them.
- Bathe your dog with a flea shampoo after using the flea comb. If your dog has a severe case, consult your vet first to ensure the product is appropriate to use on irritated or damaged skin.
- Use a flea and tick prevention treatment and stick to the schedule. If you’ve lapsed on regular treatments, now is your time to get back on board!
Getting rid of fleas takes work, but it’s possible with a little expertise and effort. Check out this step-by-step guide with expert tips.
How To Get Rid of Fleas and Ticks From Your Yard and Home
If your pet has fleas, there’s a good chance the little buggers are also getting cozy in your home and yard. To permanently evict them, consider:
- Washing all bedding in hot, soapy water
- Vacuuming rugs, carpets and upholstery frequently, using a flea spray as necessary
- Vacuuming hard surfaces frequently, concentrating on areas near food bowls and pet beds
- Treating your yard with flea spray or hiring a pest management company
For more tips on flea prevention in the home, consult our down-and-dirty cleaning guide.
How We Chose These Products
We know fleas and ticks can be stressful. That’s why we rounded up these best-of-the-best products, as chosen by satisfied Chewy customers. Backed by thousands of ratings and reviews, these bestsellers have at least a 4-star rating and have proven themselves to be effective, trusted tools in keeping dogs happy, healthy and pest-free.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
Every dog is an individual, and every dog responds to fleas, ticks and treatments differently. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, medications or side effects, check in with your veterinarian and work together to devise a personalized plan for your one-of-a-kind pup.
Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs FAQs
Q: What are the signs of fleas and ticks on dogs?
A: Signs of fleas include intense itching, scratching and biting; hot spots; restlessness; hair loss; and, in severe cases, pale gums. Signs of ticks include licking and chewing; inflamed skin, scabs; head shaking (if the tick is in an ear); and, in rare cases, paralysis.
Q: What instantly kills fleas and ticks on dogs?
A: Flea shampoos and flea sprays kill fleas and ticks on contact. You can also use a flea comb to find and kill fleas instantly. Some chewable treatments, such as Capstar, kick in quickly, killing fleas in as little as 30 minutes.
Q: How does flea and tick medicine work?
A: Topical treatments are absorbed through the dog’s skin, killing fleas and ticks on contact. Oral preventives are swallowed and absorbed into the dog’s bloodstream; adult fleas and ticks die after biting the dog and ingesting the pesticide.
Q: Are there home remedies to treat and prevent fleas and ticks?
A: There are some home remedies—including Dawn dish soap, lemon, apple cider vinegar and baking soda—that may help to kill or temporarily repel fleas and ticks. However, even natural flea treatments can irritate the skin or cause serious health problems if used incorrectly. Consult your veterinarian before trying any home remedy.
Flea and Tick Control: Next Steps
Fleas and ticks are no fun, for pets or pet parents. Fortunately, there are a number of effective treatments available to eliminate and prevent infestations—and the more you know, the better prepared you are to keep your pet pest-free! Ready to learn more? Check out these 10 telltale (and surprising!) signs of fleas.
Expert input provided by Dr. Sara Ochoa, DVM, a veterinarian at Animal Hospital of West Monroe in Louisiana, and Dr. Sabrina Kong, DVM, Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner at Jules Veterinary Center in Tracy, California, and veterinary consultant at WeLoveDoodles.com.
Learn more about protecting your pets from fleas:
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