When Can Puppies Be on Flea Medicine?

Even cute puppies get fleas.

Healthy puppies can begin topical flea medications, flea sprays or flea shampoos when they are 8 weeks old, on average. There are ways to treat younger puppies, but not with commercial flea products.

Weight

According to Newman Veterinary Medical Services, puppies should be at least 2 pounds before any flea medication is given. Puppies will differ as to when they reach that weight.

Warning

"Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook" does not recommend flea collars for puppies because they are too strong. Even adult dogs can develop painful sores called flea dermatitis when wearing them.

Other Pets

If one puppy or another pet in the home has fleas, then all animals in the home should be treated for fleas. This is because adult fleas can simply jump from a treated animal to an untreated one.

Alternative

For puppies not old enough for flea medications, "KISS Guide to Raising a Puppy" recommends giving the puppy a lukewarm bath in mild puppy shampoo and then combing out and killing any fleas with a flea comb.

Conclusion

Always read the directions of any flea medication to see if it is safe for your puppy's age. Never use medication for adult dogs on puppies because it will be far too strong.

References

• "Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook"; Debra M. Eldredge, D.V.M., et al.; 2007
• "KISS Guide to Raising a Puppy"; Liz Palika; 2002
• Newman Veterinary Medical Services

Resources

• Dog Chat Forum: Get Rid of Fleas on a Puppy
• PetPlace: Flea Control and Prevention in Dogs
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center