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) $211 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$211 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 $69 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$69 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) $224 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping$224 on ChewyFREE 1-3 day shipping -
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$205 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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works great
this has worked great for my dog :) we had a flea problem last summer when my sister moved out, and goose never got fleas
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EASY TO USE FOR MULTIPLE PURPOSES
MY DOGS HAVE BEEN ON THIS FOR YEARS. NO ISSUES AT ALL AND THEY GOBBLE THEM UP. SO MUCH EASIER HAVING THE COMBINATION OF HEART WORM, FLEA AND TICK PREVENTION ALL IN ONE PILL.
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Cheaper Than Vet Price!
The cost for one pill at the Vet was $50! I was able to get 6 of these for less than $150 here! Thanks Chewy.com!
Best Flea Collar for Dogs
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NO fleas or ticks!!!
Not only does it do what it is supposed to do, but it also it can still be worn in the bath or lake!
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They work
We live in the country and our dogs spend time in the woods - never any ticks! I wish they made them for horses
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Worth every penny
We got these last summer for our pups and they work super well! They’re expensive but keep ticks away all season, and we live in a tick heavy area. Got them again this year!
Best Topical Flea Treatment for Dogs
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Only this!
I have used this product for my dogs over the years. This is the best one. Don't use anything else.
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Total rock star service!
On vacation, we ran out of food and treats after an unexpected and most welcome extension. Chewy rocked it in terms of superior customer service. Thank you!!!
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Quick, reliable shipping
I live in a heavily forested area and this product works well to protect my dog, Kevin, from ticks. Chewy is great for carrying what I need and getting it to me quickly.
Best Flea and Tick Chewable for Dogs
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I was very happy
I was happy the Nextguard Plus finally arrived. After all the trouble with the RX and the weather all is well. I gave it to her today.
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Ease and speed of processing
We have a lot of ticks on the North shore of Long Island. This along with seresto collars is what vets are recommending.
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NexGuard Plus
Chewy is always efficient, on time, helpful and FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SERVICE. They TRULY CARE about our pets. THANK YOU CHEWY
Best Dog Flea Pill
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Amazing Preventative
I go hiking often, and spend most of my time outside. I take my furry bestest friend with me everywhere I go. I have literally watched as ticks crawl off of her dying. This is within just a couple of hours of being in the woods. She never has fleas and is so very healthy. My girl is full blooded Australian Shepherd. No side effects from it, and she eats it like a treat. The pill itself is really hard, but she has no problem eating it like a piece of candy. I always call it a treat and I make her do a trick before I give it to her. Works like a charm! I highly recommend you try this preventative!
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Reliable and good quality and nice!
Everything arrived as promised and when I made a mistake they refunded the cost and recommended to donate it, which I did to the Tampa humane society. They said Chewy was always generous. Thank you
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Great product and customer service
I started my pup on this after the vet recommended it. She has been on it for 5 months now and it definitely helps her. I also had an issue with my order and customer service was very quick to help fix it!
Best Over-the-Counter Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
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Repels Fleas & Ticks
I have 3 dogs & the last few years none of the topicals were working. This topical works. I would recommend.
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kills fleas and ticks
it works. Frontline is good for ticks, but the fleas here are immune to it..and this product is OK for dogs with the MDR1 gene
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Product Works.
My dog stays inside mostly, but he goes out to do his business and sniff all around the yard. K9 Advantix II works for him because I never see any fleas or ticks on him.
Best Flea and Tick Control for Puppies
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Received in a reasonable time
So happy that this product can be eaten by my dogs without an upset stomach. I can give heartgard and nextgard a day apart. Unlike one pill that has everything ,,, upsets their stomach and makes them lethargic
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Customer service
Signed up for 3 month box on auto ship. Only had script for flea/tick for 1 more month. Was called by chewy to let me know, and order was changed to 1 pill box to get us through while we made an appt. Got Macho to the vet and got a new script, sent to chewy, and am now set up w the 3 pill on auto ship. Thanks for all the help.
Best Flea Shampoo for Dogs
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She Smells Wonderful
This shampoo is wonderful in every way. The organic oils in the formula smell wonderful and repel bugs at the same time. My German Shepherd loves her bath now, her skin is happy and her coat is glossy. The groomers always ask me where to find this wonderful product and I always say "Chewy!"
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The Best Flea Shampoo We've Tried!
The Best Flea Shampoo We've Tried! I try to use natural remedies at home and use essential oils for everything so I LOVE the fact that this is essential oil based and worry less about any possible side effects. Smells amazing!
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Smells like tea trea oil
My dog doesn’t smell and it’s been a couple weeks since I’ve bathed him with this shampoo.
Best Flea Spray
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Fast and furious!!
The smell is strong but so is the flea killing power. Does not last as long as it says but it acts quick
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Works!
I do a light spray and comb it through a few hours BEFORE bathing them. The fleas come jumping from hairy hiding places. I seem to be able to be able to seek and destroy more of the little buggers with better results, than a bath only. Please really hate this stuff. The smell is also pleasant.
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Used this many moons ago
Used Adams Dog Flea & Tick spray when I had 3 hounds. So much more economical with better results than the expensive stuff. Recently bought Adams again for economical reasons. I spray on vinyl gloves and give my dog a rub down. Muzzle (STAY CLEAR OF EYES) ears, necks, back, chest, tail, legs. Everywhere. Reapply every two weeks. It smells better than it used to. My dog loves the rub down. Was seeing many ticks now see nor find none.
Best With Heartworm Protection
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I was very happy
I was happy the Nextguard Plus finally arrived. After all the trouble with the RX and the weather all is well. I gave it to her today.
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Ease and speed of processing
We have a lot of ticks on the North shore of Long Island. This along with seresto collars is what vets are recommending.
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NexGuard Plus
Chewy is always efficient, on time, helpful and FRIENDLY CUSTOMER SERVICE. They TRULY CARE about our pets. THANK YOU CHEWY
Best Natural Flea and Tick Control for Dogs
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it works
i am outside in the garden a lot. i spray it on my legs and have not had a single tick all summer. I just recommended it to someone
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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.
Best for the Yard
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Got the job done, but we hate using the chemicals
Sentry is one of the few we will use when flea season is brutal. We hate using the chemicals and generally try to use essential oils, neem oil, and diatomaceous earth, but with multiple illnesses among family members, pregnancy, and a very aggressive flea season, we broke down and got this to stop the cycle.
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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.
Best for the Home
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This works
when your vet won't give you flea spray....without an expensive appointment...I tried this and it is a great preventative spray so that you don't get fleas
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It works
No question that this works. I keep the house and our motorhome treated with this as the cats do go outside. It's my backup to keep my house from being infested with any fleas they may pick up.
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Long lasting...most effective treatment out there!
This product is worth every dime. I'm not a big fan of toxins or chemicals but when it comes to treating for fleas it takes a serious approach. I do wish it came with a thin tube to have precise nook and cranny application (you have to invert it), but otherwise it's quick and effective. Do keep in mind the flea life cycle...you might still see fleas, but the treatment keep working so give it time.
Best Flea Comb
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Just wonderful
Does very well even with thicker coats just one little down side is harder to keep a grip when you have looser skin areas where they sag may get a little tricky because the comb will just jolt out of your hands a little so just got to be careful of that otherwise a wonderful product.
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How much fleas you get off with that comb
Basically the same as above it was just easy to use and the cats didn't seem to mind it but they are cats now not kittens..
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Great grooming tool!
My big orange tabby can get mats on his back side if he is not brushed out. This comb works wonderful on his coat and he gets in my lap every night to be combed.
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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